Product Overview
Upgrade your 2016–2019 Cadillac ATS-V with this Factory Style Dry Carbon Fiber Front Grille Insert Set, crafted to enhance both performance and luxury. Designed specifically for the ATS-V Coupe and Sedan, these premium carbon fiber grille inserts deliver a perfect blend of style, durability, and lightweight performance inspired by Cadillac’s factory V-Series design.
Constructed from 100% pre-preg dry carbon fiber, each insert is autoclave-cured for maximum strength and minimal weight. Unlike traditional wet carbon or fiberglass overlays, dry carbon fiber provides superior rigidity, a deep 3K twill weave finish, and exceptional resistance to heat and UV exposure. The result is a durable, high-gloss surface that maintains its flawless look over time.
This grille insert set retains the OEM shape and alignment while offering an instant aesthetic upgrade to your ATS-V’s aggressive front end. Whether you’re refining your daily driver or preparing your V-Series for show or track use, this factory-style carbon fiber enhancement ensures a premium fit and finish that complements Cadillac’s high-performance heritage.
Compatible with all 2016–2019 Cadillac ATS-V models, including both Coupe and Sedan variants equipped with the 3.6L twin-turbocharged V6 engine.
Key Features
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Precision Fitment for 2016–2019 Cadillac ATS-V: Custom-engineered for both Coupe and Sedan models; not compatible with standard ATS trims.
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OEM Factory Styling: Designed to replicate the factory V-Series grille insert with added lightweight performance and a carbon fiber finish.
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Premium Dry Carbon Fiber Construction: Made from aerospace-grade pre-preg dry carbon fiber for unmatched strength, heat resistance, and weight savings.
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Lightweight & Durable: Provides structural integrity while significantly reducing overall vehicle weight — ideal for high-performance driving.
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High-Gloss UV-Protected Finish: Deep 3K twill weave pattern with UV-resistant coating prevents fading, yellowing, or surface cracking over time.
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Direct Clip-On Installation: Perfect OEM alignment for easy installation without cutting, drilling, or modification.
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Enhanced Aerodynamics: Improves front-end airflow for better cooling and stability at high speeds.
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Heat & Impact Resistant: Designed to perform under extreme conditions, making it ideal for both street and track applications.
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Aggressive & Refined Appearance: Adds a performance-inspired aesthetic to the ATS-V’s already bold front fascia.
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Professional-Grade Craftsmanship: Matches other Cadillac V-Series carbon accessories for a consistent, factory-level upgrade.
Installation
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Installation manual not included.
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Direct clip-on installation using OEM mounting points.
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No drilling or modification required.
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Hardware not included – reuse factory bolts, screws, or clips for proper fitment.
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Ensure all mounting surfaces are clean before installation for secure attachment.
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Professional installation is recommended for the best alignment, stability, and finish.
Vehicle Compatibility
| Year | Make | Model | Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Cadillac | ATS | V Coupe 2-Door |
| 2018 | Cadillac | ATS | V Coupe 2-Door |
| 2018 | Cadillac | ATS | V Sedan 4-Door |
| 2017 | Cadillac | ATS | V Coupe 2-Door |
| 2017 | Cadillac | ATS | V Sedan 4-Door |
| 2016 | Cadillac | ATS | V Coupe 2-Door |
| 2016 | Cadillac | ATS | V Sedan 4-Door |
About Dry Carbon Fiber
Dry Carbon Fiber vs Wet Carbon Fiber — What’s the Difference?
Not all carbon fiber parts are made the same. The biggest distinction comes down to how the carbon is processed — commonly known as dry carbon and wet carbon. Both use genuine carbon fiber weave, but the production method, finish, and performance are completely different.
Manufacturing Process
Dry carbon fiber parts are produced using a pre-preg (pre-impregnated) carbon cloth, where the exact amount of resin is pre-applied by the manufacturer. These sheets are then vacuum-sealed and cured under high pressure and temperature in an autoclave, removing excess air and resin.
The result is a light, extremely strong, and precisely formed component — the same process used in motorsport and aerospace applications.
Wet carbon fiber, on the other hand, uses a hand-lay or wet-lay method. The carbon cloth is laid into a mold and liquid resin is manually brushed or poured over it before curing. Because it’s not vacuum-bagged or autoclave-cured, there’s usually more trapped resin and air pockets, leading to a heavier part and a less uniform finish.
Weight & Strength
Dry carbon fiber is roughly 30–50% lighter than wet carbon. This is due to the controlled resin ratio — just enough to bind the fibers without unnecessary weight.
By comparison, wet carbon or carbon-over-fiberglass parts can be up to 70% heavier, since excess resin and fiberglass layers add mass without increasing stiffness.
For reference:
- Carbon Fiber Density: ~1.55 g/cm³
- Fiberglass Density: ~2.6 g/cm³
Dry carbon also offers a much higher modulus of elasticity (~125 GPa), giving it outstanding rigidity under stress — ideal for aerodynamic and high-load components.
Visual & Structural Differences
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Backside: A true dry carbon piece will look identical front and back — you can see the same woven pattern throughout.
Wet carbon or fiberglass-backed parts often have a dull, uneven underside with visible fiberglass texture or color variation. -
Edges: Solid dry carbon has clean, uniform black edges.
Wet carbon or overlay parts may show a white or grey line along the edge, revealing the fiberglass underneath — sometimes hidden with black paint trim. -
Finish: Dry carbon typically has a consistent matte or satin finish, while wet carbon can appear glossy but uneven due to hand-applied resin.