🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

STS

Year:

2011

Generation Identifier:

Second Generation (2005-2011)

Chassis Code:

GM Sigma (updated)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2011 Cadillac STS was positioned as a luxury sport sedan, competing with established German and American luxury marques. It aimed to offer a blend of performance, comfort, and technology.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, and Lincoln MKS.

Features:

Available with powerful V6 and V8 engines, optional all-wheel drive (AWD), magnetic ride control suspension, and a premium interior with advanced technology features for its time.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Page Count Estimate:

Estimated 2000-3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all gasoline engines offered in 2011 STS.

Engine Control System:

PCM/ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, actuators, emission control systems, and programming.

Mechanical:

Comprehensive coverage of engine mechanical components, including timing systems, valvetrain, lubrication, and cooling.

Fuel Service Specifications:

Fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, and fuel quality specifications.

Emission Control:

Catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR system, and evaporative emission control components.

Intake Exhaust Cooling:

Intake manifold, throttle body, exhaust systems, catalytic converters, and cooling system components (radiator, water pump, thermostat).

Lube:

Lubrication system, oil pump, oil filter specifications, and oil change intervals.

Ignition Starting Charging:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, starter motor, alternator, battery testing, and charging system diagnostics.

Automatic Transmission:

Detailed repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, and diagnostic procedures for the automatic transmission.

Manual Transmission:

Coverage for manual transmission if equipped, including clutch, gearbox, and shifter mechanisms.

Transfer Propeller Shaft:

Driveshaft components, U-joints, and transfer case (if applicable to AWD models).

Drive Shaft:

Front and rear drive axles, CV joints, and related components.

Differential:

Front and rear differential maintenance, fluid specifications, and repair.

Axle Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, alignment specifications, and control arms.

Tire Wheel:

Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), wheel balancing, lug nut torque specifications, and tire wear analysis.

Brake Control:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), traction control diagnostics, and related sensors.

Brake:

Front and rear brake systems, including pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid specifications, and bleeding procedures.

Parking Brake:

Parking brake system operation, adjustment, and repair.

Steering Column:

Steering column assembly, tilt/telescopic functions, ignition switch, and steering wheel removal/installation.

Power Steering:

Power steering system, pump, rack and pinion, fluid specifications, and leak diagnosis.

Air Condition:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system diagnostics, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and climate control module.

Supplemental Restraint System:

Airbag system diagnostics, SRS module, sensors, and deployment procedures.

Seat Belt:

Seat belt pre-tensioners, retraction mechanisms, and related safety components.

Engine Immobilizer:

Immobilizer system operation, key programming, and anti-theft features.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control system operation, sensors, actuators, and module diagnostics.

Wiper Washer:

Wiper motor, washer pump, wiper arms, blades, and fluid reservoir.

Door Lock:

Power door locks, keyless entry system, actuators, and control modules.

Meter Audio Visual:

Instrument cluster, gauges, audio system diagnostics, speaker wiring, and infotainment system.

Horn:

Horn operation, wiring, and horn button assembly.

Windshield Glass Mirror:

Windshield replacement, sealant, rear view mirrors (including auto-dimming and compass), and side mirrors.

Instrument Panel:

Instrument panel removal/installation, illumination, warning lights, and HVAC vents.

Seat:

Seat adjustment mechanisms, heating/cooling elements, power seat motors, and seat belt anchors.

Engine Hood Door:

Hood latch mechanism, hinges, door latches, window regulators, and weatherstripping.

Exterior Interior:

Body panels, trim, bumpers, lighting, interior upholstery, and carpeting.

Electrical:

Comprehensive electrical system coverage, including battery, fuses, relays, lighting, power windows, and mirrors.

Multiplex Can Communication:

CAN (Controller Area Network) bus systems, multiplexing, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to network communication.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance procedures, fluid checks, filter replacements, and general upkeep.

Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues across all vehicle systems.

Repair:

Detailed instructions for removing, installing, repairing, and replacing virtually all components and systems.

Troubleshooting:

Troubleshooting flowcharts and guides for diagnosing symptoms and finding solutions.

Wiring Schematics:

Complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, crucial for electrical diagnostics and repairs.

Illustrations Diagrams:

Abundant step-by-step illustrations, diagrams, and exploded views to aid in understanding repair procedures.

Depth:

Factory-level technical depth, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, as well as complex electrical system diagnostics and component replacement.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Fully printable pages, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Image Scalability:

Images and diagrams can be blown up for enhanced detail and clarity when printing.

Binding:

Digital PDF (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Operating Systems:

Compatible with Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac operating systems.

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (or equivalent decompression software) required, both available for free online.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.6L V6 (LF3/LLT)

Engine 1 Displacement:

3564 cc

Engine 1 Horsepower:

302 hp @ 6300 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

272 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Engine 1 Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Engine 1 Block Material:

Aluminum

Engine 1 Head Material:

Aluminum

Engine 1 Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

Engine 2:

4.6L V8 (Northstar LD8/L37)

Engine 2 Displacement:

4600 cc

Engine 2 Horsepower:

320 hp @ 6400 rpm (LD8)

Engine 2 Torque:

315 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (LD8)

Engine 2 Fuel System:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)

Engine 2 Block Material:

Aluminum

Engine 2 Head Material:

Aluminum

Engine 2 Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type V6:

6-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control (RWD)

Transmission Type AWD:

6-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control (AWD)

Transmission Features:

Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS), Tap-up/Tap-down manual shifting, and optional all-wheel-drive system.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

113.5 inches (2883 mm)

Length:

196.9 inches (5001 mm)

Width:

72.5 inches (1841 mm)

Height:

57.5 inches (1460 mm)

Curb Weight V6 Rwd:

Approximately 3,830 lbs (1737 kg)

Curb Weight V8 AWD:

Approximately 4,140 lbs (1878 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-star rating (driver and passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-star rating (driver and passenger)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (in previous years, consistently performed well in IIHS tests)

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control, Panic Brake Assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Passive Safety:

Dual-stage front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, head curtain airbags for front and rear passengers, active head restraints, three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system (though early versions were less advanced than later iterations), touch-screen interface, navigation system, voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, Bose premium audio system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Available adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking assist, rearview camera, and blind-spot monitoring system.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB and auxiliary audio inputs.

Performance Technology:

Magnetic Ride Control suspension system (optional), adjustable damping for a smoother or sportier ride.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendation).

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 5 years or 150,000 miles, then every 2 years or 30,000 miles thereafter (Dex-Cool coolant).

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Engine Oil (API SN or GM dexos1™ compliant).

Transmission Fluid:

Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Coolant:

GM P/N 12346290 (Orange) Extended Life Coolant (Dex-Cool).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Common Issues:

Potential issues may include failing camshaft position sensors (especially on early LLT V6 engines), leaking coolant elbows on the V6, power steering leaks, and potential infotainment system glitches. The manual will provide diagnostic procedures for these and many other potential issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Cadillac, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing luxury vehicles in the United States, known for comfort, style, and innovation.

Model Evolution Sts:

The STS (Seville STS) was Cadillac's flagship sedan, evolving from the Seville model. The second generation, introduced for 2005, moved to the GM Sigma platform, offering improved handling and performance, and was Cadillac's answer to the growing import luxury sedan market. The 2011 model represents the final year of production for the STS.

Production End Year:

2011 (Discontinued, replaced by the XTS)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Recognition:

The 2011 Cadillac STS generally received positive reviews for its comfortable ride, powerful engine options, and luxury appointments, often being cited as a strong contender in its segment. It consistently ranked well in safety tests.