Common Cadillac 3.6 L Engine Problems

The engineers who develop the 3.6L GM engine seem to be dealing with a constant onslaught of engine problems. Over the years the engine has undergone upgrades and changes but continues to pose a problem.

The 2019 Cadillac CTS has a standard turbocharged 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine with an optional 3.6-liter engine in either 335 horsepower or 420 horsepower. Cadillac is a great car, but the 3.5-liter engines have been experiencing problems for years.

If you are experiencing repeat problems with your Cadillac, you may qualify for financial compensation or replacement under the PA lemon law and NJ lemon law.

A Bit of History

If you own a new Cadillac and are experiencing car engine problems, you are not alone. This was a topic covered back in 2013 by Motor Magazine. As of that writing, GM spent 10 years of development on the 3.6L engine, making significant changes.

Four versions of the engine were in existence. The Cadillac CTS and XTS models held the 2014 LF3 engine with a different block, different rods, heads, and more. The only thing remaining the same on that engine is the 3.6L displacement.

Engine problems of the time include oil consumption, with the engine using up a quart every 2,000 miles. The “change engine oil soon” notice operates on a computer algorithm.

Problems arose when computer data determines the oil change is necessary between 8,000 and 12,000 miles. With the engine using a quart every 2,000 miles, the vehicle is out of oil before the driver receives a “change engine oil” warning.

Depending on the length of time the vehicle is lacking oil, additional problems arise including improper valve timing, poor in-cylinder mixture control. Wear on cam phasers and timing chains may eventually result in an entire engine problem.

Current Engine Problems

According to HotCars, there are 20 GM cars in 2018 suffering major problems. One of those was the Cadillac CTS, which came on the market in 2002. The second generation of this model was experiencing a dead transfer case and transmission failures. There was a total of five (5) recalls of the 2009 model.

The 2020 Cadillac XT5 is experiencing basic engine problems. GM Service Bulletin #16NA383 lists rough idle, misfiring due to excessive carbon on the valves, sticking valves, no starts, malfunctioning indicator lights, and extending cranking situations. Cadillac’s method of resolving the issue is to advise owners to use a fuel injection cleaner kit and top tier fuels to keep the engine running properly. In addition to engine issues, this vehicle is also experiencing problems in other areas, as shown on the NHTSA problems.

Do You Have a Lemon?

It stands to reason that if one 2020 Cadillac is experiencing engine problems then other models are as well. If you are having repeat problems with your vehicle contact the Lemon Law Attorney Office of David J. Gorberg & Associates. You can reach us by phone at 1-800-MY-LEMON, email info@mylemon.com, or use our online form.

We have the experience and knowledge of this specialty area of the law to evaluate your problem and take appropriate action to get you compensation or replacement of your vehicle. Call us today!