Owners have filed 198 complaints
about the 2014 Cadillac CTS with NHTSA between 2013 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 11 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 — 54
Against the median year of the Cadillac CTS. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 39
7.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 55
32% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
65.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1312.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
76.6%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
2321.7%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2119.8%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
2927.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
43.8%
150,000+ miles
32.8%
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.
Dec 2013peak 8Aug 2026
Recalls on the 2014 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.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20202913,715 units in Canada
Steering
Issue: On certain vehicles, the bolts that attach the electric power steering assist motor to the steering gear may corrode and break. This could cause a loss of power steering assist. Safety Risk: A loss of power steering assist may result in a sudden increase in steering effort, especially at low vehicle speeds. This could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the bolts that attach the electric power steering motor and apply a protective wax coating. If the bolts cannot be removed due to corrosion, the steering gear will be replaced.
Recall 20184812,488 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles equipped with heated front seats, the seat heating element may become damaged, causing localized over-heating. In a situation where the vehicle is started remotely and the heated seats are turned on, the seat could over-heat and melt, creating an increased risk of a fire causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the body control module to deactivate the heated seat function when the vehicle is started remotely.
Recall 20184631,851 units in Canada
Steering
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 bolts that attach the electric power steering assist motor to the steering gear housing may corrode and break. This could cause a loss of power steering assist. The resulting increase in steering effort could create the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the mounting bolts and apply a corrosion protection coating to the gear housing and bolts. If the bolts bolt cannot be removed, a replacement steering gear will be installed.
Recall 20144325,071 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, the chassis electronic module may have been contaminated at time of manufacture, which could cause an electrical short to occur within the module. This could cause the vehicle's check engine light to be displayed, or cause the engine to fail to start or stall, resulting in a loss of motive power. If the vehicle is equipped to support electric trailer brakes, the vehicle could also lose trailer brake function and display a "Service Trailer Brake System" indicator. These issues could increase the risk of a crash resulting in injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the module with a revised part.
Recall 201431511,430 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain vehicles, the hook bracket assembly for either front seat may have been manufactured with an incomplete weld. If the weld is incomplete and the assembly is exposed to a high load condition, the hook may separate from the seat track. This could increase the risk of occupant injury during a crash. Correction: Dealers will inspect the weld, and if necessary, replace the lower seat track.
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 20142396,135 units in Canada
Powertrain
On certain vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions, the shift cable may not be fully seated on the shifter and/or transmission bracket. If the cable were to detach, the driver may not be able to select a different gear position, or place the transmission in the PARK position. If the driver cannot place the vehicle in the PARK position and exits the vehicle without applying the parking brake, the vehicle could roll away, which could result in a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect and ensure the cable is fully seated at the transmission and at the shifter bracket.
Recall 2014175732 units in Canada
Visual System
On certain vehicles, the windshield wipers may become inoperative if the vehicle battery loses charge, causing unstable vehicle voltage, or if the vehicle is jump started while the wipers are on and restricted with ice and/or snow. Loss of windshield wiping capability, should it occur during a rainy/snowy day, may compromise the driver’s ability to see the road and its users, which could result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the front wiper module.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Richmond, TXCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
I was hit by a truck while parked with the car on and the airbags weren’t deployed the truck hit me going at least 45-60
NHTSA complaint #11460202 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 33,000 milesGilbert, AZCrash
POWER TRAIN
THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL LOCKED WHILE DRIVING AT 45MPH ON A STRAIGHT, FOUR LANE ROAD. IT MADE A LOUD THUMP AND FELT AS IF THE BRAKES WERE SLAMMED ON. THE CAR PULL HARD LEFT AND THE REAR TIRES WERE SMOKING. MANAGED TO GET THE CAR BACK TO THE RIGHT AND STOPPED AFTER HITTING THE CURB. FORTUNATELY NO OTHER VEHICLES WERE INVOLVED. THE ELSD IS ON BACKORDER AND WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR 90 DAYS.
NHTSA complaint #11256269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 33,000 milesGilbert, AZCrash
STEERING
THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL LOCKED WHILE DRIVING AT 45MPH ON A STRAIGHT, FOUR LANE ROAD. IT MADE A LOUD THUMP AND FELT AS IF THE BRAKES WERE SLAMMED ON. THE CAR PULL HARD LEFT AND THE REAR TIRES WERE SMOKING. MANAGED TO GET THE CAR BACK TO THE RIGHT AND STOPPED AFTER HITTING THE CURB. FORTUNATELY NO OTHER VEHICLES WERE INVOLVED. THE ELSD IS ON BACKORDER AND WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR 90 DAYS.
NHTSA complaint #11256269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 6,000 milesGlenview, ILCrash1 injured
SEAT BELTS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2014 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING 21 MPH OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP WHEN IT CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RESTRAIN THE CONTACT, CAUSING HIS HEAD TO MAKE CONTACT WITH THE DASHBOARD. AFTER THE CRASH, ALL THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE HEAD, NECK, AND KNEES, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000.
NHTSA complaint #10782540 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 6,000 milesGlenview, ILCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2014 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING 21 MPH OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP WHEN IT CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RESTRAIN THE CONTACT, CAUSING HIS HEAD TO MAKE CONTACT WITH THE DASHBOARD. AFTER THE CRASH, ALL THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE HEAD, NECK, AND KNEES, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000.
NHTSA complaint #10782540 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 6,000 milesGlenview, ILCrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2014 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING 21 MPH OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP WHEN IT CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RESTRAIN THE CONTACT, CAUSING HIS HEAD TO MAKE CONTACT WITH THE DASHBOARD. AFTER THE CRASH, ALL THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE HEAD, NECK, AND KNEES, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000.
NHTSA complaint #10782540 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 99,000 milesMaysville, GA
SUSPENSION
The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that the rear axle, rear differential, and another undisclosed warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V038000 (Power Train). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000.
NHTSA complaint #11758015 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,250 milesInglewood, NJ
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Caution - Pull Over Immediately - Turn off Engine and Wait to Restart Vehicle" was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact pulled over and followed the instructions, and the vehicle returned to normal operation. The contact could not pull over in time, and the steering wheel seized, and the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. No warning lights were illuminated. The failure reoccurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The contact researched and was made aware of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,250.
NHTSA complaint #11757423 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Philadelphia, Pa, PA
STEERING
I have taken my vehicle or rather had my vehicle towed back to my dealership on three different occasions for repair of a Shift Cable Replacement I can have a very bad accident in my vehicle or lose my life or injure someone else the first time I didn't understand why my vehicle shutdown while I was driving on a very busy highway I was very upset, and I had to pray that none ran into me Lucky for me my AAA service reached me at my location and towed my vehicle to the dealership where they kept it for five to six days I had an extended warranty that I brought from the dealership (F.C Kerbeck and Sons 100 Route 73 in Palmyra N.J. 08065 [XXX]) this was incident occurred XXX Mileage (57874 The second incident happened happen XXX 66,000 the same thing happened the vehicle shutdown while driving and I could not shift my lever it was struck and my vehicle was rolling backwards I had to keep my foot on the brakes until AAA came to two once again I was worried that my car was going to slide into someone I mange to contact the dealership about my situation They keep it again for a few days because they had to order the cable they called it a Transmission Shift Control Cable This time I'm nit sure if I paid for it or my insurance because they did not give me a bill of what they did and when I complained About the third time of this incident happening Last XXX Mileage78853 I was out shopping miles from where I live pulled into a parking lot and guest what my car started to slide and shutdown I tried to shift into park but the gear was locked in drive I had to push down on the breaks while I call for help again from AAA I called the dealership complaining about this issue for a third time and again I asked them why is happening and that I could have an accident or lose my life and the service manger John told me that they only have records of this incident happening once he said that he has no record if it in his system But I INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(
NHTSA complaint #11742161 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Philadelphia, Pa, PA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I have taken my vehicle or rather had my vehicle towed back to my dealership on three different occasions for repair of a Shift Cable Replacement I can have a very bad accident in my vehicle or lose my life or injure someone else the first time I didn't understand why my vehicle shutdown while I was driving on a very busy highway I was very upset, and I had to pray that none ran into me Lucky for me my AAA service reached me at my location and towed my vehicle to the dealership where they kept it for five to six days I had an extended warranty that I brought from the dealership (F.C Kerbeck and Sons 100 Route 73 in Palmyra N.J. 08065 [XXX]) this was incident occurred XXX Mileage (57874 The second incident happened happen XXX 66,000 the same thing happened the vehicle shutdown while driving and I could not shift my lever it was struck and my vehicle was rolling backwards I had to keep my foot on the brakes until AAA came to two once again I was worried that my car was going to slide into someone I mange to contact the dealership about my situation They keep it again for a few days because they had to order the cable they called it a Transmission Shift Control Cable This time I'm nit sure if I paid for it or my insurance because they did not give me a bill of what they did and when I complained About the third time of this incident happening Last XXX Mileage78853 I was out shopping miles from where I live pulled into a parking lot and guest what my car started to slide and shutdown I tried to shift into park but the gear was locked in drive I had to push down on the breaks while I call for help again from AAA I called the dealership complaining about this issue for a third time and again I asked them why is happening and that I could have an accident or lose my life and the service manger John told me that they only have records of this incident happening once he said that he has no record if it in his system But I INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(
NHTSA complaint #11742161 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Philadelphia, Pa, PA
ENGINE
I have taken my vehicle or rather had my vehicle towed back to my dealership on three different occasions for repair of a Shift Cable Replacement I can have a very bad accident in my vehicle or lose my life or injure someone else the first time I didn't understand why my vehicle shutdown while I was driving on a very busy highway I was very upset, and I had to pray that none ran into me Lucky for me my AAA service reached me at my location and towed my vehicle to the dealership where they kept it for five to six days I had an extended warranty that I brought from the dealership (F.C Kerbeck and Sons 100 Route 73 in Palmyra N.J. 08065 [XXX]) this was incident occurred XXX Mileage (57874 The second incident happened happen XXX 66,000 the same thing happened the vehicle shutdown while driving and I could not shift my lever it was struck and my vehicle was rolling backwards I had to keep my foot on the brakes until AAA came to two once again I was worried that my car was going to slide into someone I mange to contact the dealership about my situation They keep it again for a few days because they had to order the cable they called it a Transmission Shift Control Cable This time I'm nit sure if I paid for it or my insurance because they did not give me a bill of what they did and when I complained About the third time of this incident happening Last XXX Mileage78853 I was out shopping miles from where I live pulled into a parking lot and guest what my car started to slide and shutdown I tried to shift into park but the gear was locked in drive I had to push down on the breaks while I call for help again from AAA I called the dealership complaining about this issue for a third time and again I asked them why is happening and that I could have an accident or lose my life and the service manger John told me that they only have records of this incident happening once he said that he has no record if it in his system But I INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(
NHTSA complaint #11742161 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Jurupa Valley, CA
POWER TRAIN
On April 30,2026 I was pulling into a parking space and the gear shifter wouldn't go in to park with my foot the brake and the gear shifter wouldn't go in to park with my foot the brake and the gear shifter wouldn't go in to park . The tow truck driver who finally responded was able to lift the rear of the car up to see what was wrong with my car and I was placing it in the back of the he determined the cable for thre gear shifter was broken.
NHTSA complaint #11735366 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Harrah, OK
POWER TRAIN
My 2014 Cadillac CTS has been making what sounded like road noise. After another person road in my car that was not in it daily like I was, they told me how loud it really was. After further investigation, my rear differential has gone out at only 80,000 miles. It’s impossible to drive due to the extreme safety concerns for not only myself but other drivers on the turnpikes and highways.
NHTSA complaint #11716449 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Braselton, GA
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS. The contact was informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V038000 (Power Train). The vehicle was taken to a dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer informed the contact that the recall remedy could not be performed because the transmission and axle had failed and required repair and replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11709498 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tyler, TX
POWER TRAIN
I am filing a complaint against Wagner Cadillac in Tyler, Texas, regarding mishandled recall service that resulted in severe damage to my 2014 Cadillac CTS Vsport (3.6 Twin-Turbo). Timeline of Events: Wagner Cadillac performed Recall #N192279370 (rear differential). At the time, only the differential code was present. Their own multipoint inspection showed no issues with the cooling or transmission systems. Immediately after recall service, my rear axle warning light came on for the first time. Shortly after, the transmission cooler line at the radiator burst, causing coolant and transmission fluid to mix. This led to overheating, hard shifting, and slipping. To limp the car home safely, I used a stop-leak additive only after the breakdown. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act clearly states warranty coverage cannot be denied unless the additive directly caused the failure, which it did not. The damage had already occurred from the ruptured line. When I returned the vehicle, Wagner Cadillac falsely accused me of voiding coverage due to the additive. They then refused to repair my transmission or cooling system, leaving me with a $30,000+ estimate. Why They Are Responsible: The problems began only after recall work. During service, Wagner Cadillac could have: Over-pressurized the system during testing. Improperly disturbed or reinstalled transmission cooler lines. Failed to secure or bleed the cooling system. Any of these actions could have caused the rupture. Their refusal to acknowledge this shifts unlawful blame onto me. Additional Concerns: Instead of helping me, Wagner Cadillac attempted to solicit me to sell them my broken car and buy another vehicle from them — both before and after they denied repairs. This is unethical and exploitative. Impact: I paid cash for this car not long ago. I have now lost reliable transportation, lost my job due to lack of mobility, and face financial INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11689733 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tyler, TX
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am filing a complaint against Wagner Cadillac in Tyler, Texas, regarding mishandled recall service that resulted in severe damage to my 2014 Cadillac CTS Vsport (3.6 Twin-Turbo). Timeline of Events: Wagner Cadillac performed Recall #N192279370 (rear differential). At the time, only the differential code was present. Their own multipoint inspection showed no issues with the cooling or transmission systems. Immediately after recall service, my rear axle warning light came on for the first time. Shortly after, the transmission cooler line at the radiator burst, causing coolant and transmission fluid to mix. This led to overheating, hard shifting, and slipping. To limp the car home safely, I used a stop-leak additive only after the breakdown. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act clearly states warranty coverage cannot be denied unless the additive directly caused the failure, which it did not. The damage had already occurred from the ruptured line. When I returned the vehicle, Wagner Cadillac falsely accused me of voiding coverage due to the additive. They then refused to repair my transmission or cooling system, leaving me with a $30,000+ estimate. Why They Are Responsible: The problems began only after recall work. During service, Wagner Cadillac could have: Over-pressurized the system during testing. Improperly disturbed or reinstalled transmission cooler lines. Failed to secure or bleed the cooling system. Any of these actions could have caused the rupture. Their refusal to acknowledge this shifts unlawful blame onto me. Additional Concerns: Instead of helping me, Wagner Cadillac attempted to solicit me to sell them my broken car and buy another vehicle from them — both before and after they denied repairs. This is unethical and exploitative. Impact: I paid cash for this car not long ago. I have now lost reliable transportation, lost my job due to lack of mobility, and face financial INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11689733 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tyler, TX
POWER TRAIN
own a 2014 Cadillac CTS (VIN: [XXX] ) that was serviced under GM Recall N192279370 for rear axle differential seizing. On [XXX], the dealership replaced the rear differential carrier assembly and performed the required hydraulic system bleed. At intake, their own multi-point inspection documented no issues with the transmission, radiator, or cooling system. Immediately after the recall repair, my vehicle experienced severe issues: transmission slipping and radiator contamination with transmission fluid. These problems did not exist prior to the recall service. The dealership now claims the damage resulted from “stop leak” in the system and refuses warranty coverage. However, stop leak was not used until after the failure occurred, and only as an emergency measure to get the car home safely. The evidence strongly indicates that the failure resulted from the recall service, possibly from improper reconnection or contamination during the repair. Their refusal to acknowledge responsibility leaves me with significant repair costs for a problem that began directly after their mandated safety recall work. I am requesting NHTSA’s assistance in investigating this case, as the failure appears to be linked to the recall repair and raises concerns of improper procedures during service. Documentation, including service invoices, inspection sheets, and repair notes, are available to support this complaint. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11684317 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rockford, MI
POWER TRAIN
The gear shifter cable on my 2014 Cadillac CTS failed completely and without warning. The vehicle became totally inoperable and could not be shifted into Park, Neutral, Reverse, or Drive. There were no dashboard alerts or signs of failure. This matches the exact symptoms described in GM Recall No. 21V473000. However, my vehicle was excluded from further action because it had previously received a visual-only inspection during the recall window. No functional testing was performed. Despite being marked as “repaired,” the shifter cable failed exactly as described in the original recall. GM confirmed that the recall case was closed after a visual inspection per their protocol. But this inspection clearly failed to detect a dangerous mechanical defect. I have now been without a working vehicle for over two weeks, with the earliest dealership appointment not available until the week of July 7 — and a $180 diagnostic fee quoted, with no guarantee of repair coverage. This breakdown could have resulted in a crash or rollaway if it had occurred while driving or parked on an incline. It poses a serious safety risk not just to me but to the public. Vehicles cleared with insufficient inspection should not be excluded from protection. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this failure, hold GM accountable for prematurely closed recall cases, and consider requiring them to reopen and expand the campaign to include VINs like mine. I am willing to provide photos, documentation, and records as needed. Thank you for your attention and swift consideration.
NHTSA complaint #11670528 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rockford, MI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The gear shifter cable on my 2014 Cadillac CTS failed completely and without warning. The vehicle became totally inoperable and could not be shifted into Park, Neutral, Reverse, or Drive. There were no dashboard alerts or signs of failure. This matches the exact symptoms described in GM Recall No. 21V473000. However, my vehicle was excluded from further action because it had previously received a visual-only inspection during the recall window. No functional testing was performed. Despite being marked as “repaired,” the shifter cable failed exactly as described in the original recall. GM confirmed that the recall case was closed after a visual inspection per their protocol. But this inspection clearly failed to detect a dangerous mechanical defect. I have now been without a working vehicle for over two weeks, with the earliest dealership appointment not available until the week of July 7 — and a $180 diagnostic fee quoted, with no guarantee of repair coverage. This breakdown could have resulted in a crash or rollaway if it had occurred while driving or parked on an incline. It poses a serious safety risk not just to me but to the public. Vehicles cleared with insufficient inspection should not be excluded from protection. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this failure, hold GM accountable for prematurely closed recall cases, and consider requiring them to reopen and expand the campaign to include VINs like mine. I am willing to provide photos, documentation, and records as needed. Thank you for your attention and swift consideration.
NHTSA complaint #11670528 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 170,000 milesBridgeport, CT
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the contact heard an extremely loud bang, after which the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway and observed smoke coming from the rear axle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the rear axle differential. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V038000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 170,000.
NHTSA complaint #11663372 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Erie, PA
SUSPENSION
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?
NHTSA complaint #11620467 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesPeoria, AZ
POWER TRAIN
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.
NHTSA complaint #11620123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Poplar Bluff, MO
POWER TRAIN
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.
NHTSA complaint #11608193 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Poplar Bluff, MO
STEERING
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.
NHTSA complaint #11608193 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orange, CA
POWER TRAIN
My car was unsafe to drive. It would not shift into drive. I had it towed to a mechanic who diagnosed the problem. I was informed the differential was the problem. I could not drive my car until the repair was done. No one had the differential part in the USA. My car is 2014 CTS with only 66,000 miles. Can I be reimbursed for this repair?
NHTSA complaint #11568676 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 68,000 milesIndian Trail, NC
SUSPENSION
The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was a rattling noise present coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear of the vehicle was very unstable and was vibrating and shaking abnormally. The contact that the rear suspension warning light was illuminated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 68,000.
NHTSA complaint #11567163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 41,000 milesWatertown, WI
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormally loud sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the rear differential needed to be replaced; however, the part was on backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not assist. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000.
NHTSA complaint #11561128 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 84,000 milesConway, SC
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was a grinding sound coming from rear end of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local service center who discovered metal shavings inside in the rear differential fluid and informed the contact that the rear differential needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 84,000.
NHTSA complaint #11555008 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orangeburg, NY
POWER TRAIN
The gears inside the rear-differential of a 2014 CTS Luxury 3.6 liter Cadillac, with 48,000 miles, failed to the point where the whole differential had to be replaced. This defect is extremely dangerous to the owner of the vehicle, as well as others on the road. If the differential fails to the point where the tires lock up, the driver can lose control of the car. There were no warning messages relating to the problem and the problem did not come on gradually. There was a sudden loud grinding noise that came from the rear of the car, while driving, and the car was immediately taken to a Cadillac dealership for inspection. The dealership mechanic/technician determined that the rear differential completely failed and needed to be replaced. (The oil was drained from the differential and there were metal shavings inside the oil.) Upon research on the internet, it was determined that this rear-differential defect is an extensive problem, as other 2014 Cadillac CTS owners are experiencing a similar problem. Cadillac has recalled the 2014 CTS-V for this rear differential defect but has not acknowledged the same problem with the 2014 CTS 3.6 liter (it appears to be the same product/part design.)
NHTSA complaint #11552185 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 94,000 milesFlorissant, MO
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, he heard a loud abnormal scraping sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the rear axle differential assembly. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V038000 (Power Train) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 94,000.
NHTSA complaint #11541270 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Menifee, CA
POWER TRAIN
At the moment, the vehicle is releasing a strong order smells like burning oil or gasoline. It’s coming from the rear of the vehicle. You can smell it immediately when you step out and in the car. The rear is making a loud cranking noise and starting to shake. It appears based on the information that it’s a huge possibility it’s my rear differential going out. It posses a threat due to the anticipation of the brakes locking and causing a serious accident to my family or other on the road. Ive taken very good care if the vehicle and done all the required maintenance on the vehicle. Went though GM motors repair shops
NHTSA complaint #11538198 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.