Segment:
Luxury Mid-size Sedan
Target Audience:
Buyers seeking refined comfort, performance, and technology in a Cadillac
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS
Design Philosophy:
Art and Science design language, sharp lines, distinctive grille
Powertrain Options:
V6 engines, rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
Interior Appointments:
Premium materials, optional leather upholstery, advanced infotainment
Engine:
All aspects of operation, basic maintenance, diagnostics
Transmission:
Operation, fluid checks, basic maintenance
Brakes:
System operation, brake fluid checks, warning indicators
Electrical System:
Fuse box locations, battery maintenance, exterior/interior lighting
Infotainment:
Operation of Cadillac CUE (if equipped), audio system, climate control
Safety Features:
Airbag system operation, seatbelt usage, child restraint systems
Driver Assistance:
Traction Control, Stability Control, ABS system indicators
Exterior:
Door locks, windows, mirrors, lighting operation
Interior:
Seating adjustments, climate controls, dashboard layout, warning lights
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure monitoring system, wheel changing procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake, washer), tire inflation
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, tire changing, use of emergency equipment
Warning Lights:
Explanation and recommended actions for all dashboard warning indicators
Vehicle Care:
Cleaning recommendations, storage advice
Diagnostic Level:
Owner-level interpretation of system behavior and warning indicators
Repair Instructions:
Limited to user-replaceable items and basic checks; not a full service manual
Engine Code:
RPO LFX (for 3.6L V6 DOHC DI VVT)
Displacement:
3.6 Liters (3564 cc)
Configuration:
V6, 24-valve, DOHC
Bore X Stroke:
94 mm x 85.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1
Horsepower:
304 hp @ 6400 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
273 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (Recommended)
Induction:
Direct Injection (DI)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
High-pressure direct injection pump system
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for applicable test year)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (for applicable test year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for applicable model year)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (StabiliTrak)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard
Airbags:
Frontal, side-impact, and curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Infotainment System:
Cadillac User Experience (CUE) was introduced later; 2010 models feature a precursor system with a central display, CD player, AM/FM radio, and available navigation.
Connectivity:
Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, USB input.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking assist sensors.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Not widely available or standard on all 2010 CTS models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions)
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Check every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically around 30,000 miles)
Cabin Air Filter:
Check annually, replace as needed
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Full Synthetic (meeting GM specification GM6094M)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (GM P/N 12346290 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, suspension components (struts, control arms)
Potential Electrical Gremlins:
Some reports of minor electrical glitches, often software-related or related to battery voltage.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Some early models in this generation experienced intake manifold gasket leaks; however, less common for the 2010 model year.
Cadillac Legacy:
American luxury marque with a long history of innovation and premium vehicles
Cts Generations:
First Generation (2003-2007), Second Generation (2008-2013). This manual covers the second generation.
2010 Updates:
Minor updates for the 2010 model year, largely carrying over from the 2008 redesign.
Manufacturing Location:
Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant, Lansing, Michigan, USA
Automotive Awards:
The second-generation CTS received numerous accolades, often praised for its improved chassis dynamics, styling, and European-like driving experience.
IIHS Awards:
Consistent Top Safety Pick recipient during its generation's run.
Consumer Reports:
Mixed to average reliability ratings in earlier years of this generation, improving over time. Specifics depend on engine and transmission combinations.