2013 Cadillac ATS

The 2013 Cadillac ATS was the first model year of the ATS, a compact luxury sedan aimed at competing with European rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. The ATS offered a blend of style, handling, and technology. Powertrain options included a 2.5L inline-4 producing 202 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 272 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6L V6 producing 321 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 6-speed manual (available only with the 2.0T) or a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally praised the ATS for its sharp handling, attractive styling, and comfortable interior. Criticisms often focused on the somewhat cramped rear seat, and some concerns about the CUE infotainment system.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup or while idling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough idling, stalling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Flush and replace transmission fluid. In some cases, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) to $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Control (If Equipped) - Damper Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, poor ride quality, uneven tire wear. Failure is more common on early versions of the Magnetic Ride Control dampers.
  • Solution: Replace the affected damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• CUE Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Unresponsive touchscreen, system freezing, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the CUE module if issues persist.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) to $1,200+ (CUE module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car is dead in the morning, having to get it jumped often.
  • Solution: Replace the battery, check for any parasitic draws on the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• CUE Screen Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The touchscreen appears to have bubbles or delamination between the layers, affecting visibility and touch sensitivity.
  • Solution: Replace the CUE screen or the entire CUE unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Replace or reseal the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Cadillac ATS, while a stylish and capable vehicle, has several reported issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly with the turbocharger and HPFP, can be costly. Transmission issues like harsh shifting are also a concern. Electrical issues with the CUE infotainment system are common and can be frustrating. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but addressing them can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand for major component replacements. It’s advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to assess the condition of the vehicle and identify any potential problems.