The GM LCN is a 2,457 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) and direct fuel injection, delivering 177 kW (241 PS) and 350 Nm of torque. Its aluminum block and head construction prioritizes a favorable power — to — weight ratio for agile performance.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Malibu and Cadillac ATS, the LCN was engineered for a balance of spiri…
All LCN engines meet US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 emissions standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-69-16). No Euro standard compliance applies as it was not offered in European markets.
The GM LCN is a 2,457 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and compact luxury vehicles (2016-2020). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong, linear power and responsive torque. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 3 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,457 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 105.0 mm | |
Power output | 177 kW (241 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 350 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (SIDI) | |
Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 147 kg |
The GM LCN was used across GM's E2XX and ATS platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations within its production run. All applications are documented in OEM service manuals.
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The LCN's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with a documented incidence in early production vehicles. GM's own service data and bulletin PIC6557A confirm this was a design-related issue, not isolated to specific usage. Vehicles with infrequent oil changes or using non-Dexos oil are at greater risk, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2016-2020) and NHTSA investigation data. 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 LCN is a powerful and efficient engine, but its long-term reliability hinges on addressing the known timing chain tensioner issue. Once the updated tensioner is installed, the engine's core is robust. Strict adherence to the oil change schedule using Dexos1 Gen 2 oil is paramount for longevity, as is periodic intake valve cleaning.
The most common and critical problem is timing chain tensioner wear. Other frequent issues include intake valve carbon buildup, turbocharger wastegate rattle, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are extensively documented in GM service bulletins and owner reports.
The LCN was used in GM's mid-size and compact luxury sedans from 2016 to 2019. This includes the Chevrolet Malibu 2.0T and the Cadillac ATS/ATS-V 2.0T. It was not used in SUVs or trucks.
Yes, the LCN responds very well to tuning. An ECU remap (‘tune’) is the most common modification, often yielding significant power and torque gains (+40-70+ HP) without hardware changes. Supporting mods like an upgraded intercooler, intake, and downpipe are recommended for higher power levels to ensure reliability and manage heat.
Fuel economy is respectable for a turbocharged 2.0L. Expect around 21-23 mpg (US) in combined city/highway driving for a Malibu. Highway cruising can yield 30-32 mpg (US), while city driving will be lower, around 18-20 mpg (US). The ATS-V, being heavier and more performance-oriented, will have lower figures.
Yes. The LCN is an interference engine. This means that if the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons and valves would collide, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. This makes addressing the tensioner issue promptly very important.
GM mandates the use of Dexos1 Gen 2 specification oil, typically in a 5W-30 viscosity. This oil is specifically formulated for GM's turbocharged, direct-injection engines. Using the correct oil and changing it at the recommended intervals (every 7,500 miles) is critical for engine health, especially for the timing chain system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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