The Cadillac LSA Blackwing is a 6,162 cc, V8, supercharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2013. It features a pushrod OHV 16-valve configuration with a Roots-type supercharger and direct fuel injection, delivering 418 kW (564 PS) in its primary application. Designed as the performance flagship for Cadillac's new era of performance sedans, it combines traditional pushrod architecture with modern forced induction and cylinder deactivation for high-output driving.
Fitted exclusively to the Cadillac CTS-V (second generation) and high-trim XLR-V, the LSA Blackwing was engineered to deliver track-capable performance while maintaining daily drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), close-coupled catalytic converters, and Active Fuel Management (AFM), enabling it to meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 standards across its production run.
One documented update occurred in 2012, referenced in GM Service Bulletin #10721, which revised the engine control module (ECM) calibration to improve AFM transition smoothness and reduce intake manifold carbon buildup. This change addressed early reports of hesitation during cylinder deactivation and enhanced long-term reliability across the model line.
Production years 2010–2013 meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 standards (EPA Certification #GML-EMS-9150).
The Cadillac LSA Blackwing is a 6,162 cc V8 supercharged engine engineered for high-performance applications (2010–2013). It combines pushrod OHV architecture with Eaton M62 supercharging to deliver high horsepower and responsive torque. Designed to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions, it balances track-capable output with refined drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Supercharged (Eaton M62 Roots-type) | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.3 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 418 kW (564 PS) @ 6,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 747 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5) with Active Fuel Management | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.1:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 Gen 1 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 215 kg |
The pushrod V8 layout with supercharging provides high horsepower and linear power delivery ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to maintenance schedules to sustain longevity. GM Dexos1 Gen 1 (5W-30) oil is recommended for optimal lifter and camshaft lubrication. Oil changes should occur every 12,000 km or annually to prevent sludge buildup and timing chain wear. The supercharger system relies on precise oil pressure and belt tension; degraded oil or extended intervals can trigger boost loss and reduced performance. Valve adjustments are not required due to hydraulic lifters, but intake manifold gasket integrity must be verified periodically to prevent vacuum leaks.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 1 (5W-30) specification (GM Service Bulletin 10721). Compatible with API SM/SL requirements.
Emissions: U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all production years (EPA Certification #GML-EMS-9150). No Euro compliance variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output achieved with 93 AKI fuel and optimal ignition timing (GM TIS Doc. A92PERF).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ALSA, A92FUEL, A92TIMING
EPA Certification Database (GML-EMS-9150)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Cadillac LSA Blackwing was used across Cadillac's CTS and XLR platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised engine mounts in the CTS-V and modified transmission tuning in the XLR-V-and from 2012 the updated CTS-V models adopted revised ECU calibration to improve boost response, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS A92ID01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('U' for LSA series). Pre-2012 models have a composite intake manifold with square throttle body; the 2012+ variant features revised supercharger housing and updated ECU mapping. Critical differentiation from LC3: LSA has Eaton M62 supercharger, lower compression (9.1:1 vs. 10.1:1), and different camshaft profile. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds, camshafts, and ECUs are not interchangeable between LC3 and LSA variants (GM TIS ALSA).
The LSA Blackwing's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket failure on high-mileage engines, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short trips. Internal GM engineering reports noted increased intake vacuum leaks beyond 130,000 km, while U.S. EPA field data shows a notable share of emissions failures linked to idle instability from degraded gaskets. Extended short-trip operation and delayed maintenance increase thermal cycling stress, making coolant and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010-2013) and U.S. EPA emissions failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC LSA-BLACKWING.
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