GM LZX Engine (2016–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The GM LZX is a 1,364 cc, inline — three turbocharged gasoline engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and a twin — scroll turbocharger delivering responsive power output. High — pressure direct injection enables efficient combustion with strong low — RPM torque for everyday drivability.

Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Cruze, Opel Astra K, and Vauxhall Insignia, the LZX was engineered for compact and mid — si…

GM LZX Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards .

GM LZX Technical Specifications

The GM LZX is a 1,364 cc, inline-three turbocharged gasoline engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2016-2020). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,364 cc
Fuel type
Gasoline
Configuration
Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged with twin-scroll turbocharger
Bore × stroke
74.0 mm × 82.0 mm
Power output
103–125 kW (140–170 PS)
Torque
200–230 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm
Fuel system
Bosch HDP6 direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 6
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Turbocharger
Twin-scroll turbocharger (Mitsubishi TD04)
Timing system
Chain (front-mounted)
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
102 kg

GM LZX Compatible Models

The GM LZX was used across GM's Cruze/Astra K platforms with transverse mounting and licensed to Holden for Australian-market applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the Astra K and recalibrated ECU maps in the Cruze-and from 2017 the facelifted Astra K adopted the updated LZX-TU variant with improved PCV routing, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Holden's Trax and Barina to utilize this engine family. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
GM
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Chevrolet Cruze
Variants:
1.4T, 1.4T Eco
View Source
GM TIS Doc. G-1364-01
Make:
GM
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Opel Astra K
Variants:
1.4T, 1.4T Eco
View Source
GM TIS Doc. G-1364-01
Make:
GM
Years:
2017–2020
Models:
Vauxhall Insignia B
Variants:
1.4T
View Source
GM TIS Doc. G-1364-01
Make:
Holden
Years:
2017–2020
Models:
Barina
Variants:
1.4T
View Source
Holden EPC #H-LSN-01
Make:
Holden
Years:
2017–2020
Models:
Trax
Variants:
1.4T
View Source
Holden EPC #H-LSN-01

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Common Reliability Issues - GM LZX 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, misfire DTCs, reduced fuel economy, check engine light.
Cause: Oil vapor from PCV system deposits on intake valves due to lack of port fuel washing, exacerbated by short-trip driving and extended oil intervals.
Fix: Perform professional induction cleaning per GM SIB SI-19874; replace PCV module with updated version if pre-2017.
Turbocharger oil coking or bearing failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost, whining noise from exhaust, blue smoke from exhaust, increased oil consumption.
Cause: Oil degradation from extended intervals or overheating after high-load operation, leading to sludge formation in turbine housing and journal bearings.
Fix: Replace turbocharger assembly with OEM-specified unit; ensure oil supply lines are flushed and new filter installed per GM procedure.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise from front of engine at idle or startup, intermittent misfires.
Cause: Early tensioner designs exhibit accelerated wear under high thermal load, reducing chain tension and causing slack.
Fix: Install latest OEM-specified timing chain kit including updated tensioner and guide rails per GM TIS Doc. G-1364-02.
EGR valve sticking or clogging
Symptoms: Poor idle quality, reduced power, limp mode, elevated soot load and DPF regeneration frequency.
Cause: Carbon accumulation from exhaust gases restricting EGR valve motion and cooler passages.
Fix: Remove and clean EGR valve and cooler; verify vacuum lines and actuator function; perform adaptation reset after repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

GM LZX FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The LZX offers good performance and efficiency but early models (2016–2017) are prone to intake valve carbon buildup due to direct injection and PCV design. Later revisions (post-2017) improved PCV routing, so well-maintained examples with regular induction cleaning can be reliable. Strict oil changes with GM dexos1 Gen 2 are essential for longevity.

The biggest issues are intake valve carbon buildup, turbocharger oil coking, timing chain tensioner wear, and EGR valve sticking. These are well-documented in GM service bulletins SI-19874 and G-1364-02. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets also occur beyond 100,000 km.

This 1.4L turbo was used in the Chevrolet Cruze (2016–2020), Opel Astra K (2016–2020), Vauxhall Insignia B (2017–2020), Holden Barina (2017–2020), and Holden Trax (2017–2020). All variants meet Euro 6 standards. The engine is not used in North American Buick or Cadillac models.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the LZX 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.

Very good. In a Cruze 1.4T, typical consumption is ~6.5 L/100km (city) and ~4.7 L/100km (highway), or about 55 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures range from 48–60 mpg (UK) depending on driving style and climate. The engine’s lightweight design and direct injection contribute significantly to its efficiency.

Yes. The LZX is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can strike open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. Timely inspection and replacement of the tensioner and guides per GM TIS documentation are critical to prevent catastrophic failure.

GM specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification. Always use a quality oil designed for direct-injection turbos and change it every 10,000–12,000 km to minimize carbon buildup and protect the turbocharger and timing components.

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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