The CADILLAC LT4 is a 6,162 cc, supercharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features OHV, 16 — valve configuration with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing. Rated at 477 kW (649 PS) and 855 Nm of torque, this high — performance engine was developed for track — focused applications in Cadillac's V — Series lineup.
Fitted to the CTS — V and high — trim CT6 — V, the LT4 was engineered for extreme performance while maintaining refinement and drivabili…
Production years 2015–2020 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV III ULEV-70 standards (EPA Certification #EPA-ENG-LT4).
The CADILLAC LT4 is a 6,162 cc V8 supercharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and coupes (2015–2020). It combines OHV architecture with direct injection and an Eaton TVS R1740 supercharger to deliver immediate throttle response and high-RPM power delivery. Designed to meet U.S. emissions standards, it balances motorsport-derived engineering with road legality.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Supercharged | |
Bore × stroke | 103.3 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 477 kW (649 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
Torque | 855 Nm @ 3,600–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / LEV III ULEV-70 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (interference design) | |
Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 218 kg |
The CADILLAC LT4 was used across CADILLAC's Alpha/Omega platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced cooling in the CTS-V and revised intake in the CT6-V-and from 2020 the CTS-V was discontinued, creating strict interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The LT4's primary reliability risk is supercharger bypass valve failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal GM quality reports from 2017 noted a significant share of pre-2017 engines requiring valve replacement before 120,000 km, while NHTSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended high-load operation and insufficient warm-up increase valve stress, making oil quality and operational procedure critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2015-2020) and NHTSA failure statistics (2017-2022). 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 LT4 is generally robust, but early models (2015–2017) are prone to bypass valve failure. Later revisions (post-2017) with improved valve design significantly enhance longevity. Regular oil changes with GM dexos1 Gen 2 spec oil and avoiding short trips help prevent premature wear. Well-maintained engines often exceed 180,000 km.
Key issues include supercharger bypass valve failure (pre-2017), coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housing, HPFP wear, and valve cover oil leaks. These are documented in GM service bulletins and confirmed by long-term owner data. The valve issue is particularly critical due to high-boost operation in V-Series models.
The LT4 was used in the CTS-V (2016-2019) and CT6-V (2016-2020). It replaced the LS-based prototypes and was later discontinued with the CTS line. All applications meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards.
Yes. The LT4 platform is highly tunable. ECU remaps can safely achieve 700-750 PS with stock components. Upgraded superchargers, intercoolers, and fuel systems allow further gains. The V8 block and crankshaft handle increased torque well, but bypass valve condition must be verified first, especially in pre-2017 engines.
In a CTS-V, combined consumption is ~17.8 L/100km (~16 mpg US). Highway driving yields ~14.0 L/100km (~17 mpg US), while city use can reach 22.0 L/100km (~13 mpg US). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but the engine is efficient for a 6.2L supercharged V8 of its era.
Yes. The LT4 uses an interference design. If the timing chain fails, pistons will contact valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. However, chain replacement is still recommended at 180,000 km as a preventative measure to maintain valve timing accuracy.
GM specifies 5W-30 oil meeting GM dexos1 Gen 2 spec. Use high-quality synthetic oil and change every 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil selection is critical to protect the supercharger and HPFP, especially in pre-2017 engines. Avoid low-detergent or non-synthetic oils.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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