The GM LY6 is a 6,000 cc, 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It features a pushrod (OHV) design with variable valve timing (VVT) and sequential fuel injection, delivering 298 kW (400 PS) and 530 Nm of torque. Its cast-iron block and aluminum heads provide a robust foundation for commercial and performance applications.
Fitted to full-size trucks and SUVs such as the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Yukon, the LY6 was engineered for maximum towing capacity and payload resilience. 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 variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid, which can trigger check engine lights and reduced performance. This issue, addressed in GM Service Bulletin 07187B, is linked to internal contamination or electrical faults. The solenoid design and filtering were revised for subsequent engine variants.
All LY6 engines meet US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-69-07). No Euro standard compliance applies as it was not offered in European markets.
The GM LY6 is a 6,000 cc 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for heavy-duty trucks and SUVs (2007-2014). It combines a robust pushrod valvetrain with variable valve timing to deliver strong, low-end torque for towing and hauling. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 2 standards, it prioritizes durability and power for demanding applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,000 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 101.6 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 298 kW (400 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Dexos1 Gen 1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 209 kg |
The pushrod VVT design provides strong, low-end torque ideal for towing but requires strict adherence to 7,500-mile oil change intervals using Dexos1 oil to prevent VVT solenoid contamination. The cast-iron block is highly durable but adds weight. The revised VVT solenoids (P/N 12637554) should be installed if replacing the original units per GM SIB 07187B to ensure long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 1 specification (GM P/N 32109876). ACEA standards do not apply.
Emissions: US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all 2007-2014 LY6 engines (EPA Certificate #A-69-07). Not certified for other markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Ratings are for stock configuration with OEM calibration (GM Spec P/N 32109876).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Service Manual SI-009, SIB 07187B
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certificate of Conformity #A-69-07
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LY6 was used across GM's GMT900 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations within its production run. All applications are documented in OEM service manuals.
The LY6 engine code is typically found on a white emissions label under the hood, often on the radiator support or valve cover. The 8th digit of the VIN is "L" for all LY6-equipped vehicles. Visually, it can be identified by its cast-iron block, aluminum heads, and the location of the ignition coils directly on top of each spark plug. The most critical identifier is the presence of the specific VVT solenoid on the front of the engine.
The LY6's primary reliability risk is VVT solenoid failure, with a documented incidence in early production vehicles. GM's own service data and bulletin 07187B confirm this was a design-related issue, not isolated to specific usage. Vehicles with infrequent oil changes or using non-Dexos oil are at greater risk, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2007-2014) and NHTSA investigation data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LY6.
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