2018 Cadillac CTS

The 2018 Cadillac CTS is a luxury sedan offering a blend of performance and comfort. It was available with several engine options, including a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6L V6 producing 335 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6L Twin-Turbo V6 producing 420 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. All trims (except the V) are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The CTS is generally praised for its sharp handling, comfortable ride, and stylish interior. Common criticisms include the somewhat cramped rear seats, the CUE infotainment system can be laggy, and that some drivers feel the styling is starting to show its age.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged I4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive oil consumption, whistling sound from the turbocharger, check engine light. The turbocharger can fail due to oil starvation or component wear.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, engine misfires, rough idling, rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. The timing chain can stretch or wear prematurely.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Extended cranking, rough idle, loss of power, check engine light. Failure of the HPFP can cause fuel delivery issues.
  • Solution: Replace the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L Twin-Turbo V6

• Intercooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, reduced fuel economy, check engine light. The intercoolers can develop leaks, reducing their efficiency.
  • Solution: Replace the intercoolers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (8L45/8L90)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, hesitation when accelerating, clunking noises during gear changes, particularly between lower gears.
  • Solution: Software recalibration. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for recalibration, $800 - $2000+ for valve body, $3000 - $6000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, uneven ride height, poor handling, service suspension system message. The MRC shocks can leak or fail electronically.
  • Solution: Replace the affected MRC shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ per shock.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• CUE Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Lagging, freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the CUE module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software updates, $800 - $1500+ for CUE module replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car won’t start, dead battery after sitting for a short period. Possible causes include parasitic draw from faulty modules or accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the drain, followed by repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly or resealing the existing unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ per headlight for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater/Cooler Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters or coolers not working, intermittent operation, or blowing cold air when heat is selected (or vice versa).
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty heating/cooling element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Cadillac CTS can have issues relating to its drivetrain, electrical system, suspension, and interior. The most serious concerns include the 3.6L engine’s timing chain failures and the potential for costly transmission problems. The electrical issues with the CUE system can be frustrating. The magnetic ride control can be an expensive replacement. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems.