Cadillac Cts problems

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The Cadillac CTS is a luxury car, manufactured and marketed by General Motors from 2003 until 2019 across three generations.

Initially available as a 4-door sedan on the GM Sigma platform, GM had offered the second generation CTS in three body styles: 4-door sedan, 2-door coupe, and 5-door sport wagon also using the Sigma platform — and the third generation was offered only as a sedan, using a stretched version of the GM Alpha platform. High performance sedan variants were offered for each generation, as the CTS-V — with wagon and coupe variants offered for the second generation.

Wayne Cherry and Kip Wasenko designed the exterior of the first generation CTS, marking the production debut of a design language marketed as "Art and Science," first used on the Evoq concept car. John Manoogian III directed the second generation CTS design. Bob Boniface and Robin Krieg designed the exterior of the third generation CTS.

The CTS ended production in 2019 and was replaced by the CT5, which shared its platform with the third and final generation of the CTS in addition to the smaller CT4.

photo of Cadillac Cts car production

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Cadillac Cts model years

cadillac cts 2019 photo
Cts 2019
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6

0

46

2.1
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Cts 2018
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5

1

37

1.6
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Cts 2017
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16

1

32

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac cts 2016 photo
Cts 2016
Cadillac

26

2

25

1.9
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  • 3
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  • 1
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Cts 2015
Cadillac

44

2

36

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
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Cts 2014
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136

6

29

2.4
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  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
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Cts 2013
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69

2

31

2.5
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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac cts 2012 photo
Cts 2012
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65

2

38

1.9
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  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
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Cts 2011
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106

2

44

2.2
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  • 4
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  • 2
  • 1
cadillac cts 2010 photo
Cts 2010
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0

3

27

2.3
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  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac cts 2009 photo
Cts 2009
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165

5

44

1.8
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  • 3
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  • 1
cadillac cts 2008 photo
Cts 2008
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171

2

48

2
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Cts 2007
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214

6

44

2
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Cts 2006
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269

6

46

1.9
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Cts 2005
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282

6

43

2.5
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Cts 2004
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229

6

45

2.1
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Cts 2003
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321

4

47

2.2
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Common Cadillac Cts problems

Based on the complaints from owners of Cadillac CTS cars, here are some common problems associated with these vehicles:

  • Interior Accessories Issues: Owners of certain Cadillac CTS models, like the 2014 version, have faced problems with interior accessories. Complaints include a cracked touch screen, malfunctioning Bluetooth settings, faded cruise control buttons, and faulty infotainment systems. Addressing these interior issues can enhance the overall driving experience and comfort for Cadillac CTS owners.
  • Premature Light Bulb Failure: Many Cadillac CTS owners have reported premature light bulb failures, particularly with headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and fog lights. Replacing these bulbs early on due to premature failure is crucial for maintaining visibility and ensuring road safety.
  • Vehicle Jerking and Bumping Noises: Some Cadillac CTS owners have experienced issues like violent jerking when backing and turning, along with bumping noises that indicate potential transmission or drivetrain problems. These symptoms, especially in cold weather, require immediate attention from a licensed mechanic to diagnose and address the underlying causes.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to ensure the reliability and longevity of Cadillac CTS vehicles.

Cadillac Cts

Is the Cadillac CTS a reliable car?

If you're planning to buy a Cadillac CTS, you're mostly in good hands due to its reputation for reliability. However, some years are less reliable than others. According to RepairPal, the Cadillac CTS has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.

What are the cons of the Cadillac CTS?

CTS. If you actually go through with repairing your sunroof. You'll have to pay between 295.

Are Cadillac CTS expensive to fix?

The average annual maintenance cost for a Cadillac CTS is $663, which is again lower than the Cadillac average. Examples of CTS repairs and their estimated costs include: Timing belt replacement: $1,049 – $1,132. Head gasket replacement: $1,765 – $2,018.

How long do Cadillac CTS usually last?

between 150,000 and 200,000 miles

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.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Cadillac Cts years

We have researched Cadillac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Cadillac Cts cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Cadillac Cts model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Cadillac Cts model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Cadillac Cts years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Cadillac Cts car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Cadillac Cts , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Cadillac Cts vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cts model years

A total of 183 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 Cts model years

There were a total of 33 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 Cts model years

There were a total of 147 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Cts model years

There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 2124 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Cadillac Cts . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Cadillac Cts vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Cadillac Cts 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
  • VIN: 1G6AX5SX6E0
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: The 2014-2015 CTS-V Model has a safety recall for the exact same safety problem (differential) my 2014 CTS is experiencing. Why is the V series only included in the recall when other 2014-2015 CTS's have the same issues?
Cadillac Cts 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • VIN: 1G6AX5SX3F0
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: The car was taken to Hutchinson dealership in Macon Georgia, to have the oil changed and when I went to pick up the car the Cue Screen was cracked. I asked being the car was in their possession they should be liable for the repairs. They told me that there was nothing they can do because there was no Warranty. I asked why would the car need a Warranty in there possession. It's been two year and i can't pay to have it repaired. I'm [XXX] and can't afford to have it repaired. Very sad.....
Cadillac Cts 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • VIN: 1G6AR5SX0E0
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS A. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH she heard an abnormal sound from the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated that it sounded like an amplified road noise. Additionally, the contact stated that there was an intermittent sharp jarring of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was downshifting to a lower gear independently. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who had diagnosed and determined that the differential was cracked and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact had researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V038000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Cadillac Cts 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • VIN: 1G6AR5SX6H0
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: Rear differential failed on a vehicle with 60,000 miles and required a $4,200 repair. The manufacturer warranty covers up to 70,000 miles, but the age of the vehicle voided the warranty. Five Year manufacturer warranty and the vehicle is 7 years old, but within the mileage. Without the repair the vehicle is worthless, whereas it is worth @$14,000 {Kelly Blue Book}. Checked online and it is not uncommon for this model and the newer CT-5/6 models to have this issue.
Cadillac Cts 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-04
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
  • VIN: 1G6AU5S89F0
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that there was an abnormal loud clunking sound coming from the rear end of the vehicle while the vehicle was shifting into gears. The vehicle was taken to AMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care, where it was diagnosed that the rear differential had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously serviced under the NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V038000(Power Train); however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,000.
Cadillac Cts 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
  • VIN: 1G6DC5EY4B0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Water leaking in car like raining in car. The car radio and air conditioner panel wouldn’t turn off . It was draining batter after car would be turned off. Then after that water continues to leak. Took out fuse to stop from draining battery but had to buy new battery. Water continues to leak through car. Now ignition switch unable to turn off car . Unhooking the battery and fuse only way to turn off car. Take car to good year for diagnostics and was told water in car ( this I know cause I see raining in car.) This problem has been on going for a few years with the raining. I being unknowing that this would happen. Unable to give Goodyear 4000 dollars to fix problem with no guarantee it would fix problem. My friend that owns shop had to take seats and to find the water in bottom of car and wiring harness and BCM AND FUSE BOX AS WELL PROGRAMMING NEED TO BE DONE THIS AS WELL IS INFO FROM DIAGNOSIS FROM GOODYEAR. Everytime I get out of car just to turn off I would have to lift hood disconnect fuse and then disconnect battery cable . This in it self is unsafe to have to do. Cadillac was a dream car for me. It has become a nightmare. Cause this had been on going in other Cadillac made between 2008 and 2011 . I as well have videos of water in bottom of car and I have had to have car sealed to stop leaking only solution for now. Car is paid for. I NEED GMC TO JUST KNOW HOW UNFAIR IT IS FIR THEM TO HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF THIS PROBLEM AND PUT THE PUBLIC AT RISK OF DANGER. Hopefully after 2011 GMC fixed this problem in on going CADILLAC CARS . I am JUST DISAPPOINTED IN THE CORPORATIONS DISREGARDED FOR PUBLIC SAFTEY. Once again I always loved CADILLAC. Had an opportunity to have one and it has been a nightmare . Causing anxieties and depression. Cause I didn’t understand what was happening. Thank you .AS WELL I HAVE VIDEOS AND UNABLE TO UPLOAD
Cadillac Cts 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
  • VIN: 1G6DC5EY4B0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing a water leak. The contact noticed that the front driver's side seat, door arm rest and floor were significantly wet after rainfall. The contact stated that the failure later occurred on the front passenger's side of the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing electrical failures. The contact stated that after turning off the vehicle, the infotainment system, the heating system, the A/C, and the engine failed to turn off. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuse box and wiring needed to be replaced due to the electrical failure. The contact stated that upon disconnecting the battery and removing the fuse, the vehicle turned off. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that water was leaking onto the wiring on the floor. The sunroof drain was unclogged; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle remained with the mechanic, where it was undergoing additional water entry tests. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Cadillac Cts 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
  • VIN: 1G6DM577140
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The output shaft flange for the transmission that mounts to the driveshaft coupler the flange starts to break away and then breaks . I can provide photos but the metal on the part is close the the end and if I did not find this problem by mistake the drive shaft would have came free
Cadillac Cts 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
  • VIN: 1G6AX5S37F0
  • Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: The primary issue with the vehicle is the failure of the front transmission pump seal (part #24225543) and the torque converter seal ( part #242337534 ) which caused a significant transmission fluid leak. THe original repair of the torque converter seal was done in Jan 2024 by Andrews Cadillac In Mt Juliet Tn. Failure to properly repair the torque converter seal led to internal damage within the transmission, resulting in the need for a full transmission replacement. THe front pump seal was not replaced as recommended by the service repair manual at the time of the torque converter seal replacement. The faulty component is available for inspection upon request. The safety of myself and others was put at risk due to the vehicle's hesitation to accelerate after stopping, a direct consequence of the low transmission fluid. This hesitation causes a sudden loss of power while driving, increasing the likelihood of an accident. THere is a delay and then a hard shift when off , a significant bump when shifting from first to second gear and when I stop it feels like I've been rear ended by another car. The issue has been confirmed by multiple service centers, including Parker Cadillac, ORR Cadillac, and Christian Brothers Automotive, all of which identified the transmission pump seal as the source of the leak and the resulting damage to the transmission. Additionally, Christian Brothers Automotive found that the torque converter seal was also leaking, further contributing to the vehicle's transmission problems. Despite efforts to have GM engineers inspect the vehicle at ORR Cadillac, they declined. However, Christian Brothers Automotive has provided a thorough inspection and diagnostic of the .There were no warning lamps or error codes indicating the issue, as it was a mechanical failure rather than an electronic one. The symptoms became apparent when the vehicle began hesitating after coming to a stop, and a transmission fluid leak was discovered during the inspection​
Cadillac Cts 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
  • VIN: 1G6DV1EP8C0
  • Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
  • Summary: A combination of the lower control arm alignment adjustment bolt, it is just a slot and standard bolt. The alignment becomes loose over time and begins to work side to side in the slot, so retightening the bolt is the only solution to keep it from moving. The main issue is the subframe being made from aluminum and the machined slots for the lower arms, the "ears" for the lower arms are not machined or reenforced correctly which lead to severe fatigue cracks in the machined radius of the subframe. These cracks will cause the lower control arm to break free of the mounts and causing the front suspension to shift to the left or right and causing a crash. All it will take to break them off is a large enough bump and this WILL kill or injure someone.
Cadillac Cts 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
  • VIN: 1G6DP577160
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: Driving out of a driveway with a slight slope, my traction engaged. It has done this 3-4 times in perfect driving weather and I had not swerved or experienced any issue prior to the light illuminated "TRACTION ENGAGED". It is pretty noisy under my car as well and the ride is not smooth and rather bumpy. It has engaged just backing up in a parking lot.
Cadillac Cts 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-07
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
  • VIN: 1G6DM577040
  • Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
  • Summary: I am writing regarding a recent incident regarding the left front control arm of our 2004 CTS Cadillac. There was a recall for the lower control arm ball nut/washer attaching the control arm, which could lead to disengagement of the control arm, disengagement of the wheel and tire, and possible crash. We purchased the car in 2015. The Cadillac Service Center in Beverly Hills confirmed that they have records showing the car was inspected, and the recalled piece replaced in 2006. The dealer at that time was named Martin Cadillac. The night of [XXX], my son was driving the CTS on the freeway at about 50 mph, when the front left tire and wheel suddenly twisted out of place and rendered the car undrivable. Fortunately, he was not injured or worse, but he was stranded in the middle of a busy freeway for more than 30 minutes until AAA arrived. The car was then towed to our home and towed to our mechanic the following day. The repair needed and done was to replace the left front control arm, precisely the area noted in the recall notice. Also, it was necessary to repair the undercarriage that was damaged by the dislocated wheel and tire. The left front fender was also damaged by the action of the detached tire and wheel. The total repair cost we paid was $793.13 for the control arm and undercarriage. We are not currently driving the car, as we are concerned that the car is still unsafe. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Cadillac Cts 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
  • VIN: 1G6AP5SX1G0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Center console screen again has stopped working, no access to settings for the car nor any way to correct settings at this point. Many of the settings can be critical to safe driving of the car and have no manual alternative. This is the second screen in 50k miles.
Cadillac Cts 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1G6DM577380
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Airbags did not deploy in a massive front end collision. That failure caused me physical injury which possibly would not have occurred had the airbags deployed. I don’t know how many 2008 Cadillac CTS are on the road at this time but feel it is an important enough matter that should be investígated. This was never recalled. Thank you, [XXX] , [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Cadillac Cts 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
  • VIN: 1G6AX5SX9E0
  • Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I just recently purchased my Cadillac. And the rear end is going out! I literally cannot even drive it anywhere because it is about to lock up completely. It will barely go and definitely doesn't want or like to go uphill. I could hardly go 20 miles per hour when I parked it the other night. There has not been an incident yet but if I hadn't parked it, it could've locked up completely when I was going down the highway is what my mechanic friend told me. It was not bad until just the day before it got to this point. It was making a little bit of a humming noise which I thought was just a wheel bearing the other night because that's exactly what it sounded like. But, the night I parked it it had started making like a loud thumping noise when I would try to accelerate. The more I would accelerate the louder the noise and it just didn't want to go. So, I parked it and that's where it's been since. So, I got online to look and see if there were any recalls for this issue. I find that there is a recall for the 2014 Cts-V for the rear end. I think it's not only the Cts-V models I think it's the regular Cts's as well. Can you check into this for me because I literally just bought this car and haven't even gotten my license plate yet and now I can't even do that or go anywhere for that matter. I am a business owner and I rely on my vehicle and I can't even get to work to open my store right now,. I would greatly appreciate it if you could check into if this recall shouldn't be extended to the regular Cts models as well. Thanks and have a great day.

Latest 5 recalls Cadillac Cts

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 56 recalls for different components of the Cadillac Cts.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Cadillac Cts 2016
  • 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 Cts 2018
  • 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 Cts 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 Cts 2016
  • Report Received Date: 2018-09-07
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Cadillac CTS vehicles, equipped with heated front seats. The flexible heating mats in the front seats may be damaged over time, resulting in the seat heaters producing excessive heat.
  • Consequence: In cold ambient temperatures, the seat heaters in these vehicles can turn on automatically when the vehicle is remotely started. If a damaged seat heater is turned on while no one is inside the vehicle, the damaged seat heater can overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will recalibrate the body control module, disabling the automatic activation of the heated seat when the vehicle is remotely started, free of charge. The recall began November 1, 2018. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for the recall is 18286.
  • Model: Cadillac Cts 2014
  • Report Received Date: 2018-09-07
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Cadillac CTS vehicles, equipped with heated front seats. The flexible heating mats in the front seats may be damaged over time, resulting in the seat heaters producing excessive heat.
  • Consequence: In cold ambient temperatures, the seat heaters in these vehicles can turn on automatically when the vehicle is remotely started. If a damaged seat heater is turned on while no one is inside the vehicle, the damaged seat heater can overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will recalibrate the body control module, disabling the automatic activation of the heated seat when the vehicle is remotely started, free of charge. The recall began November 1, 2018. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for the recall is 18286.

Latest negative Cadillac Cts car reviews

  1. Reid Muller 2025-10-03

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Hello! We recently purchased a 2016 CTS, but unfortunately, we've been experiencing a rattling noise from the sunroof since the day we drove it off the lot. We've brought it in for service multiple times, but the dealership has been unable to duplicate the noise. We even left the car with them until the issue was resolved, but the grease and tape they applied to the sunroof track didn't help. The dealership informed us that we're not the only ones experiencing this issue. We're disappointed with Cadillac and have decided to trade in our car for a BMW. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

  2. Oda Hilpert 2025-09-26

    Vehicle year: 2008

    On April Fool's Day 2019, it was a scorching 25 degrees outside when I turned on my car's engine, only to have the 'engine hot' light come on. I was baffled - how could the engine be hot? After being told that I needed to replace two temperature sensors for a whopping $1200, as well as two front wheel rotors for $600, and a headlight for $300 (plus $150 for each bulb), I was feeling frustrated. Although I didn't need to replace one of the sensors, the total cost still came to $1900. I finally decided to get rid of the car and spoke to a loan officer who had the same model Cadillac and called it 'The Cadillac from HELL'. In 2018, there were some issues with the door locks, which cost me $500 to fix and still aren't working properly. To fix all the doors would cost at least $500 each. Additionally, I needed to replace the rear brakes again. However, in 2016, the car was running well. I bought a Cadillac CTS in 2014, which turned out to be a nightmare. I had previously owned several GM cars and wanted to stick with the brand, but was on a limited budget. I did my research and found a used Cadillac with only 50,000 miles that looked brand new. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a lemon. Lesson learned - always do your due diligence before making a purchase.I purchased the car at the end of February and was given a 3-month warranty. Unfortunately, in April, the check engine light came on and it required a new coil which was not covered by the warranty and cost $500. In June, the catalytic converter needed to be replaced, but thankfully it was covered by the warranty, otherwise it would have cost at least $700. During a routine oil change and check-up in July, I was informed that the rear brakes would need to be replaced by the end of November, which would cost at least $400, but ended up costing $500. In September, the car passed inspection, mostly due to the brake issue. However, in the middle of October, while driving to work, I heard a horrible clanking noise coming from the wheels and managed to get to the dealership where I was informed that the drive shaft had broken and it would cost $1500 to repair. I expressed my dissatisfaction and concern to customer service and they agreed to do a complete check-up on the car to ensure everything was working properly. Unfortunately, one week later, the transmission failed and the dealership was shocked. They provided me with a loaner car for the 6 days they had my car and the total bill came to $2500, but I only had to pay $750 as most of it was covered by a warranty from GM. At this point, I no longer trust this car and my salesperson showed me another CTS that was a year younger with less mileage. However, the head of used car sales informed me that they could only offer me $10,000 for my car.I was unable to afford spending $10,000 on a new car and then an additional $7500 to get into a newer model. Therefore, I asked the dealership to keep an eye out for something comparable that I could afford. I had to come to terms with the fact that I would have to keep my current car, so I had new brakes put on at the beginning of December and hoped for the best. Unfortunately, on the way home from work on the Monday after Christmas, the car began to vibrate violently as I accelerated. I contacted the dealership and managed to get the car there, leaving it with them. The next day, they called me to inform me that the car had been fixed at no charge. It turned out that two coils and two spark plugs needed to be replaced, which would have cost over $700. I have looked into Lemon Laws, but unfortunately, my car does not qualify. I have also spoken to a friend who is a lawyer and called Cadillac Corporate to file a complaint.

  3. Norval Muller 2025-09-26

    Vehicle year: 2005

    My Navy son was involved in a serious 5 car collision involving my 2005 CTS. Unfortunately, the AT-FAULT driver hit my son from the rear, causing him to hit 3 more cars. Although my son sustained injuries, I am grateful that he is okay. I am disappointed that the safety features of my car failed to protect him. I have been trying to contact General Motors for answers, but unfortunately, they have not responded to my emails or calls. As a result, I filed a formal complaint with the Consumer Safety Division. I am hopeful that GM will take responsibility and provide my family with the answers we need. I am thankful that my son's injuries were not more severe, and I hope that GM will take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of their vehicles.

  4. Omer Corkery 2025-09-26

    Vehicle year: 2018

    The Auto Stop/Start feature may not be for everyone, as it can be a bit annoying and distracting when the car shakes and jiggles at every stop sign and stop light. However, it is possible to turn this feature off every time you start the car. It is recommended to thoroughly test drive the car before buying, especially in city/urban driving conditions with the A/C turned off. While this feature won't bother everyone, it may bother some. It's worth noting that GM has put out a couple of bulletins on the subject, such as #15-NA-033 'Normal Characteristic – Slight Bump, Jerk or Rough Engine Startup [Oct 15, 2015]' and Directive #16-NA-071: Diagnostic Tips for Stop/Start and Auto Stop Operation [Mar 4, 2016]. It's important to inform customers about the unique features and operational characteristics of their vehicle equipped with Stop/Start. To ensure that the sales team is fully prepared, we recommend using the Getting to Know Your Vehicle guide as an outline when presenting the vehicle to the customer. We understand that some customers may have concerns about the run-flat tires, as they can be loud and provide a less comfortable ride. Additionally, the tactile sliders/buttons may be over-engineered for some users. However, there are also many positives to the 2016 CTS models, such as the larger trunk and cool storage area in the dash. The feature that allows you to program the radio to notify you when your favorite band is on XM is also a great addition. Bluetooth connectivity with your phone is loud and clear. Overall, we believe that the 2016 CTS is a great car with many features that customers will love.

  5. Larue Batz 2025-09-18

    Vehicle year: 2013

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that the cargo net in this car is poorly designed and can interfere with the trunk opening. Additionally, the trunk may not be very spacious, so keep that in mind. At around 47,000 miles, there may be a need for rear end failure and rear axle bearing replacement. I hope this information helps!

Latest positive Cadillac Cts car reviews

  1. Barry Smitham 2025-10-03

    Vehicle year: 2013

    Great car to drive! Although, it's worth noting that there have been some reliability issues with the transmission and electronics.

  2. Jared Kilback 2025-10-03

    Vehicle year: 2015

    I absolutely adore this car! As a 23-year-old who has always been a fan of sporty cars, the CTS with the 2.0t engine feels amazing with its smooth acceleration and instant torque. The build quality is top-notch and it has held up well even after 70,000 miles, with no annoying rattles or loose interior bits. I have used my CTS as a daily commuter for the past year and have taken multiple 1000 mile+ road trips. The car is quite comfortable and handles like a dream on the road, especially with magnetic ride control. Living in Michigan, I have had no issues driving through snow or ice thanks to the AWD and Pirelli P-Zero near all seasons that are on it. My only minor complaint with this car is the transmission. While the 6-speed auto shifts fantastically during spirited driving, it can be a little jerky at times when cruising through traffic at light throttle. Overall, I absolutely love this car and would highly recommend it!

  3. Reed Thompson 2025-09-28

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I've never been particularly interested in Cadillac cars, but this one caught my attention when it was introduced earlier this year. After comparing BMW, Audi, Mercedes, and Cadillac, I decided to go for this mid-size luxury car as an upgrade from my Audi A4. In my opinion, the styling is absolutely stunning. The drive is engaging when you want it to be, yet extremely comfortable for commuting. Despite having ridden and driven multiple Cadillac cars in the past, this is the first time I've been compelled to purchase one myself - and at just 29 years of age!

  4. Trevor Kessler 2025-09-26

    Vehicle year: 2014

    Just wanted to give a quick update on my car after six and a half years of ownership. I'm still loving it and have had zero issues, except for a minor recall on the differential. The engineers discovered an issue with the diff locking up, resulting in a recall and replacement of the part. The replacement process was painless and the service was excellent. I highly recommend this car, even after all these years. After 43 months of ownership, I still have no need to update and am extremely satisfied with my car. It has been super reliable and still puts a smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel. Although there have been some slight irritations, such as the mist odor in the HVAC after 19 months and the inability to receive text messages after switching from a Windows phone to an iPhone, these were resolved by the dealer. I recently had the opportunity to drive my friend's new Merc AMG and the CTS V, both of which were nice cars, but not as responsive or quick as my V Sport. The V Sport is actually better for a daily driver that can handle snow. I'm not sure why they're not selling, it's crazy for the money!The CTS v Sport is, without a doubt, the best handling sport sedan out there. Not BMW, Jag, Lexus.. nothing. The quality, feel and finish are excellent. You should definitely take it for a spin!

  5. Thomas Sipes 2025-09-23

    Vehicle year: 2005

    I bought my CTS 4 years ago and I absolutely love it. Although I did experience an oil leak, it was promptly repaired under warranty. I do keep an eye on the oil levels as it does tend to use a little, but that's to be expected with a sports car. It's important to stay on top of maintenance, but it's definitely worth it. I highly recommend this car to anyone who takes good care of their vehicles. It's not for those who neglect their cars, as many of the blown engine problems can be traced back to abuse.

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