2008 CADILLAC DTS climate control

Seats and Restraint Systems........................... 1-1
Front Seats
............................................... 1-2
Rear Seats
............................................... 1-9
Safety Belts
.............................................1-10
Child Restraints
.......................................1-31
Airbag System
.........................................1-53
Restraint System Check
............................1-70
Features and Controls..................................... 2-1
Keys
........................................................ 2-3
Doors and Locks
......................................2-10
Windows
.................................................2-14
Theft-Deterrent Systems
............................2-18
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
...........2-22
Mirrors
....................................................2-36
Object Detection Systems
..........................2-40
OnStar
®System
......................................2-49
Universal Home Remote System
................2-52
Storage Areas
.........................................2-59
Sunroof
..................................................2-61
Instrument Panel............................................. 3-1
Instrument Panel Overview
.......................... 3-4
Climate Controls
......................................3-42
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators
........3-53
Driver Information Center (DIC)
..................3-70
Audio System(s)
.......................................3-96Driving Your Vehicle....................................... 4-1
Your Driving, the Road, and the Vehicle
....... 4-2
Towing
...................................................4-26
Service and Appearance Care.......................... 5-1
Service
..................................................... 5-3
Fuel
......................................................... 5-5
Checking Things Under the Hood
...............5-12
Headlamp Aiming
.....................................5-47
Bulb Replacement
....................................5-50
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
.........5-50
Tires
......................................................5-52
Appearance Care
.....................................5-90
Vehicle Identication
.................................5-99
Electrical System
....................................5-100
Capacities and Specications
...................5-109
Maintenance Schedule..................................... 6-1
Maintenance Schedule
................................ 6-2
Customer Assistance Information.................... 7-1
Customer Assistance and Information
........... 7-2
Reporting Safety Defects
...........................7-16
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy
...........7-18
Index................................................................ 1
2008 Cadillac DTS Owner ManualM

Remote Vehicle Start
The remote vehicle starting feature allows you to start
the engine from outside of the vehicle. It also starts up the
vehicle’s automatic climate control system. When the
remote start system is active, the climate control system
will heat and cool the inside of the vehicle according to
the previous settings of the system before turning the
vehicle off. The rear window defogger will be turned on by
the climate control system when it is cold outside. If the
vehicle has heated seats, they will also turn on when it is
cold outside. SeeHeated and Cooled Seats on page 1-3
for additional information. Cooled seats are not activated
during a remote start. Normal operation of the climate
control system will return after the key is turned to
ON/RUN. SeeDual Climate Control System on
page 3-42.
Laws in some communities may restrict the use of
remote starters. For example, some laws may require a
person using remote start to have the vehicle in view
when doing so. Check local regulations for any
requirements on remote starting of vehicles.
Do not use the remote start feature if your vehicle is low
on fuel. Your vehicle may run out of fuel.
If your vehicle has the remote start feature, the RKE
transmitter functions will have an increased range
of operation. However, the range may be less while the
vehicle is running.There are other conditions which can affect the
performance of the transmitter, seeRemote Keyless
Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2-5for
additional information.
/(Remote Start):This button will be on the RKE
transmitter if you have remote start.
To start the vehicle using the remote start feature:
1. Aim the transmitter at the vehicle.
2. Press and release the transmitter’s lock button, then
immediately press and hold the transmitter’s remote
start button until the turn signal lights ash or if the
vehicle’s lights are not visible, press and hold the
remote start button for at least four seconds. The
vehicle’s doors will lock. Pressing the remote start
button again after the vehicle has started will turn off
the ignition.
When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps will turn
on and remain on while the vehicle is running.
3. If it is the rst remote start since the vehicle has been
driven, repeat these steps, while the engine is still
running, to extend the engine running time by
10 minutes. Remote start can be extended one time.
After entering the vehicle during a remote start, insert
and turn the key to ON/RUN to drive the vehicle.
2-8

The rear doors on your vehicle cannot be opened from
the inside when this feature is in use.
When you want to open a rear door when the security
lock is on, do the following:
1. Unlock the door using the remote keyless entry
transmitter, the front door power lock switch, or
by lifting the rear door manual lock knob.
2. Open the door from the outside.
To cancel the rear door security lock, do the following:
1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside.
2. Turn the knob to the horizontal position to
disengage the lock.
3. Do the same for the other rear door.
Lockout Protection
If the key is in the ignition and the power door lock
switch is used to lock the doors, all doors will lock
and then the driver’s door will unlock. It is always
recommended that you remove the ignition key when
locking your vehicle.
The lockout protection feature can be overridden by
holding the power door lock switch for three seconds or
longer.
Trunk
{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid
open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can
come into your vehicle. You cannot see or
smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and
even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid
open or if electrical wiring or other cable
connections must pass through the seal
between the body and the trunk lid:
Make sure all other windows are shut.
Turn the fan on your heating or cooling
system to its highest speed and select the
control setting that will force outside air
into your vehicle. See Climate Control
System.
If you have air outlets on or under the
instrument panel, open them all the way.
SeeEngine Exhaust on page 2-34.
2-12

Running the Vehicle While Parked
It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you
ever have to, here are some things to know.
{CAUTION:
Idling the engine with the climate control
system off could allow dangerous exhaust into
your vehicle. See the earlier caution under
Engine Exhaust on page 2-34.
Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly
carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if
the climate control fan is at the highest setting.
One place this can happen is a garage.
Exhaust — with CO — can come in easily.
NEVER park in a garage with the engine
running.
Also see “If You Are Caught in a Blizzard” under
Winter Driving on page 4-16.
{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if
the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake rmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
You or others could be injured. To be sure your
vehicle will not move, even when you are on
fairly level ground, always set the parking brake
after you move the shift lever to PARK (P).
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle will not
move. SeeShifting Into Park on page 2-31.
If you are parking on a hill and if you are pulling a
trailer, also seeTowing a Trailer on page 4-27.
2-35

Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror
If the vehicle has this feature, the driver side mirror
adjusts for the glare of headlamps behind you.
This feature is controlled by the on and off settings on
the automatic dimming rearview mirror.
Park Tilt Mirrors
If your vehicle is equipped with memory mirrors, it will
also be capable of performing the park tilt mirror feature.
This feature allows the driver and passenger side
mirror to tilt to a factory programmed position when the
vehicle is in R (Reverse). This feature may be useful
in allowing you to view the curb when you are parallel
parking.
When the vehicle is shifted out of R (Reverse) and
either a ve-second delay has occurred, or the ignition
is turned to LOCK/OFF, the driver’s and passenger’s
side mirror will return to its original position.
This feature can be enabled/disabled through the Driver
Information Center (DIC). SeeDIC Vehicle
Customization on page 3-87.
Outside Convex Mirror
{CAUTION:
A convex mirror can make things (like other
vehicles) look farther away than they really are.
If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you
could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your
inside mirror or glance over your shoulder
before changing lanes.
The passenger side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s
surface is curved so more can be seen from the driver
seat. This mirror does not have a dimming feature.
Outside Heated Mirrors
=(Rear Window Defogger):Press to heat the
outside rearview mirrors. See “Rear Window Defogger”
underDual Climate Control System on page 3-42for
more information.
Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)
If your vehicle has the Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)
system, seeSide Blind Zone Alert (SBZA) on page 2-43.
2-39

Instrument Panel Overview...............................3-4
Hazard Warning Flashers................................3-6
Other Warning Devices...................................3-6
Horn .............................................................3-6
Tilt Wheel.....................................................3-6
Power Tilt Wheel and Telescopic Steering
Column......................................................3-7
Heated Steering Wheel...................................3-7
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever.........................3-8
Turn and Lane-Change Signals........................3-9
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer..................3-9
Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System..............3-10
Flash-to-Pass...............................................3-13
Windshield Wipers........................................3-13
Rainsense™ II Wipers...................................3-14
Windshield Washer.......................................3-15
Cruise Control..............................................3-16
Adaptive Cruise Control.................................3-19
Exterior Lamps.............................................3-32
Wiper Activated Headlamps............................3-35
Headlamps on Reminder................................3-35
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL).......................3-35
Fog Lamps ..................................................3-36
Cornering Lamps..........................................3-37
Exterior Lighting Battery Saver........................3-37
Instrument Panel Brightness...........................3-37
Courtesy Lamps...........................................3-37Entry Lighting...............................................3-37
Parade Dimming...........................................3-38
Reading Lamps............................................3-38
Footwell Lamps............................................3-38
Battery Load Management.............................3-38
Electric Power Management...........................3-39
Inadvertent Power Battery Saver.....................3-40
Battery Run-Down Protection..........................3-40
Accessory Power Outlet(s).............................3-40
Ashtray(s)....................................................3-41
Analog Clock...............................................3-42
Climate Controls............................................3-42
Dual Climate Control System..........................3-42
Outlet Adjustment.........................................3-48
Rear Climate Control System.........................3-49
Passenger Compartment Air Filter...................3-51
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators............3-53
Instrument Panel Cluster................................3-54
Speedometer and Odometer...........................3-55
Tachometer.................................................3-55
Safety Belt Reminders...................................3-56
Airbag Readiness Light..................................3-57
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator...................3-58
Charging System Light..................................3-60
Brake System Warning Light..........................3-60
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light.....3-61
Section 3 Instrument Panel
3-1

The main components of the instrument panel are the following:
A. Air Outlets. SeeOutlet Adjustment on page 3-48.
B. Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons. SeeDriver
Information Center (DIC) on page 3-70.
C. Exterior Lamp Controls. SeeExterior Lamps on
page 3-32.
D. Instrument Panel Cluster. SeeInstrument Panel
Cluster on page 3-54.
E. Horn. SeeHorn on page 3-6.
F. Audio Steering Wheel Controls. SeeAudio Steering
Wheel Controls on page 3-118.
G. Ultrasonic Front and Rear Parking Assist and
Adaptive Cruise Control Display (If Equipped). See
Ultrasonic Front and Rear Parking Assist (UFRPA)
on page 2-40andAdaptive Cruise Control on
page 3-19.
H. Analog Clock. SeeAnalog Clock on page 3-42.
I. Hazard Warning Flashers Button. SeeHazard
Warning Flashers on page 3-6.
J. Radio. SeeAudio System(s) on page 3-96.
K. Trunk Release Button. SeeTrunk on page 2-12.
L. Instrument Panel Brightness Control. SeeInstrument
Panel Brightness on page 3-37.
M. Lane Departure Warning. SeeLane Departure
Warning (LDW) on page 2-46.N. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. SeeTurn
Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-8.
O. Hood Release. SeeHood Release on page 5-12.
P. Parking Brake. SeeParking Brake on page 2-30.
Q. Heated Steering Wheel Button (If Equipped).
SeeHeated Steering Wheel on page 3-7.
R. Cruise Control or Adaptive Cruise Control. See
Cruise Control on page 3-16orAdaptive Cruise
Control on page 3-19.
S. Tilt Wheel. SeeTilt Wheel on page 3-6. Power Tilt
and Telescopic Steering Wheel (If Equipped).
SeePower Tilt Wheel and Telescopic Steering
Column on page 3-7.
T. Climate Controls. SeeDual Climate Control System
on page 3-42.
U. Traction Control System Button (Console-Shift
Vehicles). SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on
page 4-5.
V. Shift Lever. SeeAutomatic Transmission Operation
on page 2-27.
W. Accessory Power Outlet. SeeAccessory Power
Outlet(s) on page 3-40.
X. Glove Box. SeeGlove Box on page 2-59. Valet
Lockout Switch. SeeValet Lockout Switch on
page 2-18.
3-5

Cleaning the IntelliBeam™ Light Sensor
The light sensor is located
on the inside of the vehicle
in front of the inside
rearview mirror.
Clean the light sensor window, periodically, using glass
cleaner on a soft cloth. Gently wipe the sensor
window. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the
surface of the sensor window.
Wiper Activated Headlamps
This feature activates the headlamps and parking lamps
after the windshield wipers are turned on and have
completed eight wipe cycles within four minutes.
When the ignition is turned to LOCK/OFF, the
wiper-activated headlamps immediately turn off.
The wiper-activated headlamps also turn off if the
windshield wipers are turned off.
Headlamps on Reminder
A warning chime will sound if the exterior lamp control
is left on in either the headlamp or parking lamp position
and the driver’s door is opened with the ignition off.
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for
others to see the front of your vehicle during the
day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving
conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short
periods after dawn and before sunset. Fully functional
daytime running lamps are required on all vehicles
rst sold in Canada.
The DRL system makes the turn signal lamps come on
when the following conditions are met:
It is still daylight and the ignition is on.
The exterior lamp control is in the off position.
The transmission is not in PARK (P)
(United States only).
The light sensor is covered or not detecting light.
See “Sensors” underDual Climate Control System
on page 3-42.
3-35