Complete Oil Specifications
Your 2023 Cadillac CT5 with the 2.0T LSY engine requires 0W-20 full synthetic oil meeting GM dexos1 Gen3 and API SP / ILSAC GF-6A. The LSY is GM’s turbocharged four-cylinder, shared across multiple Cadillac, Buick, and Chevrolet vehicles, and features continuous variable valve timing (CVVT) and high-pressure direct injection.
dexos1 Gen3 Required: GM mandated dexos1 Gen3 (replacing Gen2) for all 2022+ turbocharged models. dexos1 Gen3 adds enhanced Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI) protection critical for the LSY’s direct injection and stop/start system. Using Gen2 or non-dexos oils voids the GM powertrain warranty.
Quick Reference
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 0W-20 |
| API Rating | API SP, GM dexos1 Gen3 |
| ILSAC Rating | GF-6A |
| Capacity (with filter) | 5.3 quarts |
| Oil Filter | AC Delco UPF63R |
| Normal Interval | 7500 miles |
Why dexos1 Gen3 Is Non-Negotiable for the LSY
The LSY engine’s Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) system creates conditions where fuel droplets can condense on cylinder walls and dilute the oil — a particular concern with turbocharged direct-injection engines in stop-and-go driving. dexos1 Gen3’s formulation specifically addresses fuel dilution resistance and LSPI events, which occur when fuel-diluted oil ignites before the spark plug fires, causing a damaging pressure spike. Gen3 also improves oxidation stability for GM’s auto stop/start system, which cycles the engine repeatedly in traffic.
Using incorrect oil will:
- ❌ Increase LSPI risk — potentially causing catastrophic connecting rod failure
- ❌ Void GM powertrain warranty (dexos1 approval is a warranty condition)
- ❌ Accelerate oxidation from the engine’s stop/start cycling in traffic
Cadillac-Approved Oil Brands
-
✅ ACDelco dexos1 Gen3 Full Synthetic 0W-20
-
✅ Mobil 1 dexos1 Gen3 Full Synthetic 0W-20
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✅ Pennzoil Platinum dexos1 Gen3 Full Synthetic 0W-20
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✅ Castrol Edge with Titanium dexos1 Gen3 0W-20
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✅ Valvoline Modern Engine Full Synthetic dexos1 0W-20
Look for the dexos1 Gen3 approval on the bottle. Note that dexos1 Gen2-only oils are not approved for the 2023 CT5 even if the viscosity matches.
Severe Service Check
Use the 3750-mile interval if you:
- Drive primarily in urban stop-and-go traffic (increases fuel dilution risk)
- Make frequent short trips under 5 miles
- Operate in extreme temperatures below 0°F
- Use Sport or Track mode regularly
Installation Details
Drain Plug Torque: 18 ft-lbs
OEM Filter: AC Delco UPF63R
Aftermarket Filters:
-
Mobil 1 M1-113A
-
WIX 57502
-
K&N HP-1017
Pro Tip: The LSY’s oil filter is a canister-style unit on the side of the engine block. The GM Oil Life System will calculate when to change based on your actual driving — don’t override it by changing at arbitrary intervals, but don’t go beyond 7,500 miles regardless.
FAQs
What oil does a 2023 Cadillac CT5 2.0T take?
0W-20 full synthetic with GM dexos1 Gen3 approval. API SP / ILSAC GF-6A.
How many quarts does the CT5 2.0T need?
5.3 quarts with a new filter, 5.0 without.
What’s the difference between dexos1 Gen2 and Gen3?
Gen3 (introduced for 2022+ models) adds enhanced LSPI protection and improved fuel dilution resistance — both critical for the LSY’s GDI and stop/start operation. Do not use Gen2 in the 2023 CT5.
Is synthetic oil required?
Yes. dexos1 Gen3 requires full synthetic. Conventional or synthetic-blend oils cannot meet the dexos1 standard.
How often should I change the oil?
Every 7500 miles at most. The GM Oil Life System may prompt earlier in severe conditions.
Last verified: 2026-04-12 | Source: 2023 Cadillac CT5 Owner’s Manual