2019 CADILLAC CTS ABS

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
DRIVING AND OPERATING 205
Brakes
Antilock Brake
System (ABS)
This vehicle has an Antilock Brake
System (ABS), an advanced electronic
braking system that helps prevent a
braking skid.
When the vehicle begins to drive
away, ABS checks itself. A momentary
motor or clicking noise may be heard
while this test is going on, and it may
even be noticed that the brake pedal
moves a little. This is normal.
If there is a problem with ABS, this
warning light stays on. SeeAntilock
Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
0 132. If driving safely on a wet road and it
becomes necessary to slam on the
brakes and continue braking to avoid
a sudden obstacle, a computer senses
the wheels are slowing down. If one of
the wheels is about to stop rolling, the
computer will separately work the
brakes at each wheel.
ABS can change the brake pressure to
each wheel, as required, faster than
any driver could. This can help you
steer around the obstacle while
braking hard.
As the brakes are applied, the
computer keeps receiving updates on
wheel speed and controls braking
pressure accordingly.
Remember: ABS does not change the
time needed to get a foot up to the
brake pedal or always decrease
stopping distance. If you get too close
to the vehicle in front of you, there
will not be enough time to apply the
brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows
or stops. Always leave enough room
up ahead to stop, even with ABS.
Using ABS
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the
brake pedal down firmly and let ABS
work. You may hear the ABS pump or
motor operating and feel the brake
pedal pulsate. This is normal.
Braking in Emergencies
ABS allows you to steer and brake at
the same time. In many emergencies,
steering can help more than even the
very best braking.
Electric Parking Brake

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
DRIVING AND OPERATING 207
Automatic EPB Release
The EPB will automatically release if
the vehicle is running, placed into
gear, and an attempt is made to drive
away. Avoid rapid acceleration when
the EPB is applied, to preserve parking
brake lining life.
Brake Assist
This vehicle has a brake assist feature
designed to assist the driver in
stopping or decreasing vehicle speed
in emergency driving conditions. This
feature uses the stability system
hydraulic brake control module to
supplement the power brake system
under conditions where the driver has
quickly and forcefully applied the
brake pedal in an attempt to quickly
stop or slow down the vehicle. The
stability system hydraulic brake
control module increases brake
pressure at each corner of the vehicle
until the ABS activates. Minor brake
pedal pulsation or pedal movement
during this time is normal and the
driver should continue to apply the
brake pedal as the driving situation
dictates. The brake assist feature willautomatically disengage when the
brake pedal is released or brake pedal
pressure is quickly decreased.
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
Hill Start Assist (HSA) will activate
when the vehicle is stopped on a
moderate to steep grade to help
prevent it from rolling in the
unintended direction.
After the brake pedal has been
released and before the accelerator
pedal has been pressed, HSA uses
braking pressure to hold the vehicle
stationary.
If HSA is holding the vehicle, a DIC
message displays.
The vehicle will roll if in a drive gear
and facing downhill, or in R (Reverse)
and facing uphill.
Once HSA is active it will hold the
vehicle, unless the driver door is
opened or the driver seat belt is
unbuckled prior to releasing the brake
pedal.
Ride Control Systems
Traction Control/Electronic
Stability Control
The vehicle has a Traction Control
System (TCS) and StabiliTrak/
Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
These systems help limit wheel slip
and assist the driver in maintaining
control, especially on slippery road
conditions.
TCS activates if it senses that any of
the drive wheels are spinning or
beginning to lose traction. When this
happens, the system brakes the
spinning wheel(s) and/or reduces
engine power to limit wheel spin.
StabiliTrak/ESC activates when the
computer senses a difference between
the intended path and the direction
the vehicle is actually traveling.
StabiliTrak/ESC selectively applies
braking pressure at any one of the
vehicle's brakes to help steer the
vehicle in the intended direction.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
DRIVING AND OPERATING 243
{Warning
V2V does not detect or warn of
pedestrians, animals, signs,
guardrails, bridges, construction
barrels, or other objects.
Under certain conditions, V2V can
notify of situations that are beyond
line-of-sight. It is important to
understand the feature operation to be
prepared when events that may not be
seen immediately are detected.
Even if the V2V features are turned off
through vehicle personalization,
information from the vehicle is sent to
other vehicles equipped with V2V.
Other vehicles equipped with V2V may
be alerted to certain events involving
your vehicle, such as hard braking;
activation of hazard warning flashers;
an airbag deployment; or a
StabiliTrak/Electronic Stability Control
(ESC), Traction Control, or Antilock
Brake System (ABS) event. V2V
communications are not stored by the vehicle and cannot be used to identify
owners or occupants or to later track
the vehicle’s location.
Unnecessary Alerts
V2V features may provide alerts to
driving situations that are too early or
unnecessary. These alerts are normal
operation and the vehicle does not
need service.
SERVICE VEHICLE SOON
If this message displays, V2V features
may need service. Do not use them.
Take the vehicle to your dealer.
V2V Hard Braking Ahead
When the vehicle is traveling above
40 km/h (25 mph), V2V may detect
when a V2V-equipped vehicle ahead is
braking hard. Under these conditions,
V2V may display a Driver Information
Center (DIC) message and icon.
If equipped, a red flashing alert on the
windshield may also occur.
With Head-Up Display
Without Head-Up Display
When a detected vehicle is braking
extremely hard, rapid beeps or seat
pulses may also occur.
To enable or disable this feature, see
“Connected Vehicle Braking Alert ”
under Vehicle Personalization 0145.
V2V Disabled Vehicle Ahead
When the vehicle is traveling above
20 km/h (13 mph), V2V may detect
when a V2V-equipped vehicle ahead
has a deployed airbag. When the
vehicle is traveling above 60 km/h
(38 mph), V2V may detect when a

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
244 DRIVING AND OPERATING
V2V-equipped vehicle ahead has
warning flashers active and is moving
slowly or has stopped. Under these
disabled vehicle conditions, V2V may
display the DIC message HAZARD
LIGHTS AHEAD and the estimated
distance to the vehicle.
A chime or two seat pulses may also
occur.
TRAFFIC INFORMATION OFF
This message displays when the V2V
Disabled Vehicle Ahead feature has
been turned off.
To enable or disable this feature, see
“Traffic and Roadside Information”
under Vehicle Personalization 0145. V2V Slippery Road Ahead
When the vehicle is traveling above
32 km/h (20 mph), V2V may detect
when a V2V-equipped vehicle ahead
has a StabiliTrak/ESC, Traction
Control, or Antilock Brake System
(ABS) event. This could indicate that
the road ahead is slippery or has low
traction. Under these conditions, V2V
may display a DIC message.
TRAFFIC INFORMATION OFF
This message displays when the V2V
Slippery Road Ahead feature has been
turned off.
To enable or disable this feature, see
“Traffic and Roadside Information
”
under Vehicle Personalization 0145.Fuel
Top Tier Fuel
GM recommends the use of TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline to keep the engine
clean, reduce engine deposits, and
maintain optimal vehicle performance.
Look for the TOP TIER Logo or see
www.toptiergas.com for a list of TOP
TIER Detergent Gasoline marketers
and applicable countries.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
252 DRIVING AND OPERATING
3. When the wheel chocks are inplace, gradually release the brake
pedal to allow the chocks to
absorb the load of the trailer.
4. Reapply the brake pedal. Then apply the parking brake and shift
into P (Park).
5. Release the brake pedal.
Leaving After Parking on a Hill
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal. .Start the engine.
. Shift into a gear.
. Release the parking brake.
2. Let up on the brake pedal.
3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks.
4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks.
Maintenance When Trailer
Towing
The vehicle needs service more often
when used to tow trailers. See
Maintenance Schedule 0345. It is
especially important to check the automatic transmission fluid, engine
oil, axle lubricant, belts, cooling
system, and brake system before and
during each trip.
Check periodically that all nuts and
bolts on the trailer hitch are tight.
Engine Cooling When Trailer
Towing
The cooling system may temporarily
overheat during severe operating
conditions. See
Engine Overheating
0 279.
Trailer Towing (V6 Engine,
Non Twin Turbo)
Caution
Towing a trailer improperly can
damage the vehicle and result in
costly repairs not covered by the
vehicle warranty. To tow a trailer
correctly, follow the directions in
this section and see your dealer for
important information about
towing a trailer with the vehicle. Trailering is different than just driving
the vehicle by itself. Trailering means
changes in handling, acceleration,
braking, durability, and fuel economy.
Successful, safe trailering takes correct
equipment, and it has to be used
properly.
The following information has many
time-tested, important trailering tips
and safety rules. Many of these are
important for your safety and that of
your passengers. Read this section
carefully before pulling a trailer.
Trailer Weight
{Warning
Never exceed the towing capacity
for your vehicle.
Safe trailering requires monitoring the
weight, speed, altitude, road grades,
outside temperature, dimensions of
the front of the trailer, and how
frequently the vehicle is used to tow a
trailer.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
VEHICLE CARE 283
new brake linings are installed. Add or
remove fluid, as necessary, only when
work is done on the brake hydraulic
system.
{Warning
If too much brake fluid is added, it
can spill on the engine and burn,
if the engine is hot enough. You or
others could be burned, and the
vehicle could be damaged. Add
brake fluid only when work is done
on the brake hydraulic system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low
level, the brake warning light comes
on. See Brake System Warning Light
0 131.
Brake fluid absorbs water over time
which degrades the effectiveness of
the brake fluid. Replace brake fluid at
the specified intervals to prevent
increased stopping distance. See
Maintenance Schedule 0345. What to Add
Use only GM approved DOT 3 brake
fluid from a clean, sealed container.
See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0354.{Warning
The wrong or contaminated brake
fluid could result in damage to the
brake system. This could result in
the loss of braking leading to a
possible injury. Always use the
proper GM approved brake fluid.
Caution
If brake fluid is spilled on the
vehicle's painted surfaces, the paint
finish can be damaged. Immediately
wash off any painted surface.
Battery - North America
The original equipment battery is
maintenance free. Do not remove the
cap and do not add fluid. The battery is in the trunk, behind the
trim panel, on the driver side of the
vehicle. Refer to the replacement
number shown on the original battery
label when a new battery is needed.
{Warning
WARNING:
Battery posts,
terminals, and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds,
chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
Batteries also contain other
chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer. WASH
HANDS AFTER HANDLING. For
more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/
passenger-vehicle.
See California Proposition 65 Warning
0 258 and the back cover.
After a power loss, such as
disconnecting the battery or removing
the maxi fuses in the power
distribution fuse block, the following

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
284 VEHICLE CARE
steps must be performed to calibrate
the electronic throttle control. If this
is not done, the engine will not run
properly.1. Turn the ignition on but do not start the engine.
2. Leave the ignition on for at least three minutes so that the
electronic throttle control will
cycle and relearn its home
position.
3. Turn the ignition off.
4. Start and run the engine for at least 30 seconds.
Stop/Start System
If equipped with the Stop/Start
system, the engine will not engage
Auto Stop after the battery is
disconnected. After reconnecting the
battery, the vehicle must sit
untouched for four hours. See “Auto
Stop/Start ”in Starting the Engine
0 195. This vehicle has an Absorbed Glass
Mat (AGM) 12-volt battery.
Installation of a standard 12-volt
battery will result in reduced 12-volt
battery life.
When using a 12-volt battery charger
on the 12-volt AGM battery, some
chargers have an AGM battery setting
on the charger. If available, use the
AGM setting on the charger, to limit
charge voltage to 14.8 volts. Follow
the charger manufacture’s
instructions.
Vehicle Storage
{Warning
Batteries have acid that can burn
you and gas that can explode. You
can be badly hurt if you are not
careful. See
Jump Starting - North
America 0329 for tips on working
around a battery without
getting hurt. Infrequent Usage: Remove the black,
negative (−) cable from the battery to
keep the battery from running down.
Extended Storage: Remove the black,
negative (−) cable from the battery or
use a battery trickle charger.
All-Wheel Drive
If the vehicle is equipped with
All-Wheel-Drive (AWD), this is an
additional system that needs
lubrication.
Transfer Case
When to Check Lubricant
It is not necessary to regularly check
the transfer case fluid unless a leak is
suspected or an unusual noise is
heard. A fluid loss could indicate a
problem. Have it inspected and
repaired.

Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12460273) - 2019 - CRC - 5/16/18
VEHICLE CARE 295
RelaysUsage
25 Engine control module
46 Rear washer
47 Front washer
54 Coolant pump
57 Low-beam headlamp relay
58 High-beam headlamp
59 Run/Crank
60 Starter 2
61 Vacuum pump
62 Starter 1
63 Air conditioning control
70 HornInstrument Panel Fuse
Block
The instrument panel fuse block is in
the end of the driver side of the
instrument panel.
To access the fuses, remove the end
panel by gently prying with a plastic
tool near each clip, beginning at the
point shown.
To install the end cover, insert the
tabs on the back of the cover into the
slots in the instrument panel at the
points shown. Align the clips with the
slots in the instrument panel, and
press the cover into place.
The vehicle may not be equipped with
all of the fuses and relays shown.