The GM LKJ is a 1,490 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced from 2017 to present. It features an aluminium block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and direct fuel injection. This compact, efficient design delivers surprising power and torque for its size, making it ideal for GM's global small car platforms.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, the LKJ was engineered to provide strong low — end torque and responsive accelerati…
All production years (2017–Present) meet US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 emissions standards (EPA Engine Family Code GMX-LKJ).
The GM LKJ is a 1,490 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs (2017-Present). It combines a DOHC valvetrain with direct injection and a turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and class-leading fuel efficiency. Designed to meet stringent US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 standards, it offers a compelling blend of performance and economy for its segment.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,490 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 86.6 mm | |
Power output | 170 hp (127 kW) | |
Torque | 203 lb-ft (275 Nm) | |
Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (GDI) | |
Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 3 Bin 70 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | approx. 240 lbs (109 kg) |
The GM LKJ was used across GM's compact SUV platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and accessory brackets for the Equinox vs. Terrain-and shares its core architecture with the L3A 1.5L turbo. 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 LKJ's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in early production or high-mileage vehicles. GM service data indicated a notable number of pump replacements before 80,000 miles, while common owner reports cite turbocharger wastegate issues as a secondary concern. Infrequent oil changes and use of non-DEXOS oil make turbo wear critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2017-Present) and aggregated owner repair data (2019-2023). 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 LKJ is generally reliable with proper maintenance. The main concerns are the high-pressure fuel pump (in early units) and potential turbocharger wastegate issues. Regular oil changes with DEXOS1 Gen 2 oil and addressing any fuel system warnings promptly are essential. With these precautions, the engine can easily reach 150,000+ miles.
The most frequent issues are failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, turbocharger wastegate rattle or sticking, carbon buildup on intake valves, and coolant leaks from the water pump or thermostat housing. These are well-documented in GM service literature.
The 1.5L LKJ turbo engine is used in the Chevrolet Equinox (2018-Present) and GMC Terrain (2018-Present). It is the standard engine for these compact SUVs in North America.
Yes, within limits. A simple ECU tune can yield 20-30 additional horsepower and torque. More significant gains require a larger turbocharger and supporting modifications. Its strength is in its strong low-end torque and efficiency.
Fuel economy is excellent for a compact SUV. In a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox FWD, expect around 26 mpg (US) in the city and 31 mpg (US) on the highway. Actual figures vary with driving style and conditions.
Yes. The GM LKJ 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.
GM mandates the use of DEXOS1 Generation 2 specification oil, typically SAE 5W-30. Using non-DEXOS oil can void the warranty and lead to premature engine wear. Change intervals should not exceed 7,500 miles.
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.