🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

XLR

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

XLR

Generation Designation:

First Generation (2004-2009)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Cadillac XLR was positioned as a luxury personal luxury roadster, competing with established European and American luxury convertibles. It aimed to blend performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Porsche 911, Jaguar XK, and Chevrolet Corvette (on which it was based).

Key Features:

Active Suspension System: Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) provides real-time damping adjustments for enhanced ride and handling.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Diagnostic Procedures, Maintenance Schedules, Wiring Diagrams, Troubleshooting Guides, Specifications

Page Count:

Extensive digital content, equivalent to hundreds of printed pages

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software / Web-Based Access

Accessibility:

Accessible on PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection and web browser.

Licensing:

Officially licensed and derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.

Subscription Period:

1 Year access, with discounts for renewal.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control Systems (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (4-speed 4L60-E variant), Differential, Drivetrain Components, ABS, Traction Control (TC), Stability Control (StabiliTrak), Power Brakes, Power Steering, Front and Rear Suspension (Magnetic Ride Control), Steering Column, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), HVAC System, Audio System, Navigation System, Lighting, Wiper/Washer System, Power Windows, Power Locks, Power Seats, Convertible Top Mechanism, SRS (Airbag) System, Chassis Electrical, Instrument Cluster, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Procedures

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnosis, Component Replacement, Removal and Installation of Major and Minor Assemblies, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Engine Tune-up, Diagnostics for DTCs, Electrical System Diagnostics, Convertible Top Operation and Repair, HVAC Service, Tire Rotation, Wheel Alignment Specifications, Torque Specifications for all fasteners, Diagnostic flowcharts, Wiring diagram interpretation

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to complex diagnostics and complete component overhauls. Includes detailed technical specifications, tolerances, and repair procedures as provided by the OEM.

Diagnostic Tools Mentioned:

Includes procedures and information for use with GM's Tech II diagnostic tool and related software.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary web-based application, accessible via standard web browsers

Print Quality:

Digital display quality, optimized for screen viewing. Printable sections may vary based on user's browser and printer capabilities.

Binding Type:

N/A (Online Service)

Paper Type:

N/A (Online Service)

Completeness:

Comprehensive coverage of all repair and maintenance aspects for the 2009 Cadillac XLR.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.6L DOHC V8 (Northstar)

Horsepower:

320 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque:

310 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Engine Code:

L37 (for 320 hp variant)

Displacement:

4600 cc / 281 cu. in.

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Type Optional:

N/A (Only 4-speed automatic offered for 2009 XLR)

Transmission Features:

Driver Shift Control (manual shifting capability)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron VI

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.8 L (9.3 US qts) (check manual for exact capacity and fill procedure)

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios of the 4L60-E transmission.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4514 mm (177.7 in)

Width:

1843 mm (72.6 in)

Height:

1313 mm (51.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2680 mm (105.5 in)

Front Track:

1562 mm (61.5 in)

Rear Track:

1575 mm (62.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1750 kg (3858 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard; typically around 2087 kg (4600 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

N/A (This is a personal luxury roadster)

Trunk Capacity Hardtop Up:

0.29 m³ (10.4 cu ft)

Trunk Capacity Hardtop Down:

0.17 m³ (6.0 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Not explicitly rated in a standardized manner for this niche vehicle segment, but based on construction and GM's safety focus, expected to be high.

Active Safety Features:

ABS, Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control, Run-flat tires (optional).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side-impact airbags, front and side-impact curtain airbags, active head restraints, reinforced body structure.

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Bose premium audio system, DVD-based navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition.

Display Type:

Touchscreen navigation display

Audio Controls:

Steering wheel mounted audio controls

Driver Assistance Features:

Head-Up Display (HUD), Park Assist (rear parking sensors), Adaptive Cruise Control (optional).

Connectivity Features:

OnStar telematics system, Bluetooth for hands-free calling.

Convenience Features:

Keyless Access, Push Button Start, Heated and Ventilated Seats, Power Telescoping Steering Wheel with Memory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (synthetic oil recommended), refer to manual for specific conditions.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Engine Coolant Flush:

Refer to manual, typically around 100,000 miles or 5 years for the initial flush.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at approximately 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific interval; typically iridium plugs are good for 100,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SM or SN)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 L (8.0 US qts)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

GM Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent)

Coolant Type:

GM Delco-Moraine (Green) or Dex-Cool (Orange) - verify specific type used for your vehicle. Typically a long-life silicate-free coolant.

Power Steering Fluid Capacity:

Refer to manual for specific capacity and fill procedure.

Differential Fluid Type:

GM Recommended SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant

Differential Fluid Capacity:

Refer to manual for specific capacity and fill procedure.

Known Issues:

Convertible top hydraulic leaks or slow operation, magnetic ride control sensor issues, interior trim component wear, potential for oil consumption in high-mileage Northstar engines, CUE system glitches (though less prevalent on 2009 models compared to later GM vehicles).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Cadillac, established in 1902, is synonymous with American luxury, prestige, and innovation. The brand has a long history of producing flagship vehicles, often showcasing advanced technology.

Model Evolution:

The XLR was introduced for the 2004 model year as a successor to the Eldorado and Seville lines in the luxury convertible segment. It was based on the Chevrolet Corvette C6 platform, featuring a unique design and advanced features. The 2009 model year represents the final production year for the first-generation XLR.

Platform:

Based on the GM Y-body platform, shared with the Chevrolet Corvette.

Production Years:

2004-2009

Manufacturing Location:

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2009 model are scarce, the XLR consistently received praise for its styling, refined interior, and advanced technology for its time.