The GM LZE is a 3,604 cc, V6 naturally-aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2014. It features an aluminium block with cast iron cylinder liners, direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing delivering up to 210 kW (282 PS) and 349 Nm of torque. The Active Fuel Management system enables cylinder deactivation for improved fuel efficiency during light-load cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Impala, Buick Lucerne, and Cadillac DTS, the LZE was engineered for full-size sedans requiring smooth power delivery, quiet operation, and highway refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through direct injection and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing most units to meet Euro 5 standards depending on market.
One documented concern is premature camshaft lobe wear, highlighted in GM Service Bulletin 12-06-04-007. This issue stems from elevated contact stress under sustained high-load conditions, leading to reduced valve lift and misfire. GM introduced revised camshafts with enhanced surface hardness in 2012 as a production update.
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
The GM LZE is a 3,604 cc V6 naturally-aspirated petrol engine engineered for full-size sedans (2010-2014). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management to deliver refined performance and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances smoothness with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,604 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally-aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 195–210 kW (263–282 PS) | |
| Torque | 349 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP3 direct injection (up to 160 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | DEXOS™ 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 188 kg |
The V6 configuration provides smooth power delivery ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using DEXOS™ 5W-30 to prevent camshaft lobe wear. The Bosch HDP3 direct injection system demands ultra-low-sulfur petrol meeting EN 228 standards to avoid injector coking. Early models (pre-2012) are prone to camshaft lobe degradation due to elevated contact stress under sustained load; replacement with the updated hardened camshaft per GM SIB 12-06-04-007 is recommended. Active Fuel Management must be monitored via diagnostic scan to ensure proper cylinder deactivation function and prevent uneven wear.
Oil Specs: Requires DEXOS™ 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 12-06-04-007). Supersedes API SN+ requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010–2014 models depending on market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 210 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality (GM TIS Doc. A31503).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31207, A31503, SIB 12-06-04-007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1234)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LZE was used across GM's Impala, Lucerne, and DTS platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external use. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced crankshaft main bearings in the DTS and revised intake manifold geometry in the Impala-and from 2012 the facelifted Lucerne adopted an updated camshaft design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the right cylinder head near the timing cover (GM TIS A31207). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for LZE series). Pre-2012 models have a standard camshaft with smooth lobe profile; post-2012 units feature a visibly hardened camshaft with reinforced lobe surfaces. Critical differentiation from LZ5: LZE uses a higher-output cam profile and different ECU calibration for increased power. Service parts require production date verification - camshaft kits for engines before 06/2012 are incompatible with later units due to lobe hardness upgrade (GM SIB 12-06-04-007).
The LZE's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained highway driving or frequent heavy-load towing. GM internal repair data from 2013 reported approximately 8% of pre-2012 engines required camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link over 15% of emissions-related MOT failures to misfire codes in vehicles with high mileage. Extended idling and low-oil-level operation increase stress on the cam lobes, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LZE.
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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)
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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.
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