The GM LT4 is a 6,162 cc, supercharged V8 petrol engine produced from 2015 to 2019 and reintroduced in 2020. It features an aluminium block and heads, overhead valve (OHV) pushrod valvetrain, and a 1.7L Eaton supercharger. This architecture delivers extreme power density and track-ready performance for GM's halo performance vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Camaro ZL1, and Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, the LT4 was engineered for brutal acceleration and high-RPM power. Emissions compliance for all production years is achieved through direct fuel injection, precise electronic control, and catalytic converters, meeting US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 standards.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the supercharger coupler, which can lead to loss of boost and a distinctive rattling noise. This issue, referenced in GM Service Bulletin PIC-6524, is attributed to material fatigue under high thermal and mechanical stress. GM later revised the coupler design for improved durability in later production runs.
All production years (2015–Present) meet US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 emissions standards (EPA Engine Family Code GMX-LT4).
The GM LT4 is a 6,162 cc supercharged V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance vehicles (2015-Present). It combines a lightweight aluminium block with an efficient OHV valvetrain and a roots-type supercharger to deliver explosive power and torque. Designed to meet stringent US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 standards, it offers a compelling blend of raw performance and modern emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Supercharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 4.065 in × 3.622 in | |
| Power output | 640–668 hp (477–498 kW) | |
| Torque | 630–659 lb-ft (854–893 Nm) | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Supercharger | Eaton R1740 TVS roots-type (1.7L) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | DEXOS1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | approx. 460 lbs (209 kg) |
The supercharged OHV design provides brutal, immediate power ideal for track use but requires strict adherence to 7,500-mile oil change intervals using DEXOS1 Gen 2 oil to prevent supercharger and chain wear. Extended oil intervals can accelerate component wear. The direct injection system is prone to intake valve carbon buildup, which GM recommends cleaning every 30,000 miles for optimal performance. GM Service Bulletin PIC-6524 details the updated supercharger coupler for affected vehicles.
Oil Specs: Requires DEXOS1 Gen 2 specification oil (GM Service Manual SM-920). This is mandatory for warranty compliance and engine longevity.
Emissions: Certified under US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 for all model years (EPA Engine Family GMX-LT4).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 (Net) standard. Output varies by application (Corvette: 650 hp; Camaro: 650 hp; CT5-V: 668 hp).
GM Service Manual SM-920 (Chevrolet Corvette Z06 2016-2019)
GM Engineering Specification ES-920
GM Service Information Bulletin PIC-6524
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Engine Family Database
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standard
The GM LT4 was used across GM's high-performance platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different supercharger pulleys and intercoolers for the Corvette vs. Camaro-and shares its core architecture with the LT5. 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-920). The 8th digit of the VIN is '7' for LT4-equipped Corvettes and 'P' for Camaros. Visually, the aluminium V8 configuration with a centrally mounted Eaton supercharger and intercooler assembly on top of the engine is unmistakable. Critical differentiation from the LT5: The LT4 has a 1.7L supercharger, while the LT5 has a 2.65L supercharger. Parts are not interchangeable.
The LT4's primary reliability risk is supercharger coupler failure, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or track-driven vehicles. GM service data indicated a notable number of coupler replacements before 50,000 miles, while common owner reports cite oil consumption as a secondary concern. Infrequent oil changes and aggressive driving make coupler wear critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2015-Present) and aggregated owner repair data (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LT4.
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