For a good reason, it is known as “the little engine that could.” In every manner, the turbocharged 1.3L 3-cylinder engine tested in the ’21 Chevrolet Trailblazer comes up to that description.
Reliability of Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine , which produces 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet (236 Nm) of torque, makes its way into the 2021 top Ten Engines and Propulsion Systems list, thanks to a combination of technology and compact dimensions torquey reaction.
The 116 hp per liter output puts it over the top, outperforming its larger V-8 cousins in the Corvette Stingray with thirty-seven hp per liter.
That’s not to say the 6.2L OHV is comparatively tiny in the Corvette, a mid-engine design that reached the 2020 list and is still one of the best in terms of sheer performance.
But time passes, and the well-equipped $30,730 Trendsetter compact CUV offers a different kind of attentiveness in a much smaller package.
SUMMARY: The 1.4L Ecotec engine has shown to be a reliable engine that can last 100 000-200 000 miles (5-10 years) when properly maintained.
Table of Contents
Architecture Ecotec 1.4L Turbo Engine
As the architecture is intended for numerous global applications, the Ecotec I-3 must balance challenging objectives: high transient response, low NVH, and good gas mileage CO2 emissions, based on vehicle size.
To provide quick boosting pressure, direct fuel injection, and intake and exhaust cam phasing, the all-aluminum DOHC engine is supplied by a single-scroll turbo linked to a head-integrated exhaust manifold.
The all-wheel-drive, 9-speed automatic test vehicle’s fuel economy is at 26/30 mpg (9.0-7.8 L/100 km) city/highway, thanks to an almost invisible 12V stop/start technology.
A variable oil pump performs a similar role in reducing friction. At the same time, active thermal management uses an electrical water pump and a control valve to help engine regions warm or cool quickly as needed.
Engineers use a profound cylinder block with an incorporated balance shaft, robust engine and gearbox mounts, a high-inertia crank dampener, acoustic coverings over the engine, fuel pump, and fuel rails to keep the engine quiet and refined.
It delivers adequate power from only three cylinders. This engine is a perfect match for this vehicle. Nobody needs to know the car only has three cylinders.
Most folks behind the wheel have no idea only three cylinders are working. The engine completes the transaction.
It is exciting to find a great machine in a high-volume, affordable, popular vehicle that comfortably seats at least four people and has plenty of cargo space.
Don’t miss to check our important post recommended Chevy Equinox Oil Type & Capacity.
Common 1.4L Ecotec Engine(+solutions)
Usual Ecotec 1.4l turbo engine reliability issues
Some owners of 1.4L Ecotec vehicles have reported problems with their timing chain, which the lack of lubrication can cause.
Make sure your automobile has enough oil and that your oil pump is new and clean to avoid this occurring to you.
A malfunctioning item dubbed a “PCV hose” can cause an oil spill and low oil flow in some 1.4L Ecotec models.
It is a simple fix; all you must do is replace your vehicle’s PCV pipe and periodically check your oil to ensure it does not become too low.
When drivers attempt to start their automobiles without first pressing the accelerator pedal, their vehicles may fail to ignite due to a clogged fuel injector.
General Motors 1.4L ECOTEC Fuel Combustion Issues SOLVED
When the 1.4liter Ecotec motors from General Motors began to consume more oil than usual, owners, as well as technicians alike, became concerned.
After presupposing the adversity- that the machines’ interiors were prematurely wearing down, suggesting catastrophic damage – technicians were pleased to learn that the cause of GM 1.4L Ecotec fuel burning was significantly more straightforward.
Identifying the problem
Once the Ecotec 1.4l turbo engine reaches a certain age and mileage, the little non-return valve installed into the inlet manifold as part of the Ventilation system becomes dislodged.
This valve, which is little more than a rubber flap with a lock tab on one side, falls out of its mounting with nothing to hold it in place.
When this valve is removed (usually by being sucked via the inlet manifold and burned up), evaporated oil is free to travel through the engine, increasing oil consumption.
This video shows you why the GM 1.4l chevy engine has oil burning problems.
Researching for a solution
Repairing the old inlet with a new factory part may solve the problem temporarily, but it almost guarantees the owner will have to do the same fix again in the future.
After examining the source of the problem, the innovation team devised a clever way to retain the valve in place even if its keeper failed.
The valve in this enhanced design is now captive, reducing the possibility of it becoming dislodged, thanks to the inclusion of a retention insert in the intake manifold.
Advantage intake manifold corrects a flaw in the OEM design. However, the team’s engineers realized that the problems were not solved by simply replacing the manifold.
The initial failure has an unintended consequence of damaging additional essential components.
When the valves in the OEM intake manifold fail, it creates too much vacuum, damaging the diaphragm in the valve cover’s PCV cap.
As a result of air being pulled into the motor through this aperture, the engine runs rough. Both the inlet manifolds and the valve cover should be replaced simultaneously.
Owners can reduce excessive oil usage induced by the original equipment design with the Advantages of intake manifolds and direct replacement valve covers.
How Reliable is the GM 1.4 Turbo Engine?
Do you possess or plan to acquire a GM or Chevy car with the 1.4L Ecotec engine and are curious about its reliability?
This piece will look at how dependable this engine is and eventually help you determine whether it is right for you.
In summary, the 1.4L Ecotec engine has shown to be a reliable engine that can last 100 000-200 000 miles (5-10 years) when properly maintained.
In short we can say, It has already proved that this engine is more reliable and you might get more better performance if it goes under good maintenance.
Is the 1.4L Ecotec Turbo Engine a Good Engine?
The Ecotec 1.4L engine is an excellent engine for many reasons. Still, you should be informed of its advantages and disadvantages if you are considering purchasing a car with this engine.
On the plus side, reviewers have lauded the Ecotec 1.4L Turbo engine for providing a great deal of power from a small base—meaning it outperforms many larger engines.
It has a high compression ratio, allowing it to run on standard gas rather than some engines’ more costly premium gas. It is also incredibly fuel-efficient, with EPA highway ratings of up to 40 MPG.
Finally, because its parts are engineered to survive longer than most other engines, it has meager maintenance costs.
Instead of requiring an oil filter every 3,000 miles like typical gasoline engines, this engine only requires an oil change every 10,000 miles.
On the other side, while this engine excels at providing power from a small starting point, some reviewers have noted that it can feel “underpowered” compared to other vehicles in its class—though they equally concede that this may not concern most drivers.
Is the Chevrolet 1.4 Turbo Engine Reliable?
The GM 1.4L Ecotec turbocharged engine is a solid player, and it should last a long time if you maintain pace with its maintenance plan and preserve it from overheating.
Remember to check the oil periodically, use the proper type of oil, replace the oil on time, and make sure you have the appropriate coolant grade in your radiator if you are driving in scorching weather.
This engine will be more resilient than its larger-displacement rivals, such as the 2.0L, simply due to its design. Because there is less space, there is less chance of a mechanical issue.
The engine also includes a “reverse flow” cooling system, which allows it to produce more power while maintaining low temperatures.
What is the Life Expectancy of a 1.4 L Ecotec Engine?
The reliability of 1.4L ecotec engine is dependable, but how long it lasts is determined by how well it is maintained.
Factory warranty on the machine is for the first 100,000 miles or 5 years of use, which should give you a sense of its longevity and dependability.
You may expect to get 200,000 miles out of your car if you treat it well. However, your engine’s lifespan might be half if you skip essential maintenance such as changing oil, tune-ups, and tire rotations.
The 1.4L Ecotec motor is durable with plenty of power used in the Chevrolet Cruze and Chevy Sonic, so you can anticipate getting a lot of mileage with regular maintenance.
Issues with the 1.4L Ecotec
Some owners of 1.4L Ecotec vehicles have reported problems with their synchronization chains, which the lack of lubrication can cause.
Ensure your automobile seems to have enough oil and that your oil pump is new and clean to avoid this occurring to you.
A malfunctioning item dubbed a “PCV hose” can cause an oil spill as well as low oil pressure in some 1.4L Ecotec models. It is a simple fix; you must change your vehicle’s PCV pipe and periodically check your oil to ensure it does not become too low.
When drivers attempt to start their automobiles without first pressing the accelerator pedal, their vehicles may fail to start due to a blocked fuel injector.
How Long Does a Chevy Cruze 1.4 L Ecotec Engine Last?
Cruze was Chevrolet’s entrance into the ultra-competitive compact-car sector, debuting in the United States in 2010 and phased out in 2019.
It comes in various versions to meet your needs, and it stands out for its comfortable ride, roomy trunk, and high-tech entertainment.
If you are considering buying one as your next car, you may be curious about its typical lifespan. The simple answer to how lengthy the Chevrolet Cruze engine lasts is:
The Chevy Cruze is a durable, compact car that can go between 200,000 and 250,000 miles when driven carefully and correctly maintained.
Based on 15,000 miles annually driven, the Chevy Cruze should last 13–17 years before breaking or requiring costly repairs.
How Much Mileage Can a Chevy Cruze Give You?
Although the Cruze had a rocky start in existence, with engine and transmission issues plaguing 2011 and 2012 models, the Cruze’s subsequent model years would establish that it could endure the test of time.
Several Cruze owners had crossed the 200,000-mile mark, as many others had 150,000 miles on the milometer and were still going strong.
These automobiles are far from flawless, but they are built to last.
You may come across a few issues along the road, but with proper maintenance and an understanding that all cars require repairs, you can get it to 250k, as some have or are near to.
When checking at secondhand car websites like Car Gurus, you can find ones with over 200,000 miles and many more, including over 150,000 miles, demonstrating their longevity.
However, major component breaking is more dangerous once the automobile has collected many miles on the odometer. This includes the gearbox or engine. The expense of repairing the car will surpass its value.
Longevity of your Cruze, like any other car, is dependent on how well you care for it, and it will be shortened if you avoid:
- Using high-quality components
- Appointments for service
- Oil changes regularly
- Typical car washes
- Rotation of tires
- Smooth driving
Regular maintenance can extend the odometer by thousands of kilometers.
Are Chevy Cruzes Rusty?
The Chevrolet Cruze is not known for rusting readily, but after three or more years of use, some rusting is to be expected; this is dependent on several factors such as environment, storage, and how often you wash your car.
It will be impossible to eliminate rust if automobile bodies are composed of sheet steel as well as road surfaces contain small stones and grit.
While driving, these stones lacerate the paint, generating assault areas for water as well as road salt. Rust is a common occurrence. This includes
- Underbody on the Chevy
- frame rail beneath the trunk
- Back drums
- Doorway jams
Rust will be more of an issue if you live where roads are routinely salted throughout the winter or where salt air is widespread.
Some owners strongly advise rustproofing if you reside in the Salt Belt. Rust will be less of an issue for individuals who live in dry climates. Paint fading, on the other hand, will be more likely.
This video shows how reliable Chevy Cruze is.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ecotec 1.4 direct-injected?
In North America, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze includes a new Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine with direct injection that helps it get an EPA-estimated 42 mpg on the highway with an optional six-speed automatic transmission.
What is the definition of a 1.4 turbocharged engine?
General motor’s small-scale movement, compactness 4 cylinders include the 1.4L Turbo Ecotec LUJ/LUV.
The engine’s broad rpm radius for the highest spinning contributes to the engine’s surprisingly inspired steering skill as well as discharge.
Is a 1.4L turbo engine an intelligent choice?
On-demand, a 1.4-liter turbo engine will deliver the power of a 2.0-liter motor while delivering the fuel economy of a 1.4.
So, it is the best of all worlds, and it will be found in new Porsche and Ferrari turbo engines. The back badge is typical of vehicle firms, which prefer to brag about themselves.
Conclusion
If you wish to purchase a car with the Ecotec 1.4l turbo engine that is more reliable, seek one that is newer than 2016 and does not include the start/stop feature.
The second-generation Ecotec 1.4L turbo debuted in 2016.
It replaced the cast metal engine block with an aluminum one, which remedied the oil leaking issue as well as plenty of other difficulties that plagued the first model.
If you drive a lot and rack up the miles, you might want to investigate the diesel model, better suited for that.