2.2L / 2.4L Ecotec Timing Chain Failures (Early 2000s GM Sedans)

The early Ecotec engines (2.2L L61 and 2.4L LE5) are known for timing chain tensioner failures, oil starvation, and chain stretch. These issues were most common in early 2000s GM sedans and often resulted in complete engine failure.

2.2L Ecotec (L61) — most common failure
2.4L Ecotec (LE5) — less common but still documented

Year(s)	Make	Model	Should Purchase?	Reason	Notes
2002 2003 2004 2005	Chevrolet	Cavalier	Not Suggested	Timing chain tensioner failure	Engine: 2.2L Ecotec I4 RPO: L61 Oil starvation leads to chain stretch and failure
2005 2006 2007	Chevrolet	Cobalt	Not Suggested	Chain stretch and tensioner wear	Engine: 2.2L Ecotec I4 RPO: L61 Known for catastrophic chain failure if oil is low
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	Saturn	Ion	Not Suggested	Chain tensioner failure common	Engine: 2.2L Ecotec I4 RPO: L61 Early design had weak tensioner and oiling issues
2002 2003 2004 2005	Pontiac	Sunfire	Not Suggested	Oil starvation → chain failure	Engine: 2.2L Ecotec I4 RPO: L61 One of the most failure-prone Ecotec applications
2006 2007 2008	Chevrolet	Malibu	Not Suggested	Chain stretch due to oiling issues	Engine: 2.4L Ecotec I4 RPO: LE5 Less common than L61 but still documented
2006 2007 2008	Pontiac	G6	Not Suggested	Timing chain wear from oil starvation	Engine: 2.4L Ecotec I4 RPO: LE5 Chain failure possible if oil changes neglected

Summary

The 2.2L L61 and 2.4L LE5 Ecotec engines used in early 2000s GM sedans are known for timing chain tensioner failures, oil starvation, and chain stretch. These issues often lead to catastrophic engine damage, making them poor choices for long-term ownership.