Cadillac ATS Oil Change

You need to change the oil in your Cadillac ATS around every 7,500 miles. Here’s what to do.
Written by Bellina Gaskey
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
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In general, you should plan to have your Cadillac ATS’ oil changed every 7,500 miles or so. This car commonly requires 0W-30 or 5W-30 oil, but this may change depending on your engine. 
Oil changes may seem tedious, but they’re an important part of
your car’s regular maintenance schedule
. If you neglect to change your oil, it will become dirty and viscous, potentially leading to serious engine problems like knocking or corrosion.
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How often does a Cadillac ATS need an oil change?

It is recommended that a Cadillac ATS undergo an oil change around every 7,500 miles. 
You can take your Cadillac to a dealership or qualifying auto body shop or mechanic—or, if you have the tools and confidence, complete the oil change yourself.

What kind of oil does a Cadillac ATS need?

For most ATS models, you can use 0W-30 or 5W-30 grade oil. 2.5L engines, however, may require 5W-20 or 0W-20 instead.
It’s very important to purchase the particular oil specified by the manufacturer, as putting the wrong oil in your car may void your warranty or cause serious damage.

How much does an oil change cost for a Cadillac ATS?

As Cadillac is a luxury brand, you can expect oil changes to cost a little more than for economy-class brands. From there, the main determinant of your cost is where you take your car in: a dealership, mechanic, or your own garage.

Professional cost

The average professional cost to change an ATS’ oil is $104 to $120.

DIY cost 

If you already have the proper equipment, you’ll just need to buy enough oil, which may cost $4-13 per quart or $10-40 for five quarts

How to change the oil in a Cadillac ATS yourself

If you’re planning on completing the oil change yourself, you’ll need to follow these steps. 

What you’ll need

  • 5-7 quarts of appropriate oil
  • Cadillac ATS oil filter
  • Oil filter wrench or socket and ratchet
  • Funnel
  • Oil drain pan with at least 6 quart capacity
  • Rag
  • Ramp or jack with jack stands

1. Warm up the engine

Start by running your engine for a few minutes until it reaches normal operating temperature. Check the oil level with a dipstick and look and listen for any other abnormalities before turning the car back off. 

2. Secure the car

Put the car on a ramp and chock the wheels, or prop it up using a jack and jack stands. From here, pop the hood and find the oil drain plug underneath the car.

3. Drain the old oil

Set up your drain pan to prevent a mess. Unscrew the drain plug using the wrench (or your hands if possible) and let the old oil drain out.

4. Remove the filter

Next, remove the oil filter. Reposition the drain pan if necessary to catch any extra oil still dripping.

5. Install the new oil filter

Clean the area around the drain plug and filter using the rag. Then, lubricate the new oil filter with oil and carefully insert it in place. 

6. Put new oil in the engine

Remove the oil fill cap and carefully pour in new oil using the funnel. Then, run the engine for a few minutes to let the new oil begin to flow. 

7. Stop the engine and check the oil level

After around three minutes, turn the car off and check the oil level using a dipstick. If the oil level has decreased, top it off again.

8. Reset the oil change reminder

Make sure all your parts are reassembled (in the reverse order you disassembled them) and close up the hood.
Your final task is to reset the oil change reminder. Here’s how:
If you have an older vehicle, turn the ignition on but don’t start the engine. Press the gas pedal three times in five seconds (fully press down and release). 
Turn the ignition off and then turn on the engine. The OIL LIFE message should turn off, indicating the mileage reader for oil changes has reset.
If you have a screen display, press and hold the start button to turn on the ignition (don’t press the brake pedal to avoid turning on the engine). Use the navigation arrows on your steering wheel to find the INFORMATION menu. 
Use the arrows to find and select REMAINING OIL LIFE, then change the life number to 100. Select YES to finalize the reset. 

What happens if you don’t change the oil on a Cadillac ATS?

If you don’t change your oil in a timely manner, you run the risk of several problems with your engine. Since the oil helps keep the engine cool, maximize fuel efficiency, and lubricate the parts, you can expect the following problems from bad oil:
  • Corrosion
  • Engine knocking
  • Engine overheating
  • Decreased fuel efficiency
  • In some cases, total engine failure

How to save money on car insurance

Now that your car maintenance schedule is squared away, it’s time to touch base with your car insurance policy and review your
Cadillac ATS insurance costs
. Did you know you’re most likely overpaying?
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