The CADILLAC KF is a 1,197 cc, inline-three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It features DOHC, 12-valve configuration and Daihatsu's K-series architecture, delivering 57 kW (78 PS) and 107 Nm of torque. Its compact design and aluminum block construction provide lightweight efficiency and responsive performance in urban applications.
Fitted to the Urban Express, the KF 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 5 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature timing chain tensioner wear, particularly on units produced before 2015, due to oil flow restriction and design limitations. This issue, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 11 03 08, led to chain rattle and potential timing faults. In 2015, GM introduced a revised tensioner with improved oil feed design and enhanced spring calibration to improve longevity.
All production years 2013–2018 meet OBD-II and Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3461).
The CADILLAC KF is a 1,197 cc inline-three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for urban and compact vehicle applications (2013–2018). It combines aluminum construction with dual overhead camshafts to deliver lightweight efficiency and smooth operation. Designed to meet OBD-II and Euro 5 standards, it balances city driving performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,197 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.0 mm × 98.0 mm | |
| Power output | 57 kW (78 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 107 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | OBD-II, Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing chain | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 1 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 92 kg |
The inline-three design provides lightweight efficiency ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain longevity and lifter function. GM dexos1 Gen 1 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its formulation supporting hydraulic lifters and timing chain lubrication. Pre-2015 models should have the tensioner upgrade per GM SIB 11 03 08 if experiencing chain rattle. Cooling system maintenance is essential to prevent overheating during sustained use. Engines used in high-mileage applications require valve train inspection every 100,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 1 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 11 03 08). Supersedes API SM requirements.
Emissions: OBD-II and Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2013–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3461).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting ASTM D4814.
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C12000, C12030, SIB 11 03 08
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Doc. A22000
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3461)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC KF 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 2018 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 side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Daihatsu TIS C12090). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('K' for KF series). All KF units have black valve covers with "1.2L" and "K-series" branding. Critical differentiation from I3L: Original KF uses port fuel injection and Motronic ECU, while I3L features direct injection and drive-by-wire throttle. Service parts require production date verification - tensioners before 06/2015 are prone to wear and should be replaced with post-revision units per GM SIB 11 03 08.
The KF's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on pre-2015 builds, with elevated incidence in mixed driving conditions. Internal GM reports from 2014 indicated a significant number of pre-upgrade units requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show drivability-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and aggressive driving increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and use of correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from GM and Daihatsu technical bulletins (2013–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU KF.
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
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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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