2020 Cadillac CT4
The 2020 Cadillac CT4 is a compact luxury sedan offering a blend of sporty handling and Cadillac refinement. Engine options include a 2.0L Turbocharged I4 producing 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, a 2.7L Dual Volute Turbocharged I4 producing 309 horsepower and 348 lb-ft of torque (CT4-V) or 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque (Premium Luxury), and a 3.6L V6 producing 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque (CT4-V Blackwing). All engines (excluding the CT4-V Blackwing) are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (3-speed automatic transmission for CT4-V Blackwing), or a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the CT4’s sharp styling, comfortable ride, and advanced technology features. Criticisms often include a cramped rear seat and interior materials that don’t quite match the luxury price point.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged I4
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can cause rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light to illuminate. The cause can range from faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
- Solution: Diagnosis with a scan tool to identify the cylinder(s) misfiring, followed by inspection and replacement of the faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause and parts needed.
- Recalls: None Found
2.7L Dual Volute Turbocharged I4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs. This may be caused by excessive wear on the piston rings.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the source of oil consumption. In severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises from the engine, check engine light illuminated. Turbocharger failure may be caused by oil starvation or internal component damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation when accelerating or shifting from Park/Neutral to Drive/Reverse. This may be caused by valve body issues or software calibration problems.
- Solution: A software update or transmission recalibration may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (recalibration) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
10-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation when accelerating or shifting from Park/Neutral to Drive/Reverse. This may be caused by valve body issues or software calibration problems.
- Solution: A software update or transmission recalibration may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (recalibration) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Premature Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Loose handling and poor alignment.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the location and number of bushings replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or unresponsive touchscreen. Bluetooth connectivity problems.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment system module may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts. This may be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or accessory.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the drain. Repair or replacement of the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck when opening or closing, or may not seal properly, leading to wind noise or water leaks.
- Solution: Inspection and lubrication of the sunroof mechanism. Replacement of damaged parts (e.g., tracks, seals, motor).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 Cadillac CT4 has a range of potential issues, varying in severity and cost. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption on the 2.7L Turbo I4 can be expensive to repair. Transmission issues, particularly harsh shifting, appear across both 8-speed and 10-speed automatics, potentially requiring costly repairs if recalibration doesn’t resolve the problem. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system are common and can be frustrating. While the CT4 offers a stylish design and enjoyable driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problem areas.