
Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
VEHICLE CARE 333
Here are some important things to
consider before recreational vehicle
towing:
.Before towing the vehicle, become
familiar with the local laws that
apply to recreational vehicle
towing. These laws may vary by
region.
. What is the towing capacity of the
towing vehicle? Be sure to read the
tow vehicle manufacturer's
recommendations.
. What is the distance that will be
traveled? Some vehicles have
restrictions on how far and how
long they can tow.
. Is the proper towing equipment
going to be used? See your dealer
or trailering professional for
additional advice and equipment
recommendations.
. Is the vehicle ready to be towed?
Just as preparing the vehicle for a
long trip, make sure the vehicle is
prepared to be towed.Dinghy Towing
Caution
If the vehicle is towed with all four
wheels on the ground, the
drivetrain components could be
damaged. The repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty. Do
not tow the vehicle with all four
wheels on the ground. The vehicle was not designed to be
towed with all four wheels on the
ground. If the vehicle must be towed,
a dolly should be used. See the
following information on dolly towing.
Caution
Use of a shield mounted in front of
the vehicle grille could restrict
airflow and cause damage to the
transmission. The repairs would not
be covered by the vehicle warranty.
If using a shield, only use one that
attaches to the towing vehicle.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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334 VEHICLE CARE
Dolly Towing (Rear-Wheel-Drive
Vehicles)
To dolly tow a rear-wheel-drive vehicle
from the rear:1. Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following the dolly
manufacturer instructions.
2. Put the rear wheels on the dolly.
3. Shift the transmission to P (Park).
4. Firmly set the parking brake. 5. Use an adequate clamping device
designed for towing to ensure
that the front wheels are locked
into the straight-ahead position.
6. Secure the vehicle to the dolly following the manufacturer
instructions.
7. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is
firmly attached to the towing
vehicle.
8. Turn the ignition to off.
Dolly Towing (All-Wheel Drive
Vehicles)
Vehicles with all-wheel drive cannot
be dolly towed.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
VEHICLE CARE 337
.Washer fluids and other cleaning
agents in higher concentrations
than suggested by the
manufacturer.
. Solvents, alcohols, fuels, or other
harsh cleaners.
. Ice scrapers or other hard items.
. Aftermarket appearance caps or
covers while the lamps are
illuminated, due to excessive heat
generated.
Caution
Failure to clean lamps properly can
cause damage to the lamp cover
that would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
Caution
Using wax on low gloss black finish
stripes can increase the gloss level
and create a non-uniform finish.
Clean low gloss stripes with soap
and water only.
Air Intakes
Clear debris from the air intakes,
between the hood and windshield
when washing the vehicle.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield
with glass cleaner.
Clean rubber blades using a lint-free
cloth or paper towel soaked with
windshield washer fluid or a mild
detergent. Wash the windshield
thoroughly when cleaning the blades.
Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup
of vehicle wash/wax treatments may
cause wiper streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are
worn or damaged. Damage can be
caused by extreme dusty conditions,
sand, salt, heat, sun, snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weatherstrip lubricant on
weatherstrips to make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or
squeak. Lubricate weatherstrips at
least once a year. Hot, dry climates
may require more frequent application. Black marks from rubber
material on painted surfaces can be
removed by rubbing with a clean
cloth. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0354.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to
clean the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire dressing
products on the vehicle may
damage the paint finish and/or
tires. When applying a tire dressing,
always wipe off any overspray from
all painted surfaces on the vehicle.
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap
and water to clean the wheels. After
rinsing thoroughly with clean water,
dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax
may then be applied.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
338 VEHICLE CARE
Caution
Chrome wheels and chrome wheel
trim may be damaged if the vehicle
is not washed after driving on roads
that have been sprayed with
magnesium chloride or calcium
chloride. These are used on roads
for conditions such as dust and ice.
Always wash the chrome with soap
and water after exposure.
Caution
To avoid surface damage on wheels
and wheel trim, do not use strong
soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes,
cleaners, or brushes. Use only GM
approved cleaners. Do not drive the
vehicle through an automatic car
wash that uses silicone carbide tire/
wheel cleaning brushes. Damage
could occur and the repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses
for proper hook-up, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake
pads for wear and rotors for surface
condition. Inspect drum brake linings/
shoes for wear or cracks. Inspect all
other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and
Chassis Components
Visually inspect steering, suspension,
and chassis components for damaged,
loose, or missing parts or signs of
wear at least once a year.
Inspect power steering for proper
attachment, connections, binding,
leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint
boots and axle seals for leaks.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood
hinges, liftgate hinges, and the steel
fuel door hinge, unless the
components are plastic. Applying
silicone grease on weatherstrips with aclean cloth will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or
squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
At least twice a year, spring and fall,
use plain water to flush any corrosive
materials from the underbody. Take
care to thoroughly clean any areas
where mud and other debris can
collect.
Do not directly power wash the
transfer case and/or front/rear axle
output seals. High pressure water can
overcome the seals and contaminate
the fluid. Contaminated fluid will
decrease the life of the transfer case
and/or axles and should be replaced.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and requires
sheet metal repair or replacement,
make sure the body repair shop
applies anti-corrosion material to
parts repaired or replaced to restore
corrosion protection.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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352 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Brakes
Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial
to safe driving.
.Signs of brake wear may include
chirping, grinding, or squealing
noises, or difficulty stopping.
. Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment to
inspect the brakes and recommend
quality parts engineered for the
vehicle.
Fluids
Proper fluid levels and approved fluids
protect the vehicle’s systems and
components. See Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants 0354 for GM approved
fluids.
. Engine oil and windshield washer
fluid levels should be checked at
every fuel fill.
. Instrument cluster lights may
come on to indicate that fluids
may be low and need to be filled. Hoses
Hoses transport fluids and should be
regularly inspected to ensure that
there are no cracks or leaks. With a
multi-point inspection, your dealer
can inspect the hoses and advise if
replacement is needed.
Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on
the road.
.
Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure
to light, cracking, or damage. The
brake lamps need to be checked
periodically to ensure that they
light when braking.
. With a multi-point inspection,
your dealer can check the lamps
and note any concerns. Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control
for a smoother ride.
.
Signs of wear may include steering
wheel vibration, bounce/sway
while braking, longer stopping
distance, or uneven tire wear.
. As part of the multi-point
inspection, trained dealer
technicians can visually inspect
the shocks and struts for signs of
leaking, blown seals, or damage,
and can advise when service is
needed.
Tires
Tires need to be properly inflated,
rotated, and balanced. Maintaining
the tires can save money and fuel, and
can reduce the risk of tire failure.
. Signs that the tires need to be
replaced include three or more
visible treadwear indicators; cord
or fabric showing through the
rubber; cracks or cuts in the tread
or sidewall; or a bulge or split in
the tire.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 353
.Trained dealer technicians can
inspect and recommend the right
tires. Your dealer can also provide
tire/wheel balancing services to
ensure smooth vehicle operation
at all speeds. Your dealer sells and
services name brand tires.
Vehicle Care
To help keep the vehicle looking like
new, vehicle care products are
available from your dealer. For
information on how to clean and
protect the vehicle’s interior and
exterior, see Interior Care 0339 and
Exterior Care 0335. Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment is critical for
ensuring that the tires deliver optimal
wear and performance.
.
Signs that the alignment may need
to be adjusted include pulling,
improper vehicle handling,
or unusual tire wear.
. Your dealer has the required
equipment to ensure proper wheel
alignment.
Windshield
For safety, appearance, and the best
viewing, keep the windshield clean
and clear.
. Signs of damage include scratches,
cracks, and chips. .
Trained dealer technicians can
inspect the windshield and
recommend proper replacement if
needed.
Wiper Blades
Wiper blades need to be cleaned and
kept in good condition to provide a
clear view.
. Signs of wear include streaking,
skipping across the windshield,
and worn or split rubber.
. Trained dealer technicians can
check the wiper blades and replace
them when needed.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/8/18
354 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
UsageFluid/Lubricant
Automatic Transmission (Except CTS-V and V-Sport) DEXRON-HP Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Automatic Transmission (CTS-V and V-Sport Only) ATF-WS Automatic Transmission Fluid (GM Part No. 88863400, in
Canada 88863401).
Electronic Limited-Slip Differential
(eLSD) Hydraulic Apply Fluid (CTS-V and V-Sport Only) DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant. See
Cooling System 0274.
Engine Oil Engine oil meeting the dexos1 specification of the proper SAE viscosity grade.
ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic is recommended. See Engine Oil0268.
Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch,
Pivots, Spring Anchor, and Release Pawl Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol (GM Part No. 89021668, in Canada 89021674) or
lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.
Hydraulic Brake System DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 19353126, in Canada 19353127).
Key Lock Cylinders, Hood and Door Hinges Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in
Canada 10953474).
Rear Axle/Front Axle (All-Wheel Drive) SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part No. 88863089, in Canada 88863090) meeting GM Specification 9986285.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/8/18
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 355
UsageFluid/Lubricant
Rear Axle (Limited-Slip Differential) SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part No. 88862624, in Canada 88862625) meeting GM Specification 9986290.
Rear Axle (Non-Limited Slip Differential) SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part No. 88863089, in
Canada 88863090) meeting GM Specification 9986285.
Transfer Case (All-Wheel Drive) Transfer Case Fluid (GM Part No. 88861950, in Canada 88861951).
Weatherstrip Conditioning Weatherstrip Lubricant (GM Part No. 3634770, in Canada 10953518) or equivalent.
Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection
requirements.
Maintenance Replacement Parts
Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer.
Part GM Part Number ACDelco Part Number
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 2.0L L4 Engine 20857930 A3178C
3.6L V6 Engine (LGX) 20857930 A3178C
3.6L V6 Engine (LF3) 22844634 A3185C
6.2L V8 Engine (V-Series) 22935844 A3203C