How to Jump Start a Cadillac CTS and CTS-V

Steps from the 2019 Cadillac CTS and CTS-V owner's manual.

  1. 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.
  2. Set the parking brake firmly and put the shift lever in P (Park) for an automatic, or Neutral for a manual.
  3. Turn the ignition off and switch off all lights and accessories in both vehicles, except hazard flashers if needed.
  4. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the remote positive (+) terminal on the discharged battery, then to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
  5. Connect the black negative (–) cable to the negative (–) terminal of the good battery, then to the remote negative (–) grounding terminal of the discharged battery.
  6. Start the engine of the vehicle with the good battery and let it idle for at least four minutes.
  7. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery; if it will not start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

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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