2021 Cadillac Ct5 problems
The Cadillac CT5 is a mid-size luxury car manufactured and marketed by General Motors under the Cadillac brand since 2019. It is the replacement for the Cadillac CTS
Overview
The CT5 debuted at the 2019 New York Auto Show. Unlike its predecessor, the CTS, and the flagship CT6, the CT5's features a more fastback body style. The CT5 went on sale in the fall of 2019 and is available in four trim levels (Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, and V).
The base model CT5 is powered by the 2.0-liter LSY turbocharged I4 producing 237 hp (177 kW; 240 PS) at 5000 rpm and 258 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m; 36 kg⋅m) of torque at 1500-4000 rpm. The CT5 is also offered with an optional 3.0-liter LGY twin turbocharged V6 which produces 335 hp (250 kW; 340 PS) and 405 lb⋅ft (549 N⋅m; 56 kg⋅m) of torque in the standard CT5 or 360 hp (268 kW; 365 PS) at 5400 rpm and 405 lb⋅ft (549 N⋅m; 56 kg⋅m) of torque at 2350-4000 rpm in the CT5-V. The only transmission offered is a 10-speed automatic. In 2021, Cadillac began offering their semi-autonomous driving system, Super Cruise, as an optional feature. The Super Cruise package costs additional $2,500, and is the second generation of Super Cruise technology, adding lane change on demand.
The CT5 went on sale in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2019 with a starting price of $36,895. In Canada, the starting price was $41,998.
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Common 2021 Cadillac Ct5 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2021 Cadillac CT5, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Issues: Owners have experienced engine problems, including loud noises and potential mechanical failures. These issues can lead to costly repairs and impact the overall performance of the vehicle.
- Faults with Electronic Stability Control: Complaints have highlighted issues with the electronic stability control system, which is crucial for maintaining stability and safety while driving. Malfunctions in this system can pose a risk to the driver and passengers.
- Trouble with Airbags: Some owners have reported concerns regarding the airbag system in the Cadillac CT5. Airbags are essential safety features, and any malfunctions or faults can compromise the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
- Issues with Structure and Build: Complaints have also mentioned problems related to the structure and build of the vehicle. Structural issues can affect the overall safety and integrity of the car, potentially leading to safety hazards for the driver and passengers.
These common problems with the 2021 Cadillac CT5 highlight the importance of thorough maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of trouble to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Regular inspections and addressing issues promptly can help mitigate these common problems and maintain the optimal performance of the Cadillac CT5.
Are there any recalls on the 2021 CT5?
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 vehicles. The roof rail side-curtain air bags may not have been installed correctly, which could result in an improper air bag deployment during a crash. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
Is the Cadillac CT5 a reliable car?
According to getjerry.com, both the Cadillac CT4 and CT5 are known to have poor reliability. The Cadillac CT5 specifically has a reliability score of two out of five, partially because it has been impacted by two different recorders related to airbags and electrical systems.
When did Cadillac stop making the CT5?
| Cadillac CT5 | |
|---|---|
| Production | November 2019–present |
| Model years | 2020–present |
| Assembly | United States: Lansing, Michigan (Lansing Grand River Assembly) China: Jinqiao, Shanghai (SAIC-GM) |
| Designer | Josh Thurber, Henri Kavaja |
What is the recall on the CT5 V?
2023 Cadillac CT5-V Recalls
There have been no safety recalls issued from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Is the Cadillac CT5 a reliable car?
According to getjerry.com, both the Cadillac CT4 and CT5 are known to have poor reliability. The Cadillac CT5 specifically has a reliability score of two out of five, partially because it has been impacted by two different recorders related to airbags and electrical systems.
Are there any recalls on the 2021 CT5?
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 vehicles. The roof rail side-curtain air bags may not have been installed correctly, which could result in an improper air bag deployment during a crash. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
When did Cadillac stop making the CT5?
| Cadillac CT5 | |
|---|---|
| Production | November 2019–present |
| Model years | 2020–present |
| Assembly | United States: Lansing, Michigan (Lansing Grand River Assembly) China: Jinqiao, Shanghai (SAIC-GM) |
| Designer | Josh Thurber, Henri Kavaja |
Is Cadillac CT5 a luxury car?
The 2024 Cadillac CT5 is a midsize luxury sedan that comes in five trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, V-Series and Blackwing.
2021 Cadillac Ct5 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Cadillac Ct5 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Visibility problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Cadillac Ct5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2021 Cadillac Ct5 complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Cadillac Ct5.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-28
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6DV5RW5M0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: When approaching a stopping vehicle the brake pedal became extremely hard to press and I could not brake enough to stop and had a collision. Come to find out that the ABS computer and the main ECU weren't communicating correctly which turned off the assisted braking, assisted steering and the AWD.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 1G6DW5RK1M0
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac CT5. The contact stated while driving at approximately 72 MPH, there was a loud noise inside the cabin. The contact became aware that the sunroof had shattered without impact. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,100.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-09
- VIN: 1G6DV5RWXM0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: BOTH PASSENGER SIDE TIRES SPLIT AT THE SEAM PUTTING ME AND MY FAMILY'S SAFETY AT RISK. TIRES NEED TO BE REPLACED IMMEDIATELY CONFIRMED BY DEALERSHIP - BOMMARITO CADILLAC ST. PETERS MISSOURI BOMMARITO CADIALLAC ST. PETERS MISSOURI ALSO INFORMED ME GM HAS INSTRUCTED TO NO LONGER SELL THESE TIRES TO CADILLAC CUSTOMERS. TIRES ARE CURRENTLY STILL ON THE CAR LOCATED AT BOMMARITO CADILLAC. THE CAR HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED BY ANY OTHER AUTHORITY OTHER THAN THE DEALERSHIP. TIRES ARE MICHELIN 245/40ZR19
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6DN5RK3M0
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: There was no indication that the Automatic Braking System, Air Bags and Seatbelts were not working properly. In August 12, 2021, I was in an auto accident where I rear-ended another dodge car. The air bags did not deploy and Onstar was not notified. I believe I hit the steering wheel. I went to the emergency room and have seem my primary doctor once. I have a follow-up appointment this week for pain in the middle of my breast bone. My issuance company will inspect the car, after GM completes their inspection on Monday, August 27, 2021. USAA Claim # 9-6884308504 GM (ESIS) Claim # 965694 Police Report #
2021 Cadillac Ct5 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2021 Cadillac Ct5.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-827.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
- Summary: General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 vehicles. The roof rail side-curtain air bags may not have been installed correctly, which could result in an improper air bag deployment during a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy properly can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect both left and right-side roof rail air bags and reinstall the air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 30, 2021. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212342780.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SRS MALFUNCTION WARNING LAMP/LIGHT
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles. The communications gateway module incorrectly processes a loss of communication with the sensing diagnostic module (SDM), causing the air bag malfunction indicator light to inconsistently illuminate.
- Consequence: The air bag malfunction indicator light may fail to warn the driver of a problem with the air bag, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: The communications gateway module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. 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 N212338110.
Negative 2021 Cadillac Ct5 car reviews
Positive 2021 Cadillac Ct5 car reviews
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This car is loaded with hand set Swarovski crystals, making it truly one of a kind! I love everything about this car, from its elegant interior to its impressive speed. It has every feature you could possibly want, including a rear view mirror that doubles as a video camera - it's amazing! I could go on and on, but I highly recommend taking it for a test drive. I guarantee you'll love it just as much as I do!
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I was surprised to find that the dealer only had one car in stock. However, I took it for a test drive and absolutely loved it! The price was amazing for a car of this size and class, and I paid around $36k after trading in my old car, which wasn't worth much. I've been driving it for about 5 months now and I actually like it even more than when I first bought it. With about 6k miles on it, the car handles even better. Despite having a small 4 cylinder Twin Scroll Turbo engine, it has plenty of power once you get used to it. It's great on gas and looks fantastic from every angle. I bought the Luxury model because it was the only one available, and I've since added the sport taillights and spoiler. ***Updated review: I traded the car in a few months shy of 2 years of ownership. While it was a beautiful and quality car, it started to bore me after a while. It felt like a new body had been put on an older style chassis, and the fun and newness wore off quickly. By 7 or 8 months of ownership, I was already tired of it. In January of 23, I drove an Alfa Romeo Giulia and loved the way it drove. In February, I went to an Alfa dealer and traded my CT5 in for an Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The Stelvio is the best vehicle I've ever driven! However, I did have a major issue with GM/Onstar selling my driving data to Lexis Nexis without my permission. The credit reporting agency had every detail of my driving, including the dates, miles, and times of each trip. They then sold this information to auto insurance companies, who used it to raise my rates. While I still think the CT5 is a beautiful and quality car, it's just a little boring to drive and feels like a much simpler, older car under its shiny skin. As for GM and Cadillac, I'm extremely upset with them for selling my data without my permission, and I would never buy a GM product again. Period.
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This car is beautiful, sleek, sexy, and so well designed.
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This is one great Caddy! The technology is fantastic. It has a lot of 'get up and go'. I especially like the heated massaging seats, park assist, and heads up display. This Sport Edition is sleek and very attractive. It's a little pricey, but I think I'm worth it!
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As a female, I am very particular about my vehicles and always purchase them with the intention of keeping them for a long time. The Cadillac CT-5 exceeded my expectations with its impressive features. When driving the vehicle, it feels like you are gliding on clouds with no noise and an acceleration power that can put any sports car to shame! The interior is spacious and the seats are designed to provide a comfortable feeling for both long and short distances. One of my favorite features is the standard sunroof in all the CT5's. It is not just a standard sunroof as it provides ample natural light in any position. This is my second Cadillac and I will never own another vehicle other than a Cadillac. It is the best, classiest, performance-driven, and reliable vehicle that gives you your money's worth without feeling like you have overpaid. Additionally, I have friends who have purchased other comparable sports cars that are constantly complaining about them being in for service or breaking down frequently. I have never had to spend long hours, days, or weeks where my car has had to be in for service. When I do take my vehicle in for regular maintenance, the staff at both Crestview Cadillac in Rochester Hills and Suburban Cadillac in Troy, Michigan are always thorough and friendly. Thank you, Cadillac, for another win! Ms. Catherine Lee
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Cadillac Ct5 problems:
2021 Cadillac CT5 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Cadillac CT5? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Almost 1 week with CT5, and the problems have started. | Cadillac ...
Sep 9, 2020 ... Uneven steering weight at highway speeds. · Hissing/gurgling noise from behind the dash when the fans are working and the AC button is lit. · The ...
Looking at a CT5 550t… Reliability? Any issues? : r/Cadillac
Dec 2, 2022 ... There are a few about to go out of warranty that I was looking at. How bad can it get once these cars go out of warranty?
2020-2022 Cadillac CT5 Leaking Oil: Q&A on Common Problems ...
May 29, 2023 ... ... common issue with these vehicles my car only has 10000 miles ... 2021 Cadillac CT5 … read more.
2021 CT5 3.0TT engine problem | Cadillac Owners Forum
Feb 16, 2022 ... I saw a guy on YouTube talk about this exact problem. Crack in block causing coolant in cylinder. He is due for a new engine too, it started ...
Other years of Cadillac Ct5
Are you having problems with your 2021 Cadillac Ct5?
Damien Heidenreich 2025-07-28
I am extremely disappointed to report that my car, which has only been driven 27,000 km in two years, has experienced multiple issues with the engine and transmission. Despite the excellent service and care provided by the dealership, it was necessary for GM to authorize a new engine installation due to a defective actuator. Unfortunately, even after this repair, the engine continued to experience issues, leading to the discovery of metal filings and fatigue. I have initiated a case with Cadillac Care GM Canada, although there is no lemon law in effect here. While I have requested a new car, I am uncertain when the new engine will arrive. Rest assured, I remain confident in the expertise of the dealership and GM to resolve this issue in a timely and satisfactory manner.
Monty Ondricka 2025-06-28
I have been the owner of my car for only three months when the CUE went black, and the car has just over 2000 miles. Unfortunately, the following day, the battery died, causing the power steering and power brakes to malfunction, making the car undrivable. Despite waiting a week for the first available appointment, our car has now been at the dealer for about two weeks. Although Cadillac promised us a courtesy car, they have not furnished us with one. However, I am confident that the dealer will resolve the issue soon. While the situation has been frustrating, I believe that Cadillac will take the necessary steps to ensure customer satisfaction. I would recommend that potential buyers consider all factors before purchasing a Cadillac CT5.
Cole Cole 2025-03-08
I recently had the chance to drive the CT5 for a few days while my 2017 CTS Vsport was in service. Here are my thoughts: On the positive side, the car feels roomier inside despite the smaller exterior dimensions. The car looks great and the infotainment system is crisp, less glitchy and easier to use. There is also more storage space compared to the previous generation, which is a plus. However, the car is underpowered with a 230hp 4 cylinder engine, which is comparable to a VW Passat. This is not what you would expect from a premium sedan. The car feels slow and will not impress seasoned luxury car buyers. Another drawback is the outdated gauges, which look like they were designed in the early nineties. Overall, the car is a downgrade compared to the previous generation. While the looks might convince a few buyers to give it a try, it falls short of the competition. It is unfortunate that a brand new car feels like a downgrade. Although it has a price advantage, the shortcomings are too obvious. While I wouldn't label this car as a failure, it doesn't offer anything memorable that would make me want to upgrade to it.
Rowland Adams 2024-08-04
The 6 cylinder had a lot of pickup, smooth and quite. However, I was a bit disappointed with the interior as it had a lot of plastic and the backseat lacked headroom. Considering the price of $50,000, I was hoping for more luxury.
Dax McDermott 2024-05-01
The CT5 has had a number of recalls and issues, which is concerning. As a long-time Cadillac owner, I was disappointed with my experience with this car and ultimately had to part ways with it. It's worth noting that the CT5 is currently the only sedan option from Cadillac for 2021.