Positioning:
Premium mid-size luxury sedan, competing with German marques like BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, as well as Lexus GS and Audi A6.
Key Selling Points:
Agile chassis (Alpha platform), powerful engine options, sophisticated interior, advanced technology, aggressive styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, workshop-level repair and diagnostic information, enabling owners and independent repair facilities to perform all necessary maintenance and repairs efficiently and accurately.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Emission Control System, Intake and Exhaust Systems, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting and Charging System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case, Driveshaft, Differential, Axle, Suspension, Steering System, Brake System, Parking Brake, Air Conditioning System, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper and Washer System, Door Locks, Meter and Audio/Visual Systems, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Seats, Engine Hood/Doors, Exterior and Interior Trim, Electrical Systems, Multiplex/CAN Communication
Electrical System Detail:
Extensive coverage of all electrical circuits, including power distribution, grounds, lighting, body control modules (BCM), powertrain control modules (PCM), infotainment, HVAC controls, and safety systems. Detailed wiring schematics are provided for each model year and configuration.
Body Control Systems:
Detailed repair and diagnostic information for doors, windows, mirrors, seats, locks, security systems, and interior/exterior lighting.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, component removal and installation, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, repair instructions, wiring diagram analysis, component testing, system adjustments, specifications, tolerances, torque values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Diagnostic Procedures Detail:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon faults, including guidance on using diagnostic scan tools, interpreting live data, and performing component tests. Covers both mechanical and electrical diagnostics.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical and diagnostic information)
Engine Rebuild Depth:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, etc.), cylinder head work, and reassembly with correct torque specifications and assembly sequences.
Transmission Repair Depth:
Comprehensive procedures for automatic and manual transmission overhaul, including torque converter replacement, valve body repair, clutch pack replacement, and seal inspection/replacement.
2.0L Turbo:
Direct Injection, Turbocharged, DOHC, 16-valve, 4-cylinder. Power: Approx. 272 hp @ 5500 rpm, Torque: Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm. Engine code: LTG.
3.0L V6:
Direct Injection, DOHC, 24-valve, V6. Power: Approx. 272 hp @ 6700 rpm, Torque: Approx. 222 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm. Engine code: LF1. (Primarily for early models and specific markets).
3.6L V6:
Direct Injection, DOHC, 24-valve, V6. Power: Approx. 321 hp @ 6800 rpm, Torque: Approx. 275 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm. Engine code: LFX (standard on higher trims and performance variants).
Fuel Delivery:
High-pressure gasoline direct injection (GDI) for all engines.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SN certified, Dexos1 Gen2 synthetic recommended. Refer to manual for exact specifications and capacities.
Coolant Type:
GM/Dexos approved orange propylene glycol extended life coolant (ELC) or equivalent. Capacity typically around 10-12 quarts.
ECM Location:
Typically located in the engine compartment, often near the firewall or ECU housing.
Fuel Economy City:
Varies by engine and drivetrain. For 2.0T RWD, typically around 20-22 mpg city. For 3.6L V6 AWD, closer to 17-19 mpg city. Consult EPA estimates for exact figures.
Fuel Economy Highway:
Varies by engine and drivetrain. For 2.0T RWD, typically around 30-32 mpg highway. For 3.6L V6 AWD, closer to 26-28 mpg highway. Consult EPA estimates for exact figures.
Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic (M7U) for most models, 8-speed automatic (M5X) for 3.6L V6 models with RWD and AWD.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid. Capacity varies by model; refer to manual for precise fill levels.
Manual Transmission Availability:
Optional on some 2.0L Turbo models (e.g., CTS Coupe), typically a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Specific manual transmission fluid (MTF), consult manual for part number and viscosity.
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard on most models, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional.
Transmission Modes:
Driver-selectable modes such as Tour, Sport, and Eco, which adjust transmission shift points and throttle response.
Length:
Approximately 195.5 inches (depending on model/trim)
Width:
Approximately 72.2 inches
Height:
Approximately 57.2 inches
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and drivetrain, typically ranging from 3,600 lbs to 4,000+ lbs.
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 13.7 cubic feet
Wheelbase:
Approximately 111.4 inches
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally received high marks in NHTSA crash testing, often earning 5-star overall ratings (specific ratings vary by model year and configuration).
Active Safety Systems:
Available adaptive cruise control, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, side blind zone alert, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic parking assist, StabiliTrak electronic stability control.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, advanced seat belt systems, strong safety cage construction.
Airbag Systems:
Includes advanced multi-stage front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-rail airbags for enhanced occupant protection.
Infotainment System:
CUE (Cadillac User Experience) system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and optional navigation. Some later models received updated CUE versions.
Driver Assistance Features:
Available features included adaptive cruise control with automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, automatic parking assist, and a surround-view camera system.
Connectivity Options:
OnStar with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities (subscription required), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on later models.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital or analog gauges, trip computer, vehicle status indicators, and driver information center integrated into the instrument panel.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil, or as indicated by the vehicle's Oil Life Monitoring System. Refer to manual for specific conditions.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles, or as part of regular oil changes.
Cabin Air Filter:
Typically every 15,000-25,000 miles or 2 years.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum or Iridium type spark plugs typically have service intervals of 90,000-100,000 miles. Consult manual for specifics.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended. Check manual for specific grade.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron VI or specific GM power steering fluid.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.6 quarts (10.0 liters) for V6 engines, may vary slightly for 2.0T. Always verify with manual.
Common Complaints:
Turbocharger issues (2.0L LTG), occasional electrical gremlins (especially related to infotainment or sensor failures), early models may have had some transmission software glitches. Refer to manual for specific diagnostic procedures for these systems.
Vibration Issues:
Some owners reported vibrations at certain speeds, which could be related to wheel balance, tire uniformity, driveshaft balance, or suspension components. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Cadillac Legacy:
Cadillac has a long-standing reputation for luxury, comfort, and technological innovation in the American automotive industry, dating back to 1902.
Cts Third Gen Development:
The third generation (2014-2019) represented a significant redesign, built on GM's new rear-wheel-drive Alpha platform, emphasizing improved driving dynamics, lighter weight, and a more athletic stance compared to its predecessors.
Assembly Locations:
Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant, Lansing, Michigan, USA.