Owners have filed 396 complaints
about the 2005 Cadillac CTS with NHTSA between 2005 and 2025.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 17 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Cadillac CTS. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
23.2% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 64
37% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Differential Unit
3950.6%
Rear
911.7%
Frontal
810.4%
Seal
79.1%
Driveline
45.2%
Sensor/Control Module
45.2%
Brake Lights
33.9%
Axle Shaft
33.9%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
165.0%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
4514.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
309.3%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
4112.7%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
6821.1%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
4413.7%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
5517.1%
150,000+ miles
237.1%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jan 2005peak 36Nov 2025
NHTSA investigations into the 2005 Cadillac CTS
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EQ11001Opened 7 Feb 2011Closed 19 Jul 2011AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
IEE Passenger Sensing System Mats
On December 17, 2010, General Motors (GM) notified the NHTSA that it had decided certain 2005 - 2007 model year Cadillac CTS vehicles contain a safety related defect.GM stated that certain CTS vehicles contain a passenger sensing system mat, manufactured by IEE, in the front passenger seat that may flex causing the mat to kink, bend or fold.If this flexing causes the connections in the mat to break, the passenger airbag could become disabled.Non-deployment of the front passenger air bag in the event of a crash necessitating that air bag's deployment may reduce protection of the passenger and i...
EA07017Opened 7 Dec 2007Closed 16 Jul 2008POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
REAR DRIVETRAIN COMPONENT FAILURE
IN JULY OF 2007 THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED PE07-037 TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS THAT THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL MAY FAIL CAUSING A LOSS OF MOTIVE POWER, AND IN SOME INSTANCES A LOSS OF CONTROL, IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2004 THROUGH 2006 CADILLAC CTS, CTS-V, AND STS VEHICLES.AS A RESULT OF THAT INVESTIGATION GM ISSUED RECALL 07V-589 TO CORRECT A LEAKING PINION SEAL PROBLEM.EA07-017 WAS OPENED TO INVESTIGATE COMPLAINTS OF FRACTURED REAR DIFFERENTIAL HOUSINGS OR REAR HALF SHAFTS IN HIGH PERFORMANCE CADILLAC CTS-V VEHICLES.ACCORDING TO GM, THESE FAILURES RESULTED FROM THE CUMULATIVE DAMA...
PE07037Opened 17 Jul 2007Closed 27 Dec 2007POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
FAILURE OF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL
ODI EVALUATED TWO DIFFERENT ALLEGED DEFECTS INVOLVING REAR DRIVETRAIN COMPONENTS DURING THIS PRELIMINARY EVALUATION.GM IS CONDUCTING A RECALL TO ADDRESS ONE OF THE DEFECT CONDITIONS AND ODI HAS OPENED AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO CONTINUE ITS INVESTIGATION OF THE OTHER ALLEGED DEFECT. ON DECEMBER 19, 2007, GM SUBMITTED A DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT TO NHTSA CONCERNING DEFECTIVE REAR AXLE PINION SEALS IN APPROXIMATELY 275,936 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2005-07 CADILLAC CTS, STS AND SRX VEHICLES AS WELL AS MY 2006-07 PONTIAC SOLSTICE AND MY 2007 SATURN SKY VEHICLES (RECALL 07V-589).ON STS AND SRX VEHICLES WITH...
Recalls on the 2005 Cadillac CTS
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
14V542000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
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.
Risk: 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.
14V394000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 2, 2014 that they are recalling 554,328 model year 2003-2014 Cadillac CTS vehicles manufactured August 16, 2001, to April 28, 2014, and 2004-2006 Cadillac SRX vehicles manufactured March 20, 2003, to August 11, 2006. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
Risk: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
10V644000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2007 CADILLAC CTS VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH REPEATED FLEXING OF THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM MAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAY CAUSE THE MAT TO KINK, BEND, OR FOLD. THIS FLEXING CAN BREAK THE CONNECTIONS IN THE MAT. IF THIS OCCURS, THE SENSOR MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A FRONT SEAT PASSENGER AND WILL DISABLE THE AIR BAG.
Risk: NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH NECESSITATING THAT AIR BAG'S DEPLOYMENT MAY REDUCE PROTECTION OF THE PASSENGER AND INCREASE THE RISK OR SEVERITY OF INJURY TO THEM.
10V105000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
GENERAL MOTORS HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA OF A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003-2007 CADILLAC CTS VEHICLES CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN OR ORIGINALLY SOLD IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE FRONT BRAKE HOSE FITTING AT THE CALIPER MAY CORRODE DUE TO SNOW OR WATER, CONTAINING ROAD SALT OR OTHER CONTAMINANTS, ENTERING AND BEING RETAINED IN THE ROUTING SLEEVE. IF THE FITTING CORRODES SIGNIFICANTLY, THE BRAKE HOSE-TUBE INTERFACE MAY DEVELOP A LEAK.
Risk: THE BRAKE HOSE-TUBE INTERFACE MAY RUPTURE SUDDENLY WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING AND INCREASE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE MAY OCCUR INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
07V589000
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE REAR AXLE PINION SEAL DOES NOT MEET ALL OF THE SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY EXPERIENCE A FLUID LEAK.
Risk: A REAR DIFFERENTIAL FAILURE MAY CAUSE LOSS OF MOTIVE POWER AND POSSIBLY LOSS OF CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
06V020000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V6 ENGINES MAY HAVE A CONDITION WHERE FUEL IS NO LONGER SUPPLIED TO THE ENGINE. THIS CONDITION OCCURS WITHOUT THE ILLUMINATION OF THE FUEL LEVEL LOW INDICATOR LIGHT OR THE WARNING CHIME.
Risk: IF THE ENGINE STOPS RUNNING, THE OPERATOR WILL NOT BE ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201427330,927 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, there is a risk that some drivers may bump the ignition key with their knee and unintentionally move the key from out of the "run" position. If this were to occur, engine power, power braking and power steering would be affected, which would unexpectedly increase steering and brake pedal effort, potentially increasing stopping distances and the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. The timing of the key movement out of the "run" position, relative to the activation of the sensing algorithm of the crash event, may also result in the airbags not deploying in a subsequent collision, increasing the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers are to remove the key blade from the original flip key/transmitter assemblies provided with the vehicle, and provide two new keys and two key rings for every original key. Important note: Until the correction is performed, drivers should adjust their seat and steering column to allow clearance between their knee and the ignition key.
Recall 20104586,688 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, repeated flexing of the Passenger Sensing System mat in the front passenger seat may cause the mat to kink, bend, or fold. This flexing can break the connections in the mat. If this occurs, the front passenger airbag could become disabled. If the airbag becomes disabled, the passenger airbag status indicator on the rearview mirror will show that the airbag is OFF, the AIR BAG indicator will be illuminated, and a SERVICE AIR BAG message will appear in the Driver Information Centre. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injuries to the seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will replace the Passenger Sensing System mat and the seat cushion in the front passenger seat of vehicles built between December 8, 2003 and August 31, 2004, as well as those built from June 6, 2005 to Feb 18, 2007. Owners of other 2005-2007 Cadillac CTS vehicles will be provided with a "special warranty coverage". Should this issue occur, GM will repair these vehicle free of charge up to 10 years or 192,000 km from first vehicle registration.
Recall 201008013,576 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, originally sold, or currently registered in areas of heavy road salt usage during winter months (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador), the front brake hose fitting at the caliper may corrode. If the fitting corrodes significantly, the internal brake hose-tube interface may develop a leak or in some cases break, causing a sudden increase in braking distances which may lead to a crash causing property damage, personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will replace both front brake hose assemblies.
Recall 200741720,052 units in Canada
Powertrain
On certain vehicles, the drive axle differential seal may leak (note that all-wheel drive vehicles have two seals). Reduced lubrication may cause the differential to become noisier. Continued use may cause damage to bearings and other differential components. Three conditions could occur: 1). When the vehicle is stopped and shifted to reverse, the differential may jam and prevent vehicle movement. 2). the damage can cause drag that will feel like the parking brake is applied; or 3) the differential could jam and lock the drive wheels while the vehicle is underway. Should the latter occur, it could result in a loss of vehicle control and a crash, causing injury or death. Correction: Dealers will replace the drive axle differential seal(s).
Recall 20060161,137 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, fuel starvation may cause the engine to stall when fuel level is less than ¼ tank. This condition occurs without the illumination of the Fuel Level Low indicator light or the warning chime. If the engine stops running, the operator may not be able to restart the vehicle. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the Electronic Control Module (ECM) with new software that will compensate for fuel that has been transferred to the left side of the "saddle" design fuel tank.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
London, KYCrash
ENGINE
Oil leaks from unknown location. Also make a grinding noise when accelerating.
NHTSA complaint #11518442 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 114,000 milesAlbuquerque, NMCrash3 injured
SEAT BELTS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE DRIVER DROVE AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES TO AVOID HITTING AN ANIMAL AS A RESULT THE VEHICLE SWERVED, ROLLING OVER SEVERAL TIMES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AS AND THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BECAME UNLATCHED AS THE DRIVER WAS EJECTED THROUGH THE REAR WINDOW. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED WHILE THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A COMA, BROKEN VERTEBRA, HIP CONTUSION, BRUISING AND MEMORY LOSS AS SHE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUFFERED HIP, CHEST, BREAST, WAIST, ARMS, SHOULDER, HEAD INJURIES AS WELL AS THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE PASSENGER SUSTAINED CHEST, HIP, AND NOSE INJURIES ALL OCCUPANTS WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE CONTACT WAS READING THE ACCIDENT INFORMATION FROM A NEWS PAPER ARTICLE. THE NEW MEXICO STATE POLICE WAS PRESENT AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
NHTSA complaint #11329163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 114,000 milesAlbuquerque, NMCrash3 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE DRIVER DROVE AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES TO AVOID HITTING AN ANIMAL AS A RESULT THE VEHICLE SWERVED, ROLLING OVER SEVERAL TIMES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AS AND THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BECAME UNLATCHED AS THE DRIVER WAS EJECTED THROUGH THE REAR WINDOW. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED WHILE THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A COMA, BROKEN VERTEBRA, HIP CONTUSION, BRUISING AND MEMORY LOSS AS SHE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUFFERED HIP, CHEST, BREAST, WAIST, ARMS, SHOULDER, HEAD INJURIES AS WELL AS THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE PASSENGER SUSTAINED CHEST, HIP, AND NOSE INJURIES ALL OCCUPANTS WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE CONTACT WAS READING THE ACCIDENT INFORMATION FROM A NEWS PAPER ARTICLE. THE NEW MEXICO STATE POLICE WAS PRESENT AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
NHTSA complaint #11329163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 28,500 milesMadison, MSCrash2 injured1 killed
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL HAD WRECK AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY AT THE TIME IT SHOULD HAVE, RUSH IN AMBULANCE TO HOSPITAL CAR WAS ON HIGHWAY GOING STRAIGHT,
NHTSA complaint #11171015 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 28,500 milesMadison, MSCrash2 injured1 killed
STEERING
TAKATA RECALL HAD WRECK AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY AT THE TIME IT SHOULD HAVE, RUSH IN AMBULANCE TO HOSPITAL CAR WAS ON HIGHWAY GOING STRAIGHT,
NHTSA complaint #11171015 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 28,500 milesMadison, MSCrash2 injured1 killed
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TAKATA RECALL HAD WRECK AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY AT THE TIME IT SHOULD HAVE, RUSH IN AMBULANCE TO HOSPITAL CAR WAS ON HIGHWAY GOING STRAIGHT,
NHTSA complaint #11171015 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Ocala, FL
STEERING
Steering wheel turns but no steering at wheels ,steering wheel just spins
NHTSA complaint #11700248 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 98,000 milesGettysburg, PA
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2005 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The contact stated that failure was intermittent at first but became persistent. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed passenger occupant sensor. The contact was informed that the passenger occupant sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that he was concerned because his fiancée was expecting a child and normally occupied the seat. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact referenced an undisclosed recall repair however, the contact was informed that the recall repair had expired. The contact stated that the representative contacted three local dealers and inquired about performing the recall repair; however, all three dealers declined to perform the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.
NHTSA complaint #11624272 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 158,000 milesCovington, KY
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2005 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the brake warning light illuminated on the instrument panel with an abnormal hissing sound while depressing the brake pedal. The vehicle was initially taken to an independent mechanic where brake fluid was added to the reservoir. Despite the repair, the failure persisted. After the contact's third visit to the mechanic, the mechanic discovered severe corrosion along the brake line, which resulted in brake fluid leak from the vehicle. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V225000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) which the mechanic linked to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.
NHTSA complaint #11553853 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
London, KYCrash
ENGINE
Oil leaks from unknown location. Also make a grinding noise when accelerating.
NHTSA complaint #11518442 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Citrus Heights, CA
AIR BAGS
Air bag light is on saying the passenger side buckle tensioner not working when there never a accident on this car, Fuel level low illuminates when there is fuel in the tank still, fuel level goes down fast after a short drive when fuel just been put in
NHTSA complaint #11466418 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesGriffin, GA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2005 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the SRS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V394000 (Electrical System). The approximate failure mileage was 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11465419 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 138,404 milesCarmichael, CA
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:STATUS INDICATOR LAMP/LIGHT
The contact owns a 2005 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that an unknown module under the passenger's side front seat needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V644000 (Air Bags) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was 138,404.
NHTSA complaint #11463611 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Suitland, MD
WHEELS
During normal driving, my service stibilatrak light comes on. While the message is on, the TCS kicks in and it grabs the wheel and stops the car. I've been reared ended once and two barely missed collisions. When the TCS activates, it stops the car completely and the only way to drive the car is to turn it off for a few second and then restart it. That resets the computer and turn the message light off. The TCS or ABS does not come on in the dash, just the stilibatrak message in the message center. Once it's turned off, it does not come on until the next time the TCS activates. I've had several diagnostic tests to check the problem or get a code but there is no code. I've been told that the car is clear of codes. The dealer cannot find a code or the problem. I've spent several hundred dollars on trying to locate the problem. The car, as is, is a death trap. I can't drive it because I don't know when the traction will kick on. I've taken good care of my car, nice bodywork and low milage but it's not safe to drive and no one knows how to fix it, including the dealer. At $200 an hour to try to find the problem is unforeseeable financially on my pension. One option is to junk the car for $200. I can't donate or sale it because it will not pass MD inspection. I can't trade it; I can't afford another car note. I've had this issue for almost a year. This happens every time I drive it, so I had to buy another car which I was not ready to buy. No major damage to report.
NHTSA complaint #11452118 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Suitland, MD
STEERING
During normal driving, my service stibilatrak light comes on. While the message is on, the TCS kicks in and it grabs the wheel and stops the car. I've been reared ended once and two barely missed collisions. When the TCS activates, it stops the car completely and the only way to drive the car is to turn it off for a few second and then restart it. That resets the computer and turn the message light off. The TCS or ABS does not come on in the dash, just the stilibatrak message in the message center. Once it's turned off, it does not come on until the next time the TCS activates. I've had several diagnostic tests to check the problem or get a code but there is no code. I've been told that the car is clear of codes. The dealer cannot find a code or the problem. I've spent several hundred dollars on trying to locate the problem. The car, as is, is a death trap. I can't drive it because I don't know when the traction will kick on. I've taken good care of my car, nice bodywork and low milage but it's not safe to drive and no one knows how to fix it, including the dealer. At $200 an hour to try to find the problem is unforeseeable financially on my pension. One option is to junk the car for $200. I can't donate or sale it because it will not pass MD inspection. I can't trade it; I can't afford another car note. I've had this issue for almost a year. This happens every time I drive it, so I had to buy another car which I was not ready to buy. No major damage to report.
NHTSA complaint #11452118 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Suitland, MD
SERVICE BRAKES
During normal driving, my service stibilatrak light comes on. While the message is on, the TCS kicks in and it grabs the wheel and stops the car. I've been reared ended once and two barely missed collisions. When the TCS activates, it stops the car completely and the only way to drive the car is to turn it off for a few second and then restart it. That resets the computer and turn the message light off. The TCS or ABS does not come on in the dash, just the stilibatrak message in the message center. Once it's turned off, it does not come on until the next time the TCS activates. I've had several diagnostic tests to check the problem or get a code but there is no code. I've been told that the car is clear of codes. The dealer cannot find a code or the problem. I've spent several hundred dollars on trying to locate the problem. The car, as is, is a death trap. I can't drive it because I don't know when the traction will kick on. I've taken good care of my car, nice bodywork and low milage but it's not safe to drive and no one knows how to fix it, including the dealer. At $200 an hour to try to find the problem is unforeseeable financially on my pension. One option is to junk the car for $200. I can't donate or sale it because it will not pass MD inspection. I can't trade it; I can't afford another car note. I've had this issue for almost a year. This happens every time I drive it, so I had to buy another car which I was not ready to buy. No major damage to report.
NHTSA complaint #11452118 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Harrisonville, MO
POWER TRAIN
Transmission cooler line fittings have dissimilar metals causing the threads inside the radiator transcooler to strip and dump coolant into Transmission lines and on road along with what was the transmission fluid as well as steam rolling out blocking vision through my windshield going uphill on a dangerously busy road crossing.This is a well known manufacturing defect that has yet to be handled. This could have gotten me and my 3 year old son seriously hurt by sudden loss of power and slick roadways not being able to avoid or brake properly or even steer away from on coming collision. The dissimilar metals are aluminum nut with a mild steel washer backed by a stainless steel washer before it contacts the radiator. This car has 101k miles and has been babied it's entire life. And when I see the 4 brake lines are about to rust out after all the repairs that have already been done. This is just poor quality material and craftsmanship. Easily could have been avoided by simply using a different metal than mild steel between dissimilar metals.
NHTSA complaint #11433480 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Harrisonville, MO
ENGINE
Transmission cooler line fittings have dissimilar metals causing the threads inside the radiator transcooler to strip and dump coolant into Transmission lines and on road along with what was the transmission fluid as well as steam rolling out blocking vision through my windshield going uphill on a dangerously busy road crossing.This is a well known manufacturing defect that has yet to be handled. This could have gotten me and my 3 year old son seriously hurt by sudden loss of power and slick roadways not being able to avoid or brake properly or even steer away from on coming collision. The dissimilar metals are aluminum nut with a mild steel washer backed by a stainless steel washer before it contacts the radiator. This car has 101k miles and has been babied it's entire life. And when I see the 4 brake lines are about to rust out after all the repairs that have already been done. This is just poor quality material and craftsmanship. Easily could have been avoided by simply using a different metal than mild steel between dissimilar metals.
NHTSA complaint #11433480 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Harrisonville, MO
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Transmission cooler line fittings have dissimilar metals causing the threads inside the radiator transcooler to strip and dump coolant into Transmission lines and on road along with what was the transmission fluid as well as steam rolling out blocking vision through my windshield going uphill on a dangerously busy road crossing.This is a well known manufacturing defect that has yet to be handled. This could have gotten me and my 3 year old son seriously hurt by sudden loss of power and slick roadways not being able to avoid or brake properly or even steer away from on coming collision. The dissimilar metals are aluminum nut with a mild steel washer backed by a stainless steel washer before it contacts the radiator. This car has 101k miles and has been babied it's entire life. And when I see the 4 brake lines are about to rust out after all the repairs that have already been done. This is just poor quality material and craftsmanship. Easily could have been avoided by simply using a different metal than mild steel between dissimilar metals.
NHTSA complaint #11433480 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Antigo, WI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MAKE AN ABNORMAL NOISE AND THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY DECELERATED. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #11403487 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Antigo, WI
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MAKE AN ABNORMAL NOISE AND THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY DECELERATED. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #11403487 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 197,300 milesLAS Cruces, NM
ENGINE
FIRST ECM MODULE NEEDING TO BE REPLACED, WE REPLACED IT THEN AFTER THAT STARTED RUNNING ROUGH, TOOK IT TO AUTO ZONE, 12 CODES POPPED UP. DID NORMAL MAINTENANCE OF VEHICLE, OIL CHANGE SPARK PLUGS . THEN A FEW DAYS LATER WE WERE ON THE HIGHWAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN WE LOST ALL POWER, PUSHED ON ACCELERATOR NO POWER, FRONT END STARTED SHAKING, SO PULLED OVER, VEHICLE WAS VERY HOT AND SMELLS LIKE GAS, HAD IT TOWED COMPRESSION TEST WERE NO GOOD, WAS TOLD GASKET WERE BAD, ALSO WAS TOLD TO CHECK THE RECALL LIST. IM UP SET BECAUSE OUR CHILDREN WERE IN THE VEHICLE WITH US. I HOPE WE ARE ABLE TO GET WHATEVER NEEDS TO BE FIXED ON THIS VEHICLE. THANK YOU.
NHTSA complaint #11352691 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 197,300 milesLAS Cruces, NM
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
FIRST ECM MODULE NEEDING TO BE REPLACED, WE REPLACED IT THEN AFTER THAT STARTED RUNNING ROUGH, TOOK IT TO AUTO ZONE, 12 CODES POPPED UP. DID NORMAL MAINTENANCE OF VEHICLE, OIL CHANGE SPARK PLUGS . THEN A FEW DAYS LATER WE WERE ON THE HIGHWAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN WE LOST ALL POWER, PUSHED ON ACCELERATOR NO POWER, FRONT END STARTED SHAKING, SO PULLED OVER, VEHICLE WAS VERY HOT AND SMELLS LIKE GAS, HAD IT TOWED COMPRESSION TEST WERE NO GOOD, WAS TOLD GASKET WERE BAD, ALSO WAS TOLD TO CHECK THE RECALL LIST. IM UP SET BECAUSE OUR CHILDREN WERE IN THE VEHICLE WITH US. I HOPE WE ARE ABLE TO GET WHATEVER NEEDS TO BE FIXED ON THIS VEHICLE. THANK YOU.
NHTSA complaint #11352691 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 197,300 milesLAS Cruces, NM
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
FIRST ECM MODULE NEEDING TO BE REPLACED, WE REPLACED IT THEN AFTER THAT STARTED RUNNING ROUGH, TOOK IT TO AUTO ZONE, 12 CODES POPPED UP. DID NORMAL MAINTENANCE OF VEHICLE, OIL CHANGE SPARK PLUGS . THEN A FEW DAYS LATER WE WERE ON THE HIGHWAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN WE LOST ALL POWER, PUSHED ON ACCELERATOR NO POWER, FRONT END STARTED SHAKING, SO PULLED OVER, VEHICLE WAS VERY HOT AND SMELLS LIKE GAS, HAD IT TOWED COMPRESSION TEST WERE NO GOOD, WAS TOLD GASKET WERE BAD, ALSO WAS TOLD TO CHECK THE RECALL LIST. IM UP SET BECAUSE OUR CHILDREN WERE IN THE VEHICLE WITH US. I HOPE WE ARE ABLE TO GET WHATEVER NEEDS TO BE FIXED ON THIS VEHICLE. THANK YOU.
NHTSA complaint #11352691 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesKansas City, MO
POWER TRAIN
THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A VERY WEAK REAR DIFFERENTIAL THAT WAS USED IN THE LESSER HORSEPOWER V6 AND WHEN TAKING OFF HARD THE CAR BEGINS TO WHEEL HOP AND DESTROYS THE REAR END THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A CITY STREET THIS HAS OCCURRED TWICE IN LESS THEN A YEAR AND A HALF
NHTSA complaint #11348468 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesKansas City, MO
STEERING
THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A VERY WEAK REAR DIFFERENTIAL THAT WAS USED IN THE LESSER HORSEPOWER V6 AND WHEN TAKING OFF HARD THE CAR BEGINS TO WHEEL HOP AND DESTROYS THE REAR END THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A CITY STREET THIS HAS OCCURRED TWICE IN LESS THEN A YEAR AND A HALF
NHTSA complaint #11348468 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 114,000 milesAlbuquerque, NMCrash3 injured
SEAT BELTS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE DRIVER DROVE AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES TO AVOID HITTING AN ANIMAL AS A RESULT THE VEHICLE SWERVED, ROLLING OVER SEVERAL TIMES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AS AND THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BECAME UNLATCHED AS THE DRIVER WAS EJECTED THROUGH THE REAR WINDOW. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED WHILE THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A COMA, BROKEN VERTEBRA, HIP CONTUSION, BRUISING AND MEMORY LOSS AS SHE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUFFERED HIP, CHEST, BREAST, WAIST, ARMS, SHOULDER, HEAD INJURIES AS WELL AS THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE PASSENGER SUSTAINED CHEST, HIP, AND NOSE INJURIES ALL OCCUPANTS WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE CONTACT WAS READING THE ACCIDENT INFORMATION FROM A NEWS PAPER ARTICLE. THE NEW MEXICO STATE POLICE WAS PRESENT AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
NHTSA complaint #11329163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 114,000 milesAlbuquerque, NMCrash3 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE DRIVER DROVE AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES TO AVOID HITTING AN ANIMAL AS A RESULT THE VEHICLE SWERVED, ROLLING OVER SEVERAL TIMES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AS AND THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BECAME UNLATCHED AS THE DRIVER WAS EJECTED THROUGH THE REAR WINDOW. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED WHILE THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A COMA, BROKEN VERTEBRA, HIP CONTUSION, BRUISING AND MEMORY LOSS AS SHE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUFFERED HIP, CHEST, BREAST, WAIST, ARMS, SHOULDER, HEAD INJURIES AS WELL AS THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE PASSENGER SUSTAINED CHEST, HIP, AND NOSE INJURIES ALL OCCUPANTS WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE CONTACT WAS READING THE ACCIDENT INFORMATION FROM A NEWS PAPER ARTICLE. THE NEW MEXICO STATE POLICE WAS PRESENT AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
NHTSA complaint #11329163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salinas, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I WENT TO CADILLAC TO GET THE RECALL FIXED THEY SAID IT WAS CLOSED OUT AND COULDN'T FIX IT AND NOW I CAN'T SMOG MY CAR AND I CAN'T TELL IF I HAVE GAS OR NOT AND I'M SCARED TO DRIVE IT WITHOUT GETTING THE FUEL PUMP FIXED
NHTSA complaint #11300281 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salinas, CA
ENGINE
I WENT TO CADILLAC TO GET THE RECALL FIXED THEY SAID IT WAS CLOSED OUT AND COULDN'T FIX IT AND NOW I CAN'T SMOG MY CAR AND I CAN'T TELL IF I HAVE GAS OR NOT AND I'M SCARED TO DRIVE IT WITHOUT GETTING THE FUEL PUMP FIXED
NHTSA complaint #11300281 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salinas, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I WENT TO CADILLAC TO GET THE RECALL FIXED THEY SAID IT WAS CLOSED OUT AND COULDN'T FIX IT AND NOW I CAN'T SMOG MY CAR AND I CAN'T TELL IF I HAVE GAS OR NOT AND I'M SCARED TO DRIVE IT WITHOUT GETTING THE FUEL PUMP FIXED
NHTSA complaint #11300281 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.