The Cadillac SRX (2004-2009) represented Cadillac's entry into the luxury crossover SUV segment, competing with established European and Japanese brands. It aimed to blend Cadillac's traditional luxury with the versatility of an SUV.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors during its production run included the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Lexus RX, and Acura MDX. The SRX differentiated itself with its Northstar V8 option and distinct styling.
Key Features
Key Features:
Available with powerful V6 and V8 engines, Magnetic Ride Control suspension, advanced all-wheel-drive systems, and a focus on premium interior appointments. Offered a comfortable ride and substantial road presence.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage
Coverage Areas:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types for the specified years.
Format
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language:
English
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECM/PCM), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging system, ignition system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain (AWD), suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (ABS, ESC), chassis electrical, body control modules (BCM), HVAC, infotainment, interior and exterior lighting, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), body and frame, collision repair, wiring diagrams.
Procedures Included
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, diagnosis and troubleshooting, repair procedures, component replacement, electrical system testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), emissions control, bodywork repairs, interior trim removal and installation, suspension alignment, brake servicing, transmission servicing, engine overhaul, cooling system flushing, fuel injector cleaning, accessory installation.
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Details
File Format:
PDF (Adobe Acrobat Reader compatible)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, printable pages with clear images and diagrams.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Primary Engine 1:
3.6L V6 (LY7)
Primary Engine 1 Power:
255 hp @ 6200 rpm
Primary Engine 1 Torque:
254 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Optional Engine
Optional Engine 1:
4.6L V8 (Northstar LH2)
Optional Engine 1 Power:
320 hp @ 6400 rpm
Optional Engine 1 Torque:
315 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel System Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Management
Engine Management System:
GM's ECM/PCM (Engine Control Module/Powertrain Control Module) with OBD-II diagnostics.
🔧 Transmission
Standard Transmission
Standard Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic transmission (GM 6T75)
Optional Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
N/A for this generation, all models were automatic.
Features
Transmission Features:
Driver Shift Control (manual mode), performance shifting algorithms, electronic control.
Awd System
AWD System Type:
Active All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, often with a rear bias, designed for enhanced traction and stability.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.7 inches
Length:
Approx. 194.2 inches
Width:
Approx. 75.4 inches
Height:
Approx. 66.0 inches
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 70.9 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 29.5 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and trim, typically starting around 4,600 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Likely rated 'Good' based on contemporary GM platforms.
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Likely rated 'Good' based on contemporary GM platforms.
IIHS Front Overlap Frontal:
Check specific year; typically 'Acceptable' or 'Good' for this era.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC/StabiliTrak), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), side-impact airbags (front and rear), curtain airbags (front and rear), three-point safety belts with pretensioners, active head restraints (some models).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Cadillac's 'Infiniti' premium audio system, available DVD navigation, and rear-seat entertainment options. Bluetooth connectivity was introduced later in the generation.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Parking assist sensors (rear), available rearview camera, StabiliTrak (ESC).
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
OnStar communication system was a key feature, offering emergency assistance, navigation, and remote diagnostics. Aux input for audio was common.
Suspension Tech
Suspension Technology:
Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) was a signature feature, using magnetorheological fluid in the dampers to adapt damping forces in real-time to road conditions, enhancing both ride comfort and handling.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Oil
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe conditions.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Replace annually or every 15,000 miles.
Service Intervals Fluids
Coolant Flush Interval:
First flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (using Dex-Cool compatible coolant).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Check regularly, change every 45,000-60,000 miles under normal use.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 full synthetic engine oil meeting GM specification GMW16323.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Varies by engine, approx. 5 quarts (4.7L) for 3.6L V6, approx. 5 quarts (4.7L) for 4.6L V8 (with filter).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Early models (2004-2006) sometimes experienced issues with the Northstar V8 engine (e.g., intake manifold gaskets, piston cooling jets), timing chain guides on the 3.6L V6, wheel bearing failures, and sometimes electrical gremlins. The active grille shutters (if equipped) could also be a point of failure. The manual would detail diagnostics for these.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Cadillac, a long-standing American luxury automotive brand, has a history of producing premium vehicles known for comfort, style, and advanced technology. The SRX was part of Cadillac's revitalization effort in the early 2000s.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The first-generation SRX (2004-2009) was built on GM's Theta platform, shared with the Saab 9-7X and Isuzu Ascender. It was a unibody crossover SUV, a departure from Cadillac's earlier rear-wheel-drive based SUVs. The styling was characterized by sharp, angular lines typical of Cadillac design of the era. It was positioned as a more car-like, agile alternative to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
Production
Production Location:
Lansing, Michigan, USA
Production Years
Production Years:
2004-2009
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Awards:
While specific awards varied by year and publication, the SRX was generally recognized for its comfortable ride, upscale interior, and available V8 power. It was often praised for its styling and the effectiveness of its Magnetic Ride Control system.