The CADILLAC L5B is a 2,694 cc, turbocharged inline-four petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2023. It features DOHC, 16-valve configuration with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing. Rated at 200 kW (272 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, this engine was developed for balanced performance and refinement in Cadillac's compact and mid-size SUV lineup.
Fitted to the XT4 and XT5, the L5B was engineered for responsive driving dynamics while maintaining fuel efficiency and smoothness. Emissions compliance was achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters 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 2021. This issue, referenced in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 21-NA-015, is attributed to thermal fatigue in the actuator linkage. In 2021, GM revised the actuator design, improving durability in later models.
Cadillac
Production years 2019–2023 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV III ULEV-70 standards (EPA Certification #EPA-ENG-L5B).
The CADILLAC L5B is a 2,694 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size SUVs (2019–2023). 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 | 2,694 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 200 kW (272 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 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-2021 engines with original-spec actuators. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; always use premium unleaded (RON 91+). Post-2021 models feature revised wastegate actuators per GM SIB 21-NA-015, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification (GM SIB 21-NA-015). API SP/ILSAC GF-6 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all models (2019–2023) (EPA Type Approval #EPA-ENG-L5B).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (GM TIS Doc. C39100).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C39100, C39140, C39170, C39200, SIB 21-NA-015
EPA Engine Certification Database (EPA-ENG-L5B)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The CADILLAC L5B 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 XT5 and shorter accessory drives in the XT4-and from 2023 the facelifted XT4 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 C39200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for L5B series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with "L5B" branding; post-2021 units use black valve covers with "L5B" branding. Critical differentiation from L3B: L5B 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 08/2021 are incompatible with later units due to redesign (GM SIB 21-NA-015).
The L5B's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal GM quality reports from 2021 noted a significant share of pre-2021 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 (2019-2023) and NHTSA failure statistics (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC L5B.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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CADILLAC Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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