You cannot build a Cadillac yourself from parts, but you can order one customized through Cadillac's official website or a dealership
Building a Cadillac means configuring one to your specifications through General Motors' ordering system, then having it assembled at a factory and delivered to you. This is different from buying a car already on a dealer's lot — you choose the model, exterior color, interior trim, wheels, technology packages, and other features before production begins. The process takes roughly 8 to 12 weeks from order to delivery, depending on the model and current factory schedules.
You start by visiting Cadillac.com, selecting a model, and using their online configurator tool. You can also walk into a Cadillac dealership and work with a sales representative who can guide you through the same choices. Either way, you will need to decide on your budget, preferred features, and delivery timeline before you place the order.
Key Takeaways
- You configure your Cadillac online or through a dealership using Cadillac's official ordering system, choosing color, interior, wheels, and technology packages.
- Custom orders typically take 8 to 12 weeks from the time you place the order until the car arrives at your local dealership.
- You will need to put down a deposit (usually $500 to $1,000) to lock in your order, and the remainder is due when the car is ready for pickup.
- Factory-built cars often cost less than dealer-lot inventory because you avoid dealer markup on pre-configured stock.
- You can cancel or modify your order within a certain window after placing it, but changes become harder once production has started.
Starting your order on Cadillac.com
Go to Cadillac.com and click the "Build and Price" or "Configure" button, usually visible on the homepage. You will be asked to select which model you want — the Escalade, CT4, CT5, XT4, XT5, XT6, or Lyriq, depending on what Cadillac currently offers. Each model has a starting price listed, and you can see how the price changes as you add features.
The configurator walks you through choices in this order: exterior color, interior color and material, wheel style and size, and then optional packages like technology upgrades, safety features, or performance options. Some packages bundle several features together at a discount compared to buying them individually. As you make each choice, the total price updates in real time so you always know what you are spending.
Once you have built the car you want, you can save the configuration, email it to yourself, or proceed to the next step. If you want to discuss your choices with a salesperson before committing, you can enter your zip code and be connected to a nearby Cadillac dealership.
Ordering through a dealership instead of online
If you prefer to work face-to-face, visit a Cadillac dealership and ask to speak with a sales representative about a custom order. They have access to the same configurator system and can walk you through the options on a showroom computer or tablet. Many people find this helpful because a salesperson can explain what each package includes, show you sample colors and materials, and answer questions about delivery timing or financing.
The dealership will also handle paperwork, take your deposit, and manage the order on your behalf. They can tell you which options are currently in high demand (and therefore may have longer wait times) and which are readily available. Some dealerships also offer incentives or discounts on custom orders that may not appear on the website.
What happens after you place the order
Once you submit your order, you will receive a confirmation email with an order number. Your deposit (typically $500 to $1,000) is collected at this point, though the amount varies by dealership. This deposit is credited toward your final purchase price when the car arrives.
The factory will begin building your car within a few weeks. You can track the status of your order through Cadillac.com (if you ordered online) or by calling your dealership. Most dealerships will send you updates as your car moves through production — when it is built, when it ships, and when it arrives at the dealership lot.
Once your car arrives at the dealership, they will inspect it, prepare it for delivery, and contact you to schedule a pickup time. You will pay the remaining balance at this point (through cash, financing, or trade-in) and complete the final paperwork. The entire process from order to driving off the lot usually takes 8 to 12 weeks, though some models or configurations may take longer during peak ordering seasons.
Deposit, pricing, and payment terms
Your deposit holds your place in the production queue and secures your configured price. If prices change between when you order and when your car is built, your locked-in price is honored. Deposits are non-refundable if you cancel after production has started, though most dealerships allow cancellation within the first week or two with a full refund.
The final payment is due when your car arrives at the dealership and is ready for pickup. You can pay in full, finance through Cadillac Financial or another lender, or explore a trade-in value toward the purchase. If you are financing, the dealership can help you arrange a loan before your car arrives so everything is ready on pickup day.
Customization options and packages
Cadillac groups many features into packages rather than letting you pick every single item individually. For example, a "Technology Package" might bundle a larger touchscreen, wireless charging, and advanced driver information features together at a lower combined price than buying them separately. A "Premium Package" might include leather seats, a power sunroof, and upgraded audio.
You can also choose individual items outside of packages — specific wheel designs, paint colors, interior trim materials, and roof colors. Some options are exclusive to certain trim levels, so your choice of base model (like XT5 Standard or XT5 Premium) affects which upgrades are available to you.
Paint colors, leather types, and wood trim finishes can be previewed in the online configurator, though the actual appearance may vary slightly depending on lighting. If you are uncertain about a color or material, ask your dealership if you can see samples in person before finalizing your order.
Modifying or canceling your order
If you change your mind shortly after placing your order, you can usually cancel and get your deposit back. The window for this is typically one to two weeks, but it varies by dealership and depends on whether production has already started. Contact your dealership or Cadillac customer service with your order number to ask about your options.
Once your car has been built and shipped to the dealership, cancellation becomes much more difficult and you may lose your deposit. Some dealerships will allow you to modify your order (like changing the color or wheels) if production has not yet begun, but this depends on the specific model and current factory schedule. Always ask your dealership about their modification and cancellation policy before you place your order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to order a Cadillac?
Deposits typically range from $500 to $1,000, though the exact amount varies by dealership and model. The deposit is credited toward your final purchase price when the car arrives. Ask your dealership what their deposit amount is before you order.
Can I change my mind after I order?
Yes, but only within a narrow window — usually one to two weeks before production starts. Once your car is being built or has shipped, cancellation becomes difficult and you may forfeit your deposit. Contact your dealership when ready if you want to cancel.
What if the color or feature I want is not available?
Cadillac rotates which colors and options are available depending on demand and production capacity. If something is unavailable, the configurator will show you alternatives or tell you when that option may be available again. Your dealership can also check with the factory about special requests.
Do I have to finance through Cadillac Financial?
No. You can finance through any lender, pay cash, or use a trade-in. Cadillac Financial is an option, but your dealership can also help you arrange financing through a bank or credit union if you prefer.
What if my car arrives damaged?
The dealership inspects your car before contacting you for pickup. If damage is found, they will contact Cadillac to arrange repair or replacement before you take delivery. You should also inspect the car yourself before signing the final paperwork.