The Cadillac LT4 Blackwing is a 6,162 cc, V8 supercharged petrol engine produced from 2016 onwards. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve configuration, and General Motors' Active Fuel Management (AFM) system with continuously variable valve timing. In standard tune, it delivers 477 kW (650 PS) at 6,400 rpm and 850 Nm of torque at 3,600–5,200 rpm, offering extreme performance and refinement for high-performance luxury applications.
Fitted to models including the CTS-V and CT5-V, the LT4 Blackwing was engineered for track-capable driving dynamics and elevated power delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6d standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature supercharger drive belt tensioner failure, which could lead to loss of boost, over-speeding of the supercharger, or engine derate. This issue, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 16-06-01-003, is attributed to thermal fatigue in the tensioner spring under sustained high load. In 2018, GM introduced a revised tensioner with improved heat-resistant materials and recalibrated AFM logic to reduce thermal stress.
Production years 2016–present meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4014).
The Cadillac LT4 Blackwing is a 6,162 cc V8 supercharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance luxury applications (2016–present). It combines forced induction with cylinder deactivation to deliver responsive power and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Supercharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.3 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 477 kW (650 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 850 Nm @ 3,600–5,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection with port assist (DPI+) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Supercharger | Twin-volute Eaton TVS R1740 (1.7L) with electric bypass valve | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 218 kg |
The supercharged V8 delivers extreme performance ideal for track and high-speed driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent supercharger and valvetrain degradation. GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for direct injection components. Track use demands pre-conditioning and post-cooling procedures to maintain thermal equilibrium. The high-pressure fuel system requires use of premium fuel (RON 98) to prevent pre-ignition. Regular inspection of charge-air cooling and oil circuits is advised for sustained performance.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 16 06 01 003). Supersedes dexos1 Gen 2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all LT4 Blackwing models (2016–present) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4014).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95–98).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A28600, A28601, A28602, SIB 16 06 01 003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4014)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Cadillac LT4 Blackwing was used across Cadillac's CTS/CT5 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received model-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the CT5-V and revised intake manifolds in the CTS-V-and from 2018 the updated supercharger tensioner with improved heat resistance, creating strict interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front passenger side of the engine block near the cylinder head (GM TIS A28600). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('T' for LT4 series). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2018 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from L5P: LT4 uses a supercharged V8 with AFM, while L5P is a twin-turbo V8 without cylinder deactivation. Service parts require production date verification - supercharger tensioners before 09/2018 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 16 06 01 003).
The LT4 Blackwing's primary reliability risk is supercharger drive belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal GM quality reports from 2019 indicated a significant number of pre-2018 units required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show boost-related faults as a top cause of drivability complaints in Cadillac performance models. Extended service intervals and use of low-octane fuel increase thermal stress, making fuel quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2016–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC LT4-BLACKWING.
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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
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