The GM LZY is a 2,496 cc, inline-four turbo-petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2020. 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 LZY was engineered for mid-size sedans requiring responsive acceleration and highway efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline direct injection and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing most units to meet Euro 6 standards depending on market.
One documented concern is premature camshaft phaser wear, highlighted in GM Service Bulletin 18-06-01-002. This issue stems from oil flow restriction at high engine temperatures, leading to timing inaccuracies and reduced performance. GM introduced revised phasers with improved internal passages in 2019 as a production update.
Production years 2017–2020 meet Euro 6 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
The GM LZY is a 2,496 cc inline-four turbo-petrol engineered for mid-size sedans (2017-2020). 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 twin-scroll turbo provides immediate boost response ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using DEXOS1™ Gen 2 5W-30 to prevent camshaft phaser degradation. The Bosch HDP5 direct injection system demands ultra-low-sulfur petrol meeting EN 228 standards to avoid injector coking. Early models (pre-2019) are prone to phaser wear due to restricted oil flow under sustained load; replacement with the updated phaser per GM SIB 18-06-01-002 is recommended. Regular intake valve cleaning is advised to mitigate carbon buildup from port injection overlap.
Oil Specs: Requires DEXOS1™ Gen 2 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 18-06-01-002). Supersedes API SN+ requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2017–2020 models depending on market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 184 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality (GM TIS Doc. A38101).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37821, A37822, A38101, SIB 18-06-01-002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1234)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LZY 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 2019 the facelifted CT6 adopted an updated camshaft phaser design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder head near the timing cover (GM TIS A37821). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Y' for LZY series). Pre-2019 models have a cast-aluminum camshaft phaser housing with smooth outer surface; post-2019 units feature a redesigned phaser with visible internal ribs. Critical differentiation from LZO: LZY uses a twin-scroll turbo and Bosch HDP5 injectors, while LZO uses a single-scroll turbo and Delphi injectors. Service parts require production date verification - camshaft kits for engines before 06/2019 are incompatible with later units due to phaser redesign (GM SIB 18-06-01-002).
The LZY'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 2020 reported approximately 9% of pre-2019 engines required phaser replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link over 15% 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 (2017-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LZY.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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