Vehicle Segment:
Luxury personal luxury roadster
Target Audience:
Affluent consumers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and technologically advanced convertible.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz SL, Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, BMW 6 Series Convertible, Jaguar XK Convertible
Retractable Hardtop:
One of the XLR's defining features, offering coupe-like security and convertible freedom.
Platform Sharing:
Based on GM's rear-wheel-drive Kappa platform, shared with the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky.
Styling:
Bold, angular design language characteristic of Cadillac during this era.
Manual Utility:
Provides essential information for owners to maximize their enjoyment and maintain their vehicle.
Instrument Cluster:
Gauges, warning lights, driver information center
Entertainment Systems:
Audio system, navigation (if equipped), CD changer, satellite radio
Climate Controls:
HVAC system, automatic climate control, seat climate control (if equipped)
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, automatic headlamp control
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel controls, cruise control, power adjustments
Locks And Security:
Keyless entry, remote start, alarm system, power locks
Seating And Safety Restraints:
Seat adjustment, seat belts, airbags, child seat installation
Driving:
Operation of vehicle, parking, starting and stopping engine
Customer Assistance:
Contact information, warranty basics
Cleaning:
Interior and exterior cleaning recommendations
Engine Compartment:
Identification of components, fluid checks
Maintenance And Specifications:
General maintenance, fluid types, capacities, tire pressure
Engine Oil:
Oil type, viscosity, capacity, checking level
Battery:
Battery type, maintenance, jump starting procedures
Fuel Information:
Recommended fuel octane, fuel tank capacity
Air Filters:
Engine air filter location and replacement information
Part Numbers:
General reference for commonly replaced parts (e.g., oil filter, air filter)
Refill Capacities:
Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid
Lubricant Specifications:
Gear oil, chassis lubrication (if applicable), specific fluid types
Accessories:
Information on factory-installed accessories and their operation
Basic Operation:
Starting, stopping, driving, parking the vehicle
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, wiper blade inspection
Troubleshooting Basic:
Interpreting dashboard warning lights, basic system checks
Emergency Procedures:
Tire changes, jump starting, vehicle lockout
Infotainment Setup:
Pairing phones, setting radio presets, navigation basics
Convertible Top Operation:
Manual and power convertible top operation and care
Detail Level:
Owner-level; focuses on operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features.
Diagnostics:
Limited to interpreting dashboard indicators and basic visual checks.
Repair Scope:
Does not cover detailed repair procedures; focuses on component identification and fluid checks.
Diy Potential:
Empowers owners to perform basic checks, understand vehicle alerts, and potentially save on minor tasks.
Visual Aids:
Includes numerous pictures and diagrams for clarity.
Printability:
All pages are printable for convenient reference in various locations.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star (for driver and passenger, typically for relevant model years)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-star (typically for front passengers)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Driver Assistance:
StabiliTrak (GM's electronic stability control system)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact airbags, and often knee airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point safety belts with pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover protection bars integrated behind headrests
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system, often with integrated CD player and SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Navigation System:
Optional DVD-based navigation system with touchscreen interface.
Climate Control Features:
Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats, and optional ventilated seats.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Not typically available on this model.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist sensors available on some models.
Bluetooth:
Available for hands-free calling on later models.
Keyless Ignition:
Keyless access and push-button start.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions (refer to manual for severe conditions).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 5 years or 150,000 miles, then every 2-3 years or 50,000-100,000 miles (refer to specific coolant type).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (GM dexos1 Gen 2 or equivalent recommended)
Coolant Type:
GM-spec Orange Coolant (Dex-Cool) - Long Life 50/50 antifreeze/coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Summer/Winter blend washer fluid
Retractable Hardtop Mechanism:
Potential for issues with the hydraulic system or sensors affecting top operation (manual provides basic troubleshooting steps).
Suspension Components:
Some owners report premature wear of suspension bushings or shocks due to the vehicle's weight and performance focus.
Dashboard Electronics:
Rare instances of minor electronic glitches or sensor faults, often resolved with software updates or battery checks.
Oil Filter Example:
GM Part Number 12585990 (ACDelco PF48 or equivalent)
Air Filter Example:
GM Part Number 25940422 (ACDelco A3123C or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 quarts (LS2 engine) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 12.5 quarts
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.7 quarts (4-speed automatic, dry fill)
