How to Jump Start a Cadillac CTS and CTS-V
Steps from the 2019 Cadillac CTS and CTS-V owner's manual.
- Check that the other vehicle has a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system, and park the two vehicles so they do not touch.
- Set the parking brake firmly and put the shift lever in P (Park) for an automatic, or Neutral for a manual.
- Turn the ignition off and switch off all lights and accessories in both vehicles, except hazard flashers if needed.
- Connect the red positive (+) cable to the remote positive (+) terminal on the discharged battery, then to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
- Connect the black negative (–) cable to the negative (–) terminal of the good battery, then to the remote negative (–) grounding terminal of the discharged battery.
- Start the engine of the vehicle with the good battery and let it idle for at least four minutes.
- Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery; if it will not start after a few tries, it probably needs service.
- The positive jump start terminal for the discharged battery is under a red cover; remove the cover to expose it.
- Remove the cables in exactly the reverse order, then let the started vehicle idle for several minutes.
- Connecting or removing the cables in the wrong order can cause electrical shorting and damage not covered by warranty.
Source: 2019 Cadillac CTS and CTS-V owner's manual, PDF pages 331, 332. Steps are summarized in our own words (AI-assisted, checked against the cited pages 2026-10-18). Other model years can differ; your manual has the final word.
Confirm with your own manual, dipstick or door-jamb label.
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