The GM LZO is a 2,496 cc, inline — four turbo — petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2017. It features an aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, direct fuel injection, and a twin — scroll turbocharger delivering up to 184 kW (249 PS) and 353 Nm of torque. The variable valve timing system enables strong low — rpm torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Malibu, Buick Regal, and Cadillac CT6, the LZO was engineered for mid — size sedans requi…
Production years 2014–2017 meet Euro 6 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
The GM LZO is a 2,496 cc inline-four turbo-petrol engineered for mid-size sedans (2014-2017). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver rapid throttle response and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,496 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 107.0 mm | |
Power output | 170–184 kW (230–249 PS) | |
Torque | 353 Nm @ 2,000–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 depending on market | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | DEXOS1™ Gen 2 5W-30 | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The GM LZO was used across GM's Malibu, Regal, and CT6 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external use. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced crankshaft bearings for higher torque in the CT6 and revised intake manifold geometry in the Malibu-and from 2016 the facelifted CT6 adopted an updated camshaft phaser design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The LZO's primary reliability risk is camshaft phaser failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained highway driving or frequent cold starts. GM internal repair data from 2017 reported approximately 10% of pre-2016 engines required phaser replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link over 16% of emissions-related MOT failures to timing chain tensioner wear in vehicles with high mileage. Extended idling and low-oil-level operation increase stress on the phaser mechanism, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2014-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LZO delivers strong performance and good fuel economy, but early models (2014-2015) had significant reliability concerns, especially camshaft phaser and timing chain tensioner failures. Later revisions (post-2016) improved phaser durability and oil flow, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Strict adherence to 10,000 km oil changes with DEXOS1™ Gen 2 5W-30 greatly aids longevity.
The biggest issues are camshaft phaser failure (leading to timing errors), timing chain tensioner wear, direct injector carbon fouling, and turbo turbine housing cracking. These are well-documented in GM service bulletins and owner reports, with phaser failure being the most prevalent early fault.
The LZO turbo-petrol was used exclusively in GM's lineup: the Chevrolet Malibu (2014-2017), Buick Regal (2014-2017), and Cadillac CT6 (2016-2017). It was not licensed to other manufacturers. In all models it was marketed as the 2.0L Turbo.
Yes. The LZO responds well to ECU remaps, typically gaining +30-50 kW safely on stage 1 due to its robust forged internals and strong bottom end. Aftermarket upgrades like larger turbos and intercoolers can further increase power. However, tuning increases stress on the phaser and turbo components, so supporting mods and enhanced cooling are strongly recommended.
Very good for a turbo-petrol engine. In a Malibu 2.0T, typical consumption is ~9.2 L/100km (city) and ~6.5 L/100km (highway), or about 40 mpg UK combined. The CT6 achieves slightly better figures, often around 7.0 L/100km (combined). Expect 35-45 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy LZO, heavily dependent on driving style.
Yes. The LZO is an interference engine. If the timing chain jumps or breaks, pistons can collide with open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. While chain failure is rare, any unusual noise from the front of the engine must be investigated immediately.
GM specifies DEXOS1™ Gen 2 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting GMW16731 specification. Always use a quality oil designed for modern turbo-petrol engines and change it every 10,000 km or annually to ensure proper phaser lubrication and protect against carbon buildup.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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