The CADILLAC LS3 is a 6,162 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2013. It features pushrod OHV, 16 — valve configuration and General Motors' Generation IV small — block architecture, delivering 309 kW (420 PS) and 542 Nm of torque. Its rectangular — port cylinder heads and composite intake manifold enable strong mid — range power and efficient airflow.
Fitted to the CTS — V and STS — V, the LS3 was engineered for high — performance driving and dynam…
All production years 2007–2013 meet OBD-II and Euro 5 emissions standards .
The CADILLAC LS3 is a 6,162 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance luxury sedan applications (2007–2013). It combines pushrod architecture with rectangular-port cylinder heads to deliver strong mid-range power and smooth operation. Designed to meet OBD-II and Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 309 kW (420 PS) @ 5,900 rpm | |
Torque | 542 Nm @ 4,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential port fuel injection (SFI) | |
Emissions standard | OBD-II, Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.1:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 210 kg |
The CADILLAC LS3 was used across CADILLAC's CTS-V and STS-V platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated oil cooler in the CTS-V and revised intake manifolds in the STS-V-and from 2013 the CTS-V LCI adopted the LSA supercharged variant with updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LS3 offers strong performance and solid engineering, but pre-2009 models with original intake manifold bolts are prone to thread wear. Later revisions with stainless-steel inserts significantly improve durability. Regular oil changes, use of correct oil (5W-30 GM DEXOS1), and prompt attention to idle quality are essential for reliability.
Key issues include intake manifold bolt thread wear (especially pre-2009), cooling system failures (thermostat, water pump), camshaft/lifter wear, and oil leaks from valve cover and rear main seal. These are documented in GM service bulletins and require OEM-specified parts for proper repair.
The LS3 was used in the CTS-V (2007–2013) and STS-V (2007–2009). It was replaced by the LSA in 2013 with supercharging and updated engine management. No cross-manufacturer applications are documented for this variant.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the LS3 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
In a CTS-V, combined consumption is ~14.8 L/100km (19 mpg UK). City driving may see 16–18 L/100km (18–16 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve ~11.5 L/100km (24 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style and vehicle condition.
No. The LS3 series is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will not contact open valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, chain maintenance is still recommended to ensure proper valve timing and prevent secondary damage.
GM specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting DEXOS1 Gen 1 spec. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km. Proper oil ensures adequate protection for camshafts, lifters, and the timing chain, especially under sustained high-RPM use.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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