The CADILLAC B284L is a 2,799 cc, turbocharged inline-four petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It features DOHC, 16-valve configuration with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing. Rated at 239 kW (323 PS) and 542 Nm of torque, this engine was developed for performance-oriented applications in Cadillac's crossover lineup.
Fitted to the XT5 and XT6, the B284L was engineered to deliver strong low-end pulling power while maintaining refinement and responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and secondary air injection system, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV III ULEV-70 standards for its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator failure, particularly in early production units before 2018. This issue, referenced in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 18-NA-012, is attributed to thermal fatigue in the actuator linkage. In 2018, GM revised the actuator design, improving durability in later models.
Cadillac
Production years 2016–2021 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV III ULEV-70 standards (EPA Certification #EPA-ENG-284L).
The CADILLAC B284L is a 2,799 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid-size and large crossovers (2016–2021). It combines DOHC architecture with direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-RPM torque and responsive acceleration. Designed to meet U.S. emissions standards, it balances performance with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,799 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 239 kW (323 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 542 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / LEV III ULEV-70 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner K04) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The turbocharged inline-four delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and timing wear. GM dexos1 Gen 2 (0W-20) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection for the high-pressure fuel pump. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates wear in pre-2018 engines with original-spec actuators. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; always use premium unleaded (RON 91+). Post-2018 models feature revised wastegate actuators per GM SIB 18-NA-012, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification (GM SIB 18-NA-012). API SP/ILSAC GF-6 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all models (2016–2021) (EPA Type Approval #EPA-ENG-284L).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (GM TIS Doc. C31100).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C31100, C31140, C31170, C31200, SIB 18-NA-012
EPA Engine Certification Database (EPA-ENG-284L)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The CADILLAC B284L was used across CADILLAC's GMT1XX platform with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the XT6 and shorter accessory drives in the XT5-and from 2020 the facelifted XT5 adopted the L3B variant with updated turbocharger, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the rear face of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (GM TIS C31200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for B284L series). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with "B284L" branding; post-2018 units use black valve covers with "B284L" marking. Critical differentiation from L3B: B284L uses a single twin-scroll turbo; L3B uses a twin-scroll turbo with revised actuator. Service parts require production date verification - wastegate actuators for engines before 08/2018 are incompatible with later units due to redesign (GM SIB 18-NA-012).
The B284L's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal GM quality reports from 2018 noted a significant share of pre-2018 engines requiring actuator replacement before 120,000 km, while NHTSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended high-load operation and insufficient warm-up increase actuator stress, making oil quality and operational procedure critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2016-2021) and NHTSA failure statistics (2018-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC B284L.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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