🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

CTS

Year:

2008

Platform:

GM Sigma II

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size luxury sedan, competing with established European and domestic brands.

Key Competitors:

BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS

Platform Advantage:

Built on the GM Sigma II platform, shared with the Pontiac G8 and some Holden models, known for its rear-wheel-drive bias and sporty handling characteristics.

Design Philosophy:

Cadillac's 'Art and Science' design language, emphasizing sharp lines, bold grille, and a sophisticated, driver-oriented interior.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair

Models Covered:

All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmission Types

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 1000+ pages for a complete workshop manual

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, oil system, cooling system

Engine Performance:

Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control system, turbocharging/supercharging (if applicable)

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, shift linkage

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM)

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) or All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive shafts, CV joints, differentials, rear axle

Suspension:

Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson strut), rear suspension (e.g., independent multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering rack, tie rods

Brakes:

Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, brake lines), ABS, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC)

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, doors, hood, trunk, chassis components

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core

Infotainment:

Audio system, navigation system, display units, control modules

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing, wiring checks

Repair:

Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems

Rebuilding:

Engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding procedures

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic charts and procedures for various fault conditions

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Compatible with PC, MAC, tablets, and smartphones. Requires Adobe Reader (free download).

Printability:

Printable by page, chapter, or entire document. High-quality resolution for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Base:

LY7

Engine Type:

3.6L V6 DOHC VVT

Displacement:

3564 cc (217.5 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

94.0 mm x 85.6 mm (3.70 in x 3.37 in)

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

255 hp @ 6200 rpm

Torque:

251 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Optional Engine Code:

LLP

Optional Engine Type:

3.6L V6 SIDI VVT (Direct Injection)

Optional Horsepower:

304 hp @ 6400 rpm

Optional Torque:

267 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for LY7, Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI) for LLP

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed manual transmission (RWD)

Transmission Type:

6-speed automatic transmission with driver shift control (available RWD and AWD)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Driver Shift Control (manual mode), performance algorithm shifting (PAS)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron VI

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GM Manual Transmission Fluid (GL-4 75W-90 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.6 inches (4867 mm)

Width:

72.5 inches (1841 mm)

Height:

58.1 inches (1476 mm)

Wheelbase:

113.4 inches (2880 mm)

Curb Weight Base:

Approximately 3700 lbs (1680 kg) for RWD models

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, typically around 4800 lbs (2177 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star Driver, 5-Star Rear Passenger

IIHS Crash Test Ratings:

Good in front and side impact tests (for models equipped with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, front side-impact airbags, roof rail airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners for all seating positions

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional Cadillac User Experience (CUE) interface (introduced later, base models have simpler audio system), Bose premium audio systems available.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional features could include rear parking assist, rearview camera.

Connectivity Options:

Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).

Engine Coolant Change:

Initial change at 150,000 miles (240,000 km), then every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) or 5 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (standard on 3.6L DI).

Engine Oil Capacity:

5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) with filter for 3.6L V6

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (GM dexos1 or API SN certified)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Timing Chain Wear:

Some earlier LY7 engines experienced timing chain tensioner wear, leading to rattle on startup. This was addressed by GM through updates.

Carbon Buildup:

Direct-injection engines (LLP) can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves. Regular cleaning or Italian tune-ups may help.

Power Steering Pump:

Occasional reports of premature power steering pump failure or leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Founded in 1902, Cadillac is the longest-running American luxury automotive brand.

First Generation:

The first generation CTS (2003-2007) introduced Cadillac's 'Art and Science' design language and marked a significant shift towards sportier driving dynamics, especially with the CTS-V performance variant.

Second Generation Start:

The 2008 model year marked the introduction of the second-generation CTS, a complete redesign.

Manufacturing Location:

Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant, Lansing, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best 10:

CTS V6 models were named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2008.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

The second-generation CTS was a finalist for Motor Trend Car of the Year in 2008.