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2023 Cadillac CT5

The 2023 Cadillac CT5 is a luxury sedan that aims to blend performance and comfort. Engine options include a 2.0L Turbocharged I4 (237 hp, 258 lb-ft torque), a 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (335 hp, 405 lb-ft torque), and a high-performance 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (360 hp, 405 lb-ft torque). All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the CT5 for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology. However, some common complaints include the relatively small rear seat space for a sedan in its class, and concerns about long-term reliability.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged I4

  • Engine Misfires
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation upon acceleration, check engine light illumination. This can sometimes be attributed to faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
    • Solution: Diagnose the specific cylinder causing the misfire, and replace the faulty ignition coil and/or spark plug.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on how many components are replaced and if it can be performed at home, or if a professional is required
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (335 hp & 360 hp variants)

  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine bay, reduced engine power, and possible check engine light. These issues can be from damaged turbochargers or issues with the solenoids.
    • Solution: Perform diagnostic tests to identify the specific turbocharger malfunction, replace the faulty turbocharger, and inspect associated components like boost solenoids and hoses.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Some owners report hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
    • Solution: A software update is often released by Cadillac to resolve these issues. In some cases, a transmission fluid flush or valve body replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (Software update) - $1,500+ (Valve body replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Magneride Damper Failure (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, especially over bumps. Error messages related to the suspension system may appear.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty Magneride damper. It is often recommended to replace dampers in pairs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ per damper
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Glitches
    • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and navigation errors.
    • Solution: Try a system reset. If the problem persists, a software update may be required. In some rare cases, the infotainment unit itself may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (System reset) - $1,200+ (Infotainment unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle struggles to start, the battery dies prematurely, or the electrical system seems sluggish. These issues may arise from an electrical component that continues to draw current even when the car is off.
    • Solution: Test the battery and charging system, perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain, and repair or replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Poor Quality Chrome Trim
    • Description/Symptoms: Chrome trim around windows, grilles, and other areas shows signs of pitting, discoloration, or peeling prematurely.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected trim pieces.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the amount of trim that is replaced
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Heater Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters fail to warm up, or only heat up intermittently. This is often related to a break in the heating element or a faulty control module.
    • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the failure (heating element or control module) and replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Cadillac CT5, while generally well-received for its styling and performance, exhibits some recurring issues. Engine issues like misfires and turbocharger problems can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, although often resolved with software updates, can be frustrating for owners. Electrical glitches in the infotainment system and battery drain problems also appear. The quality of exterior trim and seat heater malfunctions are other concerns to consider. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should be aware of them.

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