Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Sports Roadster/Convertible
Target Audience:
Discerning luxury buyers seeking performance, style, and advanced technology in a two-seater convertible.
Key Competitors:
Porsche 911 Carrera Convertible, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, BMW 6 Series Convertible, Jaguar XK Convertible.
Retractable Hardtop:
Features a power-retractable hardtop for coupe-like security and convertible freedom.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Chevrolet Corvette C6.
Infotainment System:
Covers operation of the Bose premium audio system, CD player, and potential navigation system (if equipped).
Climate Control System:
Details operation of the dual-zone automatic climate control, including AC, heating, and vent functions.
Lighting System:
Explains operation of headlights (including adaptive), fog lights, interior lighting, and exterior bulb types.
Locking Security System:
Covers keyless entry, remote operation, central locking, and the vehicle's anti-theft system.
Seating Restraint System:
Details operation of power-adjustable seats, seat heating/cooling (if equipped), seatbelt usage, and airbag system information.
Driver Controls:
Explains the function of steering wheel controls, cruise control, and other driver-centric interfaces.
Basic Maintenance:
Covers essential owner maintenance like checking fluid levels, tire pressure, and bulb replacement.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Provides guidance on interpreting dashboard warning lights and basic troubleshooting steps.
Safety Defect Reporting:
Includes information on reporting safety defects, specifically for the U.S. market.
Cleaning Care:
Offers advice on cleaning and maintaining the vehicle's interior and exterior.
Depth Level:
Owner-centric information focused on operation, basic maintenance, and feature utilization, not in-depth repair procedures.
Readability:
Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader).
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones).
Printability:
Digital format allows for on-demand printing of specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Engine Code:
LS3 (later models), but 2004 typically features the LS6 or a derivative.
Displacement:
5.7 Liters (350 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
320 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
350 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
0 To 60 Mph:
Approximately 5.5 seconds
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Engine Oil Type:
Dexos 1 Gen 2 Synthetic Motor Oil (or equivalent meeting GM specification GM6094M)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change
Air Filter Part Number:
GM Part Number 19159410 (example, verify with VIN)
Length:
177.2 inches (4501 mm)
Width:
72.7 inches (1847 mm)
Height:
50.1 inches (1273 mm)
Wheelbase:
105.7 inches (2685 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,725 lbs (1,690 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4,300 lbs (1,950 kg)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
Not explicitly rated for the XLR as a low-volume specialty vehicle by NHTSA in the typical way, but built to high safety standards.
IIHS Crash Test Rating:
Not typically rated by IIHS due to specialty vehicle status.
Braking System:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) and Stability Enhancement (StabiliTrak).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point safety belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Bose Premium Audio System with AM/FM stereo, CD player, and likely driver controls on steering wheel.
Navigation System:
Optional DVD-based navigation system available.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with steering wheel mounted buttons.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking assist sensors (optional).
Onstar:
Available OnStar safety and communication system integration (subscription-based).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 150,000 miles or 5 years, then every 75,000 miles or 5 years thereafter.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III/VI ATF or GM Power Steering Fluid (consult specific manual section for exact spec).
Common Wear Items:
Wear on retractable hardtop components, suspension bushings, and potential for early catalytic converter failure.
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners have reported minor electrical issues, which can be common in complex luxury vehicles of this era.
Tire Size:
235/50R18 (Front), 255/40R18 (Rear)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120.65mm (5x4.75 inches)
Cadillac Heritage:
Cadillac, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing luxury vehicles, often incorporating cutting-edge technology and distinctive styling.
Model Origins:
The XLR was conceived as a modern interpretation of Cadillac's classic roadsters, directly competing with established European luxury convertibles.
Design Inspiration:
Styling cues were influenced by Cadillac's Art and Science design language and the Sixteen concept car.
Production Start Year:
2004
Production End Year:
2009
Manufacturing Location:
Assembly Plant: Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Received generally positive reviews for its styling, performance, and technological integration, though some criticized its higher price point and platform sharing with Corvette.
Design Awards:
Noted for its distinctive and luxurious design language.
