🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

STS

Year:

2012

Product Name:

2012 Cadillac STS Service and Repair Manual

Generation:

Second Generation (Second Facelift)

Platform:

GM Sigma II

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Sedan

Competitors:

BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Infiniti M.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides OEM-level technical data, diagnostics, and repair procedures, enabling owners and independent technicians to perform maintenance and repairs accurately and efficiently. Emphasizes vehicle-specific information over generic guides.

Manual Format Advantage:

Single, searchable PDF format eliminates the need to navigate multiple physical manuals. Allows for keyword searching, easy printing of specific sections, and digital storage.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 2012 Cadillac STS.

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (based on typical factory service manual volume for this class of vehicle and scope).

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Operating Systems:

Compatible with Windows Vista (32-bit and 64-bit), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and macOS.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (or equivalent decompression utility).

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine control system, fuel service, emission control, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging, automatic transmission, manual transmission (if applicable to specific sub-models), transfer case (if applicable), drive shaft, differential, axles, suspension.

Chassis:

Brake control, brake systems, parking brake, steering column, power steering, wheels, tires.

Electrical:

Air conditioning, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control, wiper and washer systems, door locks, instrumentation, audio/visual systems, horn, windshield/glass/mirrors, exterior and interior lighting, body electrical, multiplex/CAN communication, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), chassis control module (CCM).

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, interior trim, glass replacement, weatherstripping.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.

Diagnosis:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, circuit diagrams, component testing.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including disassembly, assembly, adjustments, and calibration.

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft installation, valve timing adjustment.

Transmission Repair:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid testing and replacement, torque converter replacement, basic transmission diagnosis.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake fluid flush, ABS component testing and replacement.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, control arm bushing replacement, shock absorber and strut replacement, power steering pump and rack replacement, alignment specifications.

HVAC Repair:

Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, blower motor replacement, climate control module diagnosis, heater core replacement.

Srs System Diagnosis:

Airbag module replacement, seat belt pretensioner replacement, occupant classification system (OCS) diagnosis, SRS warning light troubleshooting.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component rebuilds. Includes wiring schematics, component locations, torque specifications, and special tool requirements.

Wiring Schematics Detail:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including component identification, wire colors, connectors, and fuse/relay locations.

Diagnostic Tools Reference:

References to GM's diagnostic equipment (e.g., Tech 2, GDS 2) and specific diagnostic procedures for various control modules.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print specific pages or sections as needed. Images can be enlarged for better clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF, user-printable)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

3.6L V6 (LLT VVT Direct Injection)

Horsepower 3.6L V6:

302 hp @ 6300 rpm

Torque 3.6L V6:

272 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Horsepower 4.6L V8:

320 hp @ 6400 rpm (estimated for earlier models)

Torque 4.6L V8:

290 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (estimated for earlier models)

Fuel Delivery 3.6L V6:

Direct Injection

Engine Option 2:

4.6L V8 (L37 Northstar - less common for 2012, primarily phased out)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 3.6L:

6-speed automatic (Hydra-Matic 6L50)

Transmission Type AWD:

All-wheel drive (AWD) available with 6-speed automatic

Transmission Features:

Driver Shift Control (manual shifting capability), specific torque converter lock-up ranges, adaptive shift logic.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

199.7 inches

Width:

72.5 inches

Height:

58.3 inches

Wheelbase:

113.9 inches

Curb Weight Rwd:

Approx. 3,850 lbs (3.6L V6)

Curb Weight AWD:

Approx. 3,950 lbs (3.6L V6)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Not explicitly rated for 2012, but previous models performed well in crash tests.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - StabiliTrak), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), optional Magnetic Ride Control (MRC).

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side-impact airbags (front and rear), roof rail airbags.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system (though the 2012 model typically features the earlier generation infotainment with navigation, touch screen, and Bose premium audio).

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Alert, Rear Vision Camera.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB and auxiliary input for audio devices.

Keyless Access:

Keyless Access and Push-Button Start.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil. Refer to the manual for specific oil life monitoring system guidance.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Initial service at 150,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles or as indicated by the Dex-Cool monitoring system.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic (GM dexos1™ compliant).

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool® compatible coolant.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to reservoir cap for specific recommendation).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

GM P/N 89021184 or equivalent power steering fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension components (bushings, control arms), ignition coils, fuel injectors (especially on early direct injection models), power steering hoses, and transmission solenoids can be prone to wear over time.

Electrical Gremlins:

Some owners have reported minor electrical issues related to sensors or modules, often resolvable with software updates or component replacement. Water pump leaks on the 3.6L V6 (LLT) are also a known concern, often requiring replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Cadillac, GM's luxury division, known for performance, comfort, and technological innovation.

Sts Lineage:

Successor to the Cadillac Seville, the STS (Seville Touring Sedan) was introduced in 2005 on the rear-wheel-drive Sigma platform, evolving into the more modern Sigma II platform for the second generation. The 2012 model represents the final facelift of this generation before its discontinuation.

Production Location:

Lansing Grand River Assembly, Lansing, Michigan, USA.

Production Years:

2005-2011 (Model Years)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Past Awards:

While specific 2012 awards may be limited, the Cadillac STS has historically received praise for its comfortable ride, powerful engines, and advanced features for its class.