Cleaning: 2023 Cadillac CT5 Interior, Exterior Care Guide
Setting out on a journey in the 2023 Cadillac CT5 is an experience of luxury and fine craftsmanship, not merely driving thrills. Your CT5 will always be a flawless representation of refinement thanks to the Interior, Exterior Care Guide, which becomes your constant companion as you learn the art of maintenance. We explore the domains of cleanliness in this introduction, learning how the guide shows the way to maintain the grace of your Cadillac CT5’s exterior and interior. Interior Surfaces and Materials are the main focus at the start of the journey. The book offers information on the range of materials used in the interior of the CT5, including leather and wood accents, and offers cleaning and preservation advice to ensure longevity and timeless elegance. The guide reveals the details of Cleaning and Conditioning Leather Upholstery as you go deeper. Learn the careful balance needed to maintain the soft, glossy leather seats of your CT5, which improves comfort and adds to a more upscale driving experience.
2023 Cadillac CT5 Specs, Price, Features, Mileage and Review
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory. Use a de-icing agent only when necessary, and have the locks greased after use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 371.
Cadillac CT5 Cleaning
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle’s finish, wash it often and out of direct sunlight.
2023 Cadillac CT5 Interior, Exterior Owners Manual
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 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.
Automatic Car Wash
Caution
Automatic car washes can cause damage to the vehicle, wheels, ground effects, and convertible top (if equipped).
Do not use automatic car washes due to a lack of clearance for the undercarriage, wide rear tyres, and wheels.
Caution
To avoid damage to a matte paint finish, do not use an automatic car wash equipped with brushes or scrubbers. Only use touchless automatic car washes.
If using an automatic car wash, follow the car wash instructions. The windshield wiper and rear window wiper, if equipped, must be off. Remove any accessories that may be damaged or interfere with the car wash equipment.
Hand Wash
Rinse the vehicle well, before and after washing, to remove all cleaning agents completely. If they are allowed to dry on the surface, they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting.
Cleaning Underhood Components
Caution
Do not power wash any component under the hood that has this symbol. This could cause damage that would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Solvents or aggressive cleaners may harm under-hood components. The usage of these chemicals should be avoided. Recommend water only. A pressure washer may be used, but care must be utilized.
The following criteria must be followed:
- Water pressure must be kept below 14,000 KPa (2,000 PSI).
- Water temperature must be below 80 °C (180 °F).
- A spray nozzle with a 40-degree wide angle spray pattern or wider must be used.
- The nozzle must be kept at least 30 cm (1 ft) away from all surfaces.
Finish Care
Application of aftermarket clearcoat sealant/ wax materials is not recommended.
If painted surfaces are damaged, see your dealer to have the damage assessed and repaired. Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice-melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage the vehicle’s finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.
Occasional hand waxing or mild polishing should be done to remove residue from the paint finish. See your dealer for approved cleaning products.
Do not apply waxes or polishes to uncoated plastic, vinyl, rubber, decals, simulated wood, or flat paint as damage can occur.
Caution
Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and polishes that are made for a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish on the vehicle. To keep the paint finish looking new, keep the vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible
2023 Cadillac CT5 Interior, Exterior User Manual
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Moldings
Caution
Failure to clean and protect the bright metal mouldings can result in a hazy white finish or pitting. This damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. The bright metal mouldings on the vehicle are aluminium, chrome, or stainless steel.
To prevent damage always follow these cleaning instructions:
- Be sure the moulding is cool to the touch before applying any cleaning solution.
- Use only approved cleaning solutions for aluminium, chrome, or stainless steel.
Some cleaners are highly acidic or contain alkaline substances and can damage the mouldings.
- Always dilute a concentrated cleaner according to the manufacturer’s
- Do not use cleaners that are not intended for automotive use.
- Use a nonabrasive wax on the vehicle after washing to protect and extend the moulding finish.
Carbon Fiber Care
Carbon fibre composite parts can be washed and waxed like any other parts. Use clear or black-pigmented wax. See Composite Materials 0 207.
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses, Emblems, Decals, and Stripes
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth, and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps, lenses, emblems, decals, and stripes. Follow the instructions under “Washing the Vehicle” previously in this section. Lamp covers are made of plastic, and some have a UV protective coating. Do not clean or wipe them when dry.
Do not use any of the following on lamp covers:
- Abrasive or caustic agents.
- Washer fluids and other cleaning agents in higher concentrations than suggested by the manufacturer.
- Solvents, alcohols, fuels, or other harsh cleaners.
- Ice scrapers or other hard items.
- Aftermarket appearance caps or covers while the lamps are illuminated, due to excessive heat generated.
Caution
- Failure to clean lamps properly can cause damage to the lamp cover that would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
- Using wax on low-gloss black finish stripes can increase the gloss level and create a non-uniform finish. Clean low gloss stripes with soap and water only.
Air Intakes
Clear debris from the air intake, between the hood and windshield, when washing the vehicle.
Shutter System
The vehicle may have a shutter system designed to help improve fuel economy.
Keep the shutter system clear of debris The vehicle may have a shutter system designed to help improve fuel economy.
Keep the shutter system clear of debris snow and ice. If the check engine light is activated, please check to see if the shutter system is clear of debris, snow or ice.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield with glass cleaner. Clean rubber blades using a lint-free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. Wash the windshield thoroughly when cleaning the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause wiper streaking. Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or damaged. Damage can be caused by extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun, snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weather strip lubricant on weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Lubricate weatherstrips at least once a year. Hot, dry climates may require more frequent application. Black marks from rubber material on painted surfaces can be removed by rubbing with a clean cloth.
Tyres
Use a stiff brush with tyre cleaner to clean the tyres.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tyre dressing products on the vehicle may damage the paint finish and/or tyres. When applying a tyre dressing, always wipe off any overspray from all painted surfaces on the vehicle.
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and water to clean the wheels. After rinsing thoroughly with clean water, dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax may then be applied.
Caution
- Chrome wheels and chrome wheel trim may be damaged if the vehicle is not washed after driving on roads that have been sprayed with magnesium chloride or calcium chloride. These are used on roads for conditions such as dust and ice. Always wash the chrome with soap and water after exposure.
- To avoid surface damage on wheels and wheel trim, do not use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners, or brushes. Use only GM-approved cleaners. Do not drive the vehicle through an automatic car wash that uses silicon carbide tyre/wheel cleaning brushes. Damage could occur and the repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect all other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and Chassis Components
Visually inspect steering, suspension, and chassis components for damaged, loose, or missing parts or signs of wear at least once a year. Inspect power steering for proper electrical connections, binding, cracks, chafing, etc.
2023 Cadillac CT5 Interior, Exterior User Guide
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect all other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and Chassis Components
Visually inspect steering, suspension, and chassis components for damaged, loose, or missing parts or signs of wear at least once a year.
Inspect power steering for proper electrical connections, binding, cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint boots and axle seals for leaks.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and steel fuel door hinges, unless the components are plastic. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
At least twice a year, spring and fall, use plain water to flush any corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care to thoroughly clean any areas where mud and other debris can collect. Do not directly power wash the transfer case and/or front/rear axle output seals. High-pressure water can overcome the seals and contaminate the fluid. Contaminated fluid will decrease the life of the transfer case and/or axles and should be replaced.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts will provide corrosion protection while maintaining the vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and scratches with touch-up materials available from your dealer to avoid corrosion. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in your dealer’s body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted vehicle surfaces causing blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface. See “Finish Care” previously in this section.
Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions, regularly clean the vehicle’s interior. Before using cleaners, read and follow all safety instructions on the label. While cleaning the interior, open the doors and windows to get proper ventilation. Newspapers or dark garments can transfer colour to the vehicle’s interior.
Automotive Cleaning Tips
Caution
- Immediately remove cleaners, hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect repellent from all interior surfaces or permanent damage may result.
- Use cleaners specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned to prevent permanent damage to the vehicle. Apply all cleaners directly to a cleaning cloth.
- Do not spray cleaners on any switches or controls. When using liquid soap cleaners, follow the directions on the specific cleaner or soap solution for dilution instructions.
To prevent damage
- Never use a razor or any other sharp object to remove soil from any interior surface.
- Never use a brush with stiff bristles.
- Never rub any surface aggressively or dishwash soaps with degreasers. Do not use solutions that contain strong or caustic soap.
- Do not get any exposed electrical components wet.
- Do not use laundry detergents or dishwashing soaps with degreasers. Do not use solutions that contain strong or caustic soap.
- Do not heavily saturate the upholstery when cleaning.
- Do not use solvents or cleaners containing solvents.
- Do not use disinfecting wipes that are scented or contain bleach. Do not use wipes or cleaners that show a colour transfer to the wipe or change the appearance of the interior surface when used
- Do not use scented or gel-type hand sanitisers. If hand sanitiser comes in contact with the interior surfaces of the vehicle, blot immediately and clean with a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap and water solution.
Interior Glass
To clean, use a microfiber cloth fabric dampened with water. Wipe droplets left behind with a clean dry cloth. If necessary, use a commercial glass cleaner after cleaning with plain water.
Caution
- To prevent scratching, never use abrasive cleaners on automotive glass. Abrasive cleaners or aggressive cleaning may damage the rear window defogger.
- Cleaning the windshield with water during the first three to six months of ownership will reduce the tendency to fog.
Speaker Covers
Vacuum around a speaker covers gently so that the speaker will not be damaged. Clean spots with water and mild soap.
Coated Moldings
Coated mouldings should be cleaned.
- When lightly soiled, wipe with a sponge or soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water.
- When heavily soiled, use warm soapy water.
Vinyl/Rubber
If equipped with vinyl floor and rubber floor mats, use a soft cloth and/or brush dampened with water to remove dust and loose dirt. For more thorough cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution.
Warning
Do not use cleaners that contain silicone, wax-based products, or cleaners that increase gloss on vinyl/rubber floors and mats. These cleaners can permanently change the appearance and feel of the vinyl/rubber and can make the floor slippery. Your foot could slip while operating the vehicle, and you could lose control, resulting in a crash. You or others could be injured.
Fabric/Carpet/Suede
Start by vacuuming the surface using a soft brush attachment. If a rotating vacuum brush attachment is being used, only use it on the floor carpet.
Before cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil as possible:
- Gently blot liquids with a paper towel. Continue blotting until no more soil can be removed
- For solid soils, remove as much as possible before vacuuming.
Car Care Routine
To clean
- Saturate a clean, lint-free colourfast cloth with water. Microfiber cloth is recommended to prevent lint transfer to the fabric or carpet.
- Remove excess moisture by gently wringing until water does not drip from the cleaning cloth.
- Start on the outside edge of the soil and gently rub toward the centre. Fold the cleaning cloth to a clean area frequently to prevent forcing the soil into the fabric.
- Continue gently rubbing the soiled area until there is no longer any colour transfer from the soil to the cleaning cloth.
- If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap solution followed only by plain water.
If the soil is not completely removed, it may be necessary to use a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small hidden area for colourfastness before using a commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter. If ring formation occurs, clean the entire fabric or carpet. After cleaning, use a paper towel to blot excess moisture.
Cleaning High Gloss Surfaces and Vehicle Information and Radio Displays
Use a microfiber cloth on high gloss surfaces or vehicle displays. First, use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt that can scratch the surface. Then gently clean by rubbing with a microfiber cloth. Never use window cleaners or solvents. Periodically hand wash the microfiber cloth separately, using a mild soap. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Rinse thoroughly and air dry before the next use.
Caution
Do not attach a device with a suction cup to the display. This may cause damage and would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Instrument Panel, Leather, Vinyl, Other Plastic Surfaces, Low Gloss Paint Surfaces, and Natural Open Pore Wood
Surfaces
Use a soft bristle brush to remove dust from knobs and crevices on the instrument cluster. Use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with water to remove dust and loose dirt. For more thorough cleaning, use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with a mild soap and water solution.
Caution
- Soaking or saturating leather, especially perforated leather, as well as other interior surfaces, may cause permanent damage. Wipe excess moisture from these surfaces after cleaning and allow them to dry naturally. Never use heat, steam, or spot removers. Do not use liquids that contain alcohol or solvents on leather seats. Do not use cleaners that contain silicone or wax-based products.
Cleaners containing these solvents can permanently change the appearance and feel of leather or soft trim and are not recommended. - Do not use cleaners that increase gloss, especially on the instrument panel. Reflected glare can decrease visibility through the windshield under certain conditions.
- The use of air fresheners may cause permanent damage to plastics and painted surfaces. If an air freshener comes in contact with any plastic or painted surface in the vehicle, blot immediately and clean with a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution. Damage caused by air fresheners would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Cargo Cover and Convenience Net
If equipped, wash with warm water and mild detergent. Do not use chlorine bleach. Rinse with cold water, and then dry completely.
Care of Seat Belts
Keep belts clean and dry.
Warning
Do not bleach or dye seat belt webbing. It may severely weaken the webbing. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean and rinse seat belt webbing only with mild soap and lukewarm water. Allow the webbing to dry.
Floor Mats
Warning
If a floor mat is the wrong size or is not properly installed, it can interfere with the pedals. Interference with the pedals can cause unintended acceleration and/or increased stopping distance which can cause a crash and injury. Make sure the floor mat does not interfere with the pedals.
Use the following guidelines for proper floor mat use:
- The original equipment floor mats are designed for your vehicle. If the floor mats need to be replaced, it is recommended that GM-certified floor mats are purchased. Non-GM floor mats may not fit properly and may interfere with the pedals. Always check that the floor mats do not interfere with the pedals.
- Do not use a floor mat if the vehicle is not equipped with a floor mat retainer on the driver-side floor.
- Use the floor mat with the correct side up. Do not turn it over.
- Do not place anything on top of the driver-side floor mat.
- Use only a single floor mat on the driver’s side.
- Do not place one floor mat on top of another.
Button Retainer
Some vehicles have floor mats with a button-type retainer.
Removing and Replacing the Floor Mat
- Pull up on the rear of the mat to unlock and remove it.
- Reinstall the floor mat by lining up the floor mat opening over the carpet retainer and snapping it into position.
- Make sure the floor mat is properly secured. Verify the floor mat does not interfere with the pedals.
Cleaning Rubber Floor Mats (All-Weather Mats and Floor Liners)
See “Vinyl/Rubber” under Interior Care 361for important cleaning information
FAQS
The guide provides insights into cleaning and maintaining various interior surfaces and materials, including leather, wood accents, and other components.
The guide offers specific instructions on cleaning and conditioning leather upholstery, ensuring it remains supple and lustrous for a refined driving experience.
Yes, the guide includes tips for caring for interior electronics and displays, guiding cleaning touchscreens and other electronic components.
The guide details maintenance tips for the exterior paint and finish, offering insights into preserving the paint and protecting it from the elements.
The guide navigates through caring for wheels, tyres, and the underbody, providing tips on maintaining their appearance and contributing to overall driving dynamics.
Yes, the guide includes specific techniques for cleaning and maintaining glass and mirrors, ensuring clarity for windows and an unobstructed view.
The guide concludes with considerations for special features and finishes, offering tailored advice for emblem care and other unique elements in the CT5.
The guide may include information on dealing with stains or spills on interior surfaces, providing guidance on how to address and clean different types of spills.
The guide may include recommendations for specific cleaning products suitable for the CT5’s interior and exterior, ensuring compatibility and effectiveness.
Yes, the guide may include tips for addressing common cleaning challenges or issues and providing solutions for maintaining the CT5 in optimal condition.
The guide may offer specific advice on cleaning and protecting emblems and unique finishes, ensuring they remain in pristine condition.
While not exhaustive, the guide may include troubleshooting tips for common cleaning or maintenance issues, guiding users on potential solutions.
Useful Link
View Full User Guide: Cadillac CT5 2023 User Guide
Download Manuals: https://www.cadillac.com/support/vehicle/manuals-guides
Alarm System: 2023 Cadillac CT5 | Door Security Features
2023 Cadillac CT5 Specs, Price, Features, Mileage and Review