Cadillac Ats problems
The Cadillac ATS (ATS as an acronym for Alpha Touring Sedan) is a compact executive car (D-segment) manufactured by General Motors and marketed by Cadillac from 2012 to 2019, available in both four-door sedan and two-door coupé body styles. In the US, it is the brand's first locally-built entry-level premium car since the Cimarron, and in Europe, it is the successor of the Swedish-built Cadillac BLS. The ATS was developed at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren, Michigan and assembled the ATS at the Lansing Grand River Assembly plant in Lansing, Michigan.
The ATS is based on General Motors' Alpha platform and is offered in either rear- or all-wheel drive configurations. The ATS base engine had been a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter I-4 gasoline engine that produces 202 hp (151 kW), until the 2016 model year. Optional engines include a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 gasoline engine that produces 272 hp (203 kW) and a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine that produces 321 hp (239 kW). The 2.0-liter engine replaced the 2.5-liter engine as the base engine for the 2017 model year. All versions were equipped with a 6-speed GM 6L45 Hydra-Matic automatic transmission as standard until the 2015 model year. An 8-speed automatic transmission was introduced for the 2016 model year. The 2.0-liter turbocharged, rear-wheel drive version can be mated to an optional 6-speed Tremec M3L TR-3160 manual transmission.
Prior to the debut of the ATS, Cadillac's smallest vehicle was the E-segment CTS. The CTS was comparable in price to D-segment competitors like the Audi A4, the BMW 3 Series, the Lexus IS and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, however was comparable in size and weight to the more expensive BMW 5 Series. Although Cadillac believed that customers would favor a Mercedes-Benz E-Class-sized sedan at the price of a 3 Series, this assumption was proven to be incorrect. Cadillac's research found that target customers who already owned vehicles like the 3 Series or A4 did not want a larger vehicle.
Cadillac debuted the ATS to the press in the United States in January 2012, placed the ATS into production in July 2012 and began selling the ATS in the United States in August 2012 as a 2013 model. GM began selling the ATS in China in November 2013. Cadillac sold the ATS in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, the Middle East, China, Japan, and South Korea. The ATS was replaced by the Cadillac CT4 in 2019 for the 2020 model year.
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Cadillac Ats model years
Common Cadillac Ats problems
The Cadillac ATS, a compact luxury car produced from 2013 to 2019, is known for its performance and luxury features. However, like any vehicle, it has faced several common problems that have been a source of concern for its owners.
One of the most common problems with the Cadillac ATS is related to its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. This engine has been known to cause issues such as frequent misfires, rough idles, coolant leaks, and damaged pistons due to misfires. These problems have led to expensive engine repairs, even before the car has reached 100,000 miles. Dealerships have been ordered to replace spark plugs and perform software upgrades to make the engine more durable.
Another issue that has affected the Cadillac ATS is related to its electrical system. Some owners have reported problems with the factory-installed battery, which has caused dim interior lights, slow powered window functions, and numerous dashboard warnings. These issues have been particularly prevalent in the 2013 and 2014 model years, and the only solution has been to replace the battery.
The automatic transmission used in the Cadillac ATS has also been a source of concern for many owners. Numerous reports of rough shifting and shuddering within a specific rev range have been reported, as well as a rollaway risk due to a faulty transmission shift cable. This issue has led to an official recall in 2014 to replace the faulty cables and secure their seating within the transmission brackets. However, shuddering problems may still persist.
Finally, some models of the Cadillac ATS have faced a sudden lack of power steering, which can be a cause for concern, especially at low speeds. The message "steering assist reduced, drive with care" may appear on the dashboard, indicating a problem with the power steering system. While older cars did not have power steering, this issue can still be a concern for drivers of the Cadillac ATS.
In summary, the Cadillac ATS has faced several common problems related to its engine, electrical system, and transmission. While these issues have been a source of concern for many owners, it is important to note that the car has only had seven recalls during its seven production years, indicating that overall, the car has been relatively reliable.
Are Cadillacs ATS reliable?
The Cadillac ATS Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 5th out of 17 for luxury compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $741 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the ATS.
How long do Cadillac ATS usually last?
How Many Miles Does a Cadillac Last? A new Cadillac typically drives between 150,000 and 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. This translates to about 10 to 13 years for an average driver clocking 15,000 miles per year.
Do Cadillac ATS have transmission problems?
Drivers have been dealing with shuddering and loss of speed, with NHTSA complaint boards filling up with various stories of Cadillac ATS transmission problems. Some people have found themselves stalled on the highway.
What is the most common problem with a 2015 Cadillac ATS?
Internal engine failure is common. Rear differential failure is common. Transmission shudder is common. CUE infotainment screen failure is a given.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Cadillac Ats years
We have researched Cadillac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Cadillac Ats cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Cadillac Ats model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Cadillac Ats model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Cadillac Ats years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Cadillac Ats car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Cadillac Ats , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Cadillac Ats vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ats model years
A total of 20 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Ats model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Ats model years
There were a total of 24 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 339 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Cadillac Ats . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Cadillac Ats vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Cadillac Ats 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1G6AA5RA9D0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Cadillac ATS. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle and switching gears, the vehicle would not move forward or backward. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the failure was possibly related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V338000 (Power Train). Another local independent mechanic was contacted for a second opinion and informed the contact that the transmission shifter cable had failed. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the VIN not being included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V338000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.
Cadillac Ats 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-18
- VIN: 1G6AG5RX0E0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My airbag system light has been on now for over two years. My exact vehicle the prior year and after has had a recalled and mine has been missed. GMC wants 2000.00 to replace my airbag situation and my car only has 66000 miles on it for god sakes. Please have my model vin on recall list so my passengers will be safe. This is the second time I have emailed you and no response was given yet. Please recall my airbags.
Cadillac Ats 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-26
- VIN: 1G6A95SX8J0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The car was parked outside at around 85 degrees. After entering the vehicle and driving with the AC on for a few minutes the CUE screen started to crack on the inside like a spider web. This has already been reported in 11576315 and 11325962. But I can't find any manufacturer communication on these. On the Internet I found that there is a class action lawsuit but only up to the year 2017 and it has already been settled privately. Since the vehicle is out of warranty there is no effort from GM to pay for the replacement. Since the CUE screen is essential for the vehicle operations, i.e. settings, navigation etc. it's a safety issue. On the Internet there are crowds of people complaining about the same issue. GM should react and offer replacement. Especially a replacement where the issue is fixed, otherwise the replacement will crack again after some years. Thanks and BR
Cadillac Ats 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-13
- VIN: 1G6AA1RXXF0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The CUE SYSTEM not totally working, and panel plastic is all spider web looking. I view this as a very bad problem( it won’t go to settings), no radio, can’t set the clock Not sure on all the problems as I can’t get to it to find out.
Cadillac Ats 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-05
- VIN: 1G6AE5RX2J0
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving started to smell gas. On same day, car stalled at an intersection in a downtown area. I could not start car. Had to push car in busy traffic to a safe place and called a tow truck. Auto shop I took to said the fuel pump came loose somehow and caused the fuel lines to break causing the fuel leak. Had lines repaired. Fuel pump was not replaced and is working.
Cadillac Ats 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-29
- VIN: 1G6AA5RXXD0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Breaks are not working properly, once the car sits for a few hours, then once I start it and put it into gear (reverse/drive) as I press the breaks(new break pads) the car continues to roll. This could be the abs module or the calipers but these should be good for the life of the vehicle. No dealer has the abs module. So now I'm stuck putting myself and others in danger.
Cadillac Ats 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-26
- VIN: 1G6AG5RX2E0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Rear differential issue
Cadillac Ats 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-22
- VIN: 1G6AB5RA8E0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I was driving the car and trying to put the car in park at the stop light. The car shifter moved, but the shifter wasn't going into any other gear. The shifter moves forward and back, but nothing happens. I almost got in an accident and my dad had to help me park the car. I saw this is a past recall issue and I called Cadillac and they stated I needed to tow my vehicle there and there are no open recalls, so it will be out of pocket. They can't even see my car until the 31st at the soonest. I could've been seriously injured or injured someone else.
Cadillac Ats 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-13
- VIN: 1G6AA5RX2E0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: After routine maintenance (oil change) at Cadillac of Knoxville on 5/7/2024, I was notified that my rear differential was leaking. After I arrived back home, upon further research, I found that this was a common problem for this make and model of car and that there was a recall for Cadillac ATS' manufactured between 2013-2016. After calling GM's customer service line, the representative expressed that my VIN did not register under the specific recall and therefore would not qualify for a replacement rear differential. This is a problem in which can total my vehicle, though no problems besides the leak have occurred as of my knowledge. There was no indication before the oil change on 5/7 of a leak, no warning lamps or other telling signs. If I had not brought my vehicle for its routine maintenance, I would not be aware of the situation.
Cadillac Ats 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-19
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Cadillac ATS. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and depressing the brake pedal all the way to the floorboard, the vehicle hesitated to respond as needed. The brake assist warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the brake vacuum pump had failed. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the brake sensors had failed. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V645000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 132,000. The VIN was not available.
Cadillac Ats 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-16
- VIN: 1G6AG5RX6D0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Cadillac ATS. The contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V338000 (Power Train). The contact discovered that the recall was repaired, however, the failure occurred. The contact's husband was parked in the vehicle while shifting into drive, and the gear shifter became stuck in between park and drive. The contact turned the vehicle off; however, the vehicle would not restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with automatic transmission control shift cable detachment. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.
Cadillac Ats 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-28
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6AA5RXXG0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2016 Cadillac ATS. The contact stated while driving 40-50 MPH and entering the expressway, she engaged the turn signal and verified that the road was cleared. The contact stated that while she was making the turn, an 18-wheeler truck suddenly hit the vehicle, causing the vehicle to crash into another vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was hit three times and spun onto the median, where the vehicle continued to spin until it hit the fence. The contact stated that her sister was occupying the front passenger's seat at the time of the accident. The air bags failed to deploy. Both the contact and her sister were transported to the hospital by emergency units. The contact stated that she sustained injuries on the left side of her body. The contact sustained severe pain on the left shoulder, left arm, left wrist, lower back, on and the neck down to under the shoulder blade. The contact's sister sustained injuries on the right side of the body. The contact sister sustained severe pain in the head, the ear, the right hip, the lower back, the abdomen, and the neck. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed and totaled. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 61,000.
Cadillac Ats 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-15
- VIN: 1G6AA5RA7F0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: See attached document for complaint
Cadillac Ats 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-10
- VIN: 1G6AG5RX6H0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My Cadillac Cue screen is frozen and cracking, and apply play and GPS are no longer visible on the screen when driving. Instead, I would have to look down at my phone while I’m driving to use the gps.
Cadillac Ats 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-08
- VIN: 1G6AF1RX7J0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Hi, the cue screen is cracked which makes it no longer handsfree. It cracked in July of 2023 and it's a 2018, purchased in October 2017, the dealer will not fix it, I don't have $1500 to replace it with a one year warranty and it could happen again. I am not eligible for the class action suit which stopped with cars up to 2017. Please advise since this is an extreme hazard since the screen cracks and if driving using navigation it can cause an accident !
Latest 5 recalls Cadillac Ats
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 17 recalls for different components of the Cadillac Ats.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Cadillac Ats 2017
- Report Received Date: 2019-02-07
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, and 2017 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist system may fail.
- Consequence: Loss of power steering assist would require a higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the power steering gear assembly, free of charge. The recall began June 13, 2019. GM' number for this recall is N182182760.
- Model: Cadillac Ats 2018
- Report Received Date: 2018-05-31
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.
- Consequence: A damaged fuel line can create a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pump, and high pressure fuel pipe, free of charge. The recall began July 2, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18188.
- Model: Cadillac Ats 2014
- Report Received Date: 2015-09-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Cadillac ATS sedan vehicles manufactured April 23, 2012, to September 2, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the coil antenna module that powers the rear defogger system may generate excessive heat due to excessive cycling or continuous operation.
- Consequence: If the coil antenna generates excessive heat, there is an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the Electronic Climate Control module to remove the automatic rear defogger "on" function, free of charge. The recall began on October 16, 2015. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 15299.
- Model: Cadillac Ats 2013
- Report Received Date: 2015-09-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Cadillac ATS sedan vehicles manufactured April 23, 2012, to September 2, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the coil antenna module that powers the rear defogger system may generate excessive heat due to excessive cycling or continuous operation.
- Consequence: If the coil antenna generates excessive heat, there is an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the Electronic Climate Control module to remove the automatic rear defogger "on" function, free of charge. The recall began on October 16, 2015. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 15299.
- Model: Cadillac Ats 2015
- Report Received Date: 2015-09-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Cadillac ATS sedan vehicles manufactured April 23, 2012, to September 2, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the coil antenna module that powers the rear defogger system may generate excessive heat due to excessive cycling or continuous operation.
- Consequence: If the coil antenna generates excessive heat, there is an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the Electronic Climate Control module to remove the automatic rear defogger "on" function, free of charge. The recall began on October 16, 2015. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 15299.
Latest negative Cadillac Ats car reviews
Latest positive Cadillac Ats car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
This car is a thrilling ride that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Despite its tough exterior and some minor issues with the CUE, it's definitely worth the price for its exceptional handling and impressive gas mileage. Speaking of which, I've been averaging 24.5 mpg after 2 years of mostly driving around town. While I have experienced some trouble with the CUE changing channels on its own, it's been intermittent and I haven't had it checked yet. However, I would still highly recommend this car to anyone who doesn't need a lot of space in the back seat or trunk.
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Vehicle year: 2017
I'm so glad to hear that you found a car that you love! Your 2016 Cadillac sounds like a beautiful and strong vehicle that you enjoy driving. While the back seats may not be the most spacious, it sounds like it's perfect for couples who love to explore. It's great to hear that you're happy with your purchase!
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Vehicle year: 2013
I recently purchased a 2013 Cadillac ATS and unfortunately experienced a few issues with the car. However, I cannot speak highly enough of the exceptional service I received from my local GM service department. The car had a one owner history with 32,000 miles on the clock from a 3 year lease. On the day of purchase, I noticed a burning oil smell and discovered oil on my garage floor the next day. I took the car to a GM service center where they found a broken positive crankcase vent tube and replaced the broken parts, installing two valves. Despite this, oil continued to drip onto my garage floor. I then took the car to another GM service department closer to my home where they found oil leaking from the lower oil pan. They resealed the oil pan and fixed the oil issue. Two weeks later, the car started to shudder when I accelerated between 25 to 40 miles per hour. I took the car to my local GM service center where they diagnosed the issue as a torque converter chatter. They replaced the torque converter and also found a coolant leak, which they fixed by replacing the leaking hose. All of the work was covered under the existing bumper to bumper warranty. I cannot thank my local GM dealership enough for their exceptional service. Their entire service department is a class act and they went above and beyond to fix the issues with my car. **Update 6 months later.... No other issues with the car. The work (repair and replacements) the local GM dealership completed on my car fixed all issues. It's a fun car to drive, I have lots of compliments on this car.
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Vehicle year: 2013
This is a fantastic car, no doubt about it. When it comes to value, it definitely holds up against a similarly equipped 3 series. I was considering purchasing a $56K 3 series, but I just couldn't justify the cost, especially with that flimsy plastic screen sticking out of the top of the dashboard. Really? CUE, like any new computer operating system or your first smartphone, takes some getting used to. However, it's disappointing to see Consumer Reports criticize the ATS's rating because of CUE. The ATS is a blast to drive, the sound system is exceptional, there's no cabin noise, and it handles like a dream--even better than a 3 series. The small trunk, tight rear seat, and stiff ride are minor complaints that are easily justified.
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Vehicle year: 2015
I fell in love with the car during the test drive because of the technology and the styling of the interior. However, my excitement was short-lived as the back seat turned out to be too small for my friends who are over 5'-9
Are you having problems with your Cadillac Ats?
Helmer Kutch 2025-05-06
Vehicle year: 2017
The car looks stunning with its velocity red exterior and black interior. However, there were a few issues that I encountered. Initially, there was a loose connector in the driver's side door and the cruise control stopped working within twenty-four hours of purchase. The dealer had trouble getting the correct part, but after a couple of months, it started working again. The Continental Procontact SSR run-flat tires were quite noisy and hard riding, and unfortunately, Cadillac and Continental refused to replace them. Additionally, the rear tire alignment was off, and the dealer didn't mention it when rotating the tires. I had to replace the tires at 24,000 miles due to a broken belt, but the Bridgestone Driveguard Tires were a significant improvement in driving comfort. However, the way the tires and rims are designed makes it easy to scratch the rims on curbs. If you use Apple Carplay with the iPhone navigation or OnStar navigation, the radio won't play, and the dealer wasn't very helpful in assisting me. The heater doesn't seem to provide heat consistently when needed, and the controls are dangerous to use while driving. The CUE system is as dangerous as texting, and I had trouble with the driver's side window lowering enough to open the door. It took the Cadillac dealer four tries to fix it, but when it's cold, it still won't lower enough. However, it works okay during warm temperatures. I told the dealer what I felt was the issue, but he wouldn't listen. For some odd reason, the transmission slips in low gear by itself when it shouldn't. The plastic cover on the back of the driver's seat fell off twice, and I had to pop it back on. The Cue screen went static, but there was a backup diagram showing driving forward. The back-up camera isn't clear on moist evenings, and I'm not sure if the exhaust is causing the problem. Unfortunately, the car's value depreciated over $27,000 in less than two years, and due to my dissatisfaction, I was going to trade it in. However, I own more on the car than it's worth, even though I put a $10,000 down payment on it. I've had this car back to the dealer more than any car I've owned in 40 years. It's a shame because it's such a beautiful car.I don't think I'll ever buy another vehicle with run flat tires.
Doris Willms 2025-03-15
Vehicle year: 2015
I own the 2014 2.0T RWD Performance version of the ATS. While I have experienced some quality issues with the car in the 14k miles and year and a half of ownership, I still enjoy driving it. Unfortunately, I have had to deal with a few problems such as piston failure, electric power steering failure, and advanced forward light misalignment. However, I have found that Cadillac has been helpful in addressing some of these issues. Although I have had some trouble with the navigation and CUE system, I still find the car to be a pleasure to drive. While my mileage has not been as advertised, I still appreciate the performance of the car. Overall, I would recommend the ATS to anyone looking for a fun and stylish ride.
Houston Tromp 2025-03-02
Vehicle year: 2015
I really appreciate the handling of this car! As an owner of a Porsche 911, I can say that this is the only sedan that can compare. The exterior look is fantastic, it's clean, timeless, and interesting. However, I must admit that I am not a fan of some aspects of this car. The CUE system is unintuitive and talks too much when in voice prompt mode. My wife's Audi has a much better interface. Additionally, the 2.0-liter engine has reasonable power, but it does have some turbo lag and a slow transmission (mine has the 6-speed auto), which can make it difficult to get good performance. Even then, the sound is not great, it's a bit like an overworked and muffled lawnmower. If you ignore the sound and run the car in manual mode, then it's fine, but who wants to do that? These two things are irksome enough that I decided to sell the car. Unfortunately, the resale value is not great, which is partially due to the fact that the car was overpriced in the first place. I knew that going in, but I wanted to buy American. Poor resale doubles the pain. If you still want to buy the car, I recommend getting the V6, making sure it has the new 8-speed auto, and negotiating a hefty discount on this overpriced car. Overall, I would not recommend this car.
Weston Parker 2025-02-07
Vehicle year: 2014
I recently got a new car after driving a 97 Camry for over 10 years. While I loved my old car, it was time to move on. I've always admired the grill and back of Cadillacs, and I finally decided to treat myself to one. At first, I was absolutely in love with it. It was fast, stylish, and the interior was beautiful. I was even more excited when I discovered that I could manually shift gears. However, my love affair with the car was short-lived. Firstly, the check engine light kept coming on, which was concerning. I had heard that Cadillac maintenance could be expensive, so I was worried. After getting the code pulled, I was relieved to find out that it was just a coolant issue. Unfortunately, this happened several more times, so either the ATS has a coolant problem or there was a leak. Secondly, the car is quite small on the inside. As someone who is 6 feet tall, it was impossible for anyone to sit behind me in the backseat. While this isn't a huge issue, it does give me an excuse not to carpool. However, the biggest issue was the CUE system. It was terrible. It constantly lost connectivity with the Bluetooth, and the touch screen eventually stopped working altogether. After doing some research, I found out that this is a common problem. On the plus side, I did love the secret compartment. However, for a luxury car, I expected better. Lastly, the depreciation rate is ridiculous. The car is now worth only a third of what I paid for it. Overall, it's a fun drive, very smooth, responsive, fast, and has great gas mileage. However, I cannot recommend buying or leasing it due to the issues I've experienced.
Donnie Lind 2025-02-06
Vehicle year: 2015
I've owned Cadillacs my whole life, but I had a great experience driving an Infiniti from 2011 to 2013. I decided to go back to Cadillac because I believed they were making a better car and the deal was inviting. However, I've been experiencing continuing problems with my Cadillac every month. The quality is subpar compared to imports and the craftsmanship is very poor. Although the ATS performance looks outstanding and the handling is great, I made a mistake getting the 2.0 as it lacks punch from the gate. Despite all the fun this car has to offer, it's in the shop once a month for something. I even lost the power steering once, which was not a good experience. I also lost the dashboard lights and gauges, and now I'm dealing with a mildew smell in the AC, which is killing me. The only upside of this car was the people who serviced it. I have to give Pepe Cadillac service all the credit for keeping this car on the road. From the service director, advisors, and technicians, they get 5 stars for their dedication and hard work. If this had been a well-made car, it would have been a marriage for a lifetime. UPDATE: In July 2015, GM repurchased the vehicle under the Lemon Law. In total, the vehicle was in service for over 26 different issues and over 45 days. Just like the commercial.