Applicable Engine:
LE5
Applicable Brand:
GM / BUICK / Chevrolet
Applicable Car:
Malibu / HHR / Cobalt SS
Product parameters:
| Displacement | Fuel | Cylinder | Vale | Camshaft | Year |
| 2.4L |
Gasoline
|
4 | 16 | 2 |
Cylinder Head
Cylinder Head for GM LE5 2.4L Ecotec Engine 12605265 1260078
Introduction
Product NO.
| ML NO. | OEM NO. | REF NO. |
| MLG061 | 12605265 1260078 |
Product Information Cylinder Head
DOHC | 16-Valve | VVT | Aluminum | Naturally Aspirated
1. Product Overview
The LE5 is a 2.4L inline-4 Ecotec engine from General Motors, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and variable valve timing (VVT). It was produced between 2006 and 2010, primarily used in Chevrolet, Pontiac, Saturn, and Opel models.
It features an aluminum cylinder head and block, a chain-driven timing system, and was designed for both fuel efficiency and performance in mid-size vehicles.
2. Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Code | LE5 |
| Displacement | 2.4L (2384 cc) |
| Configuration | Inline 4-cylinder |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, 16-Valve |
| Fuel System | Sequential EFI |
| Variable Valve Timing (VVT) | Yes (intake and exhaust) |
| Cylinder Head Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Block Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Compression Ratio | ~10.4:1 |
| Power Output | ~164–177 hp (varies by model) |
3. OEM Cylinder Head Part Numbers
| Part Number | Notes |
|---|---|
| 12580178 | LE5 bare or assembled head |
| 12613412 | Updated version with reinforced casting |
| 12619538 | LE5 replacement head (some variants) |
Available as bare, semi-complete, or fully assembled.
4. Compatible Vehicles
| Make | Model | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet | Malibu, HHR, Cobalt SS | 2006–2010 |
| Pontiac | G5, G6, Solstice | 2006–2010 |
| Saturn | Aura, Vue, Ion Red Line | 2006–2010 |
| Opel / Vauxhall | GT (Europe) | 2007–2009 |
| GMC | Terrain (early models) | 2007–2009 |
5. Product Types
| Type | Includes |
|---|---|
| Bare Cylinder Head | Casting only |
| Semi-Complete Head | Valves, springs, seals |
| Complete Assembly | Camshafts, VVT solenoids, valves, springs |
All heads are pressure tested, vacuum sealed, and CNC-machined for OE-level fitment.
6. Installation Notes
- Always use new head bolts (torque-to-yield) and OEM-grade head gasket
- Clean and inspect camshaft journals and VVT actuator grooves
- Apply torque sequence as per GM service manual
- Replace timing chain guides and tensioner if worn
- Ensure camshaft position sensors and solenoids are clean and functional
7. Common Cylinder Head Issues
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Warped cylinder head | Overheating | Resurface or replace |
| VVT solenoid malfunction | Oil sludge / solenoid failure | Clean or replace solenoid |
| Valve seat wear | Poor lubrication / carbon buildup | Recut or replace seats |
| Camshaft wear | Low oil pressure or contamination | Replace cam and inspect journals |
| Head gasket failure | Thermal cycling / bolt stretch | Replace gasket and head bolts |
8. Market Demand
South America: Chevrolet HHR and Malibu rebuild demand
North America: USA, Canada – OE and performance rebuilds
Europe: Opel GT, Vauxhall conversions
Middle East & Asia: Aftermarket use in compact sedans/SUVs