Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity: All Years & Engines

The Cadillac CTS was produced from 2003 to 2019 across three generations with multiple engine configurations including 4-cylinder, V6, and V8 options. This guide provides complete oil capacity, viscosity, and type specifications for all model years to ensure proper maintenance and engine protection. Using the correct oil specifications is essential for maintaining engine performance, fuel efficiency, and preventing premature wear.​

The CTS lineup featured engines ranging from 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder units to high-performance 6.2L supercharged V8 engines in the CTS-V models. Each engine variant has specific oil requirements that must be followed for optimal operation.​

2019 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2019 Cadillac CTS uses either a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder or 3.6L V6 engine requiring 5.0 qt (4.7 L) and 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of full synthetic oil respectively. Using SAE 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil provides optimal protection and efficiency under normal driving conditions.

2018 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2018 Cadillac CTS offered three engine options with oil capacities ranging from 5.0 qt to 7.0 qt depending on the engine configuration. The twin-turbocharged 3.6L V-Sport engine requires additional oil capacity at 7.0 qt (6.6 L) with filter for proper lubrication.​

2017 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2017 Cadillac CTS maintains the same oil specifications as the 2018 model year across all three engine variants. All engines require Dexos1 Gen 2 certified full synthetic oil with SAE 5W-30 viscosity.​

2016 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2016 Cadillac CTS introduced the third-generation CTS-V with the supercharged 6.2L LT4 V8 engine requiring a substantial 10.0 qt (9.5 L) of oil. All 2016 models require Dexos1 Gen 2 certified synthetic oil for proper engine protection.​

2015 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2015 Cadillac CTS featured three engine options with the 3.6L V6 requiring 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of full synthetic oil. The turbo 4-cylinder and twin-turbo V6 variants require 5.0 qt and 7.0 qt respectively.​

2014 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2014 Cadillac CTS marked the beginning of the third generation with revised engine options. The standard 3.6L V6 requires 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of Dexos1 certified synthetic oil with SAE 5W-30 viscosity.​

2013 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2013 Cadillac CTS offered three engine configurations including the high-performance CTS-V with the supercharged LSA engine. The 6.2L V8 requires 8.0 qt (7.6 L) of synthetic oil for adequate lubrication.​

2012 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2012 Cadillac CTS maintained similar engine options to the 2013 model with oil capacities ranging from 6.0 qt to 8.0 qt. All engines require Dexos1 certified oil for proper protection.​

2011 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2011 Cadillac CTS offered three engine options with the 3.6L V6 LLT engine requiring 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of oil. This was the first year requiring Dexos1 certified oil for warranty compliance.​

2010 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2010 Cadillac CTS featured three engine choices with the 3.6L V6 requiring 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of oil. SAE 5W-30 viscosity is recommended for all engines for optimal performance.​

2009 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2009 Cadillac CTS marked the introduction of the second-generation CTS-V with the LSA supercharged engine. Both the standard V6 and performance V8 require SAE 5W-30 oil for proper lubrication.​

2008 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2008 Cadillac CTS began the second generation with the 3.6L V6 as the standard engine requiring 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of oil. Using SAE 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend oil ensures adequate engine protection.​

2007 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2007 Cadillac CTS was the final year of the first generation offering three engine options. Oil change intervals were shorter at 5,000 miles compared to later models.​

2006 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2006 Cadillac CTS offered three engine configurations with uniform 6.0 qt (5.7 L) oil capacity across all variants. SAE 5W-30 viscosity is specified for all engines.​

2005 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2005 Cadillac CTS featured the 5.7L LS6 V8 in the CTS-V model requiring 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of oil. All engines use SAE 5W-30 viscosity for optimal protection.​

2004 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2004 Cadillac CTS introduced the high-performance CTS-V variant with the 5.7L LS6 engine. All three engine options require 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of SAE 5W-30 oil.​

2003 Cadillac CTS Engine Oil Capacity

The 2003 Cadillac CTS was the inaugural model year featuring the 3.2L V6 engine requiring 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of oil. SAE 5W-30 viscosity provides adequate protection for the LA3 engine.​

Oil Maintenance and Service Tips

Checking Oil Level

Check engine oil level regularly using the dipstick when the engine is cold and parked on level ground. Insert the dipstick fully, remove it, and verify the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks. Low oil levels can cause engine damage while overfilling may lead to increased pressure and leaks.

Oil Change Best Practices

Change engine oil and filter according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals to maintain proper lubrication. Use only Dexos1 certified oil in 2011 and newer models to meet warranty requirements. Full synthetic oil provides superior protection compared to conventional oil, especially in extreme temperatures.​

Oil Filter Replacement

Always replace the oil filter during each oil change to remove contaminants and maintain oil flow. Use OEM or equivalent filters that meet GM specifications for proper filtration. Lubricate the new filter gasket with fresh oil before installation to ensure a proper seal.

Severe Driving Conditions

Reduce oil change intervals to every 5,000 miles under severe driving conditions including frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, towing, or dusty environments. Monitor oil level more frequently when operating under these conditions.​

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of oil does a Cadillac CTS use?

The Cadillac CTS requires full synthetic oil meeting Dexos1 certification for model years 2011 and newer. Earlier models from 2003 to 2010 can use synthetic blend or conventional oil meeting API SN specifications. Always verify the specific requirements in your owner’s manual for your model year.​

How much oil does a Cadillac CTS take?

Oil capacity varies by engine, ranging from 5.0 qt (4.7 L) for the 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder to 10.0 qt (9.5 L) for the 6.2L supercharged V8 in the CTS-V. Most 3.6L V6 engines require 6.0 qt (5.7 L) while the twin-turbo version needs 7.0 qt (6.6 L). Always check your specific engine’s capacity before adding oil.​

What is the recommended oil viscosity for a Cadillac CTS?

SAE 5W-30 is the recommended viscosity for all Cadillac CTS models across all production years. This multi-grade oil provides proper flow at cold startup temperatures and adequate protection at operating temperature. Some earlier models may accept 10W-30 in warmer climates but 5W-30 is preferred.​

What is the oil change interval for a Cadillac CTS?

Modern Cadillac CTS models from 2008 to 2019 have a 7,500-mile or 12-month oil change interval under normal driving conditions. Earlier models from 2003 to 2007 require more frequent changes at 5,000 miles or 6 months. Severe driving conditions require reducing the interval to 5,000 miles regardless of model year.​

What does Dexos1 certification mean?

Dexos1 is General Motors’ proprietary oil specification requiring enhanced oxidation stability, wear protection, and deposit control. Oil meeting Dexos1 Gen 2 standards is required for warranty coverage on 2011 and newer Cadillac CTS models. Using non-certified oil may void warranty claims related to engine damage.​​

Can I use 0W-20 oil in my Cadillac CTS?

Some newer Cadillac engines accept 0W-20 oil, but most CTS models specifically require 5W-30 viscosity. Using a thinner viscosity than specified may result in inadequate lubrication and increased wear. Always follow the viscosity recommendation listed in your owner’s manual and on the oil filler cap.​

Conclusion

The Cadillac CTS requires specific engine oil capacity, type, and viscosity depending on the model year and engine configuration. Oil capacities range from 5.0 qt for smaller turbocharged engines to 10.0 qt for high-performance V8 variants. SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil meeting Dexos1 certification is required for 2011 and newer models to ensure proper protection and warranty compliance. Following manufacturer-specified oil change intervals and using approved oil types maintains engine reliability, performance, and longevity throughout the vehicle’s service life.​