File in Section:

Service Bulletin

Bulletin No.:
Date:

PI0899
February, 2013

PRELIMINARY INFORMATION
Subject:

Information on Low-Gloss Matte Paint Finish

Models:

2013 Cadillac CTS-V
with RPO GHD

CTS-V Low-Gloss Matte Paint Finish Description
A limited production run of 2013 CTS-V Coupes will feature a new Silver Frost low-gloss matte paint finish (RPO
GHD). This is the first GM regular production vehicle to offer a matte paint finish.
The matte finish adds a metallic appearance to the vehicle. Unlike typical gloss paints that employ a clearcoat that
reflects light and leave a bright sheen, the matte finish uses a distinct clearcoat applied over the silver basecoat that
diffuses and absorbs light to create a unique flat finish.

Care and Handling Information
The matte finish requires special care requirements during Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) as well as by customers in
order to maintain its unique appearance. Dealerships that receive a CTS-V with the matte finish are required to have
a sales and service point of contact to ensure the proper paint care requirements are followed.
A Silver Frost delivery packet will be shipped to the dealership that includes instructions for the PDI process, a letter
from Cadillac to be presented at delivery, paint care instructions, and a customer care acknowledgement form. In
addition, a label with paint care instructions will be installed on the driver’s window. The paint care guidelines must
be reviewed with customers at the time of delivery.
Tip: This vehicle has a low gloss paint finish that is protected by a temporary peelable film.
• To remove the film, peel it off while rinsing with cold water.
• The best exterior surface removal temperature for the film is 21°C (70°F).
TIP: To maintain appearance of the matte finish, do not rub the paint surface, only wipe lightly. Rubbing the finish will
create bright spots and an uneven appearance. Refer to the updated PDI form before washing or servicing vehicles
with the matte finish.
Liquid car wash soap and water as well as mild, non-abrasive bug/tar removers are the only cleaning materials that
should be used to clean the Silver Frost low-gloss matte paint.
For these vehicles, DO NOT:
• Apply add-on paint coatings or sealant protective coatings.
• Wax or polish the low-gloss finish.
• Finesse polish or rub the paint surface with any type of cleaner, glaze, wax or rubbing compound.
• Use additional “clearcoat sealants” in automatic car washes.
Normal hand-washing or power-washing does not impact the low-gloss finish of the paint. Remind owners that
touch-free car washes are the only safe automatic car washes to use. Commercial car washes with any types of
brushes are not recommended. Also, do not use a liquid wax in any car wash system.
Immediately remove foreign materials such as tar, tree sap, bugs and salt from the paint surface.
To remove the adhesive from shipping labels without forceful rubbing, use a mild solvent-based adhesive remover.
Scratches, rub marks and other damage to the painted surface can be touched up similar to other types of paint, but
any paint surface imperfection that would normally be repaired by polishing on high-gloss paint must not be
attempted on the matte finish.
TIP: If the matte finish is altered, the affected panels will have to be repainted to return it to the intended low-gloss
appearance.