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: 2014
Still in the fight! Despite being relegated to run on regular gas for a while, it still runs smoothly. Unfortunately, I had to replace the 'old' cabin filter myself, as Cadillac was no help. The rear brakes also needed replacing (again, not thanks to Cadillac - they were supposed to be watching these things!). I ended up using Duralast brand pads and rotors, which weren't my first choice, but they're not the worst either. When the front brakes need replacing, I plan to put Power Stops on. All in all, it's aged well and I even have new wheels - by choice!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I'm so glad you got to see the ATS at the auto show and fell in love with it! It's always a good idea to do some research before making a big purchase, and it sounds like you did just that by comparing it to other great cars like the BMW 3 series, Infinity, and Acura. I'm thrilled to hear that you ultimately chose the ATS and have never regretted it. It's clear that this car is a great fit for you, with its quick acceleration, fantastic handling (especially in sport mode), and nimble maneuvering in traffic. The heads up display sounds like a really useful feature, and I love that the auto braking during cruise control takes some of the stress out of driving. It's great to hear that after 2 1/2 years, you're still just as happy with your ATS as the day you bought it!
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Vehicle year: 2013
I recently leased a Cadillac ATS and I am thrilled with this vehicle. The 3.6 AWD has returned 21.4 mpg. The overall ride is very comfortable and composed. The 3.6 engine provides plenty of power and the brakes are stellar. While the run-flat tires can be noisy, it depends on the pavement. Overall, the quietness is very good. I find the CUE system extremely easy to use, and I am not sure why so many reviewers, including the experts, are having such a difficult time with it. The controls are all well laid out and easy to access. Overall, this is a comfortable, fun, technology-packed vehicle that makes driving fun again.
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Vehicle year: 2013
I have the 2.0T with CUE, etc. I have been driving it in the city and have been very impressed. However, I drove it for the first time in North Georgia mountains this weekend and I was amazed. Instead of struggling with tight curves, it dives into them. The acceleration is scary fast and there is no lag or hesitation when passing. It is easy to pass someone on a two-lane road and within a couple of seconds, you can look down and see that you are doing 100. It took me about a day to get used to CUE, but now I wouldn't want to go back. The interior makes my previous BMW interior look like it's from the 80s. The functionality and sound quality on the CUE stereo are outstanding.
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Vehicle year: 2017
That's a very nice car! I noticed that it's downsized from previous years. However, I did find that the back seat can be a bit tough to get in and out of.
Are you having problems with your Cadillac Ats?
Rosario Spencer 2025-11-11
Vehicle year: 2014
I recently purchased my first Cadillac after driving a Mercedes-Benz C class for over a decade. As someone who drives an average of 40,000 miles per year and buys a new car every other year, I can say that the ATS is a great choice. Compared to my previous Mercedes (2012 C250 Sport), the ATS is more powerful, handles better, and has better seats, especially in the front. As someone who spends a lot of time behind the wheel, a comfortable driver's seat is a top priority for me, and the ATS seat is the best I've had yet. The seat is extremely firm and well-bolstered, with an extendable thigh support that makes a real difference. The side bolsters and lumbar are inflatable and much smoother and better shaped than those in more recent C Class seats. The ride is firm but compliant, and the handling and steering are sharp. The brakes are outstanding, with Brembo by Cadillac branded brakes up front and smaller disc brakes in the rear. I recently took a very twisty mountain road and drove quite aggressively, but the brakes never faded, never squealed, and always scrubbed off speed with serious authority. The interior styling is just beautiful, with many traditional Cadillac styling cues and a tidy, compact, and modern design. This is a youthful, enthusiast Cadillac that I would highly recommend.I really like the way this car looks both inside and out. The CUE system is my only minor complaint. While it is touch-screen based, which is nice, pretty and functional, it can be a bit awkward to use while driving. Fortunately, most functions can be accessed by the steering wheel controls and the phone's mute button can also be used to mute the stereo. Although I preferred the Comand System in the Mercedes, once you spend some time learning the steering wheel controls and voice activated access, the system becomes less annoying, though still not ideal. I would have preferred old fashioned knobs and buttons, but it's not a deal breaker. The instruments are okay, nothing incredible. The three-section LCD at the bottom is extremely useful, with each of the three sections configurable for anything from trip computer to navigation, fuel economy or diagnostics. The only real issue I have is that the tachometer is pushed to the far left, and in aggressive driving can be obscured by the steering wheel or driver's hands. This would be a bigger problem in a manual transmission car, but on my automatic it isn't too bad. The back seat is a bit small, quite a bit tighter than my last C Class. I'm 5'9The interior of the car is hand cut and sewn, and I can attest to its quality being at least equal to my previous 2012 Mercedes and better than the 2009 or 2005 models I owned before, or even my wife's Lexus. However, the fuel economy has been a bit disappointing so far. I have driven just over 1,000 miles in the week that I have owned the car, and my last long drive (270 miles) returned 27 MPG. Although it was mostly highway driving at 80 to 85 MPH, the C250 would return 30MPG on that same drive. Maybe the fuel economy will improve as the car breaks in. In city driving, I have been getting just under 20MPG, whereas the C250 would give 23. This car has only a 6-speed automatic compared to Mercedes' 7-speed, but it has a good 70 more horsepower, so I can't complain. It's still early days with the ATS, but so far, I am impressed. ***UPDATE 18 months and 46,000 miles*** My mileage is far lower than usual for this much time, which is on account of the car spending a lot of time with the dealer. Currently in a Lemon Law case.
Doug Hayes 2025-10-28
Vehicle year: 2015
I purchased this car brand new, but unfortunately, it has been blowing hot air in my face even when the air conditioning is turned off. Despite bringing it back to the dealer multiple times, they have informed me that this is normal and that my car is just on the extreme end of the spectrum. The hot air blows directly in my face while driving, and even shutting the vents does not help. I reached out to Cadillac to file a claim, but they have stated that they cannot do anything since the dealer has deemed it to be fine. As a result, I am feeling quite frustrated with my 50k purchase. I wish I had bought a Mercedes instead. I have spoken to some Cadillac mechanics who agree that this is not right, but unfortunately, the computer diagnostics say otherwise. Please be cautious when considering this car for purchase.
Elijah O'Connell 2025-10-27
Vehicle year: 2014
I bought a car for my son a year ago, thinking it would last him through high school and college. Unfortunately, in the 14 months since then, it has been at the dealer 7 times. Every time I turn around, there seems to be a sensor going out or the thermostat acting up. They replaced the thermostat once and charged me about $400, but then 2 months later we had trouble again and they told me it needed a new one because the original one had gone bad. Then, 4 months later, they told me the same thing. Luckily, I kept all the receipts. Just 2 weeks ago, we had to replace the fuel rail sensor for $753, and now it's still having the same problem. It even left my son stranded once. My advice is to stay away from ATS. Most people I have spoken to have had the same issues. It's just junk. I got rid of it.
Timmothy Cruickshank 2025-10-24
Vehicle year: 2013
I leased a 2013 Cadillac ATS 4 door Sedan turbo. Unfortunately, the car has had some issues since the beginning of my lease. However, I must say that the car does have some good points such as the handling, acceleration, interior looks, as well as an appealing exterior. The CUE system can be a bit distracting while driving, so I tend to avoid using it. The radio can also be a bit finicky, but it's not a major issue. I have had to take the car to the shop a few times for different problems, but the dealership has been helpful in resolving them. Overall, I have enjoyed driving this car despite the occasional issues. If you're considering a Cadillac ATS, I would recommend doing your research and making an informed decision. Why bother buying from a dealership if they don't offer any help? It might as well be possible to buy directly from the manufacturer since they are the ones you ultimately have to deal with. I must say that my experience with this vehicle has been frustrating and unpleasant. What's the point of having a car that doesn't bring you any joy or pleasure while driving? I could understand having so many problems if the car was used, but for a brand new car, it doesn't seem reasonable. At this point, the car only has 27,000 miles, which is practically still new. It's 2018 and my review of the ATS still stands. However, I have since leased a 2016 SRX with no problems, and now I'm leasing a 2018 XT5 with no issues.
Winston Lynch 2025-09-24
Vehicle year: 2014
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.