
Cadillac CT5 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13060105) -
2020 - CRC - 2/14/20
DRIVING AND OPERATING 233
signs, trees, or other objects. Always
signal turns well in advance. Do not
steer or brake suddenly.
Driving on Grades
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear
before starting down a long or steep
downhill grade. If the transmission is
not shifted down, the brakes may
overheat and result in reduced braking
efficiency.
Vehicles can tow in D (Drive). Shift
the transmission to a lower gear if the
transmission shifts too often under
heavy loads and/or hilly conditions.
When towing at higher altitudes,
engine coolant will boil at a lower
temperature than at lower altitudes.
If the engine is turned off immediately
after towing at high altitude on steep
uphill grades, the vehicle could show
signs similar to engine overheating. To
avoid this, let the engine run,
preferably on level ground, with the
transmission in P (Park) for a few
minutes before turning the engine off.
If the overheat warning comes on, see
Engine Overheating0256.
Parking on Hills
{Warning
To prevent serious injury or death,
always park your vehicle and trailer
on a level surface when possible.
When parking your vehicle and your
trailer on a hill: 1. Press the brake pedal, but do not shift into P (Park) yet. Turn the
wheels into the curb if facing
downhill or into traffic if facing
uphill.
2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels.
3. When the wheel chocks are in place, 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 0308. 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.

Cadillac CT5 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13060105) -
2020 - CRC - 2/14/20
234 DRIVING AND OPERATING
Engine Cooling when Trailer
Towing
The cooling system may temporarily
overheat during severe operating
conditions. SeeEngine Overheating
0 256.
Trailer Towing
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.
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.
Before towing a trailer, always
separately weigh:
.
the total weight on the vehicle's
tires.
. the trailer.
. the trailer tongue.
{Warning
You and others could be seriously
injured or killed if the trailer is too
heavy or the trailer brakes are
inadequate for the load. The vehicle
may be damaged, and the repairs
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Only tow a trailer if all the steps in
this section have been followed. Ask
your dealer for advice and
information about towing a trailer.
Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR)
For information about the vehicle's
maximum load capacity, see Vehicle
Load Limits 0160. When calculating
the GVWR with a trailer attached, the
trailer tongue weight must be
included as part of the weight the
vehicle is carrying.
Maximum Trailer Weight
The trailer should never weigh more
than 454 kg (1,000 lb). The maximum
allowable weight of the trailer may be
lower based on the weight of the
passengers and cargo in your trailer.
The maximum trailer weight rating is
calculated assuming only the driver is
in the tow vehicle and it has all the
required trailering equipment. The
weight of additional optional
equipment, passengers, and cargo in
the tow vehicle must be subtracted
from the maximum trailer weight.

Cadillac CT5 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13060105) -
2020 - CRC - 2/14/20
DRIVING AND OPERATING 235
Trailer Load Balance
The correct trailer load balance must
be maintained to ensure trailer
stability. Incorrect load balance is a
leading cause of trailer sway.
The trailer tongue weight (1) should
be 10–15% of the loaded trailer
weight (2). Some specific trailer types,
such as boat trailers, fall outside of
this range. Always refer to the trailer
owner’s manual for the recommended
trailer tongue weight for each trailer.
Never exceed the maximum loads for
your vehicle, hitch, and trailer.After loading the trailer, separately
weigh the trailer and then the trailer
tongue and calculate the trailer load
balance percentage to see if the
weights and distribution are
appropriate for your vehicle. If the
trailer weight is too high, it may be
possible to transfer some of the cargo
into your vehicle. If the trailer tongue
weight is too high or too low, it may
be possible to rearrange some of the
cargo inside of the trailer.
Do not exceed the maximum
allowable tongue weight for your
vehicle. Use the shortest hitch
extension available to position the
hitch ball closer to your vehicle. This
will help reduce the effect of the
trailer tongue weight on the trailer
hitch and the rear axle.
If a cargo carrier is used in the trailer
hitch receiver, choose a carrier that
positions the load as close to the
vehicle as possible. Make sure the
total weight, including the carrier, is
no more than half of the maximum
allowable tongue weight for the
vehicle or 227 kg (500 lb), whichever
is less.Ask your dealer for trailering
information or assistance.
Towing Equipment
Hitches
Always use the correct hitch
equipment for your vehicle.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by, and
rough roads can affect the trailer and
the hitch.
Never attach rental hitches or other
bumper-type hitches. Only use
frame-mounted hitches that do not
attach to the bumper.
Always seal any holes in your vehicle
if the trailer hitch removed. If not
sealed, dirt, water, and carbon
monoxide (CO) from the exhaust may
enter your vehicle. See
Engine Exhaust
0 172.
Consider using mechanical sway
controls with any trailer. Ask a
trailering professional about sway
controls or refer to the trailer
manufacturer's recommendations and
instructions.

Cadillac CT5 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13060105) -
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236 DRIVING AND OPERATING
Tires
.Do not tow a trailer while using a
compact spare tire on the vehicle.
. Tires must be properly inflated to
support loads while towing a
trailer. See Tires0272 for
instructions on proper tire
inflation.
Safety Chains
Always attach chains between the
vehicle and the trailer, and attach the
chains to the holes on the trailer hitch
platform. Instructions about safety
chains may be provided by the hitch
manufacturer or by the trailer
manufacturer.
Cross the safety chains under the
tongue of the trailer to help prevent
the tongue from contacting the road if
it becomes separated from the hitch.
Always leave just enough slack so the
combination can turn. Never allow
safety chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
Loaded trailers over 450 kg (1,000 lb)
must be equipped with brake systems
and with brakes for each axle. Trailer braking equipment conforming to
Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
requirement CAN3-D313, or its
equivalent, is recommended.
State or local regulations may require
trailers to have their own braking
system if the loaded weight of the
trailer exceeds certain minimums that
can vary from state to state. Read and
follow the instructions for the trailer
brakes so they are installed, adjusted,
and maintained properly. Never
attempt to tap into your vehicle's
hydraulic brake system. If you do,
both the vehicle anti-lock brakes and
the trailer brakes may not function,
which could result in a crash.
Turn Signals When Towing a
Trailer
When properly connected, the trailer
turn signals will illuminate to indicate
the vehicle is turning, changing lanes,
or stopping. When towing a trailer,
the arrows on the instrument cluster
will illuminate even if the trailer is not
properly connected or the bulbs are
burned out.
Conversions and
Add-Ons
Add-On Electrical
Equipment
{Warning
The Data Link Connector (DLC) is
used for vehicle service and
Emission Inspection/Maintenance
testing. See
Malfunction Indicator
Lamp (Check Engine Light) 0108.
A device connected to the DLC —
such as an aftermarket fleet or
driver-behavior tracking device —
may interfere with vehicle systems.
This could affect vehicle operation
and cause a crash. Such devices
may also access information stored
in the vehicle’s systems.

Cadillac CT5 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13060105) -
2020 - CRC - 2/14/20
VEHICLE CARE 271
FusesUsage
18 –
19 Motor seat belt driver
20 Rear defog
21 DC to DC transformer 2
22 Driver power window door lock switch
23 External object calculating module/
Front camera module
24 Passenger window door lock switch
25 –
26 Trailer
27 Rear drive control module
28 –
29 –
30 –
31 DC to DC transformer 1 Fuses
Usage
32 Transfer case electronic control
33 Central gateway module/Side blind
zone alert
34 Video processing module
35 Hands free closure release
36 Exterior lighting module 2
37 Passenger memory seat module
38 Trailer 2
39 Right front/Right rear window
40 –
41 –
42 Amplifier
43 Park assist module
44 Driver memory seat module
45 OnStar Fuses
Usage
46 –
47 –
48 –
49 Trailer
50 Driver seat
51 Left front/Left rear window
52 Passenger seat
Relays Usage
53 –
54 –
55 Run

Cadillac CT5 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13060105) -
2020 - CRC - 2/14/20
VEHICLE CARE 297
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
0 295.
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
0317.
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.

Cadillac CT5 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13060105) -
2020 - CRC - 2/14/20
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 307
The Tire Rotation and Required
Services are the responsibility of the
vehicle owner. It is recommended to
have your dealer perform these
services every 12 000 km/7,500 mi.
Proper vehicle maintenance helps to
keep the vehicle in good working
condition, improves fuel economy, and
reduces vehicle emissions.
Because of the way people use
vehicles, maintenance needs vary.
There may need to be more frequent
checks and services. The Additional
Required Services - Normal are for
vehicles that:
.Carry passengers and cargo within
recommended limits on the Tire
and Loading Information label. See
Vehicle Load Limits 0160.
. Are driven on reasonable road
surfaces within legal driving limits. .
Use the recommended fuel. See
Recommended Fuel (LSY 2.0L L4
Engine) 0226 or
Recommended Fuel (LGY 3.0L
V6 Engine) 0227.
Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services - Normal chart.
The Additional Required Services -
Severe are for vehicles that are:
. Mainly driven in heavy city traffic
in hot weather.
. Mainly driven in hilly or
mountainous terrain.
. Frequently towing a trailer.
. Used for high speed or competitive
driving.
. Used for taxi, police, or delivery
service. Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services - Severe chart.
{Warning
Performing maintenance work can
be dangerous and can cause serious
injury. Perform maintenance work
only if the required information,
proper tools, and equipment are
available. If they are not, see your
dealer to have a trained technician
do the work. See
Doing Your Own
Service Work 0240.

Cadillac CT5 Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-13060105) -
2020 - CRC - 2/14/20
356 INDEX
Tires (cont'd)Pressure Monitor Operation . . . . . . 282
Pressure Monitor System . . . . . . . . 281
Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285
Run-Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Self-Sealing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
Terminology and Definitions . . . . 277
Uniform Tire Quality Grading . . . . 289
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Top Tier Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Towing
Driving Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Recreational Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
Track Events and Competitive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Traction
Control System(TCS)/StabiliTrak Light . . . . . . . . . 113 Traction (cont'd)
Limited-Slip Differential . . . . . . . . . . 193
Off Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Traction Control/Electronic Stability Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Trailer Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
Transmission Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Fluid, Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
Transportation Program, Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Turn and Lane-Change Signals . . . . 137
U
Umbrella Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Uniform Tire Quality Grading . . . . . . 289
Universal Remote System . . . . . . . . . . 130 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Using This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
V
Vehicle Alarm System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Automatic Hold Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Canadian Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Vehicle (cont'd)
Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Identification Number (VIN) . . . . . 320
Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Personalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Remote Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Speed Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
Vehicle Ahead Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Vehicle Care Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335
Vehicle Hold
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Vehicle Hold (AVH) Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Vehicle Security Steering Column Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Ventilation, Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Video Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36W
Warning Brake System Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110