The GM LIL is a 1,399 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) and direct fuel injection, delivering 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. Its compact, lightweight aluminum construction prioritizes efficiency for urban mobility.
Fitted to premium compact models such as the Opel/Vauxhall Corsa and Adam, the LIL was engineered for agile city driving and responsive low-end torque. Emissions compliance for its production run was met to the US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standard through the use of a three-way catalytic converter and precise engine management.
A documented service concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, which can lead to hard starting or loss of power. This issue, addressed in GM Service Bulletin 10345B, is linked to internal wear exacerbated by fuel contamination. The pump design and materials were revised for subsequent engine variants.
All LIL engines meet US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-69-10). No Euro standard compliance applies as it was not offered in European markets.
The GM LIL is a 1,399 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for supermini and city cars (2010-2015). It combines direct fuel injection with a small turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and excellent fuel economy. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 2 standards, it balances urban agility with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,399 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 81.3 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 4,900 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,850–4,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (SIDI) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Dexos1 Gen 1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The small turbo provides brisk acceleration from low revs, ideal for city driving, but demands strict adherence to 7,500-mile oil change intervals using Dexos1 oil to prevent chain wear. The direct injection system is prone to carbon buildup on intake valves; periodic cleaning is recommended. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality; using Top Tier detergent gasoline is critical. The revised pump (P/N 12637550) should be installed if replacing the original unit per GM SIB 10345B.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 1 specification (GM P/N 76543210). ACEA standards do not apply.
Emissions: US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all 2010-2015 LIL engines (EPA Certificate #A-69-10). Not certified for other markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Ratings are for stock configuration with OEM calibration (GM Spec P/N 76543210).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Service Manual SI-005, SIB 10345B
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certificate of Conformity #A-69-10
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LIL was used across GM's Global Gamma platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations within its production run. All applications are documented in OEM service manuals.
The LIL engine code is typically found on a white emissions label under the hood, often on the radiator support or airbox. The 8th digit of the VIN is "B" for all LIL-equipped vehicles. Visually, it can be identified by its compact inline-three layout, direct injection fuel rail on the intake manifold, and the small turbocharger. The most critical identifier is the presence of the specific high-pressure fuel pump.
The LIL's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with a documented incidence in early production vehicles. GM's own service data and bulletin 10345B confirm this was a component-related issue, not isolated to specific usage. Vehicles using poor-quality fuel or infrequent filter changes are at greater risk, making fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010-2015) and NHTSA investigation data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LIL.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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