2004 Cadillac CTS

Introduction

The 2004 Cadillac CTS is a luxury sports sedan that offers a refined driving experience. It is powered by a standard 3.2L V6 engine that delivers 220 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. Other available powertrain options include a 3.6L V6 and a 5.7L V8. The CTS is available with both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

Despite its premium status, the 2004 Cadillac CTS has received its fair share of complaints from owners. Here’s a comprehensive list of the most commonly reported issues:

Engine

3.2L V6

• Intake manifold leaking coolant: Coolant leaks from the plastic intake manifold, leading to a loss of coolant and overheating. Replacement of the intake manifold is necessary.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain tensioner failure: Failure of the timing chain tensioner can cause a loud rattling noise and engine performance issues. Repair involves replacing the timing chain and tensioner.
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Intake manifold leaking coolant: Similar to the 3.2L V6, the intake manifold on the 3.6L V6 can develop coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variable valve timing solenoid failure: The variable valve timing solenoid controls the timing of the valve lift. Failure of the solenoid can cause engine performance issues and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace variable valve timing solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• Valve train noise: Some CTS models equipped with the 5.7L V8 may experience a noisy valve train, particularly during cold starts. The issue is usually resolved by replacing the lifters.
  • Solution: Replace lifters
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission slippage: The transmission may slip or shudder during gear changes. This is often caused by worn clutch plates.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Delayed engagement: The transmission may delay before engaging into gear. This issue is sometimes resolved by updating the transmission software.
  • Solution: Update transmission software or replace transmission control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut mount bearing failure: The strut mount bearings can wear out, causing a clunking or knocking noise over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower control arm bushings wear: The lower control arm bushings can deteriorate over time, leading to a loose or rattling suspension.
  • Solution: Replace lower control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical system faults: Various electrical system faults have been reported, including intermittent power loss, flickering lights, and faulty door locks.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair specific electrical component
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the fault
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power window failure: The power window motors or switches may fail, causing the windows to become inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof drain blockage: The sunroof drains can become clogged, leading to water leaking into the cabin.
  • Solution: Clean or unclog sunroof drains
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power seat motor failure: The power seat motors may fail, preventing the seats from adjusting.
  • Solution: Replace power seat motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2004 Cadillac CTS offers a comfortable and luxurious driving experience, it has faced its fair share of issues. The most common concerns revolve around engine and transmission problems, which can be costly to repair. Electrical faults and interior issues are also reported but are generally less severe. Overall, the reliability of the 2004 Cadillac CTS is somewhat below average for its class.