2016 Cadillac CTS

The 2016 Cadillac CTS is a luxury sedan offering a blend of performance and comfort. Engine options include a 2.0L Turbocharged I4 producing 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6L V6 generating 335 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.2L Supercharged V8 (CTS-V) delivering 640 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. The transmissions are either an 8-speed automatic (most models) or a 6-speed manual (CTS-V). Owners often appreciate the CTS’s sharp handling, stylish design, and comfortable interior. Common dislikes include the sometimes-unintuitive CUE infotainment system, some reported reliability concerns, and a smaller back seat compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged I4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the turbo, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, white smoke from exhaust. Can be caused by a cracked cylinder head.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the cylinder head, and/or any leaking hoses or connections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, check engine light, poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, rough idling, and potential stalls can occur.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L Supercharged V8 (CTS-V)

• Supercharger Intercooler Brick Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, coolant loss, potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intercooler brick, potentially requiring supercharger removal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Guide Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke from the exhaust, excessive oil consumption, ticking noise.
  • Solution: Cylinder head rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (8L45/8L90)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough shifts, delayed engagement, clunking noises, especially between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Programming, Fluid Flush and possible valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, excessive bouncing, fluid leaks from the shock absorber, “Service Suspension System” message.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected shock absorber(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ per shock absorber (depending on location)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• CUE Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Unresponsive touchscreen, freezing, glitching, system reboots, loss of audio.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the CUE module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, needing frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lens, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly or resealing the existing assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof jamming, not opening/closing properly, unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2016 Cadillac CTS exhibits a range of potential issues, varying in severity and cost. Engine problems, particularly timing chain issues on the V6 and turbocharger failures on the I4, can be costly. Transmission issues such as harsh shifting are also common. Electrical problems, mainly related to the CUE system, can be frustrating. Suspension issues with the MRC system can affect ride quality and require expensive shock replacements. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to address, others can result in significant repair bills. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a pre-purchase inspection.