Cadillac CTS
Data verified by Nick Marchenko, PhD
Maintaining the engine oil in your Cadillac CTS is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. The Cadillac CTS, produced from 2003 to 2019, offers a variety of engine options, including the 3.2L V-6 (LA3), 3.0L V-6 (LF1 and LFW), and the powerful 6.2L V-8 (LT4). Each engine has specific oil capacities ranging from 5.1 quarts for the LA3 to 10 quarts for the LT4, with a recommended viscosity of 5W-30 across most models.
In addition to oil capacity, it's important to consider coolant volume, which varies by engine type. For instance, the LA3 requires 10.5 quarts of coolant, while the LT4 needs 11 quarts. Regular oil changes, adhering to the recommended intervals, will help maintain engine health and performance, ensuring your Cadillac CTS runs smoothly for years to come.
Cadillac CTS Oil Capacity
| Engine | Oil Capacity | Viscosity | Coolant | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LA3 54° V6 engine 3.2L The LA3 engine has a displacement of 3.2L V-6. The power output is 220 hp with a torque of 220 lb-ft. | 5.1 qt | 5W-30 | 10.5 qt | 2004, 2003 |
| LF1 General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LF1 engine has a displacement of 3.0L V-6. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 10.9 qt | 2011, 2010 |
| LFW General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LFW engine has a displacement of 3.0L V-6. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 10.9 qt | 2014, 2013, 2012 |
| LFX General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LFX engine has a displacement of 3.6L V-6. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 11.9 qt | 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 |
| LFX General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LFX engine has a displacement of 3.6L V-6. | 6.5 qt | 5W-30 | 10.6 qt | 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016 |
| LLT General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LLT engine has a displacement of 3.6L V-6. The power output is 304 hp with a torque of 273 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 10.6 qt | 2009, 2008 |
| LLT General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LLT engine has a displacement of 3.6L V-6. The power output is 304 hp with a torque of 273 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 10.9 qt | 2011, 2010 |
| LP1 General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LP1 engine has a displacement of 2.8L V6. The power output is 210 hp with a torque of 194 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 10.6 qt | 2007, 2005 |
| LP1 General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LP1 engine has a displacement of 2.8L V6. The power output is 210 hp with a torque of 194 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 11.7 qt | 2006 |
| LS2 Small-Block Engines LS The LS2 engine has a displacement of 6.0L V-8. The power output is 400 hp with a torque of 400 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 13.4 qt | 2007, 2006 |
| LS6 Small-Block Engines LS The LS6 engine has a displacement of 5.7L V-8. The power output is 405 hp with a torque of 400 lb-ft. | 6.4 qt | 5W-30 | 13.4 qt | 2005, 2004 |
| LSA Small-Block Engines LS The LSA engine has a displacement of 6.2L V-8. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 12.5 qt | 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 |
| LSA Small-Block Engines LS The LSA engine has a displacement of 6.2L V-8. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 13.4 qt | 2009 |
| LT4 Small-Block Engines LS The LT4 engine has a displacement of 6.2L V-8. | 10.0 qt | 5W-30 | 11.0 qt | 2019, 2018 |
| LT4 Small-Block Engines LS The LT4 engine has a displacement of 6.2L V-8. | 10.0 qt | 5W-30 | 12.9 qt | 2017, 2016, 2015 |
| LTG 2.0 L Turbo GM Ecotec 2.0 The LTG 2.0 L Turbo engine has a displacement of 2.0L I-4. | 5.0 qt | 5W-30 | 9.0 qt | 2015 |
| LTG 2.0 L Turbo GM Ecotec 2.0 The LTG 2.0 L Turbo engine has a displacement of 2.0L I-4. | 5.0 qt | 5W-30 | 9.3 qt | 2017, 2016 |
| LTG 2.0 L Turbo GM Ecotec 2.0 The LTG 2.0 L Turbo engine has a displacement of 2.0L I-4. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 9.0 qt | 2014 |
| LTG 2.0 L Turbo GM Ecotec 2.0 The LTG 2.0 L Turbo engine has a displacement of 2.0L I-4. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 9.3 qt | 2019, 2018 |
| LY7 General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LY7 engine has a displacement of 3.6L V-6. The power output is 255 hp with a torque of 252 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 10.2 qt | 2008 |
| LY7 General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LY7 engine has a displacement of 3.6L V-6. The power output is 255 hp with a torque of 252 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 10.4 qt | 2004 |
| LY7 General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LY7 engine has a displacement of 3.6L V-6. The power output is 255 hp with a torque of 252 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 11.9 qt | 2007, 2005 |
| LY7 General Motors DOHC V6 GM High Feature The LY7 engine has a displacement of 3.6L V-6. The power output is 255 hp with a torque of 252 lb-ft. | 6.0 qt | 5W-30 | 12.5 qt | 2006 |
Cadillac CTS – Frequently Asked Questions
How many quarts of oil does the Cadillac CTS take?
The Cadillac CTS oil capacity varies by engine: LA3: 5.1 qt; LF1: 6.0 qt; LFW: 6.0 qt; LFX: 6.0 qt; LFX: 6.5 qt; LLT: 6.0 qt; LLT: 6.0 qt; LP1: 6.0 qt; LP1: 6.0 qt; LS2: 6.0 qt; LS6: 6.4 qt; LSA: 6.0 qt; LSA: 6.0 qt; LT4: 10.0 qt; LT4: 10.0 qt; LTG 2.0 L Turbo: 5.0 qt; LTG 2.0 L Turbo: 5.0 qt; LTG 2.0 L Turbo: 6.0 qt; LTG 2.0 L Turbo: 6.0 qt; LY7: 6.0 qt; LY7: 6.0 qt; LY7: 6.0 qt; LY7: 6.0 qt. Always confirm the exact capacity for your specific engine before an oil change.
What type of oil does the Cadillac CTS use?
The Cadillac CTS uses 5W-30 engine oil across all its engine variants. Full synthetic oil meeting API/ILSAC specifications is strongly recommended for optimal engine protection and performance.
What is the coolant capacity of the Cadillac CTS?
The coolant capacity for the Cadillac CTS varies by engine: LA3: 10.5 qt; LF1: 10.9 qt; LFW: 10.9 qt; LFX: 11.9 qt; LFX: 10.6 qt; LLT: 10.6 qt; LLT: 10.9 qt; LP1: 10.6 qt; LP1: 11.7 qt; LS2: 13.4 qt; LS6: 13.4 qt; LSA: 12.5 qt; LSA: 13.4 qt; LT4: 11.0 qt; LT4: 12.9 qt; LTG 2.0 L Turbo: 9.0 qt; LTG 2.0 L Turbo: 9.3 qt; LTG 2.0 L Turbo: 9.0 qt; LTG 2.0 L Turbo: 9.3 qt; LY7: 10.2 qt; LY7: 10.4 qt; LY7: 11.9 qt; LY7: 12.5 qt. Use the coolant specification listed in the owner's manual for your engine variant.
What type of oil does the Cadillac CTS use?
The Cadillac CTS typically uses 5W-30 viscosity engine oil across most of its engine options, ensuring optimal performance and protection.
How many quarts of oil does the Cadillac CTS take?
The oil capacity for the Cadillac CTS varies by engine; for example, the 3.2L V-6 (LA3) requires 5.1 quarts, while the 6.2L V-8 (LT4) needs 10 quarts.
How often should I change oil in a Cadillac CTS?
It is generally recommended to change the oil in your Cadillac CTS every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
What is the coolant capacity of the Cadillac CTS?
Coolant capacity also varies by engine; for instance, the LA3 engine requires 10.5 quarts of coolant, while the LT4 requires 11 quarts.
Does the Cadillac CTS need synthetic oil?
While synthetic oil is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for the Cadillac CTS as it provides better protection and performance, especially in extreme temperatures.
What happens if I use the wrong oil viscosity in my Cadillac CTS?
Using the wrong oil viscosity can lead to inadequate lubrication, increased engine wear, and potential overheating, which may cause serious engine damage.
What is an oil life monitor and how does it work?
An oil life monitor is a system that tracks engine conditions and driving habits to determine when an oil change is necessary, helping to optimize maintenance schedules.
Can I mix synthetic and conventional oil?
While it is technically possible to mix synthetic and conventional oil, it is not recommended as it can reduce the effectiveness of the synthetic oil's properties.
How do I know if my Cadillac CTS has an oil leak?
Signs of an oil leak may include oil spots under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, or a drop in oil levels on the dipstick.
What causes excessive oil consumption?
Excessive oil consumption can be caused by worn engine components, such as piston rings or valve seals, leading to oil burning or leakage.
Should I check my oil when the engine is hot or cold?
It is best to check your oil when the engine is warm but not hot, as this allows for a more accurate reading on the dipstick.
What is the difference between an oil change and a flush?
An oil change involves draining old oil and replacing it with new oil, while an oil flush is a process that cleans the engine's internals and removes sludge before changing the oil.