2019-2024 GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo Engine (L3B): Longevity, Problems, and Specs

The facelifted 2022 GMC Sierra just broke cover last year. The new updates in the pickup truck are highlighted by some overhauls in its trims. Alongside them is a major torque boost for the gasoline-fed 2.7L turbo engine among many other quality improvements in its performance, aesthetic, comfort, safety, and utility.

Just like any other product out there though, the power unit has its ups and downs even in its upgraded version. These things are what we will uncover here.

Key features and my opinion about the engine

• Production years:2018-now
• Average lifespan of L3B:170,000-200,000 miles
• Fuel supply type:direct injection
• Power range:310-325 hp
• Fuel efficiency:average
• Engine block material:aluminum
• Engine reliability score:medium
• The most common problems:wiring issues, carbon buildup on intake valves, very sensitive fuel supply system, AFM system problems.

2022 GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo Engine Key Specs

The turbocharged 2.7L L3B inline-four gasoline engine, also known as the L3B engine, debuted in the base trim of the 2019 model year GMC Sierra. It's specially designed for full-size pickup trucks.

The engine utilizes aluminum block and head making it light but durable. It has a direct overhead camshaft design with four valves per cylinder as well as variable valve timing (VVT) and variable valve lift (VVL) technologies. The use of VVT and VVL alters the operation of the intake and exhaust valves at various engine speeds to adapt to different engine conditions.

As a result, it improves engine performance while also producing better fuel economy and emissions. The fuel efficiency of the unit is further enhanced by the integration of direct high-pressure fuel injection with Active Fuel Management (AFM).

Despite its small size, it is packing plenty of power suitable for heavy workloads. For the 2022 model year, the Sierra underwent a facelift that also paved the way for a new High Output version of its four-cylinder gas-fed powerplant.

The L3B previously had 310 hp at 5,600 rpm and 348 lb-ft of torque at 1,500 rpm, but the facelifted model increased the torque figures to a total of 420 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. The higher torque allows for more efficient and energy-efficient driving. Likewise, the boost lets the truck accelerate quicker and reach its top speed faster.

Meanwhile, the horsepower ratings for the refreshed 2022 model year and pre-mid-cycle refresh models are identical. Nevertheless, all that power propels the 2022 GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated time of under 7 seconds while its top speed is pegged at 108 mph.

2022 GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo Engine Longevity

There are high hopes for the high-output version of the 2.7L turbo. It is considered to be durable enough to withstand 120,000 to 200,000 miles before requiring an overhaul or replacement. There have been reports though that major problems have been encountered below the 100,000 mark of the unit like stalling, misfires, and problems starting. But then again, their numbers are not that alarming for the engine to merit notoriety.

These are things you can do yourself if you want to extend the life of your engine beyond the 120,000- to 200,000-mile mark, which are listed below:

• Keep your engine oil topped up, clean, and fresh. Running your engine low on oil can cause serious damage due to lubrication problems. Always check your oil level and top up if necessary. It is also important to regularly check your oil quality and replace it if it's already dirty.
• Use the correct grade of oil for your engine. Using the wrong grade of oil can cause lubrication issues that could damage the engine.
• Your coolant level should be checked regularly and topped up if necessary. This will help keep your engine cool and running smoothly.
• Keep your engine clean because a dirty engine can trigger all sorts of problems. Don't allow dirt and grime to accumulate there.
• Watch out for early signs of problems and bring your vehicle for servicing immediately should you notice anything wrong with your vehicle.

2022 GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo L3B Common Problems

There have been some reports from users about their 2.7L turbo breaking down, but they are currently treated as isolated cases due to their very low numbers. The propensity of other major problems occurring in the engine is also quite low. However, if we tally the most common issues reported about it, these things definitely come out on top:

1. High Fuel Consumption

The main complaint by far about the 2.7L Turbo engine is its failure to deliver its promised fuel economy. Many owners have claimed that the fuel consumption of their units never reached as high as 20 mpg even if they are not towing anything.

This is primarily blamed on the design of the power unit but there are also factors that could heavily contribute to this. These include a possible fault in the injector or the high-pressure fuel pump, which this particular product is known for.

Fuel injectors and fuel pumps are important parts of the GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo engine. They work together to deliver the right amount of fuel to the engine. If either of these parts is faulty, it can compromise fuel economy and performance.

There are several symptoms that can help you diagnose a problem with the fuel injectors or fuel pump. One of the most common is an unexpected increase in fuel consumption. Other possible symptoms include a loss of power, misfires, and a rough idle. If you notice any of these problems, it's important to have your GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo checked by a qualified mechanic immediately for the possible replacement of the problematic parts.

Fuel injector and fuel pump problems are also often caused by deposits that build up on them over time. These deposits can restrict the flow of fuel and cause the injector to spray inefficiently or the fuel pump to perform poorly. In some cases, the deposits can cause the injector and pump to fail completely, too. If they are simply dirty and not showing any signs of major wear, a simple cleaning of the components or the whole engine may fix the issue and somehow improve your fuel economy a bit.

2. Turbocharger Issues

The use of a dual-volute turbocharger for the 2.7L engine certainly works well in delivering higher torque. This makes it look juicy for plenty of buyers of the L3B engine or the 2022 GMC Sierra. However, such a design could also bring a lot of stress for the small inline-four power unit.

One of the biggest risks is that the dual-volute turbocharger can overspin the small engine. This can bring about serious damage to the engine, and may even result in the engine being written off. Another risk is that the dual-volute turbocharger can create too much boost, which can cause the engine to knock or ping.

Since this is a risk stemming from the design choice of GMC, there is really nothing you can do about it. Just be sure to watch out for signs of engine problems brought about by the turbo such as loss of power, unusual noises, and check engine light. If you notice any of these, take your Sierra to the nearest GMC dealer for diagnosis and repair.

3. AFM Malfunction

Active Fuel Management, or AFM, is a technology used by General Motors to improve fuel economy. The system works by shutting off half of the engine's cylinders when they are not needed, such as during periods of light load. This reduces fuel consumption and emissions.

However, there have been reports of problems with the AFM system on the 2022 GMC Sierra 2.7 Turbo engine. Some owners have reported that their engines have stalled or lost power while driving. Other symptoms include a check engine light, reduced fuel economy, and misfires.

There are a few possible causes of these problems. One is a faulty sensor that is not correctly detecting when the engine is under light load. Another possibility is a software issue that is causing the engine to shut off cylinders prematurely.

The good news is that there are some easy solutions to these problems. If you have a faulty sensor, it can be replaced fairly easily. If you have a software issue, it can typically be resolved with a simple update from your dealer or GMC service center.

Either way, it is important to get your vehicle checked out as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of these problems. Ignoring them could lead to more serious issues down the road.

4. VVL Failure

The variable valve lift (VVL) is an important component in the 2022 GMC Sierra 2.7 Turbo engine. It can fail for several reasons, including a build-up of carbon deposits, oil contamination, or damage.

When it fails, the engine may lose power, run roughly, or emit strange noises. To diagnose the problem, a mechanic will need to perform a visual inspection and run some tests. The possible solutions to the problem include cleaning or replacing the variable valve lift, as well as repairing or replacing other engine components that may have been compromised.

Is the 2022 GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo Worth It?

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2.7L L3B Turbo does have its own share of problems. However, its best features far outweigh its issues, and so far, the emergence of most problems mentioned here is quite low if the existing reports about it and consumer feedback are to be believed. We can say that it could be due to the fact the high-output version of the engine is still relatively new so we are yet to get a better picture of the real risks it holds.

While we love the overall packaging of the 2022 GMC Sierra with the 2.7L Turbo inline-four engine, the high fuel consumption of the unit is surely worth thinking over before buying this product.