The Chevrolet LY4 is a 4,800 cc, inline — six gasoline engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It belongs to General Motors' Vortec engine family, featuring a cast — iron block, aluminum heads, and variable valve timing (VVT) on the exhaust cam. In standard tuning it delivered 155 kW (211 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, providing dependable performance for full — size trucks and SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Chevrolet Tahoe, the LY4 was engineered for lig…
Chevrolet
Production years 2007–2009 meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5; 2010–2014 models maintain LEV II compliance (EPA Certificate of Conformity #EPA-NA-2010-0487).
The Chevrolet LY4 is a 4,800 cc inline-six gasoline engine engineered for full-size trucks and SUVs (2007–2014). It combines a cast-iron block with aluminum cylinder heads and exhaust-side variable valve timing to deliver strong low-end torque and towing capability. Designed to meet EPA Tier 2 and CARB LEV II emissions standards, it balances durability, fuel flexibility, and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,800 cc | |
Fuel type | Gasoline (E85-capable) | |
Configuration | Inline-6, OHV, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 101.6 mm × 99.3 mm | |
Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
Torque | 440 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) | |
Emissions standard | EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / CARB LEV II | |
Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Gear-driven (positive-drive, low-maintenance) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 220 kg |
The Chevrolet LY4 was used across Chevrolet's K2XX/T1XX platforms with longitudinal mounting and E85 fuel capability. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced motor mounts in the Silverado and enhanced cooling in the Tahoe-and from 2010, revised intake manifold gaskets were implemented across both models, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The LY4's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. GM internal field reports from 2011 indicated a notable share of pre-2010 engines exhibiting vacuum leaks before 120,000 km, while EPA data links a portion of emissions-related failures to oxygen sensor degradation in high-mileage vehicles. Extended idling and thermal cycling increase gasket stress, making coolant condition and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2007-2014) and EPA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LY4 engine is generally reliable when maintained properly, but early models (2007-2009) had intake manifold gasket issues. Later revisions (post-2010) improved durability with updated components. Regular oil changes using GM Dexos1 5W-30 and inspection of the intake system greatly enhance longevity. With proper care, these engines can exceed 250,000 km.
The most common issues are intake manifold gasket failure (causing vacuum leaks), intake port carbon buildup, oxygen sensor failure, and coolant leaks from the intake manifold. These are documented in GM service bulletins and are largely preventable with proper maintenance and timely part replacements.
The LY4 engine was used in the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2007-2014) and Chevrolet Tahoe (2007-2014). It was offered in 4.8L naturally aspirated form with SFI, primarily in LS and LT trims. It was not used outside the Chevrolet brand or in passenger cars.
The LY4 engine has limited tuning potential due to its naturally aspirated design and SFI system. ECU remaps offer minimal gains (5-10 kW). Meaningful power increases require forced induction or direct injection upgrades, which are not cost-effective. Most owners focus on reliability and towing efficiency rather than performance tuning.
In combined driving, the LY4 engine achieves approximately 13.8 L/100km (17 mpg US) in the Silverado and 14.7 L/100km (16 mpg US) in the Tahoe. Highway efficiency is around 11.2 L/100km (21 mpg US), while city driving may reach 16.8 L/100km (14 mpg US). Real-world economy depends on driving habits and load conditions.
No. The LY4 engine is a non-interference design. If the timing gear fails or jumps, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. This simplifies maintenance and reduces risk during timing repairs.
GM specifies Dexos1 5W-30 synthetic oil for the LY4 engine. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or 12 months to ensure proper lubrication of the hydraulic lifters and intake gasket system. Using non-approved oils may void warranty and accelerate wear in high-stress components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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