Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Exterior/interior Trim All sections

Exterior Trim Cadillac CTS II

Exterior/interior Trim 28 illustrations ~333 words

Fastener Tightening Specifications

ApplicationSpecification
MetricEnglish
License Plate Pocket Screw2.5 N.m22 lb in
Liftgate Center Applique Nut7 N.m62 lb in
Liftgate Upper Applique Nut9 N.m80 lb in
Rear Compartment Lid Lower Trim Nut7 N.m62 lb in

Body Panel Paint Protector Replacement (VGC)

  1. The paint protective film and vehicle surface temperature should be 13-32°C (55-90°F) for best results.
  2. Automatic car washes should be avoided for at least 24 hours after the paint protective film application.
  3. Wipe the vehicle surface with isopropyl alcohol or flash naptha at the application area.
  4. Dry the surface with a clean lint-free cloth.
  5. Create a mixture of 25 percent isopropyl alcohol and 75 percent water and two drops of baby shampoo per 16 oz of fluid mixture.
  6. Remove the backing liner from the protective film patch.
  7. Use the solution to liberally spray the adhesive side of the protective patch, the mounting location along with your hands.
  8. Position the paint protective film patch to the desired location on the vehicle.
  9. Spray the surface of the film with the alcohol, water and soap solution.
  10. Using a dampened squeegee, start at the center of the protective patch, working outward in order to remove the air and solution from under the protective patch.
  11. Release any air bubbles with a pin.
  12. Dry the surface with a clean, lint-free cotton cloth.

Scheme 1

Scheme 1: Center Pillar Molding Replacement (Sedan)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Open both side doors on the side the molding will be serviced. Remove the front body side reveal molding. Refer to Body Side Window Reveal Molding Replacement (Sedan, V-Series) .
1Center Pillar Molding Tip: Grasp the molding and use a suitable retainer tool under each retainer in order to release the molding from the body panel.
2Center Pillar Molding Retainer (Qty: 6)

Scheme 2

Scheme 2: Liftgate Center Applique Replacement (Wagon)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Open and support the liftgate assembly. Remove the liftgate lower trim finish panel. Refer to Liftgate Lower Trim Finish Panel Replacement (Wagon) . Disconnect the electrical harness connector. Remove the two rear license plate lamps. Refer to Rear License Plate Lamp Replacement (Wagon) .
1Liftgate Center Applique Screw (Qty: 2) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 2.5 N.m (22 lb in)
2Liftgate Center Applique Nut (Qty: 4) NOTE: Install NEW liftgate center applique nuts, Do Not re-use the old nuts. Tighten: 7 N.m (62 lb in)
3Liftgate Center Applique Assembly Procedure Transfer the rear vision camera, (if equipped). Transfer the rear license plate lamps. Transfer the electrical harness assembly.
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
NOTE
Install NEW liftgate center applique nuts, Do Not re-use the old nuts.

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: Liftgate Upper Applique Replacement (Wagon)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Open and support the liftgate assembly. Remove the liftgate upper trim finish panel. Refer to Liftgate Upper Trim Finish Panel Replacement (Wagon) . Disconnect the electrical connector for the radio antenna module assembly. Disconnect the electrical connector for the high mount stop lamp. Disconnect the rear window washer nozzle hose connection from the rear washer hose. Remove the liftgate inner panel access hole plugs in order to access the upper applique nuts.
1Liftgate Upper Applique Nut (Qty: 9) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 9 N.m (80 lb in)
2Liftgate Upper Applique Retainer (Qty: 5) Procedure Using a 8 mm (12 pt) socket, or needle nose pliers, to release the middle three retainers from inside the liftgate. Use a J-38778: clip remover or equivalent to access the two outer most retainers between the sheetmetal and applique. Special Tools: J-38778: Door Trim Pad Clip Remover For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .
3Liftgate Upper Applique Assembly Procedure Lift the applique and disengage the two electrical harness rubber grommets. Disengage the washer hose rubber grommet. Remove the liftgate upper applique assembly from the liftgate. Transfer the high mount stop lamp. Refer to High Mount Stop Lamp Replacement (Wagon) . Transfer the radio antenna module. Refer to Radio Antenna Module Replacement (Wagon) .
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: Quarter Panel Upper Rear Molding Replacement (Wagon)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Open and support the liftgate assembly.
1Screw (Qty: 4) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 1.5 N.m (13 lb in)
2Molding Retainer (Qty: 5)
3Quarter Panel Upper Rear Molding Tip: Remove the upper rear molding from around both liftgate hinges.
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Scheme 5

Scheme 5: Front Fog Lamp Bezel Replacement (V-Series)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the front wheelhouse extension. Refer to Wheelhouse Extension Replacement .
1Front Fog Lamp Bezel Retainer Clip (Qty: 5) Tip: Slide the clips outward from the fog lamp bezel tabs.
2Front Fog Lamp Bezel Tip: Pull the bezel outward from the front bumper fascia after the retainers have been removed.

Scheme 6

Scheme 6: Body Side Window Reveal Molding Replacement (Sedan, V-Series)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Open the front door on the side the front body side window reveal molding will be serviced.
1Front Body Side Window Reveal Molding Retainer (Qty: 7) Procedure Grasp the molding at the forward edge and use a suitable retainer tool under each retainer in order to release the molding from the windshield pillar. At the rear edge of the front body side reveal molding, release the front molding tab from the center pillar molding assembly. Pull the molding assembly forward in order to release.
2Front Body Side Window Reveal Molding

Scheme 7

Scheme 7: Body Side Window Reveal Molding Replacement (Wagon)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Open the front door on the side the front body side window reveal molding will be serviced.
1Front Body Side Window Reveal Molding Retainer (Qty: 10) Procedure Grasp the molding at the forward edge and use a suitable retainer tool under each retainer in order to release the molding from the windshield pillar. At the rear edge of the front body side reveal molding, release the front molding tab from the rear quarter window molding assembly. Pull the reveal molding assembly forward in order to release. Upon installation, insert the rear edge of the reveal molding first into the rear quarter window molding then work forward securing all of the retainers to the body panel.
2Front Body Side Window Reveal Molding

Scheme 8

Scheme 8: Radiator Grille Emblem/Nameplate Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution .
1Emblem Assembly (Crest) Procedure The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old emblem. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from grille and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new emblem. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Align the two pins on the crest to the holes in the grille. Using the palm of the hand, carefully wet out the emblem to the grille and ensure full adhesion of the emblem is made.
2Emblem Assembly (Wreath) Procedure The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old emblem. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from grille and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new emblem. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Align the three pins on the wreath to the holes in the grille. Using the palm of the hand, carefully wet out the emblem to the grille and ensure full adhesion of the emblem is made.

Scheme 9

Scheme 9: Front Side Door Emblem/Nameplate Replacement (CTS-V)
CalloutComponent Name
1Front Side Door Nameplate CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution . Procedure The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old nameplate. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from the bodyside door panel and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new name plate. Close the door prior to installing the new nameplate. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Position and adhere the nameplate to the door. Using the palm of the hand, wet out the name plate on the bodyside door panel to ensure full adhesion of the name plate is made.

Scheme 10

Scheme 10: Rear Compartment Lid Emblem/Nameplate Replacement (3.6)
CalloutComponent Name
1Rear Compartment Lid Nameplate (3.6) CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution . Procedure The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old nameplate. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from the rear compartment panel and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new name plate. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Using the palm of the hand, wet out the name plate to the rear compartment lid to ensure full adhesion of the name plate is made.

Scheme 11

Scheme 11: Rear Compartment Lid Emblem/Nameplate Replacement (CTS4)
CalloutComponent Name
1Rear Compartment Lid Nameplate (Cadillac) CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution . Procedure The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old nameplate. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from the rear compartment panel and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new name plate. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Using the palm of the hand, wet out the name plate to the rear compartment lid to ensure full adhesion of the name plate is made.
2Rear Compartment Lid Nameplate (CTS4) CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution . Procedure The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old nameplate. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from the rear compartment panel and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new name plate. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Using the palm of the hand, wet out the name plate to the rear compartment lid to ensure full adhesion of the name plate is made.

Scheme 12

Scheme 12: Rear Compartment Lid Emblem/Nameplate Replacement (Direct Injection)
CalloutComponent Name
1Rear Compartment Lid Nameplate (Direct Injection) CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution . Procedure The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old nameplate. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from the rear compartment panel and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new nameplate. Ensure the rear compartment lid is in the closed position. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Position and adhere the new nameplate to the rear compartment lid. Using the palm of the hand, wet out the nameplate to the rear compartment lid to ensure full adhesion of the nameplate is made.

Scheme 13

Scheme 13: Rear Compartment Lid Emblem/Nameplate Replacement (V Series)
CalloutComponent Name
1Rear Compartment Lid Nameplate (V-Series) CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution . Procedure The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old nameplate. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from the rear compartment panel and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new nameplate. Ensure the rear compartment lid is in the closed position. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Position and adhere the new nameplate to the rear compartment lid. Using the palm of the hand, wet out the nameplate to the rear compartment lid to ensure full adhesion of the nameplate is made.

Scheme 14

Scheme 14: Rear Compartment Lid Emblem/Nameplate Replacement (Wreath and Crest)
CalloutComponent Name
1Rear Compartment Lid Emblem (Wreath and Crest) CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution . Procedure NOTE: Using a wax type pencil, mark on the rear compartment lid, the relationship of the wreath to the crest alignment prior to removing the wreath from the rear compartment lid. The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to remove the old emblem/nameplate. See Special Tools . Clean all adhesive from the rear compartment panel and wipe the surface dry with a clean lint-free towel prior to installing the new emblem/nameplate. Close the rear compartment lid. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Align the pins on the crest to the holes in the rear compartment lid. Align the wreath with the wax pencil alignment marks previously made on the rear compartment lid. Using the palm of the hand, wet out the emblem/name plate to the rear compartment lid to ensure full adhesion of the emblem/nameplate is made. Clean the wax pencil marks from the rear compartment lid.
NOTE
Using a wax type pencil, mark on the rear compartment lid, the relationship of the wreath to the crest alignment prior to removing the wreath from the rear compartment lid.

Scheme 15

Scheme 15: Radiator Upper Grille Replacement (Sedan)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the front bumper fascia. Refer to Front Bumper Fascia Replacement .
1Radiator Upper Grille Retainer Clips (Qty: 10) Procedure: Use a pair of needle nose pliers in order to depress and remove the retainer clips from the front bumper fascia support tabs.
2Radiator Upper Grille Assembly Tip: Pull the grille assembly rearward from the retainer tabs on the inside of the front bumper fascia.

Scheme 16

Scheme 16: Radiator Upper Grille Replacement (V-Series)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the front bumper fascia. Refer to Front Bumper Fascia Replacement .
1Radiator Grille Clip (Qty: 8) Procedure: Use a pair of needle nose pliers in order to depress and remove the retainer clips from the front bumper fascia support tabs.
2Radiator Upper Grille Assembly Procedure Pull the grille assembly rearward from the retainer tabs on the inside of the front bumper fascia. Transfer the front bumper fascia support. Transfer the radiator grille emblem/nameplate. Refer to Radiator Grille Emblem/Nameplate Replacement .

Scheme 17

Scheme 17: Radiator Lower Grille Replacement (V-Series)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the front bumper fascia. Refer to Front Bumper Fascia Replacement .
1Radiator Lower Grille Clips (Qty: 15)
2Radiator Lower Grille Tip: Release the lower grille from the front bumper fascia grille support tabs.

Scheme 18

Scheme 18: Radiator Lower Grille Replacement (Sedan)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the front bumper fascia. Refer to Front Bumper Fascia Replacement .
1Radiator Lower Grille Clips (Qty: 10)
2Radiator Lower Grille Tip: Release the lower grille from the front bumper fascia grille support tabs.

Scheme 19

Scheme 19: Hood Front Molding Replacement (Sedan)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Raise and support the hood.
1Hood Front Molding Tip: Upon installation, insert one side of the molding to the hood and work across the molding securing the individual retainer clips.
2Hood Front Molding Retainer (Qty: 7) Tip: Release the retainer clips beginning from one side working towards the opposite side.

Scheme 20

Scheme 20: Hood Front Molding Replacement (V-Series)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Raise and support the hood.
1Hood Front Molding Tip: Upon installation, insert one side of the molding to the hood and work across the molding securing the individual retainer clips.
2Hood Front Molding Retainer (Qty: 8) Tip: Release the retainer clips beginning from one side working towards the opposite side.

Scheme 21

Scheme 21: Hood Front Molding Replacement (Wagon)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Raise and support the hood.
1Hood Front Molding Retainer Clip (Qty: 8) Tip: Release the retainer clips beginning from one side working towards the opposite side.
2Hood Front Molding Retainer Tip: Upon installation, insert one side of the molding to the hood and work across the molding securing the individual retainer clips.

Scheme 22

Scheme 22: Rear Compartment Lid Lower Molding Replacement (Sedan Coupe)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Open the rear compartment lid. Remove the two rear license plate lamps. Refer to Rear License Plate Lamp Replacement (Sedan, V-Series) . Remove the rear compartment lid interior trim. Refer to Rear Compartment Lid Inner Panel Trim Replacement (Sedan) .
1Rear Compartment Lid Lower Trim Nut (Qty: 2) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 7 N.m (62 lb in)
2License Plate Pocket Screw (Qty: 2) Tighten: 2.5 N.m (22 lb in)
3Rear Compartment Lid Latch Pocket Screw (Qty: 2) Tighten: 2.5 N.m (22 lb in)
4(W-clip) Retainer (Qty: 2) Procedure Release the retainers from inside the rear compartment lid. Disengage the retainers by compressing the wings and pushing outward from the rear compartment lid. Ensure the foam gaskets are in place prior to securing the (W-clip) retainers. Close the rear compartment lid before applying pressure to the outer retainers.
5Rear Lamp Electrical Connector Tip: Disengage the electrical harness grommet from the rear compartment lid.
6Rear Compartment Lid Lower Trim Tip: Transfer the parts as needed.
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Scheme 23

Scheme 23: Rocker Panel Molding Replacement (Sedan)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure The CTS lower rocker panels are a paint to match replacement part. Prior to servicing the lower rocker panels refer to the following information: How to Identify Plastic Parts. Refer to How to Identify Plastic Parts . Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems. Refer to Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems . Open both doors on one side in order to remove the lower rocker molding. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the mud guards, (if equipped).
1Front Wheelhouse Liner Retainer
2Rear Wheelhouse Retainer (Qty: 3)
3Rocker Panel Lower Retainer (Qty: 5) Tip: Disengage the lower retainers prior to releasing the upper flange retainers.
4Lower Fender Retainer
5Rear Front Wheelhouse Retainer
6Rocker Flange Retainer (Qty: 10) Tip: Release the ten retainers and remove the rocker panel molding from the lower rocker panel flange.
7Rocker Panel Molding

Scheme 24

Scheme 24: Rocker Panel Molding Replacement (V-Series)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure The CTS-V lower rocker panels are a paint to match replacement part. Prior to servicing the lower rocker panels refer to the following information: How to Identify Plastic Parts. Refer to How to Identify Plastic Parts . Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems. Refer to Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems . Open both doors on one side in order to remove the lower rocker molding. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the mud guards, (if equipped).
1Front Wheelhouse Liner Retainer
2Rear Wheelhouse Retainer (Qty: 3)
3Front Fender Lower Flange Retainer (Qty: 2) Tip: Disengage the lower retainers prior to releasing the upper flange retainers.
4Lower Rocker Panel Retainer (Qty: 6) Tip: Use a trim type release tool in order to separate the retainers from the lower bodyside outer frame.
5Upper Rocker Panel Retainer (Qty: 11) Tip: Use a trim type release tool in order to separate the retainers from the upper bodyside outer frame.
6Rocker Panel Molding Assembly Tip: Replace any damaged or broken retainer clips as needed.

Scheme 25

Scheme 25: Rocker Panel Molding Replacement (Wagon)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Open both side doors on the side the lower rocker panel molding will be serviced. Remove the front and rear wheelhouse rocker molding push-pin retainers. Begin releasing the lower rocker panel molding retainers first. Release the upper rocker panel molding retainers.
1Front and Rear Wheelhouse Panel Push-pin Retainer (Qty: 3)
2Rocker Panel Molding Retainer (Qty: 13) Procedure Release the five lower retainers first using a trim-type clip tool. Release the eight upper retainers next. Remove the rocker panel from the lower bodyside panel flange.
3Rocker Panel Molding Assembly

Scheme 26

Scheme 26: Roof Panel Joint Finish Molding Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Begin at the rear window and lift the molding from the ditch, disengaging the molding from the six integral ditch retaining clips.
1Roof Panel Joint Finish Molding Assembly Procedure Begin at the front windshield, tuck the finish molding tab to the front roof header. Using a roller-type tool, roll the ditch molding into the ditch securing the molding to each of the six integral ditch retainers. Inspect the levelness of the ditch molding to the roof panel. If not level, roll the area again to achieve a smooth fit to the ditch.

Scheme 27

Scheme 27: Front Fender Ornament Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
1Front Fender Ornament CAUTION: Refer to Exterior Trim Emblem Removal Caution . Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the wheelhouse liner. Refer to Front Wheelhouse Liner Replacement . Use a J 25070 Heat Gun or equivalent to assist in the removal of the old fender ornament adhesive tape. See Special Tools . Apply two layers of masking tape around the forward and rearward corners of the fender ornament. Reach in the wheelhouse and cut the two snap fit retainers securing the ornament to the fender panel. The part and surface should be 21°C (70°F) prior to installation. The vehicle should remain 21°C (70°F) for one hour after assembly to allow adhesive to develop sufficient bond strength. Release the fender ornament from the fender panel. Clean all adhesive residue from the fender panel using a 50 / 50 mix by volume of clean drinkable water and isopropyl alcohol. Dry the fender panel using a clean lint-free cloth prior to installing the new fender ornament. When removing protective liners from the adhesive tape, be careful not to touch tape with hands and do not allow tape to come in contact with dirt or any foreign matter prior to adhesion. Align the rearward retainer first followed by the forward retainer. Press firmly, two audible clicks will be heard when the snap fit retainers engage to the fender panel. Using the palm of the hand, wet out the adhesive tape to the upper fender panel, this will ensure full adhesion of the fender ornament is made to the fender flange.

Special Tools

Illustration Tool Number/ Description J 25070 Heat Gun - 500-700°F J 38778 Door Trim Pad Clip Remover

Scheme 28

Scheme 28: Special Tools