Cadillac CT4 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13183937) -
2020 - crc - 4/28/20
VEHICLE CARE 285
Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
All Passenger Car Tires Must
Conform to Federal Safety
Requirements In Addition To
These Grades.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a
comparative rating based on the
wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a
specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded
150 would wear one and one-half
(1½) times as well on the
government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative
performance of tires depends
upon the actual conditions of
their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm
due to variations in driving habits,
service practices and differences
in road characteristics and
climate.Traction
The traction grades, from highest
to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire's
ability to stop on wet pavement as
measured under controlled
conditions on specified
government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire
marked C may have poor traction
performance. Warning: The
traction grade assigned to this tire
is based on straight-ahead braking
traction tests, and does not
include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction
characteristics.
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing
the tire's resistance to the
generation of heat and its ability
to dissipate heat when tested
under controlled conditions on a
specified indoor laboratory test
wheel. Sustained high temperaturecan cause the material of the tire
to degenerate and reduce tire life,
and excessive temperature can
lead to sudden tire failure. The
grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger
car tires must meet under the
Federal Motor Safety Standard
No. 109. Grades B and A represent
higher levels of performance on
the laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
Warning: The temperature grade
for this tire is established for a tire
that is properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed,
underinflation, or excessive
loading, either separately or in
combination, can cause heat
buildup and possible tire failure.
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance
The tires and wheels were aligned and
balanced at the factory to provide the
longest tire life and best overall
performance. Adjustments to wheel
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286 VEHICLE CARE
alignment and tire balancing are not
necessary on a regular basis. Consider
an alignment check if there is unusual
tire wear or the vehicle is significantly
pulling to one side or the other. Some
slight pull to the left or right,
depending on the crown of the road
and/or other road surface variations
such as troughs or ruts, is normal.
If the vehicle is vibrating when driving
on a smooth road, the tires and
wheels may need to be rebalanced.
See your dealer for proper diagnosis.
Wheel Replacement
Replace any wheel that is bent,
cracked, or badly rusted or corroded.
If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the
wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts
should be replaced. If the wheel leaks
air, replace it. Some aluminum wheels
can be repaired. See your dealer if any
of these conditions exist.
Your dealer will know the kind of
wheel that is needed.
Each new wheel should have the same
load-carrying capacity, diameter,
width, offset, and be mounted the
same way as the one it replaces.Replace wheels, wheel bolts, wheel
nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor System
(TPMS) sensors with new GM original
equipment parts.
{Warning
Using the wrong replacement
wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel nuts
can be dangerous. It could affect
the braking and handling of the
vehicle. Tires can lose air, and
cause loss of control, causing a
crash. Always use the correct wheel,
wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for
replacement.
Caution
The wrong wheel can also cause
problems with bearing life, brake
cooling, speedometer or odometer
calibration, headlamp aim, bumper
height, vehicle ground clearance,
and tire or tire chain clearance to
the body and chassis.
Used Replacement Wheels
{Warning
Replacing a wheel with a used one
is dangerous. How it has been used
or how far it has been driven may
be unknown. It could fail suddenly
and cause a crash. When replacing
wheels, use a new GM original
equipment wheel.
Tire Chains
{Warning
If the vehicle has 235/40R18 or
235/35R19 size tires, do not use tire
chains. There is not enough
clearance. Tire chains used on a
vehicle without the proper amount
of clearance can cause damage to
the brakes, suspension, or other
vehicle parts. The area damaged by
the tire chains could cause loss of
control and a crash. Use another
(Continued)
Cadillac CT4 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13183937) -
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VEHICLE CARE 287
Warning (Continued)
type of traction device only if its
manufacturer recommends it for
the vehicle's tire size combination
and road conditions. Follow that
manufacturer's instructions. To
avoid vehicle damage, drive slow
and readjust or remove the traction
device if it contacts the vehicle. Do
not spin the wheels. If traction
devices are used, install them on
the rear tires.
Caution
If the vehicle is equipped with 225/
45R17 size tires, use tire chains
only where legal and only when
necessary. Use low profile chains
that add no more than 12 mm
thickness to the tire tread and inner
sidewall. Use chains that are the
proper size for the tires. Install
them on the tires of the rear axle.(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
Don't use chains on the tires of the
front axle. Tighten them as tightly
as possible with the ends securely
fastened. Drive slowly and follow
the chain manufacturer's
instructions. If the chains contact
the vehicle, stop and retighten
them. If the contact continues, slow
down until it stops. Driving too fast
or spinning the wheels with chains
on will damage the vehicle.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blow out
while driving, especially if the tires are
maintained properly. If air goes out of
a tire, it is much more likely to leak
out slowly. SeeTires0267 for
additional information. But if there
ever is a blowout, here are a few tips
about what to expect and what to do:
If a front tire fails, the flat tire creates
a drag that pulls the vehicle toward
that side. Take your foot off the
accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane
position, and then gently brake to a
stop, well off the road, if possible.
A rear blowout, particularly on a
curve, acts much like a skid and may
require the same correction as used in
a skid. Stop pressing the accelerator
pedal and steer to straighten the
vehicle. It may be very bumpy and
noisy. Gently brake to a stop, well off
the road, if possible.
The vehicle has no spare tire, no tire
changing equipment, and no place to
store a tire.
If the vehicle has run-flat tires, there
is no need to stop on the side of the
road to change a flat tire. See
Run-Flat
Tires 0269.
{Warning
Special tools and procedures are
required to service a run-flat tire.
If these special tools and
procedures are not used, injury or
vehicle damage may occur. Always
(Continued)
Cadillac CT4 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13183937) -
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VEHICLE CARE 291
Jumper Cable Removal
Reverse the sequence exactly when
removing the jumper cables.
After starting the disabled vehicle and
removing the jumper cables, allow it
to idle for several minutes.Towing the Vehicle
Caution
Incorrectly towing a disabled
vehicle may cause damage. The
damage would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Do not lash or
hook to suspension components.
Use the proper straps around the
tires to secure the vehicle. Do not
drag a locked wheel/tire. Use tire
skates or dollies under any locked
wheel/tire while loading the vehicle.
Do not use a sling type lift to tow
the vehicle. This could damage the
vehicle.
Front Tow Eye
Caution
Improper use of the tow eye can
damage the vehicle. If equipped, use
the tow eye to load a disabled
vehicle onto a flatbed tow truck
from a flat road surface, or to move
the vehicle a short distance. Use
caution and low speeds. The
transmission must be
in (N) Neutral when moving the
vehicle.
Cadillac CT4 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13183937) -
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The vehicle is equipped with a tow
eye. Only use the tow eye to pull the
vehicle onto a flatbed car carrier from
a flat road surface. Do not use the tow
eye to pull the vehicle from snow,
mud, or sand. The tow eye is located
under the carpet in the trunk.
Carefully open the cover in the fascia
by using the small notch that conceals
the tow eye socket.
Install the tow eye into the socket and
turn it until it is fully tightened. When
the tow eye is removed, reinstall the
cover with the notch in the original
position.Rear Tow Eye
If equipped, carefully open the cover
by using the small notch that conceals
the rear tow eye socket. Install the
tow eye into the socket and turn it
until it is fully tightened. When the
tow eye is removed, reinstall the cover
with the notch in the original
position.
Recreational Vehicle
Towing
Caution
Dolly towing or dinghy towing the
vehicle may cause damage because
of reduced ground clearance.
Always put the vehicle on a flatbed
truck or trailer.
The vehicle was neither designed nor
intended to be towed with any of its
wheels on the ground. If the vehicle
must be towed, see Towing the Vehicle
0 291.
Cadillac CT4 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13183937) -
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VEHICLE CARE 293
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory.
Use a de-icing agent only when
absolutely necessary, and have the
locks greased after using. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
0313.
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash
it often and out of direct sunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based, acidic,
or abrasive cleaning agents as they
can damage the vehicle's paint,
metal, or plastic parts. If damage
occurs, it would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Approved
cleaning products can be obtained
from your dealer. Follow all
manufacturer directions regarding
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
correct product usage, necessary
safety precautions, and appropriate
disposal of any vehicle care
product.
Caution
Avoid using high-pressure washes
closer than 30 cm (12 in) to the
surface of the vehicle. Use of power
washers exceeding 8 274 kPa
(1,200 psi) can result in damage or
removal of paint and decals.
Caution
Do not power wash any component
under the hood that has this
e
symbol.
This could cause damage that
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Caution
Some automatic car washes can
cause damage to the vehicle, wheels
and ground effects. Automatic car
washes are not recommended, due
to lack of clearance for the
undercarriage and/or wide rear tires
and wheels.
If using an automatic car wash, follow
the car wash instructions. The
windshield wiper and rear window
wiper, if equipped, must be off.
Remove any accessories that may be
damaged or interfere with the car
wash equipment.
Rinse the vehicle well, before washing
and after, to remove all cleaning
agents completely. If they are allowed
to dry on the surface, they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to
avoid surface scratches and water
spotting.
Cadillac CT4 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13183937) -
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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. SeeRecommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0313.
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.
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 silicon 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.
Cadillac CT4 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13183937) -
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SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 311
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.
. 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 0297 and
Exterior Care 0293.
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.