The General Motors L3T 1.3-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine has been assembled in Korea since 2018 and is used in popular models such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Malibu and Buick Encore GX. There is a separate modification of this power unit for the Opel Astra with the F14SHT index.
E-Turbo family: LIH, L3T, L4H.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2018 |
| Displacement, cc | 1338 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 156 – 163 |
| Torque output, Nm | 230 – 240 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R3 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 79 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 91 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | DCVCP |
| Turbocharging | yes |
| Recommended engine oil | 0W-20 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 6d |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Chevrolet TrailBlazer 2021) — city — highway — combined |
8.5 6.3 7.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 107 |
The engine was installed on:
- Buick Encore GX 1 (VSS-F) since 2019;
- Buick LaCrosse 3 (P2XX) since 2019;
- Chevrolet Malibu 9 (V400) since 2018;
- Chevrolet Orlando 2 (D2XX) since 2018;
- Chevrolet Trailblazer 3 (VSS-F) since 2020.
Disadvantages of the GM L3T engine
- On specialized forums, they complain only about noise, vibrations and malfunctions of the Start-Stop system.
- Also, owners often scold the capricious EVAP gas vapor recovery system.
- Due to the presence of direct fuel injection, it suffers from deposits on the intake valves.
- Like all modern GM turbo engines, intercooler icing occurs here.
Frequently asked questions about the GM L3T
How much power does the GM L3T make?
The GM L3T develops 156 - 163 hp and 230 - 240 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the GM L3T take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.5 liters. Recommended oil: 0W-20.
Does the GM L3T have a timing belt or chain?
The GM L3T uses a timing chain.
Is the GM L3T turbocharged?
Yes, the GM L3T is turbocharged.
Does the GM L3T need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the GM L3T has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the GM L3T last?
The typical lifespan of the GM L3T is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the GM L3T?
Chevrolet TrailBlazer 2021: city 8.5, highway 6.3, combined 7.6 L/100 km.
What cars was the GM L3T installed on?
Buick Encore GX 1 (VSS-F) since 2019; Buick LaCrosse 3 (P2XX) since 2019; Chevrolet Malibu 9 (V400) since 2018; Chevrolet Orlando 2 (D2XX) since 2018; Chevrolet Trailblazer 3 (VSS-F) since 2020.
What are the common problems of the GM L3T?
On specialized forums, they complain only about noise, vibrations and malfunctions of the Start-Stop system. Also, owners often scold the capricious EVAP gas vapor recovery system. All known problems.
What engines are related to the GM L3T?
E-Turbo family: LIH.
With the LT3 engine block being aluminum do the cylinders have iron sleeves for reliability/longevity?