2005 Cadillac Dts problems

General information about Cadillac-Dts
Overview of popular issues

The Cadillac DTS is a full-size car that was built by the American company Cadillac from 2005 until May 2011. It is a four-door sedan that comes in five- or six-seat variants. The DTS debuted at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show and was manufactured at GM's Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly factory. It uses GM's G-platform for front-engine, front-wheel-drive automobiles. The DTS was a very mildly revised iteration of the eighth-generation Deville, using the brand's new naming convention, set by the CTS and STS. Writing for the Los Angeles Times, noted reviewer Warren Brown called the DTS "a large, exceptionally comfortable front-wheel-drive luxury sedan." The nameplate DTS is an acronym for DeVille Touring Sedan.

Production and specifications

Compared to its Deville predecessor, the DTS was mildly restyled rather than fully redesigned, featuring revised front-end sheet metal, front fascia, as well as rear decklid, rear quarter, and rear fascia.

The DTS used GM's G-platform, as denoted by the 4th letter in the VIN), and was powered by a transverse 32V Northstar V8, which produced 275 bhp (205 kW) in "Standard", "Luxury" and "Premium" trims. The DTS Platinum was equipped with 292 bhp (218 kW) version.

The base MSRP for the DTS at time of introduction was US$41,195 (equivalent to $64,300 in 2023) which was over 10% lower than the DeVille model it had replaced.

The DTS offered front bucket seats with overall seating for five passengers, and six passenger (i.e., front bench) seating available as an optional feature.

Standard features included multiple airbags, bi-functional xenon high-intensity discharge HID headlamps, leather seating surfaces, and power seats. Optional equipment included heated and cooled front seats and a heated rear seat, rain-sensing wipers, Bose audio system, DVD navigation, automatic dimming headlights, adaptive cruise control and Magnetic Ride Control suspension. A Platinum package became available in 2007 with special interior trim, badging, and other amenities.

GM phased out its small GM fender badges for all its vehicles, starting during the 2010 model year, including those on the DTS.

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Common 2005 Cadillac Dts problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Cadillac DTS 2005, several common problems have been identified:

Oil Leaks From Lower Engine Area:
Owners have reported oil leaks originating from the lower engine area of the Cadillac DTS. This issue can lead to oil dripping on the ground and may require addressing the engine's case half, which can be challenging due to the engine's construction.
Steering Wheel Position Sensor Failure:
Another prevalent problem is the failure of the steering wheel position sensor. This issue can trigger the service stability light on the dashboard, indicating a faulty sensor located at the base of the steering column. Resolving this problem may involve replacing the sensor, which can sometimes require removing the steering column.
Transmission Cooler Lines Leakage:
Cadillac DTS owners have experienced leaks in the rubber transmission cooler lines, leading to fluid loss. This issue can impact the transmission's performance and may necessitate repairing or replacing the affected lines to prevent further damage.
Door Latch Actuator Malfunction:
The door latch actuator has been identified as a common problem in the Cadillac DTS. Owners have reported issues with the actuator, which can result in difficulties with door locking and unlocking mechanisms. Resolving this problem may involve replacing the actuator to restore proper door functionality.
Water Pump Failure:
The water pump in the Cadillac DTS, located on the backside of the engine, has been a source of problems for owners. Symptoms of water pump failure include low coolant levels, overheating, and lack of heat in the cabin. Accessing and replacing the water pump can be challenging due to its location, sometimes requiring significant disassembly to reach.

These common problems with the Cadillac DTS 2005 highlight various issues that owners may encounter, ranging from fluid leaks to sensor failures and mechanical component malfunctions. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the performance and reliability of the vehicle.

How long do Cadillac DTS engines last?

200,000 to 300,000 miles

On average, a well-maintained Cadillac engine can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles (or more).

Is the Cadillac DTS reliable?

The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 18% for the Cadillac DTS, compared to an average of 14% for luxury fullsize cars and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.

What problems does a 2005 Cadillac DeVille have?

Does the Cadillac DTS have a Northstar engine?

GM ceased production of the Northstar in 2011. The final cars to receive it, the Cadillac DTS, Buick Lucerne, and Cadillac STS, rolled off the line in 2011.

What problems does a 2005 Cadillac DeVille have?

What does DTS mean on Cadillac?

DeVille Touring Sedan

Writing for the Los Angeles Times, noted reviewer Warren Brown called the DTS "a large, exceptionally comfortable front-wheel-drive luxury sedan." The nameplate DTS is an acronym for DeVille Touring Sedan.

When was the last Cadillac DTS made?

2011

The DTS was discontinued in 2011 and marked departure for the Northstar V-8 engine and technology family. In 2012, the XTS sedan replaced the Cadillac DTS.

What is the top speed of the Cadillac DeVille DTS?

Performance

0 - 60 mph	6.7 s
Top speed	258 kph (160 mph)

2005 Cadillac Dts complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Cadillac Dts.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2005 Cadillac Dts problems:

2005 Cadillac DeVille Problems and Complaints - 52 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2005-cadillac-deville/problems

Problem with your 2005 Cadillac DeVille? Our list of 52 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2005 Cadillac DeVille.

2005 deville,head gasket problems, how common | Cadillac Owners ...

https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/2005-deville-head-gasket-problems-how-common.193533/

Mar 1, 2010 ... 2005 deville,head gasket problems, how common ... Cadillac made changes in 2000 & after, that appear to have reduced the failure rate. But if ...

Is a 2005 Cadillac Deville Sedan a dependable car? : r/AskMechanics

https://www.reddit.com/r/AskMechanics/comments/dj9g4t/is_a_2005_cadillac_deville_sedan_a_dependable_car/

Oct 17, 2019 ... Your biggest issue will come from specific codes due to mass airflow and throttlebody issues. There is a "sock" that you will likely have to ...

2006-2009 DTS Common Problems | Cadillac Owners Forum

https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/2006-2009-dts-common-problems.272730/

Oct 19, 2012 ... The 2006 - 2011 DTS models have had far fewer problems than the 2000-2005 ones. The 2006s had the flickering headlamp issue. Many have ...

Q&A: 2005 Cadillac DeVille DTS - Common Problems & Engine ...

https://www.justanswer.com/cadillac/cdhvm-lot-think-2005-cadillac-deville-dts.html

May 10, 2019 ... It is from wear. When this happens oil will leak past the piston rings and enter the combustion chamber and burn with the air/fuel mix. This ...