Engine Code

CADILLAC LGW engine (2014–present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The CADILLAC LGW is a 3,564 cc, naturally aspirated V6 petrol engine produced from 2014 onwards. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT), delivering smooth performance and refined driving dynamics. In standard tune it produces 210 kW (286 PS) with 367 Nm of torque, forming part of General Motors' High Feature engine family.

Fitted to models such as the CTS and XTS, the LGW was engineered for luxury applications requiring a balance of power, refinement, and efficiency. Emissions compliance is achieved through precise air-fuel control and oxygen sensing, allowing all units to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (EPA Certificate #EPA-ENG-9206) and Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9206).

One documented concern is potential high-pressure fuel pump wear, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 14-NA-008. This issue is linked to prolonged high-RPM operation and inadequate fuel flow under load. In 2016, GM introduced a revised fuel rail design and updated pump calibration to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2014–present) meet both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d standards (EPA Certificate #EPA-ENG-9206, VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9206).

LGW Technical Specifications

The CADILLAC LGW is a 3,564 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for luxury and performance models (2014–present). It combines direct fuel injection with DOHC architecture and variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive throttle response. Designed to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with everyday drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,564 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke94.0 mm × 85.6 mm
Power output210 kW (286 PS) @ 6,800 rpm
Torque367 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
Fuel systemDirect injection with port assist (High Precision Injection)
Emissions standardTier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 6d
Compression ratio11.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemDual-row roller chain (non-interference design)
Oil typeGM dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight185 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated V6 design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and bearing wear. GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and protection of high-RPM components. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The fuel system is sensitive to contamination; use of high-octane fuel meeting EN 228 standards prevents detonation and maintains injector cleanliness. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) specification (GM Service Manual 2014-0178). Supersedes API SP requirements.

Emissions: Certified to both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d standards (EPA #EPA-ENG-9206, VCA #VCA/EMS/9206).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 210 kW output requires 87 RON fuel (GM TIS Doc. 2014-ENG-LGW).

Primary Sources

General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 2014-ENG-LGW, SIB 14-NA-008

EPA Engine Certificate #EPA-ENG-9206

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9206)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

LGW Compatible Models

The CADILLAC LGW was used across CADILLAC's CTx platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the CTS and revised cooling routing in the XTS-and from 2016 the facelifted CTS models adopted updated VVT calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Cadillac
Years:
2014–2019
Models:
CTS
Variants:
CTS
View Source
GM Vehicle Specification Guide 2015
Make:
Cadillac
Years:
2014–2019
Models:
XTS
Variants:
XTS
View Source
GM TIS Doc. 2014-XTS-ENG
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS A25100). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('L' for LGW series). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2016 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from LFX: Original LGW has Bosch MSB9.3 ECU with 100-pin connector, while LFX uses MSB9.2 with 80-pin. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pumps before 09/2015 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 14-NA-008).

Identification Details

Evidence:

GM TIS Doc. A25100

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS A25100).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2016: Silver valve cover with black gasket seal
  • Post-2016: Black valve cover with revised gasket
Compatibility Notes

V V T:

Variable valve timing actuators (pre-2016) are not compatible with VVT control modules (post-LCI) due to signal protocol changes.

Evidence:

GM SIB 14-NA-008

E C U Variants:

Bosch MSB9.3 ECU used until 2015; MSB9.4 introduced in 2016 with updated diagnostics and fuel mapping.
Fuel Pump Upgrade

Issue:

Early LGW engines experienced high-pressure fuel pump wear due to thermal stress and component fatigue.

Evidence:

GM SIB 14-NA-008

Recommendation:

Install updated fuel pump with improved cooling jacket per GM SIB 14-NA-008.

Common Reliability Issues - CADILLAC LGW

The LGW's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in high-RPM driving with frequent short trips. Internal GM quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant share of pre-2016 engines required pump replacement before 80,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show fuel system faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low fuel quality increase pump stress, making filter maintenance and fuel quality adherence critical.

High-pressure fuel pump wear or failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idle, misfires, fuel pressure warning, reduced power.
Cause: Internal pump wear due to fuel contamination and inadequate lubrication, exacerbated by extended service intervals and low-octane petrol.
Fix: Replace with updated OEM-specified pump and in-line filter per service bulletin; verify fuel pressure and injector cleanliness post-repair.
Valve train noise at cold start
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from valve cover area on cold start, diminishing as engine warms.
Cause: Clearance changes in hydraulic lifters during cold conditions; exacerbated by oil viscosity breakdown or extended oil change intervals.
Fix: Inspect and replace affected lifters with latest revision; ensure use of GM dexos1 Gen 3 oil and adhere to maintenance schedule.
Intake manifold runner flap failure
Symptoms: Flap warning light, rough idle, hesitation, vacuum leaks, fluttering noise under load.
Cause: Plastic flap arms prone to cracking from thermal cycling; broken flaps can enter combustion chamber.
Fix: Remove or replace manifold with updated design; secure flaps permanently if removed and update ECU mapping per technical bulletin.
Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white residue on housing, frequent top-ups required.
Cause: Integrated thermostat housing with plastic housing prone to cracking under thermal stress; design revised in 2016.
Fix: Replace with updated metal-housing thermostat unit; inspect water pump and bleed cooling system thoroughly after repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2014–2024) and NHTSA field reports (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about CADILLAC LGW

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC LGW.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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CADILLAC Official Site

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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

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UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

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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.

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VCA Certification Portal

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialCADILLAC documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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