The Cadillac L94 is a 6,162 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and General Motors' Active Fuel Management (AFM) system with variable valve timing. In standard tune, it delivered 268 kW (365 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 515 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm, offering balanced performance and refinement for luxury applications.
Fitted to models including the STS, DTS, and Escalade, the L94 was engineered for smooth driving dynamics and responsive power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, meeting ULEV standards in North America and Euro 4 standards in export markets.
One documented reliability concern is premature Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifter failure, which could lead to oil consumption, lifter tapping, or engine misfires. This issue, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 09-06-01-003, is attributed to inadequate oil pressure and wear in the AFM oil control solenoid. In 2010, GM introduced revised lifters and updated engine control calibration to improve system durability.
Cadillac
Production years 2007–2014 meet ULEV (US) and Euro 4 (export) emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4002).
The Cadillac L94 is a 6,162 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for full-size luxury and SUV platforms (2007–2014). It combines AFM cylinder deactivation with variable valve timing to deliver responsive power and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet ULEV and Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 101.6 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 268 kW (365 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SMPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | ULEV (US), Euro 4 (export) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (OHV) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 218 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 AFM system degradation. GM dexos1 5W-30 oil is critical due to its formulation supporting the AFM oil control solenoid and lifter operation. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup and oil contamination, accelerating AFM wear. The 2010 update with revised lifters significantly improved durability; pre-2010 engines should verify lifter condition and consider preventative upgrades per GM SIB 09-06-01-003.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 09 06 01 003). Supersedes GM 6094M requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all L94 export models (2007–2014) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4002). US models meet ULEV.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across North American fuel grades (RON 91).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A26000, A26001, A26002, SIB 09 06 01 003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4002)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Cadillac L94 was used across Cadillac's STS/DTS/Escalade platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the Escalade and revised intake manifolds in the STS-and from 2010 the updated AFM lifters 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 A26000). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('T' for L94 series). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from LS3: L94 uses Active Fuel Management with 16-valve OHV design, while LS3 is a 24-valve DOHC engine without AFM. Service parts require production date verification - AFM lifters before 09/2010 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 09 06 01 003).
The L94's primary reliability risk is Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifter failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal GM quality reports from 2012 indicated a significant number of pre-2010 units required lifter replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show AFM-related faults as a top cause of drivability complaints 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 (2007-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC L94.
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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.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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