The GM LDS is a 3,564 cc, 60° V6 petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) and port fuel injection, delivering 184 kW (250 PS) and 339 Nm of torque. Its aluminum block and head construction prioritizes a favorable power-to-weight ratio for refined performance.
Fitted to premium models such as the Cadillac CTS and STS, the LDS was engineered for a balance of smooth, linear power delivery and luxury refinement. Emissions compliance for its production run was met to the US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standard through the use of a three-way catalytic converter and precise engine management.
A documented service concern is premature failure of the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoids, which can trigger check engine lights and reduced performance. This issue, addressed in GM Service Bulletin 07187A, is linked to internal contamination or electrical faults. The solenoid design and filtering were revised for subsequent engine variants.
All LDS engines meet US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-69-07). No Euro standard compliance applies as it was not offered in European markets.
The GM LDS is a 3,564 cc 60° V6 petrol engine engineered for mid-size luxury sedans (2007-2011). It combines port fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 2 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,564 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 85.6 mm | |
| Power output | 184 kW (250 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 339 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Dexos1 Gen 1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The DOHC VVT system provides smooth, linear power ideal for luxury cruising but requires strict adherence to 7,500-mile oil change intervals using Dexos1 oil to prevent VVT solenoid contamination. The naturally aspirated design is simpler than turbocharged engines but still benefits from using Top Tier detergent gasoline to keep injectors and intake valves clean. The revised VVT solenoids (P/N 12637549) should be installed if replacing the original units per GM SIB 07187A to ensure long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 1 specification (GM P/N 87654321). ACEA standards do not apply.
Emissions: US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all 2007-2011 LDS engines (EPA Certificate #A-69-07). Not certified for other markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Ratings are for stock configuration with OEM calibration (GM Spec P/N 87654321).
GM Technical Information System (TIS): Service Manual SI-004, SIB 07187A
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certificate of Conformity #A-69-07
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM LDS was used across GM's Sigma platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations within its production run. All applications are documented in OEM service manuals.
The LDS engine code is typically found on a white emissions label under the hood, often on the radiator support or valve cover. The 8th digit of the VIN is "7" for all LDS-equipped vehicles. Visually, it can be identified by its aluminum block, DOHC valve covers, and the location of the ignition coils directly on top of each spark plug. The most critical identifier is the presence of the specific VVT solenoids on the front of each cylinder head.
The LDS's primary reliability risk is VVT solenoid failure, with a documented incidence in early production vehicles. GM's own service data and bulletin 07187A confirm this was a design-related issue, not isolated to specific usage. Vehicles with infrequent oil changes or using non-Dexos oil are at greater risk, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2007-2011) and NHTSA investigation data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM LDS.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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