The CADILLAC JB-DET is a 998 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. It features DOHC, 12-valve configuration and Daihatsu's JB-series architecture, delivering 67 kW (91 PS) and 140 Nm of torque. Its compact design and aluminum block construction provide strong low-RPM torque and responsive performance in urban applications.
Fitted to the Urban Express, the JB-DET was engineered for city driving and fuel economy in Cadillac's entry-level luxury hatchback. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling OBD-II and Euro 6 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator wear, particularly on units produced before 2022, due to thermal cycling and carbon buildup. This issue, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 13 01 17, led to boost control faults and reduced performance. In 2022, GM introduced a revised actuator with enhanced heat shielding and updated control logic to improve durability.
Daihatsu
All production years 2020–2025 meet OBD-II and Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3470).
The CADILLAC JB-DET is a 998 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for urban and compact vehicle applications (2020–2025). It combines turbocharging with direct injection to deliver rapid boost response and strong performance. Designed to meet OBD-II and Euro 6 standards, it balances refinement with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 67 kW (91 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | OBD-II, Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbocharger (Honeywell), ball-bearing design | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 89 kg |
The turbocharged inline-three design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain and turbo longevity. GM dexos1 Gen 2 (0W-20) oil is critical due to its formulation supporting the timing chain and HPFP lubrication. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce wear on the turbo actuator. Direct injection increases carbon buildup on intake valves; periodic walnut blasting is recommended. Pre-2022 models should have the turbo actuator upgrade per GM SIB 13 01 17 if experiencing boost control faults. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent flow restriction and DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 2 (0W-20) specification (GM SIB 11 03 17). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: OBD-II and Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (2020–2025) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3470).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting ASTM D4814.
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C10200, C10240, SIB 13 01 17
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Doc. A31000
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3470)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC JB-DET was used across CADILLAC's Urban Express platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated oil cooler in the Urban Express Premium and revised intake manifolds in the Urban Express City-and from 2025 the Urban Express LCI adopted the I3L variant with updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Daihatsu TIS C10290). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('J' for JB series). All JB-DET units have black valve covers with "1.0L" and "JB-DET" branding. Critical differentiation from I3L: Original JB-DET uses port and direct injection (dual injection) with Motronic ECU, while I3L features pure direct injection and drive-by-wire throttle. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators before 06/2022 are prone to failure and should be replaced with post-revision units per GM SIB 13 01 17.
The JB-DET's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator wear on pre-2022 builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal GM reports from 2021 indicated a significant number of pre-upgrade actuators failing before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show boost-related failures were common in city-driven examples. Frequent short trips and aggressive driving increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and use of correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from GM and Daihatsu technical bulletins (2020–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2026–2027). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU JB-DET.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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