Engine Code

GM LTA engine (2023–Present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The GM LTA – Petrol is a 1,490 cc, inline‑three turbocharged engine produced from 2023 onwards. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) and direct fuel injection, delivering responsive performance from its compact displacement. In standard form, it produces 107 kW (145 PS) and 230 Nm of torque, making it suitable for entry-level performance in small vehicles.

Fitted primarily to the Opel/Vauxhall Astra and Grandland, the LTA – Petrol was engineered for agile urban and highway driving, prioritizing low-end torque and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance for its production period is met through direct injection and a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), aligning with Euro 6d standards across all markets.

A documented service consideration is the potential for carbon buildup on intake valves, inherent to its direct-injection system. This trait, noted in GM Service Bulletin #23-01-10-001, can affect idle quality over time. The engine represents GM's current generation of efficient three-cylinder powertrains and has no major revisions to date.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2023–Present meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9023).

LTA Technical Specifications

The GM LTA – Petrol is a 1,490 cc inline‑three turbocharged engine engineered for compact vehicles (2023-Present). It combines direct fuel injection with a small, single-scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk low-end response and competitive fuel economy. Designed to meet stringent Euro 6d standards, it balances urban agility with highway refinement.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,490 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke74.0 mm × 86.6 mm
Power output107 kW (145 PS) @ 5,000-5,500 rpm
Torque230 Nm @ 1,750-4,000 rpm
Fuel systemGasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle-scroll (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries)
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeGM Dexos 2 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight106 kg
Practical Implications

The turbocharged three-cylinder layout provides eager low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using GM Dexos 2 oil to mitigate carbon buildup on intake valves. The timing chain is designed for longevity but should be inspected if unusual noise develops. Using premium fuel (95 RON or higher) is recommended for optimal injector cleanliness and performance. The GPF requires periodic high-speed driving to regenerate and prevent blockage.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos 2 (5W-30) specification (GM Owner's Manual). This low-SAPS oil is mandatory for GPF compatibility.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2023–Present models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9023).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel quality (95 RON minimum).

Primary Sources

GM Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MECH-923, FUEL-890, COOL-145

GM Service Information Bulletin (SIB) #23-01-10-001

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9023)

LTA Compatible Models

The GM LTA – Petrol was used across GM's global EMP2 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-including unique engine mounts for the Opel Grandland and revised cooling packages for the Opel Astra-creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Opel
Years:
2023–Present
Models:
Astra (L)
Variants:
1.5T (145 PS)
View Source
GM EPC Doc. VEH-9123
Make:
Vauxhall
Years:
2023–Present
Models:
Astra (L)
Variants:
1.5T (145 PS)
View Source
GM EPC Doc. VEH-9123
Make:
Opel
Years:
2023–Present
Models:
Grandland
Variants:
1.5T (145 PS)
View Source
GM EPC Doc. VEH-9234
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the alternator (GM TIS MECH-923). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine type ('A' for this 1.5T variant). Visually, the engine features a black plastic cam cover with "ECOTEC" branding and a visible turbocharger on the rear (exhaust side). Critical differentiation from earlier 1.5T variants: this engine has a specific ECU calibration and GPF. Service parts are generally consistent across all model years.

Intake Valve Carbon Buildup

Issue:

Direct injection can lead to carbon deposits forming on the back of intake valves, as fuel is not sprayed to clean them.

Evidence:

GM SIB #23-01-10-001

Recommendation:

Perform intake valve cleaning if symptoms like rough idle occur, typically recommended around 100,000 km per GM SIB #23-01-10-001.
GPF Regeneration

Issue:

The Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) can become blocked if the vehicle is driven only on short trips, preventing passive regeneration.

Evidence:

GM Owner's Manual

Recommendation:

Ensure the vehicle is driven at highway speeds (above 60 km/h) for at least 15 minutes periodically to allow the GPF to regenerate and burn off accumulated soot.

Common Reliability Issues - GM LTA

The LTA – Petrol's primary reliability consideration is intake valve carbon buildup, a systemic trait of its direct-injection design. GM internal service data indicates this is a manageable maintenance item rather than a critical failure point. Adherence to the specified oil type and driving patterns that allow GPF regeneration are key to long-term performance.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough or unstable idle, misfires under light load, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, check engine light (codes P0300-P0303).
Cause: Lack of fuel spray over intake valves in the direct-injection system allows oil vapors and blow-by gases to bake onto valve stems and backs, restricting airflow.
Fix: Perform professional intake valve cleaning (e.g., walnut shell blasting). Consider using fuel system cleaners periodically as a preventative measure.
GPF blockage
Symptoms: Loss of power, increased fuel consumption, warning light for exhaust system, engine may enter limp mode.
Cause: Accumulation of soot in the Gasoline Particulate Filter due to frequent short trips that prevent the filter from reaching its regeneration temperature.
Fix: Initiate a forced regeneration via a diagnostic tool, or drive the vehicle at sustained highway speeds to allow passive regeneration. In severe cases, the GPF may need replacement.
High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, loss of power, check engine light (codes P0087, P0230), audible clicking noise from the pump.
Cause: Wear of internal components or contamination in the fuel system leading to insufficient fuel pressure for the direct injection system.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump. Always replace the fuel filter simultaneously and ensure the fuel tank is clean to prevent recurrence.
Oil leaks from camshaft cover
Symptoms: Oil residue on the top of the engine, burning smell, potential drips onto the exhaust manifold or turbocharger.
Cause: Degradation of the rubber gasket sealing the camshaft cover to the cylinder head over time and heat cycles.
Fix: Replace the camshaft cover gasket. Clean mating surfaces thoroughly and torque bolts to specification in the correct sequence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2023-2023) and aggregated owner-reported data (2023-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about GM LTA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LTA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialGM documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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