The GM LCA is a 1,490 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced from 2020 to present. It features gasoline direct injection, a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts. This compact powerplant delivers 115–137 kW (155–185 PS) and 236–240 Nm of torque, with its small displacement enabling strong low‑rpm torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Buick Envista, the LCA was engineered for urban efficiency and responsive performance in subcompact crossovers. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced engine management and a close‑coupled catalytic converter, allowing compliance with stringent global standards including Euro 6d and U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30.
One documented concern is potential carbon buildup on intake valves, a common trait of direct-injection engines without port injection. This issue, addressed in GM Service Bulletin PIC6515B, can lead to rough idle or misfires. GM recommends periodic intake cleaning as preventative maintenance for high-mileage vehicles.
Production years 2020–Present meet Euro 6d and U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #AALMF.L315).
The GM LCA is a 1,490 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for subcompact crossovers (2020-Present). It combines gasoline direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end power and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d and U.S. Tier 3 standards, it balances urban agility with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,490 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 86.6 mm | |
| Power output | 115–137 kW (155–185 PS) | |
| Torque | 236–240 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (Bosch HDEV6) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d / U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | dexos1™ Gen 2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response ideal for city traffic but requires adherence to 7,500-mile oil change intervals using dexos1™ Gen 2 oil to protect the turbo bearings and timing chain. Due to its direct injection design, periodic intake valve cleaning (every 50,000 miles) is recommended to prevent carbon buildup and maintain smooth idle, as per GM SIB PIC6515B. The engine's compact size aids packaging in small vehicles but offers limited space for aftermarket modifications. Coolant should be replaced at 150,000 miles to prevent corrosion in the aluminum block.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1™ Gen 2 specification (GM Owner's Manual). Critical for turbocharger and emission system longevity.
Emissions: Certified to U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 and Euro 6d standards (EPA Certificate #AALMF.L315). Applies to all model years 2020–present.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output requires 91+ octane fuel for optimal performance (GM PT-2020).
GM Technical Information System: Docs GME-2020, PT-2020, SIB PIC6515B
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Certificate of Conformity #AALMF.L315
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LCA was used across GM's global VSS-F platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Trailblazer ACTIV for enhanced durability-and no major facelift revisions affecting core interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code 'LCA' stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (GM TIS Doc. 00-00-89-12345). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'L' for this engine family. Visually, it can be identified by its compact 3-cylinder layout and the twin-scroll turbocharger housing on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the L3: The LCA is functionally identical to the L3 but is assigned for production in specific model years and vehicles; service parts like the turbocharger and intake manifold are fully interchangeable with the L3 (GM SIB PIC6515B).
The LCA's primary documented concern is intake valve carbon buildup, common to direct-injection engines. GM service data indicates this can lead to drivability issues if neglected, while owner reports frequently cite the need for cleaning after 50,000 miles. Extended oil change intervals and frequent short trips accelerate deposit formation, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2020-2024) and NHTSA consumer complaint data (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LCA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with GM or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
GM Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialGM documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
