2023 Cadillac XT4 Engine Oil and Fluids 

Your Cadillac XT4’s engine oil and fluids must be maintained in 2023 for best performance, longevity, and reliability. To keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly repairs, check and change the engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and other fluids regularly. To keep your Cadillac XT4’s great driving experience for years, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and use high-quality fluids and oils. To keep your 2023 Cadillac XT4 running smoothly, follow these fluid maintenance guidelines.

Engine Oil

To ensure proper engine performance and long life, careful attention must be paid to engine oil. Following these simple, but important steps will help protect your investment:

• Use engine oil approved to the proper specification and of the proper viscosity grade. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section.
• Check the engine oil level regularly and maintain the proper oil level. See “Checking Engine Oil” and “When to Add Engine Oil” in this section.
• Change the engine oil at the appropriate time.
• Always dispose of engine oil properly. See “What to Do with Used Oil” in this section.

Checking Engine Oil
Check the engine oil level regularly, every 650 km (400 mi), especially prior to a long trip. The engine oil dipstick handle is a loop.
Warning: The engine oil dipstick handle may be hot; it could burn you. Use a towel or glove to touch the dipstick handle.

If a low oil Driver Information Center (DIC) message displays, check the oil level. Follow these guidelines:

• To get an accurate reading, park the vehicle on level ground. Check the engine oil level after the engine has been off for at least two hours. Checking the engine oil level on steep grades or too soon after engine shutoff can result in incorrect readings. Accuracy improves when checking a cold engine prior to starting. Remove the dipstick and check the level.
• If unable to wait two hours, the engine must be off for at least 15 minutes if the engine is warm, or at least 30 minutes if the engine is not warm. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it with a clean paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.

When to Add Engine Oil
If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick and the engine has been off for at least 15 minutes, add 1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil and then recheck the level. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” later in this section for an explanation of what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications.
Caution: Do not add too much oil. Oil levels above or below the acceptable operating range shown on the dipstick are harmful to the engine. If the oil level is above the operating range (i.e., the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range), the engine could be damaged. Drain the excess oil or limit driving of the vehicle, and seek a service professional to remove the excess oil.
Add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when through.

Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Selecting the right engine oil depends on both the proper oil specification and viscosity grade.

Specification
Use full synthetic engine oils that meet the dexos1 specification. Engine oils that have been approved by GM as meeting the dexos1 specification are marked with the dexos1-approved logo. See www.gmdexos.com.
Caution: Failure to use the recommended engine oil or equivalent can result in engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.\

Viscosity Grade
Use SAE 0W-20 viscosity grade engine oil. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, it is recommended to select an oil of the correct specification. See “Specification” earlier in this section.

Engine Oil Additives/ Engine Oil Flushes
Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils meeting the dexos1 specification are all that are needed for good performance and engine protection. Engine oil system flushes are not recommended and could cause engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.

What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain elements that can be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.
Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash or pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil.

Engine Oil Life System

When to Change Engine Oil
This vehicle has a computer system that indicates when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on a combination of factors which include engine revolutions, engine temperature, and miles driven. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change is indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, the system must be reset every time the oil is changed. When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it indicates that an oil change is necessary. A CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes on. Change the oil as soon as possible within the next 1,000 km (600 mi). It is possible that, if driving under the best conditions, the oil life system may indicate that an oil change is not necessary for up to a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. Your dealer has trained service people who will perform this work and reset the system. It is also important to check the oil regularly over the course of an oil drain interval and keep it at the proper level. If the system is ever reset accidentally, the oil must be changed at 5,000 km (3,000 mi) since the last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.

How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System
Reset the system whenever the engine oil is changed so that the system can calculate the next engine oil change. To reset the system:

1. Using the DIC controls on the right side of the steering wheel, display REMAINING OIL LIFE on the DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC). When the remaining oil life is low, the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message will appear on the display.
2. Press on the DIC controls and hold down for a few seconds to clear the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message and reset the oil life to 100%. Be careful not to reset the oil life display accidentally at any time other than after the oil is changed.

It cannot be reset accurately until the next oil change. The system is reset when the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message is off. If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes back on when the vehicle is started, the engine oil life system has not been reset. Repeat the procedure.

Automatic Transmission Fluid
A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to your dealer and have it repaired as soon as possible.
Caution: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission fluid may damage the vehicle, and the damage may not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use the correct automatic transmission fluid. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants.

Engine Air Filter Life System
If equipped, this feature provides the engine air filter’s remaining life and the best timing for a change. The timing to change an engine air filter depends on driving and environmental conditions.

When to Change Engine Air Filter
When the Driver Information Center (DIC) displays a message to replace the engine air filter at the next oil change, follow this timing. When the DIC displays a message to replace the engine air filter soon, replace the engine air filter at your earliest convenience. The system must be reset after the engine air filter is changed. If the DIC displays a message to check the engine air filter system, see your dealer.

How to Reset Engine Air Filter Life System
To reset:

1. Place the vehicle in P (Park).
2. Display the Air Filter Life on the DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC).
3. Press > on the steering wheel to move to the Reset/Disable display area. Select Reset then press .
4. Press to confirm to reset.

Engine Air Cleaner/ Filter
The engine air cleaner/filter is in the engine compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview.

When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

. For intervals on changing and inspecting the engine air filter, see Maintenance Schedule.
. If equipped with the Engine Air Filter Life System, see Engine Air Filter Life System.
. If driving in very dusty areas, follow the engine air filter inspecting and changing intervals, see Maintenance Schedule.

How to Inspect/Replace the Engine Air Cleaner/ Filter
Do not start the engine or have the engine running with the engine air cleaner/filter housing open. Before removing the engine air cleaner/filter, make sure that the engine air cleaner/filter housing and nearby components are free of dirt and debris. Remove the engine air cleaner/filter. Lightly tap and shake the engine air cleaner/filter (away from the vehicle), to release dust and dirt. Inspect the engine air cleaner/filter for damage, and replace it if damaged. Do not clean the engine air cleaner/ filter or components with water or compressed air.

To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter:

1. Remove the six screws on top of the engine air cleaner/filter housing.
2. Lift the air cleaner/filter cover housing away from the engine.
3. Pull out the filter.
   Warning: If part replacement is necessary, the part must be replaced with one of the same part number or with an equivalent part. Use of a replacement part without the same fit, form, and function may result in personal injury or damage to the vehicle.
4. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter.
5. Reverse Steps 1–3 to reinstall the filter cover housing.
6. If equipped, reset the engine air filter life system after replacing the engine air filter. See Engine Air Filter Life System.
   Warning: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. Use caution when working on the engine. Do not start the engine or drive the vehicle with the air cleaner/filter off, as flames may be present if the engine backfires.
   Caution: If the air cleaner/filter is off, dirt can easily get into the engine, which could damage it. Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when driving.

Cooling System
The cooling system allows the engine to maintain the correct working temperature.

1. Electric Engine Cooling Fan (Out of View)
2. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap

Warning

• An underhood electric fan can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan.
• Do not touch the heater radiator hoses or other engine parts. They can be very hot and can burn you. Do not run the engine if there is a leak; all coolant could leak out. That could cause an engine fire and can burn you. Fix any leak before driving the vehicle.

Engine Coolant
The engine cooling system in the vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL engine coolant mixture. This coolant needs to be checked and changed at appropriate levels. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants and Maintenance Schedule.
The following explains the cooling system and how to check and add coolant when it is low. If there is a problem with the engine overheating.

What to Use
Warning

• Do not touch the heater radiator hoses or other engine parts. They can be very hot and can burn you.
• Do not run the engine if there is a leak; all coolant could leak out. That could cause an engine fire and can burn you. Fix any leak before driving the vehicle.

Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant. This mixture:

• Gives freezing protection down to −37 °C (−34 °F), outside temperature.
• Gives boiling protection up to 129 °C (265 °F), engine temperature.
• Protects against rust and corrosion.
• Will not damage aluminum parts.
• Helps keep the proper engine temperature.
  Caution: Do not use anything other than a mix of DEX-COOL coolant that meets GM Standard GMW3420 and clean, drinkable water. Anything else can cause damage to the engine cooling system and the vehicle, which would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Never dispose of engine coolant by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, or pouring it into sewers, streams, or bodies of water. Have the coolant changed by an authorized service center, familiar with legal requirements regarding used coolant disposal. This will help protect the environment and your health.

Checking Coolant
The vehicle must be on a level surface when checking the coolant level.
Check to see if coolant is visible in the coolant surge tank. If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down. If coolant is visible but the coolant level mark is not at or above the indicated mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant. Be sure the cooling system is cool before this is done. See Engine Overheating. The coolant surge tank is in the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle.

How to Add Coolant to the Surge Tank
Warning

• Spilling coolant on hot engine parts can burn you. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough.
• Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system are under pressure. Turning the pressure cap, even a little, can cause them to come out at high speed and you could be burned. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and pressure cap to cool.

Caution: Failure to follow the specific coolant fill procedure could cause the engine to overheat and could cause system damage. If coolant is not visible in the surge tank, contact your dealer.

The coolant surge tank pressure cap can be removed when the cooling system, including the surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.

1. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise. If a hiss is heard, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
2. Keep turning the pressure cap slowly and remove it.
3. If topping off the level in the coolant surge tank, add the proper mixture until the level reaches the mark on the front of the tank and replace the cap. Operate the vehicle. Repeat steps 1–3, as necessary. If filling the system (such as after servicing), follow the Automatic Coolant Service Fill Instructions.
   Caution: If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant loss and engine damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured.

Automatic Coolant Service Fill Instructions
This feature assists in filling and removing air from the cooling system after the service of components or when coolant is added after being too low. To activate the fill and air removal process:

1. With a cold system, add coolant to the indicated mark on the surge tank.
2. Replace the cap on the surge tank.
3. Connect the vehicle to a battery charger.
4. Turn the ignition to Service Mode. See Ignition Positions 0 247.
5. Turn off the air conditioning.
6. Set the parking brake.
7. At the same time, press the accelerator and the brake for automatic transmission vehicles for two seconds, then release.

At the end of the cycle, check the coolant level in the surge tank and add coolant if it is low. Turn off the vehicle, allow the Electronic Control Module (ECM) to go to sleep, for about 2 minutes, and repeat Steps 3-7. Listen for pump activation and movement of the control valves while watching the level of the coolant in the surge tank. If the tank empties, turn the ignition off, carefully remove the surge tank cap, refill to the indicated mark, and repeat Steps 3-6. The fill and air removal process will run for approximately 10 minutes.

Engine Overheating
The vehicle has several indicators to warn of the engine overheating. There is an engine coolant temperature gauge on the instrument cluster. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge. The vehicle may also display a message on the Driver Information Center (DIC). If the decision is made not to lift the hood when this warning appears, get service help right away. See Roadside Assistance Program.

If the decision is made to lift the hood, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Then check to see if the engine cooling fan is running. If the engine is overheating, the fan should be running. If it is not, do not continue to run the engine. Have the vehicle serviced.

Caution: Do not run the engine if there is a leak in the engine cooling system. This can cause a loss of all coolant and can damage the system and vehicle. Have any leaks fixed right away?

If Steam Is Coming from the Engine Compartment
Warning: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system are under pressure. Turning the pressure cap, even a little, can cause them to come out at high speed and you could be burned. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and pressure cap to cool.

If No Steam Is Coming from the Engine Compartment
If an engine overheat warning is displayed but no steam can be seen or heard, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when the vehicle:

• Climbs a long hill on a hot day.
• Stops after high-speed driving.
• Idles for long periods in traffic.

If the overheat warning is |displayed with no sign of steam:

1. Turn the air conditioning off.
2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as necessary.
3. When it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or N(Neutral), and let the engine idle.

If the engine coolant temperature gauge is no longer in the overheated area or the engine coolant temperature warning light no longer displays, the vehicle can be driven. Continue to drive the vehicle slowly for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. If the warning does not come back on, continue to drive normally and have the cooling system checked for proper fill and function. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away. If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine for three minutes while parked. If the warning is still displayed, turn off the engine until it cools down.

Washer Fluid

What to Use
When windshield washer fluid is needed, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If operating the vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.

Adding Washer Fluid
The appropriate message will appear in the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the fluid level is low. Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer fluid until the tank is full.

Caution

1. Do not use washer fluid that contains any type of water-repellent coating. This can cause the wiper blades to chatter or skip.
2. Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in the windshield washer. It can damage the windshield washer system and paint.
3. Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage the washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system.
4. When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water.
5. Fill the washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for fluid expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full.

Brakes
Disc brake linings have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake linings are worn and new linings are needed. The sound can come and go or can be heard all the time when the vehicle is moving, except when applying the brake pedal firmly.
Warning: The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to a crash. When the brake wear warning sound is heard, have the vehicle serviced.
Caution: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake linings could result in costly brake repairs.

Some driving conditions or climates can cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied, clearing up following several applications. This does not mean something is wrong with the brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake linings for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to torque specifications. Brake pads should be replaced as complete axle sets.

Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign that brake service may be required.

Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system parts with new, approved replacement parts. If this is not done, the brakes may not work properly. The braking performance can change in many ways if the wrong brake parts are installed or if parts are improperly installed.

Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with GM-approved DOT 4 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap.

Checking Brake Fluid
With the vehicle in P (Park) on a level surface, the brake fluid level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the brake fluid reservoir. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir may go down:

• Normal brake lining wear. When new linings are installed, the fluid level goes back up.
• A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system. Have the brake hydraulic system fixed? With a leak, the brakes will not work well.

Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. Do not top off the brake fluid. Adding fluid does not correct a leak. If fluid is added when the linings are worn, there will be too much fluid when new brake linings are installed. Add or remove fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
Warning: If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill on the engine and burn, if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and the vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brake warning light comes on. Brake fluid absorbs water over time which degrades the effectiveness of the brake fluid. Replace brake fluid at the specified intervals to prevent increased stopping distance.

What to Add
Use only GM-approved DOT 4 brake fluid from a clean, sealed container.
Warning: The wrong or contaminated brake fluid could result in damage to the brake system. This could result in the loss of braking leading to a possible injury. Always use the proper GM-approved brake fluid.
Caution: If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Immediately wash off any painted surface.

Battery – North America
The original equipment battery is maintenance-free. Do not remove the cap and do not add fluid. Refer to the replacement number on the original battery label when a new battery is needed. For replacement of the battery, see your dealer. The vehicle has an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) 12-volt battery. Installation of a standard 12-volt battery will result in reduced 12-volt battery life. When using a 12-volt battery charger on the 12-volt AGM battery, some chargers have an AGM battery setting on the charger. If available, use the AGM setting on the charger, to limit the charge voltage to 14.8 volts.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Stop/Start System
This vehicle has a Stop/Start system to shut off the engine to help conserve fuel.
Warning: Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you are not careful. Always wear eye protection. See Jump Starting – North America for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.

Infrequent Usage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery to keep the battery from running down. Extended Storage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery or use a battery trickle charger.

All-wheel drive Transfer Case
Under normal driving conditions, transfer case fluid does not require maintenance unless there is a fluid leak or unusual noise. If required, have the transfer case serviced by your dealer.

Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check

Warning: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could begin to move. You or others could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front of the vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake.

• To check the parking brake’s holding ability: With the engine running and the transmission in N(Neutral), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only.
• To check the P (Park) mechanism’s holding ability: With the engine running, shift to P (Park). Then release the parking brake followed by the regular brake.

Contact your dealer if service is required.

Wiper Blade Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear or cracking. It is a good idea to clean or replace the wiper blade assembly on a regular basis or when worn. For proper windshield wiper blade length and type, see Maintenance Replacement Parts.
Caution: Allowing the wiper arm to touch the windshield when no wiper blade is installed could damage the windshield. Any damage that occurs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not allow the wiper arm to touch the windshield.

Front Wiper Blade Replacement
To replace the wiper blade assembly:

1. Pull the windshield wiper assembly away from the windshield.
2. Lift up on the latch in the middle of the wiper blade where the wiper arm attaches.
3. With the latch open, pull the wiper blade down toward the windshield far enough to release it from the J-hooked end of the wiper arm.
4. Remove the wiper blade.
5. Reverse Steps 1–3 for wiper blade replacement.

Rear Wiper Blade Replacement
To remove the wiper blade:

1. Put the vehicle in accessory mode and turn on the rear windshield wiper. The wiper will stop pointing down. See Rear Window Wiper/Washer.
2. Push ENGINE START/ STOP to turn the vehicle off.
3. Lift the wiper arm away from the window.
4. Push the release lever (2) to disengage the hook and push the wiper arm (1) out of the blade assembly (3).
5. Push the new blade assembly securely on the wiper arm until the release lever clicks into place.
6. Start the engine and the rear wiper will return to its normal position.

FAQ’s