The GM LS2 is a 5,967 cc, 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2007. It features an aluminum block and heads, sequential fuel injection, and a high — flow intake manifold, delivering a broad, flat torque curve ideal for spirited driving. Its Gen IV architecture incorporates improved cylinder head porting for enhanced volumetric efficiency.
Fitted to performance icons like the Chevrolet Corvette C6, SSR pickup, and Pontiac GTO, the LS2 was en…
Production years 2005–2007 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards; not certified for Euro markets (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable).
The GM LS2 is a 5,967 cc 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for sports cars and performance sedans (2005-2007). It combines an aluminum block with high-flow cylinder heads and a 90mm-bore architecture to deliver strong, linear power. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards, it prioritizes driver engagement and high-RPM performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,967 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 101.6 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 298–336 kW (400–450 PS) | |
Torque | 542–570 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI) | |
Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.9:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | GM Dexos1 5W-30 | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
The GM LS2 was used across GM's Y-Body and Kappa platforms with longitudinal rear-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Corvette and a unique air intake for the GTO-and was succeeded by the higher-displacement LS3 in 2008, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The LS2's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lifter failure, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or track-driven applications. GM internal data indicated a correlation between oil viscosity breakdown and lifter noise in modified or heavily used engines, while enthusiast forums frequently cite this as a maintenance-related issue. Sustained high engine speeds and insufficient oil changes make using the correct Dexos1 specification critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2005-2007) and aggregated enthusiast diagnostic data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LS2 is renowned for its robustness and longevity when properly maintained. Its cast-iron crankshaft and forged connecting rods are extremely durable. The main caveat is lifter wear under aggressive use; sticking to Dexos1 5W-30 oil and 7,500 km service intervals mitigates this. With basic care, these engines routinely exceed 200,000 miles without major issues.
The most frequent issues are lifter tick/failure (especially with poor maintenance), intake manifold gasket leaks (causing vacuum or coolant leaks), and ignition coil failures. PCV system clogging can also lead to oil leaks. These are well-documented in GM service bulletins and are generally inexpensive to fix with OEM parts.
The LS2 was the powerhouse for GM's performance lineup from 2005-2007. It was found in the Chevrolet Corvette C6 (base model), Chevrolet SSR pickup, Pontiac GTO, and the first-generation Cadillac CTS-V. It replaced the LS1 and was itself replaced by the larger 6.2L LS3 in 2008 for most applications.
Absolutely. The LS2 is one of the most popular engines for modification. Simple bolt-ons like a cold air intake, exhaust, and an ECU tune can yield 40-50+ HP gains. The stock bottom end can handle 500+ HP reliably. Forced induction (supercharger/turbo) or nitrous oxide can push power well beyond 600 HP, though supporting mods like fuel system upgrades become necessary.
Fuel economy is modest, as expected for a 6.0L V8. In a Corvette, expect around 15 mpg (US) city and 24 mpg (US) highway. In heavier vehicles like the CTS-V or SSR, figures drop to 13-14 mpg (US) city and 19-20 mpg (US) highway. Aggressive driving will significantly reduce these numbers.
No. The GM LS2 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (an extremely rare event), the pistons and valves will not contact each other, preventing catastrophic internal damage. This is a hallmark of the Gen III/IV LS engine design.
GM mandates the use of Dexos1 5W-30 specification oil. This is critical for protecting the hydraulic lifters and ensuring proper lubrication under all operating conditions. Using a high-quality synthetic Dexos1 oil is highly recommended, especially for performance or track use. Change intervals should not exceed 7,500 km or 6 months.
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.