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 d…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LSA Blackwing is a robust, high-output engine when maintained properly. Regular oil changes (every 12,000 km) with GM Dexos1 5W-30 oil are essential. Engines with documented service history and no overheating incidents can exceed 180,000 km reliably. Its pushrod design and forged internals contribute to long-term durability in both daily and performance driving applications.
The most common issues include intake manifold gasket failure, supercharger bypass valve wear, AFM lifter collapse, and PCV system clogging. These are documented in GM service literature and prevalent in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Preventative maintenance significantly reduces failure risk.
The LSA Blackwing was used in the Cadillac CTS-V (2010-2013) and XLR-V (2010-2013). It was not used in base trims or front-wheel-drive configurations. The engine was exclusive to North American markets and flagship performance vehicles.
Yes. The LSA Blackwing responds well to ECU remapping, typically gaining +50-80 kW safely with supporting modifications. Performance gains come from cold-air intakes, exhaust systems, and pulley upgrades. However, stock internals are strong but have limits; aggressive tuning without forged components risks reliability.
Fuel consumption is moderate for a supercharged V8. In the CTS-V, combined consumption is approximately 15.0 L/100km (~19 mpg US). City driving may exceed 19 L/100km (~12 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve ~12.0 L/100km (~20 mpg). Driving style significantly impacts real-world economy.
Yes. The LSA Blackwing is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, the pistons can contact the valves, resulting in severe internal damage. The front-mounted double-row chain is robust, but inspection after 150,000 km is advised in high-mileage applications.
GM specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting Dexos1 Gen 1 (or newer equivalent) standards. This viscosity is essential for lifter quietness and camshaft protection. Oil must be changed every 12,000 km or annually, and OEM-approved filters should be used to ensure proper flow and filtration.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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CADILLAC Official Site
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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.
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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.
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