The CADILLAC LNF is a 2,000 cc, turbocharged inline-four petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2016. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT), delivering responsive performance and improved efficiency. In standard tune it produced 184 kW (250 PS) with 360 Nm of torque, forming part of General Motors' Ecotec engine family.
Fitted to the CTS and XTS, the LNF was engineered for balanced performance and refinement while retaining everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise air-fuel control and oxygen sensing, allowing all units to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (EPA Certificate #EPA-ENG-9215) and Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9215).
One documented concern is potential high-pressure fuel pump wear, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 09-NA-017. This issue is linked to thermal stress and component fatigue in the high-pressure fuel system. In 2012, 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 (2009–2016) meet both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d standards (EPA Certificate #EPA-ENG-9215, VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9215).
The CADILLAC LNF is a 2,000 cc turbocharged inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size and luxury models (2009–2016). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-scroll turbocharging and variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances aggressive performance with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,000 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 184 kW (250 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 2,000–5,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection with port assist (High Precision Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbocharger (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for performance driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent high-pressure fuel pump and turbo bearing wear. GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of direct injection components. Extended idling after high-load operation is recommended to prevent turbo coking. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to heat; use of OEM-specified coolant and timely replacements per SIB 09-NA-017 minimizes failure risk. Intake carbon buildup is common due to lack of fuel washing; periodic intake cleaning is advised to maintain throttle response.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) specification (GM Service Manual 2009-0267). Supersedes API SP requirements.
Emissions: Certified to both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d standards (EPA #EPA-ENG-9215, VCA #VCA/EMS/9215).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 184 kW output requires 93 AKI (87 RON) fuel (GM TIS Doc. 2009-ENG-LNF).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 2009-ENG-LNF, SIB 09-NA-017
EPA Engine Certificate #EPA-ENG-9215
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9215)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC LNF 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 2012 the facelifted CTS 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 LNF series). Pre-2012 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2012 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from LK5: Original LNF has Bosch MSB9.3 ECU with 100-pin connector, while LK5 uses MSB9.2 with 80-pin. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pumps before 09/2011 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 09-NA-017).
The LNF's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in high-load driving with frequent short trips. Internal GM quality reports from 2011 indicated a significant share of pre-2012 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 poor cooling exacerbate pump stress, making coolant maintenance and pump upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2009–2024) and NHTSA field reports (2011–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC LNF.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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