SB-10056361-6502
File in Section:

Service Bulletin

Bulletin No.:
Date:

PIP5216
August, 2014

PRELIMINARY INFORMATION
Subject:

Engine Replacement Recommendations HFV6 Only

Models:

2009-2015 Buick Enclave
2010-2015 Buick LaCrosse
2013-2015 Cadillac ATS
2007-2015 Cadillac CTS
2007-2010 Cadillac STS
2007-2015 Cadillac SRX
2013-2015 Cadillac XTS
2010-2015 Chevrolet Camaro
2012-2013 Chevrolet Caprice PPV
2012-2015 Chevrolet Captiva Sport
2015 Chevrolet Colorado
2008-2015 Chevrolet Equinox
2012-2015 Chevrolet Impala Vin W
2014-2015 Chevrolet Impala Vin 1
2009-2015 Chevrolet Traverse
2007-2015 GMC Acadia
2015 GMC Canyon
2010-2015 GMC Terrain
2008-2010 Pontiac G6
2008-2009 Pontiac G8
2008-2009 Pontiac Torrent
2007-2009 Saturn Aura
2008-2010 Saturn Vue
2007-2010 Saturn Outlook
Equipped with HFV6 engines.

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

Condition/Concern
If a vehicle comes into the dealership with a knock noise, seized engine, lower end squeak or squeal or any
condition that you suspect a rod or main bearing failure.
First, verify there is metal in the engine oil caused by bearing damage / debris by removing the oil pan

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If Due To Bearing Failure when completing diagnosis, and deciding whether to replace the engine or repair it,
complete the following before making that determination.

Recommendation/Instructions
1. Inspect the oil control solenoids for metal debris. This shows the oil filter is in by-pass and unfiltered oil with
bearing debris was pumped into the oil lubrication gallies, throughout the engine.

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2. Inspect for damage to the cam caps Journals and camshaft journals on the heads (obvious signs of metal
through the cap).

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3. Inspect the timing chain idler sprockets for stiffness when turning. (Should turn smooth and free)

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Any Of These 3 instances would be cause to replace the engine instead of repair.
A repair would entail cylinder head and all timing component replacement, Crankshaft and bearing replacement, and
at least 1 rod replaced.
Further the entire engine would need to be completely stripped down, tanked, and blown out to ensure all metal was
cleaned out.
This is particularly difficult on this engine due to the inaccessibility of the Main Oil Gallery to clean.
Also the piston skirt sprayers could become plugged as well as all the lifters.
If a complete engine tear down and clean procedure and parts replacement is completed, normally the cost
comparison would warrant engine replacement anyway and the danger of a dealer caused repeat failure is far less
likely.
Keep in mind that a repair and then replacement will usually be cause for additional inspection and scrutiny that
could result in more questioning about the repair methods.
HFV6 engines are scheduled to be returned to the WPC for inspection to verify the concern, as well as the
information provided in the repair order to support the engine replacement.

Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty use:
Labor Operation
4067490

Description

Labor Time
Engine Replacement

Use Published Labor
Operation Time

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is
resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.