The CADILLAC LS3 is a 6,162 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2013. It features pushrod OHV, 16 — valve configuration and General Motors' Generation IV small — block architecture, delivering 309 kW (420 PS) and 542 Nm of torque. Its rectangular — port cylinder heads and composite intake manifold enable strong mid — range power and efficient airflow.
Fitted to the CTS — V and STS — V, the LS3 was engineered for high — performance driving and dynam…
All production years 2007–2013 meet OBD-II and Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3460).
The CADILLAC LS3 is a 6,162 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance luxury sedan applications (2007–2013). It combines pushrod architecture with rectangular-port cylinder heads to deliver strong mid-range power and smooth operation. Designed to meet OBD-II and Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 309 kW (420 PS) @ 5,900 rpm | |
Torque | 542 Nm @ 4,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential port fuel injection (SFI) | |
Emissions standard | OBD-II, Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.1:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
Oil type | GM 5W-30 (DEXOS1 Gen 1) | |
Dry weight | 210 kg |
The CADILLAC LS3 was used across CADILLAC's CTS-V and STS-V platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated oil cooler in the CTS-V and revised intake manifolds in the STS-V-and from 2013 the CTS-V LCI adopted the LSA supercharged variant with updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The LS3's primary reliability risk is intake manifold bolt thread wear on pre-2009 builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature operation. Internal GM reports from 2008 indicated a significant number of pre-upgrade engines requiring manifold repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show drivability-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and aggressive driving increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and use of correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2007–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LS3 offers strong performance and solid engineering, but pre-2009 models with original intake manifold bolts are prone to thread wear. Later revisions with stainless-steel inserts significantly improve durability. Regular oil changes, use of correct oil (5W-30 GM DEXOS1), and prompt attention to idle quality are essential for reliability.
Key issues include intake manifold bolt thread wear (especially pre-2009), cooling system failures (thermostat, water pump), camshaft/lifter wear, and oil leaks from valve cover and rear main seal. These are documented in GM service bulletins and require OEM-specified parts for proper repair.
The LS3 was used in the CTS-V (2007–2013) and STS-V (2007–2009). It was replaced by the LSA in 2013 with supercharging and updated engine management. No cross-manufacturer applications are documented for this variant.
Yes, though naturally aspirated. Stage 1 tuning includes ECU remap, high-flow intake, and performance exhaust, gaining ~15–25 kW. Cylinder head porting and camshaft upgrades offer further gains. Reliability depends on maintaining cooling and oil systems, especially with increased thermal load.
In a CTS-V, combined consumption is ~14.8 L/100km (19 mpg UK). City driving may see 16–18 L/100km (18–16 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve ~11.5 L/100km (24 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style and vehicle condition.
No. The LS3 series is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will not contact open valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, chain maintenance is still recommended to ensure proper valve timing and prevent secondary damage.
GM specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting DEXOS1 Gen 1 spec. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km. Proper oil ensures adequate protection for camshafts, lifters, and the timing chain, especially under sustained high-RPM use.
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.