GM LZT Engine (2010-2014) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The GM LZT is a 3,604 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2014. It features an aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and a high — flow intake manifold, delivering strong power output and improved thermal efficiency. Direct injection enables precise fuel metering for enhanced combustion and reduced emissions under part — load conditions.

Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Impala, Cadillac SRX, and Buic…

GM LZT Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; model-specific emissions may vary slightly by market .

GM LZT Technical Specifications

The GM LZT is a 3,604 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for full-size sedans and crossovers (2010-2014). It combines direct fuel injection with continuously variable valve timing to deliver responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with controlled emissions output.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
3,604 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
V6, DOHC, 24-valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
96.0 mm × 82.5 mm
Power output
203–215 kW (275–291 PS)
Torque
350–355 Nm @ 4,800 rpm
Fuel system
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), 200 bar
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
11.2:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Timing system
Chain-driven dual overhead camshafts
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
198 kg

GM LZT Compatible Models

The GM LZT was used across GM's Y-body/K-body platforms with longitudinal mounting and licensed to Fiat for transverse applications in select European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifold geometry in the Cadillac SRX and different engine mounts in the Chevrolet Impala—and from 2012 the facelifted LaCrosse adopted the LZT-E variant with updated ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Fiat's 3.6L V6 units to leverage GM's direct injection architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
GM
Years:
2010-2014
Models:
Chevrolet Impala
Variants:
LT, LTZ
View Source
GM Group PT-2022
Make:
GM
Years:
2010-2014
Models:
Cadillac SRX
Variants:
Luxury, Premium
View Source
GM TIS Doc. A31055
Make:
GM
Years:
2010-2014
Models:
Buick LaCrosse
Variants:
CXL, CXS
View Source
GM TIS Doc. A31055
Make:
Fiat
Years:
2012-2018
Models:
Ducato
Variants:
3.6L V6 (LZT-based)
View Source
Fiat EPC #FJ-8812

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Common Reliability Issues - GM LZT Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, intermittent misfire DTCs, reduced power at high load.
Cause: Carbon deposits accumulate on intake valves due to lack of fuel washing effect from direct injection, exacerbated by low-quality fuel and extended low-RPM operation.
Fix: Perform professional intake valve cleaning per GM SIB 13 06 01 009 using approved solvent and method; replace air filter and verify EGR function after service.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Misfire codes (P0300-P0306), engine vibration, illuminated check engine light, poor fuel economy.
Cause: Early ignition coils developed insulation breakdown under sustained high temperatures near the cylinder head.
Fix: Replace faulty coils with latest OEM-specified units; inspect all six coils during service if any one fails.
EGR valve sticking
Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, reduced power, increased smoke under load.
Cause: Soot and oil vapors from crankcase ventilation accumulate on EGR valve stem, causing binding or incomplete closure.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and cooler per OEM procedure; verify vacuum lines and PCV system integrity before reassembly.
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips on exhaust manifold, residue around valve cover edges.
Cause: Age-related hardening of silicone-based valve cover gaskets combined with internal crankcase pressure fluctuations.
Fix: Replace valve cover gaskets with updated OEM-design units; verify PCV system flow to reduce pressure differential.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2013-2018) and EU MOT failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

GM LZT FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The LZT delivers strong performance and good refinement, but early models (2010-2011) showed susceptibility to intake valve carbon buildup, especially under urban driving. Later revisions improved airflow dynamics and calibration, so well-maintained examples can be very durable. Regular intake cleaning and strict use of GM dexos1™ Gen 2 (5W-30) oil greatly aid longevity.

The biggest issues are intake valve carbon buildup leading to misfires, ignition coil failures, and EGR valve sticking. Other complaints include oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and occasional coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are well-documented in GM service bulletins.

This 3.6L V6 was used in the Chevrolet Impala, Cadillac SRX, and Buick LaCrosse from 2010 to 2014. It was also licensed to Fiat for use in the Ducato van as the 3.6L V6. The engine was never used in MINI or other non-GM brands outside this licensing agreement.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the LZT platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.

Good for its class. In a Cadillac SRX or Chevrolet Impala, typical consumption is ~11.5 L/100km (city) and ~8.3 L/100km (highway), or about 32 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style and climate, but expect 28-35 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy LZT.

Yes. The LZT is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail catastrophically, pistons could contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. While chain life is generally excellent, any rattling noise should prompt immediate inspection.

GM specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting GM dexos1™ Gen 2 specification. Always use a quality oil designed for GDI engines and change it every 10,000 km or annually to minimize carbon formation and protect the valvetrain. Do not substitute with non-certified oils.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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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