The 2.4-liter 16-valve General Motors LE5 engine was produced in the USA from 2005 to 2012 and was installed on such popular models as the Chevrolet HHR, Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Aura. The modification of this power unit for hybrid vehicles is known under the LAT index.
Ecotec family:
1st gen – LSJ, L61;
2nd gen – LDK, LHU, LNF, LAF, LEA, LE5, LE9;
3rd gen – LSY, LTG, LCV, LKW.
Specifications
| Production years | 2005-2012 |
| Displacement, cc | 2384 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 165 – 177 |
| Torque output, Nm | 215 – 235 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 88 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 98 |
| Compression ratio | 10.4 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | Dual VVT |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Chevrolet HHR 2007) — city — highway — combined |
12.0 7.3 9.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~350 000 |
| Weight, kg | 145 |
The engine was installed on:
- Chevrolet Cobalt 1 (GMX001) in 2005 – 2008;
- Chevrolet HHR 1 (GMT001) in 2005 – 2008;
- Chevrolet Malibu 7 (GMX386) in 2007 – 2012;
- Pontiac G5 1 (GMX001) in 2006 – 2008;
- Pontiac G6 1 (GMX381) in 2005 – 2010;
- Pontiac Solstice 1 (GMX020) in 2005 – 2009;
- Saturn Aura 1 (GMX354) in 2007 – 2009;
- Saturn Ion 1 (GMX357) in 2005 – 2007;
- Saturn Sky 1 (GMX023) in 2006 – 2009;
- Saturn Vue 2 (GMT319) in 2007 – 2009.
Disadvantages of the GM LE5 engine
- A known problem with this power unit is the short-lived timing chain.
- When replacing chains, update the balancer chain tensioner (not included in the timing kit).
- Ignoring the rattling chains leads to rapid wear of the stars of the phase regulators.
- On a run of more than 100,000 km, lubricant consumption is often found due to the occurrence of rings.
- Also here, the crankcase ventilation is often clogged and the exhaust manifold is cracking.
Frequently asked questions about the GM LE5
How much power does the GM LE5 make?
The GM LE5 develops 165 - 177 hp and 215 - 235 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the GM LE5 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the GM LE5 have a timing belt or chain?
The GM LE5 uses a timing chain.
Is the GM LE5 turbocharged?
No, the GM LE5 is naturally aspirated.
Does the GM LE5 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the GM LE5 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the GM LE5 last?
The typical lifespan of the GM LE5 is ~350 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the GM LE5?
Chevrolet HHR 2007: city 12.0, highway 7.3, combined 9.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the GM LE5 installed on?
Chevrolet Cobalt 1 (GMX001) in 2005 - 2008; Chevrolet HHR 1 (GMT001) in 2005 - 2008; Chevrolet Malibu 7 (GMX386) in 2007 - 2012; Pontiac G5 1 (GMX001) in 2006 - 2008; Pontiac G6 1 (GMX381) in 2005 - 2010; Pontiac Solstice 1 (GMX020) in 2005 - 2009 and 4 more (see the full list above).
What are the common problems of the GM LE5?
A known problem with this power unit is the short-lived timing chain. When replacing chains, update the balancer chain tensioner (not included in the timing kit). All known problems.
