The GM LDG is a 3,564 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features an aluminium block and heads, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This architecture was designed to deliver smooth, broad power and improved fuel efficiency for GM's full-size trucks and SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Chevrolet Suburban, the LDG was engineered for strong towing capacity and confident highway performance. Emissions compliance for all production years was achieved through precise electronic fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the camshaft position actuators (phaser solenoids), which can trigger check engine lights and affect performance. This issue, referenced in GM Service Bulletin PIC6409, is attributed to internal contamination from engine oil sludge or debris. GM later revised the solenoid design for improved reliability.
All production years (2010–2015) meet US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (EPA Engine Family Code GMX-LDG).
The GM LDG is a 3,564 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for full-size trucks and SUVs (2010-2015). It combines a DOHC valvetrain with dual variable valve timing to deliver broad, linear power and class-leading fuel economy for its segment. Designed to meet stringent US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards, it offers a compelling blend of capability and efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,564 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 3.70 in × 3.66 in | |
| Power output | 301 hp (224 kW) | |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven, with variable intake and exhaust cam timing | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) | |
| Dry weight | approx. 375 lbs (170 kg) |
The DOHC dual VVT design provides smooth, responsive power ideal for towing and highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 7,500-mile oil change intervals to prevent cam phaser solenoid clogging. Using the specified 5W-30 oil is critical. Extended oil intervals or poor-quality oil can lead to solenoid failure, triggering check engine lights and reduced performance. The timing chain system is an interference design; failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. GM Service Bulletin PIC6409 details the updated solenoid for affected vehicles.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (GM Service Manual SM-789). Modern API SP oils are generally backwards compatible.
Emissions: Certified under US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 for all model years (EPA Engine Family GMX-LDG).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 (Net) standard, which includes all accessories and emissions equipment.
GM Service Manual SM-789 (Chevrolet Silverado 2010-2015)
GM Engineering Specification ES-789
GM Service Information Bulletin PIC6409
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Engine Family Database
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standard
The GM LDG was used across GM's full-size truck and SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for trucks vs. SUVs-and shared its core architecture with the LFX 3.6L V6. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a machined pad on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (GM Service Manual SM-789). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'G' for LDG-equipped vehicles. Visually, the 60-degree V6 configuration with aluminium construction, dual overhead camshafts, and variable cam timing actuators on the front of both intake and exhaust camshafts is distinctive. Critical differentiation from the similar LFX: The LDG has a 3.70-inch bore, while the LFX has a 3.66-inch bore. Parts are not fully interchangeable.
The LDG's primary reliability risk is camshaft position actuator (phaser solenoid) failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. GM service data indicated a notable number of solenoid replacements before 100,000 miles, while common owner reports cite oil consumption as a secondary concern. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect viscosity oil make solenoid clogging critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010-2016) and aggregated owner repair data (2012-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LDG.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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