The 2022 Cadillac CT4 equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged LSY engine represents a blend of luxury sedan styling and high-performance engineering. To maintain the integrity of this sophisticated powertrain, utilizing the correct lubricants is essential for longevity and performance. The LSY engine operates at high temperatures and pressures, requiring a fluid that can withstand thermal stress while providing superior protection against wear, sludge, and deposits. AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are specifically formulated to meet and exceed the rigorous demands of GM’s dexos1 Gen 2 specifications, ensuring that your vehicle’s turbocharger, pistons, and other critical components operate smoothly for thousands of miles.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers unsurpassed engine protection for up to 25,000 miles and is ideal for those seeking the highest level of performance and wear resistance.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides extended protection for up to 20,000 miles with 37% more cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoother.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers out-of-the-box protection that outperforms conventional oils and is trusted by professional engine builders.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – A unique chemistry designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge and control oil consumption.
- WIX Oil Filter – Features premium media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, ensuring optimal oil flow and filtration.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix ethylene glycol formulation that protects the cooling system for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula offering long-lasting protection against corrosion and erosion in passenger cars.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides reserve protection during heavy use and remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the front differential, offering advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Specifically formulated for the rear axle with limited-slip differentials to control noise and wear.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity range.
Engine Oil and Filtration for the LSY Turbo Engine
The heart of the 2022 Cadillac CT4 is the 2.0L turbocharged engine, identified by the code LSY. This engine requires a specific viscosity grade to ensure proper lubrication during cold starts and to maintain film strength under the high heat generated by the turbocharger. AMSOIL recommends using a 0W-20 viscosity oil, which is the factory specified grade for this application. With a capacity of 5.3 quarts including a filter change, topping off to the correct level after a refill is crucial for engine health.
Owners who demand the absolute best will find the Signature Series to be the premier choice. This 100% synthetic motor oil is tested to provide up to 25,000 miles of protection before the next change is needed. It offers 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear compared to industry standards. For those who prefer a longer service interval without the premium price point of the Signature Series, the Extended-Life 0W-20 offers up to 20,000 miles of protection and includes a boosted detergent package to fight deposits and keep the engine clean.
For drivers seeking a high-value option that still delivers full synthetic performance, the OE 0W-20 is an excellent contender. It is formulated to fight sludge and deposits effectively, and it has been tested to protect turbochargers 72% better than required by the GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification. This makes it a perfect match for the turbocharged architecture of the LSY engine. Additionally, if your vehicle has accumulated over 75,000 miles, the High-Mileage 0W-20 version contains enhanced anti-wear additives and a unique chemistry designed to reduce sludge by 67%, helping older engines perform better and last longer.
Pairing these premium oils with the correct filter is just as critical. The recommended WIX Oil Filter (WL10351-EA) features premium media that exceeds the filtration capabilities of many OEM branded filters. It ensures that contaminants are removed from the oil effectively, preventing abrasive particles from circulating through the engine’s tight tolerance bearings and camshaft lobes. The oil drain plug on the CT4 requires a specific torque of 2 ft/lbs and should be tightened by hand until fully seated, ensuring a leak-free seal without damaging the threads.
Transmission and Drivetrain Lubrication
Smooth power delivery is a hallmark of the Cadillac CT4, thanks in part to its sophisticated transmission systems. Depending on the specific configuration, the CT4 is equipped with an 8-speed or 10-speed automatic transmission. The fluid in these units is subjected to immense heat and pressure, particularly in the front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive models where the transfer case and differentials are active.
AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATLPK-EA) is recommended for these transmissions. This fluid withstands the rigors of heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while maintaining fluidity in sub-zero conditions. It provides reserve protection during heavy use and abuse, ensuring consistent shifting performance and extending the life of the transmission components. Total fill capacities can reach up to 11.4 quarts, and initial fills are approximately 7.4 quarts, so using the correct fluid type is vital for proper operation.
Regarding the drivetrain, the front differential (SL146) requires a capacity of 0.8 pints. The rear axle varies by model; the 230 Rear Axle LSD (GLS22) requires 2.1 pints, the 205 Rear Axle (GLSH1) requires 1.6 pints, and the 230 Rear Axle (GLSH1) also requires 2.1 pints. For these limited-slip applications, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube or SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the ideal choice. This gear lube contains friction modifiers that reduce noise and wear in limited-slip differentials while providing protection against rust, corrosion, and thermal runaway. For standard open differentials, the 75W-90 variant offers a robust barrier against wear. Both fluids help reduce operating temperatures and extend the life of seals and gears.
Cooling, Braking, and Additional Maintenance
Maintaining optimal operating temperatures is key to the longevity of the LSY engine. The cooling system has a capacity of 11 quarts. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant provides a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. It is a 50/50 pre-mix, making it ready to use, and offers protection for up to 150,000 miles. For those who prefer to mix their own, the Propylene Glycol Antifreeze is a concentrated option that greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion, compatible with all other antifreeze colors.
Safety and stopping power are paramount in a performance sedan like the CT4. The brake fluid should be replaced with AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid. This fluid provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness and maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring reliable pedal feel in both winter and summer conditions.
For vehicle owners looking to maximize performance and fuel economy, AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive can be a valuable addition. Restores up to 14% horsepower and GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, helping to prevent carbon rap and pre-ignition knock, which can be concerns in direct injection engines like the CT4’s.
Vehicle Background
Model History and Performance
The 2022 Cadillac CT4 is a sport compact luxury sedan that replaced the ATS, marking a significant evolution in the brand’s lineup. Positioned as a more accessible entry point to the Cadillac brand, the CT4 offers a driving experience that balances everyday usability with sporty dynamics. It is built on GM’s premium alpha platform, which is known for its rigid structure and excellent weight distribution, contributing to agile handling.
The 2.0L LSY Turbo engine is a star of the show, delivering strong acceleration and responsive power delivery that challenges competitors in the segment. With its turbocharger, the engine requires precise lubrication to handle the heat and rotational speeds involved. The CT4 is often praised for its precise steering and compliant suspension, making it a favorite for enthusiasts who enjoy driving. The vehicle comes in various trims, including the premium and luxury variants, each offering different levels of interior refinement and technology.
Why Owners Like This Vehicle
Cadillac CT4 owners are typically attracted to the vehicle’s blend of style and substance. The exterior design features sharp lines and a bold grille that captures the latest Cadillac design language, while the interior offers a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials. The 2.0L turbo model is particularly popular because it delivers ample power without the complexity or fuel consumption of a larger V6.
The CT4 is often cited as a great daily driver that doesn’t feel like a compromise. It handles city traffic and highway commuting with equal ease. Owners appreciate the technology suite, which includes the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system, available wireless charging, and a suite of driver assistance features. The vehicle’s reputation for reliability is bolstered by the use of modern manufacturing techniques, though regular maintenance is key to keeping it running at its peak.
Common Issues and Solutions
While the 2022 Cadillac CT4 is a robust vehicle, like any complex machine, it has specific maintenance needs. One common area of concern for turbocharged engines, including the LSY, is turbocharger health. High temperatures can degrade standard oils quickly, leading to carbon buildup on the turbo bearings. Using a high-temperature resistant synthetic oil like the AMSOIL Signature Series helps prevent this coking and extends the life of the turbocharger.
Another frequent issue in this engine family is the potential for lower control arm bushing wear over time, especially on models with sport-tuned suspensions. While this is a mechanical wear item, keeping the vehicle’s alignment precise and using high-quality lubricants in the steering system can help mitigate uneven wear. Additionally, some owners of GDI engines report carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can affect performance. Regular use of a top-tier fuel additive like AMSOIL P.i. can help reduce this buildup by cleaning the injectors and keeping the combustion chamber cleaner.
Finally, the cooling system can be a point of failure if left unchecked. Leaks or coolant degradation can lead to overheating, which is particularly damaging to a turbo engine. Using a high-performance antifreeze like AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant ensures that the coolant does not lose its protective properties, preventing corrosion in the radiator and engine block. By addressing these areas with the right fluids, CT4 owners can ensure their vehicle remains a reliable and enjoyable part of their daily lives for years to come.