The CADILLAC Z 19 DTR is a 1,956 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), common rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering strong low-end torque and efficient cruising. In standard tune it produced 103 kW (140 PS) with 320 Nm of torque, forming part of General Motors' Family 1 diesel engine family.
Fitted to select European-market models such as the Cadillac BLS, the Z 19 DTR was engineered for refined driving dynamics and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing all units to meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9210).
One documented concern is potential high-pressure fuel pump wear, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 08-NA-012. This issue is linked to fuel contamination and inadequate lubrication under sustained high-load conditions. In 2011, GM introduced a revised injector calibration and updated pump design to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (2008–2015) meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9210).
The CADILLAC Z 19 DTR is a 1,956 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2015). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Delphi common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 17.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interference design) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The single VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo degradation and fuel system wear. GM Dexos2 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the high-pressure fuel components. The timing belt is an interference design and must be replaced every 120,000 km or 6 years. The Delphi CP3 fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent high-pressure pump seizure. Post-2011 models feature revised injector calibration; pre-2011 units should be inspected for fuel pump wear per GM SIB 08-NA-012. EGR/DPF systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 (5W-30) specification (GM Service Manual 2008-0210). Supersedes ACEA B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all Z 19 DTR models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9210).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 103 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality (GM TIS Doc. 2008-ENG-Z19DTR).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 2008-ENG-Z19DTR, SIB 08-NA-012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9210)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC Z 19 DTR was used across CADILLAC's BSx platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the BLS and revised cooling routing in the BLS Sport Wagon-and from 2011 the facelifted BLS models adopted updated ECU 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 ('Z' for Z19 series). Pre-2011 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2011 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from Z19DTH: Original Z 19 DTR has Delphi EDC17 ECU with 80-pin connector, while Z19DTH uses EDC16 with 60-pin. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps before 09/2010 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 08-NA-012).
The Z 19 DTR's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in high-load driving with frequent short trips. Internal GM quality reports from 2010 indicated a significant share of pre-2011 engines required pump replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system faults contributing to emissions-related MOT 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 (2008–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC Z19DTR.
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.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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