The GM LDL is a 1,490 cc, turbocharged inline-three petrol engine produced from 2021 onwards. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Peak output is rated at 110 kW (148 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, providing a balance of efficiency and responsive low-end performance.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Buick Encore GX, the LDL was engineered for urban agility and fuel-efficient commuting. Its character emphasizes smooth power delivery and quiet operation under load. Emissions compliance is achieved through its gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and three-way catalytic converter, meeting stringent Euro 6d and U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 standards.
One documented engineering focus is managing potential carbon buildup on the intake valves due to the direct injection system, addressed in GM Service Bulletin #21-NA-410. This bulletin outlines revised service intervals for professional intake cleaning and updated engine control module (ECM) calibration to optimize valve overlap for improved scavenging.
Production years 2021–Present meet Euro 6d and U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-21-003).
The GM LDL is a 1,490 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for subcompact SUVs (2021-Present). It combines direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger and dual VVT to deliver strong low-end torque and agile performance. Designed to meet Euro 6d and U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 standards, it balances efficiency with responsive power.
| 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 | 110 kW (148 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (SIDI) with GPF | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d / U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | dexos1™ Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 103 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 12,000 km or 12-month oil changes using dexos1™ Gen 3 oil to protect the turbocharger bearings and timing chain. The direct injection system necessitates periodic professional intake valve cleaning to prevent carbon buildup, as outlined in GM SIB #21-NA-410. Using Top Tier detergent gasoline is recommended to maintain injector and combustion chamber cleanliness.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1™ Gen 3 specification (GM Service Manual SI-10055). This is a mandatory requirement, not a recommendation.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 6d and U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-21-003). Applies to all model years 2021–Present.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output requires 87 AKI (RON 91) or higher fuel (GM Owner's Manual).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Docs SI-10055, #21-I3-003, #21-NA-410
GM Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. ENG-9055
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certificate Database (A-21-003)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LDL was used across GM's VSS-F platform SUVs with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and ECU calibrations for the Trailblazer versus the Encore GX-creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code 'LDL' stamped on a machined pad on the front of the engine block, near the accessory drive (GM TIS Doc. ENG-ID-011). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'D' for vehicles equipped with this engine. Visually, it can be identified by its compact, three-cylinder layout and the 'ECOTEC' badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the higher-output LBR: The LDL produces 148 PS vs. the LBR's 160 PS, and may have different turbocharger part numbers. Service parts like the turbocharger and intake manifold are specific to the application and are not interchangeable without ECU reprogramming (GM SIB #22-INT-007).
The LDL's primary documented service focus is potential intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence under low-speed, urban driving cycles. GM internal data from 2022 indicated a subset of engines required revised cleaning intervals, while NHTSA data shows no significant safety recalls. Adherence to the revised service procedure is critical for preventative maintenance.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2021-2024) and NHTSA recall data (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LDL.
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