2014–2019 Cadillac CTS

2014-2019 Cadillac CTS — Engine Oil & Filter Change

By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026

🔧🔧 Moderate 30-60 minutes $57 DIY

Save $63 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $120

Quick answer: Engine Oil & Filter Change on a 2014–2019 Cadillac CTS is rated Moderate and takes about 30-60 minutes. You'll need 3 tools for this job, and parts cost about $57. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

Total Cost

$57.00

Oil spec 2.0L I4

Capacity 5.0 qt with filter Viscosity 5W-30 (alt: 0W-30) Spec dexos1

Part Name	Part Number	Price	Buy
Engine Oil (5W-30)	—	$45.00	Amazon
Correct engine oil filter and drain-plug washer for 2014-2019 Cadillac CTS	—	$12.00	Amazon

About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.

💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

Confirm your CTS's engine, drivetrain, and oil spec

3.6L LGX V6 takes 6 quarts (RWD) or 6.5 quarts (AWD) of 5W-30 dexos1 Gen 3; 2.0T takes 5.0 (RWD) or 6.0 (AWD) quarts. Top-of-engine cartridge filter. Confirm your drivetrain. Park level, brake set, wheels chocked.

Locate the top cartridge housing and drain plug

Warm and shut off. Open the hood and find the cartridge housing cap on top — a 15/16-inch socket fits it. Get underneath, slide the pan under the oil-pan plug (remove any undertray), and pry the fragile engine-cover clips gently.

Drain the oil and replace the cartridge

Drain; refit the plug with a fresh washer at 18 ft-lbs. Open the housing cap with the 15/16-inch socket, swap the element, fit pre-lubed housing O-rings. Torque the cap per the manual — non-dexos oil endangers the LGX timing chain.

Refill and check the dipstick

Double-check the plug and cap, then pour in 5W-30 dexos1 Gen 3: 6 quarts (3.6 RWD) or 6.5 (3.6 AWD). Wait five minutes and check the dipstick — add small splashes to reach the full mark, never above it.

Check for leaks and reset the oil-life monitor

Run 30 seconds and check the plug and housing cap for leaks. Shut off, wait two minutes, and recheck the dipstick. Reset oil-life monitor through the cluster, and recheck underneath after driving — pinched housing O-rings are the leak source.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker

Pinched O-rings are the classic leak on these top housings. I always look underneath after the first drive — catching it then is a five-minute re-seat, not a tow.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong viscosity, capacity, or filter
• Working under a vehicle supported only by a jack
• Reusing a crushed drain-plug washer or leaving the old filter gasket stuck
• Over-tightening the filter or drain plug
• Starting the engine without first verifying oil was added

Tools You'll Need

Floor jack or ramps and rated jack stands if needed Oil-drain pan, funnel, gloves, and eye protection Socket or wrench for the drain plug and oil-filter tool Calibrated torque wrench and shop towels 15/16-inch Socket

⚠️ Safety First!

• Informational DIY. EZ Car Fix is not a shop.
• Work on level ground with the engine off and only safely supported by ramps or rated jack stands; never rely on a jack alone.
• Verify oil viscosity, capacity, filter, and drain-plug washer for the exact engine. Do not mix fluids or overfill.
• Hot oil can burn. Wear gloves and eye protection, keep spills away from tires, and dispose of used oil at an approved collection point.
• Stop if the drain plug, filter housing, pan, or threads are damaged or leaking.