The CADILLAC LF4 is a 3,564 cc, twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features DOHC, 24-valve configuration with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing. Rated at 294 kW (400 PS) and 583 Nm of torque, this engine was developed for high-performance applications in Cadillac's V-Series lineup.
Fitted to the CT6-V and high-trim CT6 models, the LF4 was engineered to deliver strong low-end pulling power while maintaining refinement and responsiveness. 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 high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early production units before 2018. This issue, referenced in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 18-NA-025, is attributed to cam follower degradation under sustained high-load operation. In 2018, GM revised the HPFP internal components, improving durability in later models.
Production years 2016–2020 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV III ULEV-70 standards (EPA Certification #EPA-ENG-LF4).
The CADILLAC LF4 is a 3,564 cc V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans (2016–2020). It combines DOHC architecture with direct injection and twin-scroll turbochargers 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 | 3,564 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 85.6 mm | |
| Power output | 294 kW (400 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 583 Nm @ 3,000–4,500 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 | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Dual twin-scroll turbochargers (BorgWarner K03) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (interference design) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 208 kg |
The twin-turbocharged V6 delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and timing wear. GM dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection for the high-pressure fuel pump. Extended high-load operation or insufficient warm-up increases stress on the HPFP in pre-2018 engines. The Bosch HDEV5 ECU is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; always use premium unleaded (RON 91+). Post-2018 models feature revised HPFP internals per GM SIB 18-NA-025, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification (GM SIB 18-NA-025). API SP/ILSAC GF-6 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all models (2016–2020) (EPA Type Approval #EPA-ENG-LF4).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (GM TIS Doc. C34100).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C34100, C34140, C34170, C34200, SIB 18-NA-025
EPA Engine Certification Database (EPA-ENG-LF4)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The CADILLAC LF4 was used across CADILLAC's Omega platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the CT6-V and shorter accessory drives in the V-Series-and from 2020 the facelifted CT6 was discontinued, creating strict 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 C34200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('4' for LF4 series). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with "LF4" branding; post-2018 units use black valve covers with "LF4" marking. Critical differentiation from L86: LF4 uses twin-turbo V6; L86 uses naturally aspirated V8. Service parts require production date verification - HPFP units for engines before 08/2018 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (GM SIB 18-NA-025).
The LF4's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear 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 HPFP 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 HPFP stress, making oil quality and operational procedure critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2016-2020) and NHTSA failure statistics (2018-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC LF4.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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