overheating CADILLAC CTS 2009 2.G Owners Manual

Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter
The vehicle may have two removable ashtrays and
cigarette lighters. One ashtray can be placed into the
instrument panel storage compartment and the other
into the center console rear compartment. To use
the lighter, push it in all the way and let go. When it is
ready, it will pop back out by itself.
To empty the ashtrays, hold on to the edges of the bin
and pull straight out. To reinstall, push the tray back
into place.
Notice:Holding a cigarette lighter in while it is
heating does not let the lighter back away from the
heating element when it is hot. Damage from
overheating can occur to the lighter or heating
element, or a fuse could be blown. Do not hold a
cigarette lighter in while it is heating.
Notice:If papers, pins, or other ammable items
are put in the ashtray, hot cigarettes or other
smoking materials could ignite them and possibly
damage the vehicle. Never put ammable items
in the ashtray.
Analog Clock
The analog clock is located on the instrument panel
above the radio. The clock is not connected with
any other vehicle system and runs by itself. To adjust
the clock:
1. Locate the adjustment buttons directly below the
clock face.
2. Push and hold the right adjustment button to move
the clock hands forward or the left adjustment
button to make the clock hands go backward.
Holding either button down will cause the clock to
advance faster. Release the button before the
desired time is reached.
3. Push and release either button to adjust the time by
one minute increments until the desired time is
reached.
3-23

StabiliTrak®/Traction Control
System (TCS) Warning Light
The Traction Control
System (TCS)/StabiliTrak
warning light should
come on briey when
the engine is started.
If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your
dealer/retailer. If the system is working normally the
indicator light then goes off.
If the light comes on or stays on while driving, there
may be a problem with the TCS/StabiliTrak and the
vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on,
the system does not limit wheel spin. Adjust driving
accordingly.
SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on page 4-6and
StabiliTrak
®System on page 4-6for more information.
Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light
The engine coolant
temperature warning light
comes on briey when
the engine is started.
If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your
dealer/retailer. If the system is working normally the
indicator light then goes off.
If the light comes on and stays on while driving, the
vehicle may have a problem with the cooling system.
Stop the vehicle and turn off the engine as soon
as possible to avoid damage to the engine. A warning
chime sounds when this light is on.
SeeEngine Overheating on page 5-37for more
information.
3-41

Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
This gage shows the engine coolant temperature.
If the engine coolant overheats the engine coolant
temperature warning light will come on. SeeEngine
Overheating on page 5-37andEngine Coolant
Temperature Warning Light on page 3-41for more
information.
Tire Pressure Light
For vehicles with a tire
pressure light, this light
comes on briey when the
engine is started and
provides information about
tire pressures and the
Tire Pressure Monitoring
System.
When the Light is On Steady
This indicates that one or more of the tires is signicantly
underinated.
A tire pressure message in the Driver Information Center
(DIC), can accompany the light. SeeDIC Warnings and
Messages on page 3-58for more information. Stop and
check the tires as soon as it is safe to do so. If a tire is
underinated, inate to the proper pressure. SeeTires on
page 5-61for more information.
When the Light Flashes First and Then is
On Steady
This indicates that there could be a problem with the
Tire Pressure Monitor System. The light ashes for
about a minute and stays on steady for the remainder
of the ignition cycle. This sequence repeats with
every ignition cycle. SeeTire Pressure Monitor System
on page 5-71for more information. United States
Canada
3-42

Engine Oil Low Add Oil
If the vehicle has an oil level sensor, this message
displays if the oil level in the vehicle is low. Check the
oil level and correct it as necessary. You may need to let
the vehicle cool or warm up and cycle the ignition to
be sure this message clears.
This message clears itself after 10 seconds, until the
next ignition cycle. SeeEngine Oil on page 5-18
for additional information.
Engine Overheated Idle Engine
Notice:If you drive your vehicle while the engine
is overheating, severe engine damage may occur.
If an overheat warning appears on the instrument
panel cluster and/or DIC, stop the vehicle as soon as
possible. Do not increase the engine speed above
normal idling speed. SeeEngine Overheating
on page 5-37for more information.
This message displays when the engine coolant
temperature is too hot. Stop and allow the vehicle to
idle until it cools down. SeeEngine Coolant
Temperature Warning Light on page 3-41.
SeeOverheated Engine Protection Operating Mode on
page 5-39for information on driving to a safe place
in an emergency.
Engine Power Is Reduced
This message displays when the engine power is
being reduced to protect the engine from damage.
There could be several malfunctions that might cause
this message. Reduced engine power can affect
the vehicle’s ability to accelerate. If this message is on,
but there is no reduction in performance, proceed to
your destination. The performance may be reduced the
next time the vehicle is driven. The vehicle may be
driven at a reduced speed while this message is on, but
acceleration and speed may be reduced. Anytime this
message stays on, the vehicle should be taken to
your dealer/retailer for service as soon as possible.
Fuel Level Low
This message displays when the vehicle is low on fuel.
Rell the fuel tank as soon as possible. A chime may
sound when this message displays. SeeFilling the Tank
on page 5-8.
Heated Washer Fluid Wash (Washer)
Wipes Pending
If the vehicle has this feature, this message displays
when you turn on the heated windshield washer
uid system. See “Heated Windshield Washer” under
Windshield Washer on page 3-12for more information.
3-63

Speed Limited To XXX MPH (km/h)
This message displays when the vehicle speed is limited
to 80 mph (128 km/h) because the vehicle detects a
problem in the speed variable assist steering, magnetic
ride control, or automatic leveling control systems.
Have the vehicle serviced by your dealer/retailer.
Sport Mode
This message displays when the vehicle is in sport
mode. See “Driver Shift Control (DSC)” underAutomatic
Transmission Operation on page 2-36for more
information.
Stabilitrak Competitive Mode
This message displays when the Competitive Driving
mode is selected. When in this mode, the Traction
Control System (TCS) will not be operating and
the TCS/StabiliTrak warning light will turn on. Adjust
your driving accordingly. See “Competitive Driving
Mode” underTraction Control System (TCS) on
page 4-6for more information.
Stabilitrak Not Ready
This message may display after rst driving the vehicle
and exceeding 19 mph (30 km/h) for 30 seconds.
The TCS/StabiliTrak warning light on the instrument
panel cluster also comes on. The StabiliTrak system is
not functional until the message has turned off. See
StabiliTrak
®System on page 4-6for more information.
Stabilitrak Off
This message displays when you turn off StabiliTrak,
or when the stability control has been automatically
disabled. The TCS/StabiliTrak warning light on
the instrument panel cluster also comes on.
To realize the full benets of the stability enhancement
system, you should normally leave StabiliTrak on.
To turn the StabiliTrak system on or off, seeStabiliTrak
®
System on page 4-6.
There are several conditions that can cause this message
to appear.
One condition is overheating, which could occur if
StabiliTrak activates continuously for an extended
period of time.
The message also displays if the brake system
warning light is on. SeeBrake System Warning Light
on page 3-39.
3-70

Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
The arrows on the instrument panel ash whenever
signaling a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the
trailer lamps also ash, telling other drivers the vehicle
is turning, changing lanes or stopping.
When towing a trailer, the arrows on the instrument
panel ash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are
burned out. For this reason you may think other
drivers are seeing the signal when they are not. It is
important to check occasionally to be sure the
trailer bulbs are still working.
The vehicle has bulb warning lights. When a trailer
lighting system is plugged into the vehicle’s lighting
system, its bulb warning lights may not let the driver
know if one of the lamps goes out. So, when the a trailer
lighting system plugged in, be sure to check the
vehicle and trailer lamps from time to time to be sure
they are all working. Once the trailer lamps are
disconnected, the bulb warning lights can again let the
driver know that one of the vehicle lamps is out.
Driving On Grades
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gearbeforestarting
down a long or steep downgrade. If the transmission is
not shifted down, the brakes might have to be used so
much that they would get hot and no longer work well.
On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce the
vehicle’s speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce
the possibility of the engine and the transmission
overheating.
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. For vehicles with a
manual transmission, it is better not to use the
highest gear.
When towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades,
consider the following: Engine coolant will boil at a lower
temperature than at normal altitudes. If the engine is
turned off immediately after towing at high altitude
on steep uphill grades, the vehicle may show signs
similar to engine overheating. To avoid this, let
the engine run while parked, preferably on level ground,
with the automatic transmission in P (Park) or the
manual transmission in N (Neutral) for a few minutes
before turning the engine off. If the overheat warning
comes on, seeEngine Overheating on page 5-37.
4-33

Parking on Hills
{CAUTION:
Parking the vehicle on a hill with the trailer
attached can be dangerous. If something goes
wrong, the rig could start to move. People can be
injured, and both the vehicle and the trailer can
be damaged. When possible, always park the rig
on a at surface.
If parking the rig on a hill:
1. Press the brake pedal, but if the vehicle has an
automatic transmission, 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, release the
regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.
4. Reapply the brake pedal. For vehicles with an
automatic transmission, apply the parking brake and
shift into P (Park). For vehicles with a manual
transmission, apply the parking brake, place the
transmission in 1 (First) and turn the ignition to
OFF/LOCK.
5. Release the brake pedal.
Leaving After Parking on a Hill
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal while you:
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 pulling a
trailer. See this manual’s Maintenance Schedule or Index
for more information. Things that are especially important
in trailer operation are automatic transmission uid,
engine oil, axle lubricant, belts, cooling system and brake
system. It is a good idea to inspect these before and
during the trip.
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts
are tight.
Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing
The cooling system may temporarily overheat during
severe operating conditions. SeeEngine Overheating on
page 5-37.
4-34

Service............................................................5-3
Accessories and Modications..........................5-3
California Proposition 65 Warning.....................5-4
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements.....5-4
Doing Your Own Service Work.........................5-4
Adding Equipment to the Outside of the
Vehicle......................................................5-5
Fuel................................................................5-5
Gasoline Octane............................................5-6
Gasoline Specications....................................5-6
California Fuel...............................................5-7
Additives.......................................................5-7
Fuels in Foreign Countries...............................5-8
Filling the Tank..............................................5-8
Filling a Portable Fuel Container.....................5-11
Checking Things Under the Hood....................5-12
Hood Release..............................................5-12
Engine Compartment Overview.......................5-14
Engine Oil...................................................5-18
Engine Oil Life System..................................5-21
Engine Cover...............................................5-23
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter................................5-25
Automatic Transmission Fluid.........................5-29
Manual Transmission Fluid.............................5-29
Hydraulic Clutch...........................................5-30
Cooling System............................................5-31
Engine Coolant.............................................5-32Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap..................5-37
Engine Overheating.......................................5-37
Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode.........................................5-39
Power Steering Fluid.....................................5-40
Windshield Washer Fluid................................5-41
Brakes........................................................5-42
Battery........................................................5-45
Jump Starting...............................................5-46
All-Wheel Drive..............................................5-51
Rear Axle.......................................................5-52
Headlamp Aiming...........................................5-53
Bulb Replacement..........................................5-57
High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lighting............5-57
Halogen Bulbs..............................................5-57
Front Turn Signal and Fog Lamps...................5-58
License Plate Lamp......................................5-59
Replacement Bulbs.......................................5-59
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement..............5-59
Tires..............................................................5-61
Winter Tires.................................................5-62
Tire Sidewall Labeling...................................5-63
Tire Terminology and Denitions.....................5-66
Ination - Tire Pressure.................................5-69
High-Speed Operation...................................5-70
Tire Pressure Monitor System.........................5-71
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
5-1

Engine Coolant
The cooling system in the vehicle for all engines and
the intercooler is lled with DEX-COOL®. This coolant is
designed to remain in the vehicle for ve years or
150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs rst.
The following explains the cooling system and how to
check and add coolant when it is low. If there is a
problem with engine overheating, seeEngine
Overheating on page 5-37.
What to Use
{CAUTION:
Adding only plain water to the cooling system can
be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid
such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant
mixture will. The vehicle’s coolant warning system
is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain
water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get
too hot but you would not get the overheat
warning. The engine could catch re and you or
others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of
clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL
®coolant.Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL
®coolant. If using this mixture, nothing else
needs to be added. This mixture:
Gives freezing protection down to−34°F (−37°C),
outside temperature.
Gives boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C),
engine temperature.
Protects against rust and corrosion.
Will not damage aluminum parts.
Helps keep the proper engine temperature.
Notice:If an improper coolant mixture is used, the
engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The
repair cost would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze
and crack the engine, radiator, heater core, and
other parts.
Notice:If extra inhibitors and/or additives are used
in the vehicle’s cooling system, the vehicle could
be damaged. Use only the proper mixture of
the engine coolant listed in this manual for the
cooling system. SeeRecommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 6-14for more information.
5-32

3. Add the proper DEX-COOL®coolant mixture to the
ll neck until the coolant reaches the COLD FILL
line on the ll neck.
With the intercooler system pressure cap off, start
the engine and let it run for a couple of minutes.
Then turn the engine off. By this time, the coolant
level inside the ll neck may be lower. If the
level drops to where coolant is no longer visible in
the horizontal tube section of the ll neck, with
the engine off add more of the DEX-COOL
®coolant
mixture to the ll neck until the level is again
visible in the horizontal tube section.
4. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the
pressure cap is hand-tight and fully seated.
Notice:If the pressure cap is not tightly installed,
coolant loss and possible engine damage may occur.
Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured.
If the coolant is not at the proper level when the system
cools down again, see your dealer/retailer.
Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap
Notice:If the pressure cap is not tightly installed,
coolant loss and possible engine damage may occur.
Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured.
The coolant surge tank pressure cap must be fully
installed on the coolant surge tank. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview on page 5-14for more
information on location.
Engine Overheating
The vehicle has several indicators to warn of engine
overheating.
There are two engine hot messages that may be
displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC).
SeeDIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-58for
more information.
You may decide not to lift the hood when this warning
appears, but instead get service help right away.
SeeRoadside Service on page 7-7.
5-37