Cadillac CTS 2003-2007 Brakes Specifications
Explore the detailed brake specifications for the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS, including brake pad sizes, rotor dimensions, and caliper details. Learn about maintenance tips, compatibility with aftermarket parts, and performance upgrades to enhance your CTS's braking system.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and information about the braking system of the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS. It is designed to help users understand the technical aspects of the brakes, including components, performance, and maintenance. Use the search and navigation instructions to quickly find relevant details. The sections are organized to cover major aspects of the braking system, with subsections breaking down specific components and features.
How to Use
Use the search functionality to find specific terms or components related to the brakes. Enter keywords like 'rotor size' or 'brake pad material' to locate relevant information quickly.
Navigate through the document by scrolling through the sections or using the table of contents. Each section is labeled with a title and description to help you find the information you need efficiently.
Key Specifications
Front Rotor Diameter
12.8 inches
Rear Rotor Diameter
11.8 inches
Stopping Distance (60-0 mph)
120 feet (dry)
Brake Pad Life (Front)
30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid Type
DOT 4
Available Specifications
Brake System Components
This section covers the primary components of the Cadillac CTS braking system, including rotors, calipers, pads, and hydraulic systems. Learn about the materials, sizes, and functions of each part to better understand how the system operates.
Brake System Components
This section covers the primary components of the Cadillac CTS braking system, including rotors, calipers, pads, and hydraulic systems. Learn about the materials, sizes, and functions of each part to better understand how the system operates.
Front Brake Rotors
- Diameter: 12.8 inches
- Thickness: 1.1 inches
- Material: Cast iron with vented design
- Weight: 18.5 lbs per rotor
- Compatible with ABS systems
- Designed for heat dissipation
Rear Brake Rotors
- Diameter: 11.8 inches
- Thickness: 0.9 inches
- Material: Cast iron with solid design
- Weight: 15.2 lbs per rotor
- Compatible with ABS systems
- Designed for durability
Brake Calipers
- Front: Dual-piston design
- Rear: Single-piston design
- Material: Aluminum alloy
- Corrosion-resistant coating
- Includes integrated parking brake mechanism
- Easy to service and maintain
Brake Performance
This section focuses on the performance characteristics of the Cadillac CTS braking system, including stopping distance, pedal feel, and heat management. Understand how the system performs under various driving conditions.
Brake Performance
This section focuses on the performance characteristics of the Cadillac CTS braking system, including stopping distance, pedal feel, and heat management. Understand how the system performs under various driving conditions.
Stopping Distance
- 60-0 mph: 120 feet (dry conditions)
- 60-0 mph: 145 feet (wet conditions)
- ABS prevents wheel lockup
- Consistent performance across temperatures
- Tested for emergency braking scenarios
- Meets NHTSA safety standards
Pedal Feel and Response
- Firm and linear pedal feel
- Short pedal travel for quick response
- Hydraulic boost system enhances control
- Minimal brake fade under heavy use
- Designed for driver confidence
- Adjustable for personal preference
Maintenance and Service
This section provides guidance on maintaining and servicing the braking system of the Cadillac CTS. Learn about recommended service intervals, common issues, and replacement procedures.
Maintenance and Service
This section provides guidance on maintaining and servicing the braking system of the Cadillac CTS. Learn about recommended service intervals, common issues, and replacement procedures.
Brake Pad Replacement
- Front pads: Replace every 30,000-50,000 miles
- Rear pads: Replace every 40,000-60,000 miles
- Use OEM or equivalent quality pads
- Includes wear sensors for monitoring
- Easy DIY replacement with basic tools
- Follow torque specifications for caliper bolts
Rotor Inspection and Replacement
- Inspect rotors every 20,000 miles
- Replace if thickness is below minimum spec
- Resurfacing possible if within tolerance
- Check for warping or cracking
- Use proper bedding-in procedure for new rotors
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for installation
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Brakes Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes
- Configuration
- Four-wheel disc brakes
- Platform
- Sigma platform
- Material
- Cast iron rotors with semi-metallic pads
- Location
- Front and rear axles
Dimensions
- Front Rotor Diameter
- 12.6 inches (320 mm)
- Rear Rotor Diameter
- 11.8 inches (300 mm)
- Front Rotor Thickness
- 1.1 inches (28 mm)
- Rear Rotor Thickness
- 0.9 inches (23 mm)
- Front Pad Area
- 2.8 square inches (18.1 square cm)
- Rear Pad Area
- 2.5 square inches (16.1 square cm)
- Brake Line Diameter
- 0.25 inches (6.35 mm)
Materials
- Rotors
- Cast iron with anti-corrosion coating
- Brake Pads
- Semi-metallic friction material
- Calipers
- Aluminum alloy
- Brake Lines
- Steel braided with rubber coating
Features
- Performance
-
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- Electronic Brake Force Distribution
- Traction Control System
- Stability Control
- Durability
-
- Corrosion-resistant rotors
- Heat-treated calipers
- High-temperature brake pads
- Maintenance
-
- Wear sensors on brake pads
- Easy-access caliper design
- Replaceable brake lines
- Safety
-
- Dual-circuit hydraulic system
- Automatic brake pad wear indicator
- Emergency brake assist
- Comfort
-
- Low-noise brake pads
- Smooth pedal feel
- Minimal brake dust
Safety Features
- Primary Safety
-
- ABS with electronic brake assist
- Dual-circuit hydraulic system
- Secondary Safety
-
- Automatic brake pad wear indicator
- Emergency brake assist
- Additional Safety
-
- Traction control system
- Stability control system
Comfort Features
- Noise Reduction
-
- Low-noise brake pads
- Vibration-dampening rotors
- Pedal Feel
-
- Smooth pedal engagement
- Consistent braking performance
- Maintenance Ease
-
- Easy-access caliper design
- Replaceable brake lines
- Dust Management
-
- Low-dust brake pads
- Dust shields on rotors
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Performance brake pads
- Slotted rotors
- Stainless steel brake lines
- Maintenance Tools
-
- Brake pad spreader
- Caliper compression tool
- Brake line wrench
- Cleaning
-
- Brake cleaner spray
- Rotor cleaning brush
- Caliper grease
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect brake pads and rotors
- Check brake fluid level
- Inspect brake lines for leaks
- Test ABS functionality
- Lubricate caliper pins
- Maintenance Notes
- Replace brake fluid every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Warranty
- Brake Pads
- Miles: 24,000Years: 2Coverage: Replacement due to premature wear
- Rotors
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Replacement due to warping or cracking
- Calipers
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Replacement due to failure
- Brake Lines
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Replacement due to leaks or damage
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Delphi Automotive
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Casting for rotors
- Machining for calipers
- Compression molding for brake pads
- Quality Control
- Rotors: Ultrasonic testing for cracksCalipers: Pressure testing for leaksBrake Pads: Friction coefficient testing
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled materials in brake pads
- Energy-efficient manufacturing
- Waste reduction in production
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: 0.1%Lead Time: 4 weeks
Service Information for brakes Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component
- Inspect brake pads and rotors
- Check brake fluid level
- Inspect brake lines for leaks
- Test ABS functionality
- Lubricate caliper pins
Ensure brake fluid is at the correct level and free of contaminants
- Replace brake pads if necessary
- Resurface or replace rotors
- Flush and replace brake fluid
- Inspect calipers for proper operation
- Check brake line integrity
Use only manufacturer-approved brake fluid
- Replace brake pads and rotors
- Inspect and replace calipers if necessary
- Replace brake lines if damaged
- Perform full ABS system check
- Test emergency brake functionality
Major service interval requires specialized tools and equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What are the technical specifications of the brakes for the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS?
What are the technical specifications of the brakes for the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS?
The 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS features disc brakes on all four wheels. The front brakes typically include 12.7-inch ventilated rotors with dual-piston calipers, while the rear brakes feature 12.4-inch ventilated rotors with single-piston calipers. The system is compatible with DOT 3 brake fluid and requires brake pads specifically designed for GM D-Platform vehicles. Ensure all components are OEM or OEM-equivalent for optimal performance and safety.
Q2 What are the recommended maintenance requirements for the brakes?
What are the recommended maintenance requirements for the brakes?
Regular brake maintenance for the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS includes inspecting brake pads every 12,000 miles, checking rotor thickness every 24,000 miles, and replacing brake fluid every 30,000 miles. Brake pads should be replaced when worn below 1/8 inch, and rotors should be resurfaced or replaced if warped or excessively worn. Always use GM-approved parts and follow the service manual for procedures.
Q3 How do I install or replace brake components on the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS?
How do I install or replace brake components on the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS?
To replace brake pads, lift the vehicle, remove the wheels, and secure the caliper. Slide out the old pads, install the new ones, and reassemble. For rotors, remove the caliper and rotor, install the new rotor, and reattach the caliper. Ensure proper torque specifications and bleed the brake system if air is introduced. Consult a professional if unsure, as improper installation can lead to safety hazards.
Q4 How do I troubleshoot common brake issues in the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS?
How do I troubleshoot common brake issues in the 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS?
Common issues include spongy brakes (air in the system), grinding noises (worn pads or rotors), and pulling to one side (uneven wear). Inspect the brake fluid level, check for leaks, and test the parking brake. If issues persist, scan for trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner and consult the service manual for diagnostic procedures. Always test the brakes safely after repairs.
Q5 How can I optimize the performance of my brakes?
How can I optimize the performance of my brakes?
For optimal performance, upgrade to high-friction brake pads and slotted or drilled rotors. Ensure proper brake fluid level and use high-performance DOT 4 fluid. Regularly clean brake components and inspect for wear. Avoid aggressive driving and maintain a safe following distance. Consider upgrading to stainless steel brake lines for improved pedal feel and durability.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
2003-2007 Cadillac CTS Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering brake system repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures.
GM Technical Service Bulletin: Brake System Updates
Coming SoonOfficial updates and bulletins for brake system improvements and common fixes.
GM Parts Catalog: Brake Components
Coming SoonDetailed listing of OEM brake parts, including pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid.
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Technical Information
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