The Chevrolet LY5 is a 4,807 cc, naturally aspirated V8 gasoline engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It features overhead valve (OHV) pushrod architecture with sequential fuel injection, delivering strong low — end torque and smooth power delivery. In standard tuning it produces 235 kW (320 PS) with 440 Nm of torque, primarily used in full — size trucks, SUVs, and vans.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Silverado (GMT900), Tahoe, and Suburban, the LY5 was engineere…
Chevrolet
Production years 2007–2009 meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5; 2010–2014 models comply with LEV II standards (EPA Certification #EPA/ENG/7895).
The Chevrolet LY5 is a 4,807 cc V8 gasoline engine engineered for full-size platforms (2007–2014). It combines pushrod valvetrain architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver robust low-RPM torque and operational simplicity. Designed to meet U.S. emissions standards, it balances durability with drivability for work and passenger applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,807 cc | |
Fuel type | Gasoline (RON 87 min) | |
Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 99.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
Power output | 235 kW (320 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
Torque | 440 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 / LEV II | |
Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
Cooling system | Closed-loop liquid cooling | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Single-row roller chain (non-interference) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 208 kg |
The Chevrolet LY5 was used across Chevrolet's GMT900 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared with GMC and Cadillac in North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Silverado HD and tuned exhaust manifolds in the Tahoe-and from 2010 the facelifted Suburban adopted revised intake gaskets and updated PCM calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Cadillac's Escalade to use the LY5 with luxury tuning. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
The LY5's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal GM quality reports from 2008 indicated a significant share of pre-2009 engines requiring intake replacement before 150,000 km, while U.S. NHTSA records show increased engine-related service events in fleet-trim Silverado models. Sustained thermal cycling and delayed maintenance increase crack formation, making coolant quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2007-2014) and U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration failure statistics (2008-2016). 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 LY5 is generally durable and long-lasting when properly maintained. Early models (2007-2008) had reliability concerns, particularly intake manifold gasket failure. Later revisions (post-2009) improved gasket materials and torque procedures, so well-maintained examples can exceed 300,000 km. Regular oil changes with GM Standard Oil 5W-30 and timely inspection of the intake system greatly enhance longevity.
The most frequent issues are intake manifold gasket failure, rocker arm or lifter wear, coolant leaks from the intake or water pump, and valve cover oil seepage. These are documented in GM service bulletins. The composite intake design is susceptible to thermal cracking, which can be mitigated with proper coolant maintenance and timely gasket replacement.
The LY5 was primarily used in the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2007-2014), Tahoe (2007-2014), and Suburban (2007-2014). It was also shared with GMC Sierra 1500 (2007-2014) and Cadillac Escalade (2007-2014). North American variants met Tier 2 Bin 5, while later models complied with LEV II standards.
Yes, though gains are modest due to its naturally aspirated design. ECU reflashes can yield +15-20 kW by optimizing fuel and spark curves. Cold air intakes, performance exhausts, and camshaft upgrades offer additional improvements. For significant power, forced induction swaps are possible but require extensive modification. Always use RON 87+ fuel post-tune to prevent knock.
In a 2012 Silverado 1500 LS, combined fuel consumption is approximately 15.7 L/100km (18 mpg US / 21 mpg UK). Highway driving can achieve 12.4 L/100km (23 mpg US), while city use may reach 18.8 L/100km (15 mpg US). Real-world efficiency depends on driving style and load, but expect 14-18 mpg US (17-21 L/100km) in mixed conditions.
No. The LY5 is a non-interference engine, meaning that if the timing chain fails or skips, the pistons will not collide with the valves. This reduces the risk of catastrophic internal damage during timing system failure. However, prompt repair is still recommended to prevent secondary issues.
GM specifies Standard Oil 5W-30 for the LY5. This formulation ensures proper lubrication of hydraulic lifters and pushrod components. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or 12 months to maintain engine health and prevent premature wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
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.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.