The GM L94 is a 6,162 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It features a pushrod valvetrain, variable valve timing on the intake camshaft, and flexible fuel capability (E85). This engine was designed for smooth, linear power delivery in full-size SUVs and vans, prioritizing low-end torque for towing and passenger comfort.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, and GMC Yukon, the L94 was engineered for dependable performance under heavy load. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced engine management and exhaust aftertreatment, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards for its production run.
One documented engineering update addressed potential failures of the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid, which could cause rough idle or reduced power. This concern, noted in GM Service Bulletin #09-06-01-007A, led to revised solenoid designs and updated calibration strategies to improve system reliability under varying fuel conditions.
Production from 2007–2014 meets U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards (EPA Certification #A-RMY-07).
The GM L94 is a 6,162 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for full-size SUVs and vans (2007-2014). It combines variable valve timing with a pushrod valvetrain to deliver strong low-end torque and smooth, linear power. Designed to meet stringent U.S. EPA Tier 2 emissions standards, it balances capability with modern efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) / E85 FlexFuel | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 320 hp (239 kW) @ 5,100 rpm (Gasoline) / 333 hp (248 kW) @ 5,100 rpm (E85) | |
| Torque | 375 lb-ft (508 Nm) @ 4,100 rpm (Gasoline) / 367 lb-ft (498 Nm) @ 4,100 rpm (E85) | |
| Fuel system | Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / CA LEV II ULEV | |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | dexos1™ (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 485 lbs (220 kg) |
The L94 provides effortless torque for towing and daily driving, requiring no special operational procedures. Adherence to 7,500-mile (or 12-month) oil changes with dexos1™ 5W-30 is critical for longevity and maintaining fuel economy. The variable valve timing system is a known potential failure point; owners should monitor for rough idle or check engine lights related to camshaft position, potentially indicating solenoid failure per GM Service Bulletin #09-06-01-007A. Using top-tier fuel (minimum 87 AKI) helps ensure optimal performance.
Oil Specs: Requires dexos1™ specification (GM P/N 19503785). This oil is formulated for GM's variable valve timing systems.
Emissions: Certified to U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and CA LEV II ULEV standards (EPA Cert. #A-RMY-07). Applies to all 2007-2014 L94 engines.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standard. Ratings vary based on fuel type (gasoline or E85) and are for engine installed in Tahoe/Suburban with 6-speed automatic transmission.
GM RPO Code L94 Specification Sheet
GM Service Information (SI) Bulletins
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certificate of Conformity A-RMY-07
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM L94 was introduced for the 2007 model year with longitudinal mounting in GMT900 platform SUVs and vans. This engine was specifically calibrated for flexible fuel (E85) capability and shared its architecture with the LY6 but featured unique VVT calibration. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The L94 engine code is part of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN); the 8th digit is '4'. The RPO (Regular Production Option) code 'L94' is listed on the vehicle's Service Parts Identification (SPI) label, typically located in the glovebox. Visually, it can be identified by its "Vortec" badging on the engine cover and the presence of a flex-fuel sensor on the fuel rail. It is mechanically similar to the LY6 but is distinguished by its variable valve timing system and specific intake manifold.
The L94's primary reliability risk is variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles with high mileage or inconsistent maintenance. GM Service Bulletin #09-06-01-007A documents this issue, while owner data frequently reports failures around the 100,000–150,000 mile mark. Infrequent oil changes increase stress on the VVT system, making preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2007-2014) and NHTSA owner complaint data (2007-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM L94.
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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