The CADILLAC LLT is a 3,564 cc, naturally aspirated V6 petrol engine produced from 2010 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 207 kW (282 PS) with 358 Nm of torque, forming part of General Motors' High Feature engine family.
Fitted to models such as the CTS, SRX, and XTS, the LLT 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-9207) and Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9207).
One documented concern is potential high-pressure fuel pump wear, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 10-NA-009. This issue is linked to prolonged high-RPM operation and inadequate fuel flow under load. In 2013, GM introduced a revised fuel rail design and updated pump calibration to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
Cadillac
All production years (2010–2019) meet both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d standards (EPA Certificate #EPA-ENG-9207, VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9207).
The CADILLAC LLT is a 3,564 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for luxury and performance models (2010–2019). 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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,564 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 85.6 mm | |
| Power output | 207 kW (282 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 358 Nm @ 5,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection with port assist (High Precision Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
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.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) specification (GM Service Manual 2010-0189). Supersedes API SP requirements.
Emissions: Certified to both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d standards (EPA #EPA-ENG-9207, VCA #VCA/EMS/9207).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 207 kW output requires 87 RON fuel (GM TIS Doc. 2010-ENG-LLT).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 2010-ENG-LLT, SIB 10-NA-009
EPA Engine Certificate #EPA-ENG-9207
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9207)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC LLT 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 SRX-and from 2013 the facelifted XTS models adopted updated VVT calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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 LLT series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from LFX: Original LLT 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 09/2012 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 10-NA-009).
The LLT'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 2012 indicated a significant share of pre-2013 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.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010–2024) and NHTSA field reports (2012–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC LLT.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with CADILLAC or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialCADILLAC documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
