Does the Trailblazer have an LS engine?
Not all Trailblazers have an LS engine; only the TrailBlazer SS uses an LS-based 6.0L V8. Standard TrailBlazer models used non-LS powertrains.
The Chevrolet Trailblazer lineup (2002–2009) offered several engine options. The base TrailBlazer and its extended variant typically used a 4.2-liter inline-six, while some years offered a 5.3-liter V8 (non-LS family). The high-performance TrailBlazer SS, produced from 2006 through 2009, swapped in a 6.0-liter LS2 V8, which is part of GM’s Gen IV LS engine family. In short, if you’re seeking an LS-powered TrailBlazer, you’d be looking at the TBSS variant rather than the regular models.
Engine options across the TrailBlazer lineup
Overview of the main engine options that appeared in TrailBlazer variants over the years.
- 4.2L inline-six (I6) offered in the standard TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT configurations.
- 5.3L V8 (Vortec 5300) available on some mid-range trims in certain years; not part of the LS family.
- 6.0L LS2 V8 in the TrailBlazer SS (2006–2009), a Gen IV LS engine used for high performance.
From this lineup, only the TrailBlazer SS uses an LS-based engine; the regular TrailBlazer variants rely on non-LS powertrains.
How to identify if your TrailBlazer has an LS engine
The easiest way to confirm is by the variant and engine labeling. If you own a TrailBlazer SS from 2006–2009, you have a 6.0L LS2 V8. Regular TrailBlazer models with a 4.2L I6 or a 5.3L V8 are not LS-family engines. You can verify by checking the engine badge or stamping, the VIN’s engine code, or the service documentation for the vehicle’s powertrain.
Notes on engine family terminology
GM’s LS designation refers to the Gen IV family of small-block V8 engines. The TrailBlazer SS is the model that used this family (specifically the 6.0L LS2 in many years). Other TrailBlazer variants used non-LS engines, including the 4.2L I6 and the 5.3L V8 that are not part of the LS Gen IV lineup.
Summary
In brief, the TrailBlazer lineup is not uniformly LS-powered. Only the TrailBlazer SS (2006–2009) employs an LS-based engine—the 6.0L LS2 V8. Standard TrailBlazer models use non-LS engines, such as the 4.2L inline-six or a non-LS 5.3L V8, depending on year and trim. If you’re evaluating a specific used model, verify the trim and engine code to confirm the engine family.
