The 3.4-liter V6 GM LA1 (3400) was produced in Mexico and the USA from 1995 to 2005 and powered many models, including the Buick Rendezvous, Chevrolet Impala, Pontiac Aztek and Oldsmobile Alero. It was seriously modernized in 1999, so it effectively has two generations; output is 170-185 hp.
Specifications
| Production years | 1995-2005 |
| Displacement, cc | 3350 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 170 – 185 |
| Torque output, Nm | 270 – 285 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 92 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 84 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Features | OHV |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Pontiac Aztek 2003) — city — highway — combined |
12.4 9.0 10.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 190 |
The engine was installed on:
- Buick Rendezvous 1 (GMT257) in 2001 – 2005;
- Chevrolet Impala 8 (GMX210) in 1999 – 2005;
- Chevrolet Monte Carlo 6 (GMX230) in 1999 – 2005;
- Chevrolet Lumina APV 1 (GMT199) in 1995 – 1996;
- Chevrolet Venture 1 (GMT200) in 1996 – 2005;
- Oldsmobile Alero 1 (GMX130) in 1998 – 2004;
- Oldsmobile Silhouette 1 (GMT199) in 1995 – 1996, Silhouette 2 (GMT200) in 1996 – 2004;
- Pontiac Aztek 1 (GMT250) in 2000 – 2005;
- Pontiac Grand Am 5 (GMX130) in 1998 – 2005;
- Pontiac Montana 1 (GMT200) in 1998 – 2004;
- Pontiac Trans Sport 1 (GMT199) in 1995 – 1996, Trans Sport 2 (GMT200) in 1996 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the GM LA1 engine
- The best-known weakness of this V6 family is the intake manifold gasket: it starts leaking coolant, which leads to overheating;
- Cracked vacuum lines often cause air leaks;
- The timing chain is durable and usually needs replacing only after 250,000 km;
- Owners also complain about ignition components and the fuel pump.
Frequently asked questions about the GM LA1
How much power does the GM LA1 make?
The GM LA1 develops 170 - 185 hp and 270 - 285 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the GM LA1 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.3 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the GM LA1 have a timing belt or chain?
The GM LA1 uses a timing chain.
Is the GM LA1 turbocharged?
No, the GM LA1 is naturally aspirated.
How long does the GM LA1 last?
The typical lifespan of the GM LA1 is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the GM LA1?
Pontiac Aztek 2003: city 12.4, highway 9.0, combined 10.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the GM LA1 installed on?
Buick Rendezvous 1 (GMT257) in 2001 - 2005; Chevrolet Impala 8 (GMX210) in 1999 - 2005; Chevrolet Monte Carlo 6 (GMX230) in 1999 - 2005; Chevrolet Lumina APV 1 (GMT199) in 1995 - 1996; Chevrolet Venture 1 (GMT200) in 1996 - 2005; Oldsmobile Alero 1 (GMX130) in 1998 - 2004 and 5 more (see the full list above).
What are the common problems of the GM LA1?
The best-known weakness of this V6 family is the intake manifold gasket: it starts leaking coolant, which leads to overheating. Cracked vacuum lines often cause air leaks. All known problems.
