🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

STS

Year:

2004

Product Name:

2004 Cadillac STS Service and Repair Manual

Generation:

Second Generation (2005-2011)

Chassis Code:

GMX321

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Cadillac STS of this era positioned itself as a luxury sport sedan, competing with established German and American luxury brands. It aimed to blend performance with sophisticated comfort and technology.

Luxury Segment Role:

As Cadillac's flagship sedan at the time, the STS represented the pinnacle of GM's luxury offerings, competing directly with established luxury marques.

Competitive Analysis:

Competitors included models like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, and Lexus GS. The STS aimed to differentiate itself with Cadillac's signature American luxury, a potent V8 engine option, and advanced features for its time.

Key Features:

Available V8 power, Magnetic Ride Control suspension, Bose premium audio, available all-wheel drive, sophisticated interior appointments.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Page Count:

Not specified, but described as comprehensive and covering all aspects.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Organization:

Single, easy-to-use PDF manual with searchable text for quick information retrieval. No need to flip through multiple physical books.

Searchability:

The PDF format allows for full-text searching, enabling users to quickly locate specific topics or keywords.

Software Compatibility:

Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000; compatible with Mac.

Additional Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (or similar extraction utility).

Print Flexibility:

Allows users to print only the required pages and diagrams, reducing wear and tear on the original digital file.

Download Speed:

High-speed download is indicated, suggesting efficient file transfer.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Maintenance, Engine (including Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specs, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust/Cooling, Lube, Ignition/Starting/Charging), Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer/Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle/Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication.

Electrical Systems:

Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including detailed wiring schematics for all circuits, component locations, connector descriptions, and troubleshooting for lighting, power accessories, instrument cluster, engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), and infotainment systems.

Suspension Steering:

Detailed information on the front and rear suspension systems, including strut replacement, ball joint service, wheel bearing replacement, power steering system diagnosis and repair, and steering column component service.

Fuel System Service:

Covers fuel pump replacement, fuel filter service, fuel injector cleaning and testing, fuel pressure diagnostics, and evaporative emission control (EVAP) system troubleshooting.

Body Exterior Interior:

Details on door panel removal, seat adjustment mechanisms, interior trim replacement, exterior panel alignment, lighting system service, and body repair techniques.

Supplemental Restraint System:

Covers airbag system diagnosis, sensor replacement, seat belt pretensioner service, and SRS warning light troubleshooting. Specific safety precautions for working with airbags are detailed.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostics, maintenance procedures, component removal and installation, specifications, troubleshooting guides, wiring schematics, component testing.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including engine performance, transmission operation, brake systems, climate control, and electrical faults. Includes specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Engine Repair Procedures:

Complete engine overhaul procedures, including cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing service, timing chain/belt replacement (if applicable), and detailed information on the Northstar engine's unique features and maintenance requirements.

Brake System Repair:

Procedures for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line and hose replacement, master cylinder service, and ABS system bleeding and diagnostics.

Cooling System Service:

Procedures for radiator and hose replacement, water pump service, thermostat diagnosis and replacement, and pressure testing the cooling system.

Air Conditioning Service:

Procedures for refrigerant handling, compressor replacement, evaporator and condenser service, leak detection, and HVAC system diagnostics.

Transmission Diagnostics:

Procedures for diagnosing automatic transmission issues, including checking fluid levels and condition, interpreting shift solenoids, and diagnosing torque converter problems.

Technical Depth:

Vehicle-specific, dealership-level technician information, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete repairs.

Specifications Included:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine compression test data, bearing clearances, piston ring gap specifications, wheel alignment angles, brake component specifications, and fluid capacities.

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Employs a systematic approach to troubleshooting, often utilizing flowcharts and symptom-based diagnostics to pinpoint issues efficiently.

Diagram Quality:

Includes detailed diagrams and illustrations for mechanical components, assembly procedures, and system layouts, aiding in visual understanding.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Adobe)

Print Quality:

Printable, with ability to blow up images for enlarged copies.

Binding Type:

Digital (single PDF file), no physical binding.

Paper Type:

N/A (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Northstar V8 (4.6L)

Performance:

The 4.6L Northstar V8 typically produced around 275-300 horsepower and 295-300 lb-ft of torque, depending on the specific engine tune. It was known for its smooth power delivery.

Torque Peak:

Around 300 lb-ft (407 Nm) for the 4.6L Northstar V8.

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Codes:

Commonly L37 (300 hp) or LD8 (275 hp) for the 4.6L Northstar V8.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (4T80-E/4T82-E depending on engine/drivetrain).

Optional Transmission:

All-wheel drive (AWD) was available on certain configurations.

Transmission Features:

Adaptive shift control, manual shift mode (Driver Shift Control).

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions:

Length: approx. 196.8 inches, Width: approx. 71.5 inches, Height: approx. 57.4 inches, Wheelbase: approx. 115.3 inches.

Interior Dimensions:

Specific interior volume figures are not readily available in the product description, but the STS offered a spacious cabin for its segment.

Cargo Capacity:

Trunk volume was approximately 15.3 cubic feet.

Curb Weight:

Curb weight varied by configuration, generally between 3,800 to 4,100 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

The 2004 Cadillac STS received favorable safety ratings in its time, though specific NHTSA or IIHS scores for this exact model year may require deeper research beyond the product description. Expect good performance in frontal and side impacts for its class.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak stability enhancement system, available all-wheel drive.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (optional or standard depending on trim), active head restraints.

Seat Belt Features:

Includes information on seat belt retractors, pre-tensioners, and proper adjustment.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Features included a premium Bose audio system, AM/FM stereo with CD player, and often a touch-screen interface for climate control and audio. Available navigation system.

Driver Assistance Features:

StabiliTrak stability control, ABS, Traction Control, Cruise Control. Parking assist sensors were also an option.

Connectivity Features:

OnStar communication system was available, providing emergency assistance, turn-by-turn navigation, and remote diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Key intervals include oil changes (typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or as indicated by oil life monitor), coolant flush (every 30,000-60,000 miles), transmission fluid service (every 50,000-100,000 miles depending on usage), spark plug replacement (around 100,000 miles for iridium plugs).

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Recommended every 2-3 years or as needed based on condition.

Fluid Specifications:

Engine Oil: SAE 4W-50 or 5W-30 (for Northstar engines, check manual for specific VIN-based recommendation). Transmission Fluid: Dexron III/VI. Coolant: Dex-Cool (GM P/N 12346140 or equivalent). Brake Fluid: DOT 3.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 12.4 quarts (11.7 liters) for the 4.6L V8.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change for the 4.6L V8.

Known Issues:

Potential issues can include coolant leaks from the front camshaft seals and O-rings (common on Northstar engines), occasional issues with ignition coils, and potential electronic module failures. The Magnetic Ride Control system can be prone to sensor or strut failure over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Cadillac has a long-standing reputation for American luxury, comfort, and often powerful V8 engines. It represents a significant part of GM's premium offerings.

Cadillac Design Philosophy:

The 2004 model reflected Cadillac's transition in design language, moving towards sharper lines and a more athletic stance, setting the stage for subsequent generations.

Model Evolution:

The STS (Seville Touring Sedan) was the top-tier model of the Seville lineup. For 2005, it was replaced by the all-new STS, a distinct model sharing the Sigma platform with the smaller CTS, marking a significant redesign.

Platform Sharing:

The 2004 STS was part of the last generation of the Seville nameplate, which was later replaced by the STS. This model benefited from GM's Theta platform architecture.

Production Location:

Hamtramck, Michigan, USA (GM's Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant).