The General Motors LIH 1.2-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine has been produced in Korea since 2019 and is installed on crossovers based on the VSS-F platform, such as the Buick Encore GX and Chevrolet Trailblazer 3. There are modifications of this unit for the Opel Astra under the F12SHL, F12SHT, F12SHR indices.
E-Turbo family: LIH, L3T, L4H.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2019 |
| Displacement, cc | 1193 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 137 |
| Torque output, Nm | 219 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R3 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 75 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 – 10.0 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | DCVCP |
| Turbocharging | yes |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 6d |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Buick Encore GX 2021) — city — highway — combined |
8.4 6.2 7.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 102 |
The engine was installed on:
- Buick Encore GX 1 (VSS-F) since 2019;
- Buick Envista 1 (VSS-F) since 2022;
- Chevrolet Trailblazer 3 (VSS-F) since 2020;
- Chevrolet Trax 2 (VSS-F) since 2023.
Disadvantages of the GM LIH engine
- On specialized forums, it is scolded for noises, vibrations and glitches of the Start-Stop system.
- Like all direct injection engines, it suffers from carbon deposits on the intake valves.
- Since it has a timing belt in an oil bath, you need to change the lubricant as often as possible.
- You can still find many complaints about the operation of the EVAP fuel vapor recovery system.
Frequently asked questions about the GM LIH
How much power does the GM LIH make?
The GM LIH develops 137 hp and 219 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the GM LIH take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the GM LIH have a timing belt or chain?
The GM LIH uses a timing belt.
Is the GM LIH turbocharged?
Yes, the GM LIH is turbocharged.
Does the GM LIH need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the GM LIH has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the GM LIH last?
The typical lifespan of the GM LIH is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the GM LIH?
Buick Encore GX 2021: city 8.4, highway 6.2, combined 7.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the GM LIH installed on?
Buick Encore GX 1 (VSS-F) since 2019; Buick Envista 1 (VSS-F) since 2022; Chevrolet Trailblazer 3 (VSS-F) since 2020; Chevrolet Trax 2 (VSS-F) since 2023.
What are the common problems of the GM LIH?
On specialized forums, it is scolded for noises, vibrations and glitches of the Start-Stop system. Like all direct injection engines, it suffers from carbon deposits on the intake valves. All known problems.
What engines are related to the GM LIH?
E-Turbo family: L3T.
Is the LiH engine optimally tuned? I have a hunch that increasing the boost by a mere 1lb would resolve a lot of customer concerns. It’ll increase the HP by 20%, which would be in line with the competition, and increase fuel economy by 4-5mpg.