Cadillac Sts problems
The Cadillac STS (Seville Touring Sedan) is a mid-sized luxury 4-door sedan manufactured and marketed by General Motors from 2004 to 2011 for the 2005 to 2011 model years. A version of the STS was marketed in China as the SLS through 2013.
It was equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission with performance algorithm shifting and driver shift control.
Origins
The STS was the successor to the Cadillac Seville, which beginning in 1987 was available as an upscale performance-oriented STS (for Seville Touring Sedan) version.
While smaller than the full-size DTS, the more expensive STS was the flagship sedan of the Cadillac brand.
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Cadillac Sts model years
Common Cadillac Sts problems
The Cadillac STS, a luxury sedan produced from 2005 to 2011, has several common problems that owners have reported. Here are some of the most frequent issues and their details:
- Camshaft Actuator Solenoid Valve Failure: This problem can cause a check engine light and drivability issues due to improper timing of the cams. The camshaft actuator solenoid valves control the flow of oil pressure to the VVT actuators. To prevent this issue, maintain the oil at the proper level and change the oil regularly.
- MAP Sensor Failure: The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor measures the pressure inside the intake. A faulty MAP sensor can cause drivability issues and a check engine light with a MAP sensor code. To fix this issue, locate the MAP sensor, disconnect the electric connector, remove the bolt, and replace the sensor.
- Passenger Presence Sensor Failure: This problem can cause the air bag light to be on with a code for the passenger presence system. The passenger presence sensor is located in the passenger seat and senses if there is a passenger on the seat for the air bag system. To fix this issue, replace the sensor.
- Steering Wheel Position Sensor Failure: This problem can cause the service stability light to be on on the dash and the ABS light to be on. The steering wheel position sensor is located at the base of the steering column and senses the steering wheel's position. To fix this issue, replace the steering wheel position sensor by following specific steps, including disabling the air bag system, removing the lower dash panels, removing the intermediate shaft, and sliding the sensor out.
These are some of the most common problems reported by Cadillac STS owners. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent some of these issues.
Is the Cadillac STS a reliable car?
The average rating is a 4.2 out of 5 stars. The Cadillac STS Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.
Are Cadillac STS expensive to maintain?
The annual maintenance cost of a Cadillac STS is $669.
What year of CTS to avoid?
For your quick reference, here are the worst Cadillac CTS years to avoid in terms of general reliability:
- 2006 Cadillac CTS.
- 2007 Cadillac CTS.
- 2008 Cadillac CTS.
- 2009 Cadillac CTS.
- 2014 Cadillac CTS.
What is the problem with the Cadillac 3.6 engine?
Timing chain: The timing chain on GM 3.6L engines is prone to breaking or stretching, leading to engine misfires, reduced performance, and potential engine damage. 2. Water pump: The water pump on GM 3.6L engines is known to leak or fail, causing the engine to overheat and potentially damaging other engine components.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Cadillac Sts years
We have researched Cadillac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Cadillac Sts cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Cadillac Sts model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Cadillac Sts model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Cadillac Sts years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Cadillac Sts car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Cadillac Sts , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Cadillac Sts vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sts model years
A total of 48 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 Sts model years
There were a total of 14 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 Sts model years
There were a total of 32 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 406 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Cadillac Sts . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Cadillac Sts vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Cadillac Sts 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-19
- VIN: 1G6DW677860
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Cadillac STS. The contact stated that while reversing out of the driveway at approximately 2 MPH, the driver's side tie rod fractured into two pieces. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the tie rod was replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Cadillac Sts 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-05
- VIN: 1G6DW677670
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air bag on the steering wheel has oozing glue that oozed/leaked out of the airbag and has hardened on outer cover! Lights and radio don’t disconnect or turn off when car is turned off and drain battery.
Cadillac Sts 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-12
- VIN: 1G6DW677750
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag light came on last week, and continues to stay on. Have not taken in, as I was just checking for any recalls
Cadillac Sts 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-24
- VIN: 1G6DW67VX80
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Cadillac STS. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the Service TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensor message and TPMS warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where the sensor was replaced and reprogrammed on multiple occasions; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed him that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V108000 (Exterior Lighting). The contact left a message with a service manager at the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.
Cadillac Sts 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6DW677250
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: el carro se bloquea tanto en direccion como en velocidades. pareciera ser que pierde brake fluid and gasoline
Cadillac Sts 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-25
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-13
- VIN: 1G6DK67V180
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The Cadillac Company sent me a letter several years ago informing me of a premature timing chain wear and the illumination of the Service Engine light. They knew about this defective engine problem but they did not recall the vehicle. Instead they extended the engine warranty to 10 years or 120,000 miles. I have only 90,000 miles on my vehicle but I've owned it for over 10 years and now the check engine light is illuminated. The Cadillac dealer refuses to extend the warranty. This is a safety issue because if the engine were to fail the driver would also lose power steering and power brakes putting the safety of the vehicle occupants and others at risk. I believe that this vehicle and other GM vehicles with the 3.6 liter engine should be recalled and repaired at no cost to the vehicle owner.
Cadillac Sts 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-03
- VIN: 1G6DX67DX60
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Cadillac STS. The contact stated while inspecting the vehicle, he noticed fuel dripping from the fuel tank. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V542000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Cadillac Sts 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2020-08-02
- VIN: 1G6DW677960
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THE ENTIRE PANEL GOES "OFF" SHUTTING DOWN THE CAR COMPLETELY. THE PANEL BOARD IS COMPLETELY DARK, NO ELECTRIC SUPPLY, NO GAS SUPPLY.
Cadillac Sts 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-05
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-28
- VIN: 1G6DC67A250
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SERVICE AIRBAG LIGHT IS NOW ON AND I NOTICE NUMEROUS OTHER COMPLAINTS FOR THIS VEHICLE INCLUDING INJURIES. CADILLAC DEALER SAYS THEY WISH TO CHARGE FOR DIAGNOSTICS AND BELIEVE IT IS A SEAT-BELT PRETENSIONER WHICH THEY WOULD NOT COVER. REPAIRS WOULD BE AS MUCH AS VEHICLE VALUE. I NOTICE A RECALL WAS ORDERED FOR VEHICLES ONE OR TWO YEARS NEWER WITH THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. WHY NOT EXTEND TO THIS YEARS SAME VEHICLE MODEL. *TR
Cadillac Sts 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-27
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-31
- VIN: 1G6DW677260
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SERVICE AIRBAG ON THE DASH / AIRBAG LIGHT ON
Cadillac Sts 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-15
- VIN: 1G6DW677960
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY CAR HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED AS HAVING 'EXTENDED CRANK'. MY LOCAL CHEVY DEALER MADE APPROXIMATELY FIFTEEN ATTEMPTS AT FIXING IT TO NO AVAIL. I'M TOLD IT'S THE CHECK VALVE, BUT I HAVE NOT HAD THAT DONE BECAUSE ALL ATTEMPTS BY THE DEALER DIDN'T WORK; E.G., NEW COMPUTER (AND REMOVED), BATTERY (AND REMOVED), FUEL PUMP, ETC. VERY FRUSTRATING AND I FEEL IT'S A MATTER OF HEALTH AND SAFETY BECAUSE THE CAR ALMOST NEVER STARTS ON THE FIRST ATTEMPT, AND SOUNDS LIKE IT'S A DEAD BATTERY.
Cadillac Sts 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-08
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-25
- VIN: 1G6DZ67A090
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING IN RAIN THE SMALLEST AMOUNT OF WATER WILL CAUSE THE REDUCED ENGINE POWER TO ENGAGE AND IT DOES NOT GO OFF UNTIL THE VEHICLE HAS SAT FOR A LONG AMOUNT OF TIME. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. FIRST THE ABS LIGHT COMES ON AND THEN YOU LOSE POWER. 3RD ROW LED TAILLIGHT OUT... 400 TO FIX. PURCHASED IN MARCH OF 2018 WITH 93K MILES. CURRENTLY AT 104K.
Cadillac Sts 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-20
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6DD67V790
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND MY TRACTION CONTROL FAILED. THE AIRBAG LIGHT REMAINS ON AND THERE IS A FAULTY CODE. THE VEHICLE LOST ABILITY TO CONTROL IT TO TURN. I WENT STRAIGHT INTO THE FENCE. THE AIRBAGS WERE NOT ADDRESSED BY THE BODY SHOP OR REPAIR SHOP.
Cadillac Sts 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-14
- Date Complaint: 2019-11-15
- VIN: 1G6DW677260
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I UNDERSTAND THAT 2006 CADILLAC CTS HAS A RECALL FOR AIRBAG PROBLEMS. CADILLAC DOESN'T DENY THAT THE SAME SYSTEM WAS USED IN THE STS. I'VE SEEN SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME PROBLEM. I JUST WONDER WHY THE STS WAS NOT RECALLED. I KNEW THERE WAS NO WARRANTY, AND THAT'S WHY I CONTACTED CADILLAC. KNOWING THIS THEY SENT ME FOR A DIAGNOSTIC, WHICH WAS A WASTE OF TIME AND MONEY. THE END RESULT WAS THAT THEY SAID IT'S NOT UNDER WARRANTY. I WOULD JUST LIKE YOU TO INVESTIGATE TO SEE IF THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT CADILLAC SHOULD ADDRESS. *JS
Cadillac Sts 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2019-10-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6DD67V790
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THE CAR TRACTION CONTROL FAILED AND THE VEHICLE HAD THE SERVICE STABILITY SYSTEM COME ON. THE ABS LIGHT WAS LIT AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE OR TURN EASILY. THE VEHICLE WENT INTO THE DITCH. THIS VEHICLE HAD HEADLIGHTS PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT WITH BULBS POPPING OUT INSIDE AND MOISTURE. AFTER THE REPAIRS WERE DONE BY THE BODY SHOP THE NEW HEADLIGHTS HAVE HAD THAT SAME PROBLEM. THE AIRBAGS NEVER CAME OUT, AND THERE IS A MESSAGE DISPLAYED INDICATING THEY NEEDED SERVICE. IT WAS NEVER ADDRESSED BY THE BODY SHOP. ALSO PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT THE STEERING HAD AN ISSUE CAUSING PAIN TO MY SHOULDER. THE DIAGNOSIS WAS WRONG AFTER THE STEERING SERVICE LIGHT REMAINED AFTER A GEAR REPLACEMENT AND THE SAME ISSUE CAUSED PAIN. TIME PASSED AND THE SHOULDER GOT WORSE. THERE HAS BEEN 2 WHEEL SENSORS WITH ISSUES. THE DEALER NEVER TOLD ME THAT THERE WAS A SPECIAL WARRANTY FOR THE TIMING BELT WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR. I AM ALSO NOW HAVING ISSUES WITH THE COMPUTER SCREEN. I CANNOT CHANGE THE TIME ANYMORE.
Latest 5 recalls Cadillac Sts
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 11 recalls for different components of the Cadillac Sts.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Cadillac Sts 2006
- Report Received Date: 2014-09-09
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 Cadillac CTS-V vehicles manufactured October 6, 2003, to March 15, 2007, and 2006-2007 Cadillac STS-V vehicles manufactured June 23, 2005, to March 15, 2007. In the affected vehicles, the electrical terminals of the fuel pump module may overheat resulting in the melting of the flange material.
- Consequence: If the flange melts, a hole may be created allowing the fuel pump to leak fuel, causing the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. Additionally, leaking fuel in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel module and fuel tank jumper harness, free of charge. GM sent out interim notices in late October. The recall began on March 12, 2015. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14405.
- Model: Cadillac Sts 2007
- Report Received Date: 2014-09-09
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 Cadillac CTS-V vehicles manufactured October 6, 2003, to March 15, 2007, and 2006-2007 Cadillac STS-V vehicles manufactured June 23, 2005, to March 15, 2007. In the affected vehicles, the electrical terminals of the fuel pump module may overheat resulting in the melting of the flange material.
- Consequence: If the flange melts, a hole may be created allowing the fuel pump to leak fuel, causing the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. Additionally, leaking fuel in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel module and fuel tank jumper harness, free of charge. GM sent out interim notices in late October. The recall began on March 12, 2015. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14405.
- Model: Cadillac Sts 2008
- Report Received Date: 2008-03-11
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: GM IS RECALLING 4,586 MY 2008 CADILLAC STS AND STS-V PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 138, 'TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEMS' (TPMS). THE STANDARD REQUIRES AN INDICATION TO THE DRIVER FOR CERTAIN TPMS MALFUNCTIONS. WHEN THE SYSTEM DETECTS A MALFUNCTION, THE LOW TIRE WARNING LIGHT SHOULD FLASH FOR ABOUT ONE MINUTE AND THEN STAY ON THE REMAINDER OF THE IGNITION CYCLE. A DRIVER INFORMATION CENTER MESSAGE WILL ALSO BE DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.
- Consequence: THESE INDICATIONS OF A SYSTEM MALFUNCTION DO NOT WORK. PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE REMOTE CONTROL DOOR LOCK RECEIVER MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-800-982-2339 OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM .
- Model: Cadillac Sts 2005
- Report Received Date: 2007-12-20
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE REAR AXLE PINION SEAL DOES NOT MEET ALL OF THE SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY EXPERIENCE A FLUID LEAK.
- Consequence: A REAR DIFFERENTIAL FAILURE MAY CAUSE LOSS OF MOTIVE POWER AND POSSIBLY LOSS OF CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PINION SEAL FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 1, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006 OR HTTP://WWW.CADILLAC.COM; PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668 OR HTTP://WWW.PONTIAC.COM; AND SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876 OR HTTP://WWW.SATURN.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Sts 2006
- Report Received Date: 2007-12-20
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE REAR AXLE PINION SEAL DOES NOT MEET ALL OF THE SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY EXPERIENCE A FLUID LEAK.
- Consequence: A REAR DIFFERENTIAL FAILURE MAY CAUSE LOSS OF MOTIVE POWER AND POSSIBLY LOSS OF CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PINION SEAL FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 1, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006 OR HTTP://WWW.CADILLAC.COM; PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668 OR HTTP://WWW.PONTIAC.COM; AND SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876 OR HTTP://WWW.SATURN.COM.
Latest negative Cadillac Sts car reviews
Latest positive Cadillac Sts car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
In 2008, we just had our STS delivered and drove it all the way from East Hampton Long Island to Myrtle Beach South Carolina. My wife and kids absolutely loved the ride on this car, even more than our former BMW 5 series. We were pleasantly surprised when the car's computer showed an impressive 21.6 combined MPG, and we were able to get 27 MPG all day long on the highway, running on 87 octane fuel!
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Vehicle year: 2007
The 2007 Cadillac STS is a fantastic car! I've read many reviews, and as a former damage appraiser, I know what's underneath. This car is truly head and shoulders above the imports.
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Vehicle year: 2005
I've been driving my 2005 Cadillac STS for a year now and I must say, it has exceeded most of my expectations. As someone who previously owned a 2002 BMW M3 (and a BMW 540 before that), I was looking for a car with more space and creature comforts. I decided to buy American and went with the STS V8. Although I did experience a significant issue with the steering column coming loose after two months due to a manufacturing defect, Cadillac promptly replaced it and I haven't had any further problems. Overall, this car offers a great combination of power and a smooth ride, along with some really useful technology (navigation, remote start, and an amazing sound system - you have to listen to 5.1 channel music CDs in this vehicle!). And the best part? It's American-made!
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Vehicle year: 2010
The 302-horsepower engine with direct injection V6 is a great feature. The bolder look on the outside and inside is sure to attract younger buyers. As someone who is 41 and in need of a 4 wheel drive car that can accommodate 3 car seats in the back, I looked at several options including the BMW 535xi, Lexus GS350 AWD, Infiniti M35 (currently drive Infiniti M45), and Audi A6. However, for the money, I stress that the 2008 STS was the best value. I particularly appreciate the increased performance and the side air extractors incorporated into the front fenders of the STS. Additionally, the new chrome-plated door handles and lower rocker moldings add more presence and refinement to the car.
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Vehicle year: 2005
This is such a fun car to own! The quality is exceptional and there are so many gizmos on it, it's hard to use them all.
Are you having problems with your Cadillac Sts?
Jaylan Langosh 2025-04-07
Vehicle year: 2008
I've owned two Cadillac STS's so far. The first was a 2005 with the V8, and the one I have now is a 2008. They're great cars overall, but I recommend staying away from the V8 Northstar engines. Unfortunately, at around 87,000 miles and up, the V8 Northstar starts experiencing problems. The issue with this engine is that the cylinder head mounting studs start to loosen due to corrosion and the material or metal used for the head studs that clamp them down. This leads to head gasket failure and even engine damage. While you can get the head gaskets fixed, the problem will come back after 30,000 miles or so, ultimately leaving you with a recurring and expensive problem. However, the V6 with 306hp is a nice luxury/performance car overall. On my 2005 car, the transmission started to give up on me. I think the 5-speed can barely handle the V8 power, whereas the 07 and up have 6 speeds that are more adequate.
Ahmad McCullough 2025-04-03
Vehicle year: 2009
I've owned two Cadillac STS's so far. The first was a 2005 with the V8, and the one I have now is a 2008. They're great cars overall, but I recommend staying away from the V8 Northstar engines. Unfortunately, at around 87,000 miles and up, the V8 Northstar starts experiencing problems. The issue with this engine is that the cylinder head mounting studs start to loosen due to corrosion and the material or metal used for the head studs that clamp them down. This leads to head gasket failure and even engine damage. While you can get the head gaskets fixed, the problem will come back after 30,000 miles or so, ultimately leaving you with a recurring and expensive problem. However, the V6 with 306hp is a nice luxury/performance car overall. On my 2005 car, the transmission started to give up on me. I think the 5-speed can barely handle the V8 power, whereas the 07 and up have 6 speeds that are more adequate.
Jed Okuneva 2025-04-01
Vehicle year: 2008
Although I have only driven 56k miles, I have experienced several electrical issues with this car, which have made it unusable at times. Unfortunately, the dealer service has not been helpful in resolving these issues. However, I have found a reliable independent mechanic who has been able to repair most of the issues. Despite this, I still believe that the car is not up to the standard that I expected from a brand like Cadillac. My experience with this car has been disappointing and I will not be purchasing another Cadillac in the future.
Jabari Thiel 2025-03-22
Vehicle year: 2005
I really liked the look and smooth ride of my STS when I bought it with 7K miles as a certified pre-owned car with an extended warranty. However, I did experience some issues with the fuel pump at 18k miles and the water pump at 33K miles, and then some other problems each year, such as the cat converter, intake position sensors, vent solenoid, motor mounts, and control arms. Unfortunately, the transmission also started clunking, especially when driving slow or going from reverse to drive. Despite always garaging and maintaining the car, I had to stop the expenses at 85,000 miles when the transmission/drive train was about to drop out. The Cadillac dealer quoted me $3,500 for a new drive train and warned of possible other issues. This was my third Cadillac, and my beautiful Eldorado also had mechanical troubles. It's a shame because they are such beautiful cars. I wonder if it's the aluminum North Star engine? Since my experience, I have heard of others having numerous problems with this system.
Adolfo Satterfield 2025-03-22
Vehicle year: 2006
My 2006 Cadillac STS V8 has been nothing but trouble since delivery. The dealership had to replace the entire radio, causing a delay in delivery. After driving 1,000 miles, a loud noise like crunching tin cans developed in the front-end. Despite several attempts by the dealership to fix it, the issue persists. While waiting for a part to remedy the problem, a coil in the engine went out, causing it to operate on less than all 8 cylinders. Despite communicating with Cadillac customer relations, I have received no relief. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues.