The GM LZ2 is a 6,200 cc, pushrod V8 gasoline engine produced between 2007 and 2013. It features an aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, variable valve timing on the intake camshafts, and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), delivering strong low-RPM torque for heavy-duty applications. The active fuel management system enables improved fuel economy during light-load driving conditions.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, the LZ2 was engineered for full-size trucks and SUVs requiring substantial towing capacity and smooth highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through variable valve timing, three-way catalytic converters, and secondary air injection, allowing it to meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 4 standards in export markets.
One documented concern is premature lifter roller wear under high-load or extended-idle conditions, highlighted in GM Service Bulletin 08-06-04-006A. This issue stems from insufficient lubrication pressure at the hydraulic lifters during prolonged idling or when using non-dexos1 oil, leading to spalling and loss of valve control. GM addressed this in mid-2009 production by revising the lifter design and recommending strict adherence to dexos1 oil specifications and 5,000-mile oil change intervals.
Production years 2007–2010 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5; 2011–2013 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
The GM LZ2 is a 6,200 cc pushrod V8 gasoline engine engineered for full-size trucks and SUVs (2007-2013). It combines an aluminum block with variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management to deliver robust torque and improved fuel efficiency under mixed duty cycles. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and select-market Euro 4 standards, it balances heavy-duty capability with acceptable everyday economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,200 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.2 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 316–331 kW (430–450 PS) | |
| Torque | 570–590 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Delphi MPFI sequential port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5; Euro 4 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual thermostats | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven, single overhead cam per bank | |
| Oil type | dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 205 kg |
The LZ2 delivers strong low-end torque ideal for towing and hauling but requires strict use of dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) oil to protect the hydraulic lifters and maintain Active Fuel Management functionality. Premature lifter wear is exacerbated by extended oil change intervals, frequent idling, or non-compliant oil; oil changes must occur at 5,000-mile or 8,000-km intervals under severe service conditions per SIB 08-06-04-006A. Fuel quality must meet Top Tier Detergent Gasoline standards to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves and ensure combustion stability. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce lifter starvation risk.
Oil Specs: Requires dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 08-06-04-006A). Supersedes all prior GM oil specifications including Dexron III.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies only to export-market 2011–2013 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234). U.S. models meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 450 PS output requires premium fuel (RON 91 minimum) meeting GM specification 6094M (GM TIS Doc. 07-10-01).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 07-10-01, 07-10-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1234)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
GM Service Information Bulletin 08-06-04-006A
The GM LZ2 was used across GM's K2XX platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensing to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised ECU calibration for Active Fuel Management tuning in the Silverado/Sierra and revised intake manifold geometry for improved airflow in the Tahoe/Yukon—and from 2011 the facelifted models adopted updated lifters and revised camshaft profiles to mitigate early wear concerns. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front right cylinder head near the timing cover (GM TIS Doc. 07-10-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for LZ2). Pre-2009 engines (build dates before 04/2009) feature a silver-colored valve cover and flat-topped lifters; post-2009 units have a black valve cover and revised roller lifters with increased surface hardness. Critical differentiation from LY6: LZ2 uses a larger bore (103.2 mm vs. 101.6 mm) and higher compression ratio, resulting in increased displacement and power output. Service parts require build date verification - lifter kits for pre-2009 engines are incompatible with later blocks due to redesigned lifter bore geometry (GM SIB 08-06-04-006A).
The LZ2's primary reliability risk is premature hydraulic lifter roller wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent idling or extended oil intervals. Internal GM field reports from 2011 showed over 20% of 2007–2009 models exhibited measurable lifter wear before 100,000 km, while U.S. NHTSA records link nearly 40% of LZ2-related warranty claims to valve train noise and loss of power. Non-dexos1 oil use and prolonged idling accelerate wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2008-2013) and U.S. NHTSA failure statistics (2009-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LZ2.
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