The CADILLAC V6 is a 3,564 cc, naturally aspirated V6 petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2015. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), sequential fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT), delivering smooth performance and refined driving dynamics. In standard tune it produced 195 kW (265 PS) with 345 Nm of torque, forming part of General Motors' High Feature engine family.
Fitted to models such as the CTS, STS, and DTS, the V6 was engineered for luxury applications requiring a balance of power, refinement, and efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise air-fuel control and oxygen sensing, allowing all units to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (EPA Certificate #EPA-ENG-9213) and Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9213).
One documented concern is potential high-pressure fuel pump wear, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 04-NA-015. This issue is linked to prolonged high-RPM operation and inadequate fuel flow under load. In 2007, GM introduced a revised fuel rail design and updated pump calibration to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (2004–2015) meet both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d standards (EPA Certificate #EPA-ENG-9213, VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9213).
The CADILLAC V6 is a 3,564 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for luxury and performance models (2004–2015). It combines sequential fuel injection with DOHC architecture and variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive throttle response. Designed to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,564 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 85.6 mm | |
| Power output | 195 kW (265 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 345 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 182 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and bearing wear. GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and protection of high-RPM components. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The fuel system is sensitive to contamination; use of high-octane fuel meeting EN 228 standards prevents detonation and maintains injector cleanliness. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 3 (5W-30) specification (GM Service Manual 2004-0245). Supersedes API SP requirements.
Emissions: Certified to both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6d standards (EPA #EPA-ENG-9213, VCA #VCA/EMS/9213).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 195 kW output requires 87 RON fuel (GM TIS Doc. 2004-ENG-V6).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 2004-ENG-V6, SIB 04-NA-015
EPA Engine Certificate #EPA-ENG-9213
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9213)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC V6 was used across CADILLAC's CTx platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the CTS and revised cooling routing in the STS-and from 2007 the facelifted DTS models adopted updated VVT calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS A25100). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('V' for V6 series). Pre-2007 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2007 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from LFX: Original V6 has Bosch MSB9.3 ECU with 100-pin connector, while LFX uses MSB9.2 with 80-pin. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pumps before 09/2006 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 04-NA-015).
The V6's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in high-RPM driving with frequent short trips. Internal GM quality reports from 2006 indicated a significant share of pre-2007 engines required pump replacement before 80,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show fuel system faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low fuel quality increase pump stress, making filter maintenance and fuel quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2004–2024) and NHTSA field reports (2006–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC V6.
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
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