Segment:
Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS
Platform:
Based on the rear-wheel-drive GM Alpha platform, known for its balanced weight distribution and agile handling.
Design:
Sharp, modern styling with Cadillac's signature Art and Science design language. Available in standard, Luxury, Premium, and V-Sport trims.
Value Proposition:
Offers a blend of luxury, performance, and technology at a competitive price point compared to European rivals.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain (RWD/AWD), Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Wheel & Tire Systems
Electrical:
Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Infotainment System, Lighting (Interior & Exterior), HVAC Controls, Instrumentation & Gauges, Safety Systems (Airbags, ABS, Traction Control)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, Seats
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement, electrical component repair/replacement.
Reassembly:
Detailed reassembly instructions with torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component-level repairs. Includes step-by-step instructions with visual aids.
Engine Option 1:
2.0L Turbocharged I4 (LTG)
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
1998 cc (122 cu in)
Engine Option 1 Horsepower:
272 hp @ 5500 rpm
Engine Option 1 Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 1700-5500 rpm
Engine Option 2:
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6 (LFX)
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
3642 cc (222 cu in)
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
323 hp @ 6800 rpm
Engine Option 2 Torque:
278 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Engine Option 3:
3.6L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (LF3) - CTS V-Sport
Engine Option 3 Displacement:
3642 cc (222 cu in)
Engine Option 3 Horsepower:
420 hp @ 5500 rpm
Engine Option 3 Torque:
406 lb-ft @ 1700-5500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (DI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline Recommended
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for models equipped with certain safety features)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely awarded Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Driver Assistance Availability:
Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Collision Preparation, Blind Spot Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Surround Vision camera system.
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head curtain side-impact airbags, front knee airbags.
System Name:
Cadillac User Experience (CUE)
Features:
8-inch touchscreen, voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, SD card slot, optional navigation system, available Bose premium audio system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability (via software update, potentially later models).
Available Systems:
Adaptive Full-Speed Range Cruise Control, Magnetic Ride Control, Performance Traction Management (PTM) on V-Sport.
Onboard Wifi:
Available Wi-Fi hotspot
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Check manual for specific recommendations based on engine and oil viscosity.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 22,500 miles, replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 20,000 miles or annually.
Transmission Fluid Change:
No scheduled fluid change recommended under normal driving conditions, but inspection is advised. Consult manual for severe service intervals or diagnostic procedures.
Engine Oil Type 2.0T:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (dexos1 Gen 2 or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0T:
Approximately 5.2 quarts (4.9 liters)
Engine Oil Type 3.6L:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (dexos1 Gen 2 or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.6L:
Approximately 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Coolant Type:
GM Super Coolant (Purple), GM P/N 12346140 or equivalent
Common Problems:
Turbocharger issues on 2.0T (oil leaks, wastegate rattle), water pump leaks on 3.6L engines, potential issues with the CUE infotainment system (touchscreen responsiveness), occasional steering wheel vibration.
Cadillac Legacy:
Cadillac, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing luxury vehicles, often associated with American prestige and innovation.
Cts Generation 2:
This 2015 model represents the second generation of the Cadillac CTS, which debuted in 2008 and received a significant refresh for 2011. The 2014 model year introduced the all-new third generation, but this manual specifically covers the 2015 model which *is* part of the third generation.
Cts Generation 3:
The 2015 model is part of the third generation (2014-2019), built on the new GM Alpha platform, marking a significant shift in the CTS's driving dynamics and chassis engineering.
Manufacturing Location:
Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant, Lansing, Michigan, USA.