The Cadillac L62 is a 5,745 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1981 and 1984. It featured a pushrod overhead valve (OHV) design, 16-valve configuration, and General Motors' pioneering V-8-6-4 cylinder deactivation system with feedback carburetion. In standard tune, it delivered 132 kW (180 PS) at 3,600 rpm and 386 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, offering smooth power delivery and improved fuel economy for luxury applications.
Fitted to models including the DeVille, Fleetwood, and Eldorado, the L62 was engineered for relaxed driving dynamics and responsive power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), air injection, and catalytic converters, meeting U.S. Tier 0 and Euro 1 standards in export markets.
One documented reliability concern is premature failure of the cylinder deactivation solenoid system, which could lead to rough running, stalling, or engine misfires. This issue, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 82-06-01-003, is attributed to inadequate oil pressure and wear in the hydraulic lifter control valves. In 1982, GM introduced revised solenoids and updated engine control logic to improve system durability.
Cadillac
Production years 1981–1984 meet U.S. Tier 0 (US) and Euro 1 (export) emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4012).
The Cadillac L62 is a 5,745 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for full-size luxury sedans (1981–1984). It combines OHV pushrod architecture with the experimental V-8-6-4 cylinder deactivation system to deliver responsive power and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet early emissions standards, it balances comfort with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,745 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.0 mm × 88.4 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 386 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Feedback-controlled 4-barrel carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 0 (US), Euro 1 (export) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (OHV) | |
| Oil type | GM 6094M (SAE 10W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The large-displacement V8 provides smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent lifter and timing wear. GM 6094M 10W-30 oil is critical due to its formulation supporting hydraulic lifters and chain tensioners. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup and oil contamination, accelerating deactivation system wear. The 1982 update with revised solenoids significantly improved durability; pre-1982 engines should verify system condition and consider preventative upgrades per GM SIB 82-06-01-003.
Oil Specs: Requires GM 6094M 10W-30 specification (GM SIB 82 06 01 003). Supersedes GM 4718M requirements.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all L62 export models (1981–1984) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4012). US models meet U.S. Tier 0.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across North American fuel grades (RON 91).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27300, A27301, A27302, SIB 82 06 01 003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4012)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Cadillac L62 was used across Cadillac's DeVille/Fleetwood/Eldorado platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the Fleetwood and revised intake manifolds in the DeVille-and from 1982 the updated V-8-6-4 solenoids with improved oil control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front passenger side of the engine block near the cylinder head (GM TIS A27300). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for L62 series). Pre-1982 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-1982 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from L03: L62 uses the V-8-6-4 cylinder deactivation system, while L03 is a smaller-displacement V8 without deactivation. Service parts require production date verification - solenoids before 09/1982 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 82 06 01 003).
The L62's primary reliability risk is V-8-6-4 solenoid failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal GM quality reports from 1983 indicated a significant number of pre-1982 units required solenoid replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show drivability complaints related to cylinder deactivation in Cadillac luxury models. Extended service intervals and short-trip driving increase thermal stress, making oil quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (1981-1984) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1982-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC L62.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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