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 dynamic handling in Cadillac's flagship V-series sedans. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling OBD-II and Euro 5 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is intake manifold bolt thread wear, particularly on units produced before 2009, due to thermal cycling and aluminum block expansion. This issue, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 03 06 04, led to vacuum leaks and rough idle. In 2009, GM introduced revised stainless-steel helical inserts and upgraded gasket sealing to improve longevity.
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 pushrod V8 design provides strong mid-range power ideal for relaxed and spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain longevity and lifter function. GM DEXOS1 Gen 1 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its formulation supporting hydraulic lifters and timing chain lubrication. Pre-2009 models should have the intake manifold insert upgrade per GM SIB 03 06 04 if experiencing vacuum leaks. Cooling system maintenance is essential to prevent overheating during sustained highway use. Engines used in high-mileage applications require valve train inspection every 100,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires GM DEXOS1 Gen 1 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 11 03 09). Supersedes API SM requirements.
Emissions: OBD-II and Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2007–2013) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3460).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting ASTM D4814.
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A25000, A25030, SIB 03 06 04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3460)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (GM TIS A25090). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for LS3 series). All LS3 units have black valve covers with "6.2L" and "Generation IV" branding. Critical differentiation from LSA: Original LS3 is naturally aspirated with Motronic ECU, while LSA features supercharging and drive-by-wire throttle. Service parts require production date verification - intake manifold bolts before 06/2009 are prone to thread wear and should be replaced with post-revision units per GM SIB 03 06 04.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC LS3.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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