Question Do ls3 motors have valve, lifter problems? 2008 c6
- Thread starter Vinnie
- Start date
12cents
Power User
Someone can correct me, but the only engine I am aware of are some of the LS7 engines with valve issues
High mileage LS3 (or any engine) can develop lifter and valve problems, sooner if you have an agressive cam mod. Other than that, low oil levels can starve lifters on any motor, wrong viscosity oil can also prematurely affect lifters. The LS3 is a great engine and shouldn't give you problems for many years, miles, and smiles. Don't worry about it.
Nope. Nothing unusually failure prone that I'm aware of. Ls3 is a very stout motor. Your mechanic might be mistaken with valve guide issues on the ls7.
XFIRE82
Power User
The mechanic might of been thinking of the truck engines like the 5.3's which do have issues with the lifter / cam failures. I was thinking of trading off my Rosie on a used Silverado but after doing some research on these engines with their cyl cut off feature and lifters ticking and failing on those shut off cylinders and camshafts failing I decided I don't want such a thing in my yard . Neighbor just bought a used one, in 2 months it started ticking and it is not a cheap fix like the older motors. Some 6.0 and 6.2 are failing also, but over all the LS3 is said to maybe be the best engine GM has ever built and it has a very good track record so far.
In 111,000 km the only problem that we had was the steering wheel angle sensor that had to be replaced. Going from 10-12 mpg with the Chevelles to 34-35 mpg on the highway with the 2005 Corvette, the cost was more than covered in gas savings. Our car still runs like new. Use quality lubricants and change oil and filter regularly and you should have no problems. Screaming through the gears all the time will shorten any engine's life.
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12cents
Power User
with almost 196,000kms on my 2010 Chev truck with a 5.3l and I have never had an issue and still great mileage. just keep putting synthetic oil in every oil change
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I have 235,000 on my 12 Ford Escape... change the oil every 5k and use synthetic always.