The GM LDG is a 3,564 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features an aluminium block and heads, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This architecture was designed to deliver smooth, broad power and improved fuel efficiency for GM's full — size trucks and SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Chevrolet Suburban, the LDG was engineered for strong towi…
All production years (2010–2015) meet US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (EPA Engine Family Code GMX-LDG).
The GM LDG is a 3,564 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for full-size trucks and SUVs (2010-2015). It combines a DOHC valvetrain with dual variable valve timing to deliver broad, linear power and class-leading fuel economy for its segment. Designed to meet stringent US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards, it offers a compelling blend of capability and efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,564 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 3.70 in × 3.66 in | |
Power output | 301 hp (224 kW) | |
Torque | 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven, with variable intake and exhaust cam timing | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | approx. 375 lbs (170 kg) |
The GM LDG was used across GM's full-size truck and SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for trucks vs. SUVs-and shared its core architecture with the LFX 3.6L V6. 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 LDG's primary reliability risk is camshaft position actuator (phaser solenoid) failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. GM service data indicated a notable number of solenoid replacements before 100,000 miles, while common owner reports cite oil consumption as a secondary concern. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect viscosity oil make solenoid clogging critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010-2016) and aggregated owner repair data (2012-2023). 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 GM LDG is generally reliable with proper maintenance. The main concern is the camshaft position actuators, which should be monitored for failure symptoms. Regular oil changes with the correct 5W-30 oil are essential. With these precautions, the engine can easily reach 200,000+ miles.
The most frequent issues are failure of the camshaft position actuators (phaser solenoids), excessive oil consumption in high-mileage units, leaks from the intake manifold gasket, and coolant leaks from the water pump or crossover pipe. These are well-documented in GM service literature.
The 3.6L LDG V6 was used in several GM full-size vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2010-2015), GMC Sierra 1500 (2010-2015), and Chevrolet Suburban (2010-2015). It was typically the base V6 engine for these models.
Yes, within limits. Common upgrades include a cold air intake, performance exhaust, and ECU tune, which can yield 20-30 additional horsepower. Significant power gains require forced induction (turbo/supercharger), which is a complex modification. Its strength is in smooth, linear power delivery.
Fuel economy is competitive for a full-size truck V6. In a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2WD, expect around 16 mpg (US) in the city and 23 mpg (US) on the highway. Actual figures vary with vehicle weight, gearing, and driving habits.
Yes. The GM LDG is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons and valves will collide, causing severe internal engine damage. This makes addressing timing chain noise promptly critical.
GM specifies SAE 5W-30 motor oil meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (or a modern equivalent like API SP) specifications. Regular oil and filter changes every 7,500 miles are crucial for long-term health, especially to protect the VVT system.
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.