2006 Cadillac CTS

The 2006 Cadillac CTS is a rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan that offers a blend of style and performance. It was available with three engine options: a 2.8L V6 (210 hp, 195 lb-ft of torque), a 3.6L V6 (255 hp, 252 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.0L LS2 V8 (400 hp, 395 lb-ft of torque) exclusive to the CTS-V. The V6 engines were paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the CTS-V came exclusively with a 6-speed manual. Owners often appreciate the CTS’s sharp styling, sporty handling (especially the CTS-V), and comfortable interior. Common dislikes include some lower-quality interior materials, occasional electrical issues, and the relatively small rear seat.

Engine

2.8L V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine noise (rattling or whining), check engine light illuminated, and potential for engine damage if the chain breaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.8L V6, excessive engine noise (rattling or whining), check engine light illuminated, and potential for engine damage if the chain breaks. Often related to infrequent oil changes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, long cranking times, stalling, and a decrease in overall engine performance.
  • Solution: Fuel pump replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L LS2 V8

• Lifter Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise coming from the top of the engine, more noticeable when cold. Can be caused by collapsed lifters.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters. Some may opt to replace all lifters at once.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Applies to 2.8L and 3.6L V6)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause stalling or poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Differential Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially when accelerating or decelerating. Poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear differential bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noise from the suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Panel Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges may flicker, become inaccurate, or stop working altogether. The entire cluster may lose power intermittently.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument panel cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks may not respond to the remote or the door switch. One or more doors may not lock or unlock.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove headlight assembly, remove bulbs and allow to dry, or replace the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0-$700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, causing the sunroof to be stuck open or closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sunroof motor or repair of the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Cadillac CTS, while generally a well-regarded vehicle, does have some common issues. The timing chain issues, particularly for the V6 engines, can be costly to repair. Electrical problems with the instrument cluster and door locks are also relatively frequent. Suspension issues, like the rear differential bushings, can affect handling and comfort. Overall, while the CTS offers a good blend of performance and luxury, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of repairs when considering a purchase. The severity of the problems ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially major engine repairs, and costs can vary significantly depending on the issue and the repair shop.