Model-year record

2012 Cadillac CTS
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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Complaints filed
67
Reports to NHTSA, 2012
Safety recalls
2
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
19
EPA estimate
Known issues
Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (13% of 67 reports), followed by exterior lighting (13%).
+ 9 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 67 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 10990875, ODI 10712837, ODI 10691138, ODI 10662668, ODI 10644067.
Individual complaint reports(67)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsSuspensionJan 2026 · ODI 11710859Details +Close −
Front subframe crack around lower control arm bushing area. Common problem that’s going to end up killing someone when it completely separates
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJan 2025 · ODI 11635385Details +Close −
"service air bag" light is illuminated. Deal states the replacement part is out of production. Apparently, this is a relative common problem with this vehicle. The illumination of the warning light indicates the air bag system is not working.
- Reported
- Jan 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2024 · ODI 11615171Details +Close −
A combination of the lower control arm alignment adjustment bolt, it is just a slot and standard bolt. The alignment becomes loose over time and begins to work side to side in the slot, so retightening the bolt is the only solution to keep it from moving. The main issue is the subframe being made from aluminum and the machined slots for the lower arms, the "ears" for the lower arms are not machined or reenforced correctly which lead to severe fatigue cracks in the machined radius of the subframe. These cracks will cause the lower control arm to break free of the mounts and causing the front suspension to shift to the left or right and causing a crash. All it will take to break them off is a large enough bump and this WILL kill or injure someone.
- Reported
- Sep 2024
- Incident date
- Sep 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlJun 2023 · ODI 11525157Details +Close −
There have been a collection of other Vin numbers for this year make and model for the symptoms I have been experiencing since taking ownership in 2019. The vehicle will stall while running and randomly disable ALL WHEEL drive, Traction Control, ABS, and send Check engine light on causing me amdy son on infinite number of times to almost be hit In the middle of amd intersection, after a stop sign at low speeds, upon turning the wheels into or put of driveway, parking spaces and worst off at 60 mph on a freeway. This has resulted in multiple near accidents as the vehicle randomly disables itself. It occurs mostly after pressing the brakes to shift gears and almost always causes the vehicle to become inoperable for over an hour where it sits as there is no option to disable AWD or choose from FWD OR RWD. It happens in manual mode (or called performance mode) as well as automatic mode and has been occurring for 5 and a half years. I have been charged an exorbitant amount for supposed repairs from.dealers and mechanics who have claimed to fix it and I have severe autoimmune disease, a foot prosthetic, AND a minor child I have to transport to and from.school in the car. My issue and warning lights and symptoms mirror the recall of the Vin numbers the manufacturer has performed the recall repair on exactly and yet I have been sent from dealers who refuse to check the part that's defective which is I believe the hydrolic brake rod to the brake petal. The bold needs to be simply retorqued to the proper torque to fix the problem as it was either assembled improperly torqued and or can loosen over time resulting in dangerous and immediate and unexpected complete loss of power to the vehicle allowing people to slam into you at any time. I have had it towed numerous times after these incidents. All features, climate control, locks, entertainment, windows and everything functions when this happens. I have replaced batteries, brakes, oil changes etc. Unresolved.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesMay 2023 · ODI 11521525Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the brake pedal was depressed and the AWD inadvertently deactivated, causing the vehicle to lose motive power. The service brake assist, check engine, traction control, ABS, and stabili-trak warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to two independent mechanics; however, no failure was found. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V536000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionNov 2022 · ODI 11491862Details +Close −
The Sub frame has a crack where it connects with the control arm I posted a picture in the forum group for Cadillac owners of the same vehicle and over 20 owners I’ve counted have the same crack in the same location it has unfortunately failed for some members already. I fear that this was an engineering flaw that needs to be taken care of or examined before some one can get seriously hurt or lose there life by having the sub frame fail causing the control arm of the front wheel to fall off I have multiple pictures of separate vehicles that have the same crack and even one that fully broke apart at the same location. Please take a look at this as this I fear could break at any time and I fear many Cadillacs are driving around with this same engineering flaw
- Reported
- Nov 2022
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJun 2022 · ODI 11470406Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to the dealer for servicing, he was informed that the front passenger's side air bag had failed. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 126,273.
- Reported
- Jun 2022
- Incident date
- Jun 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2022 · ODI 11460145Details +Close −
Recaro seat sensor failure, causing passenger air bag system inoperable for the passenger side, it appears this a very common problem, the dealer states that they have replaced a lot of these in the past, but GM no longer has any available, cannot find one anywhere in the country (USA), the safety concern is if involved in an accident the passenger is not protected, the dealer has confirmed this is the problem thru diagnostics, have contacted manufacture and they have confirmed no parts available for a repair, service air bag system message and air bag light on intermittently numerous time while driving, first appeared within approx. 2 days after purchased used on 03-17-2022
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Mar 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SeatsJan 2022 · ODI 11447084Details +Close −
The driver’s seat latch to access the backseat started to work only sometimes. Now it doesn’t work at all
- Reported
- Jan 2022
- Incident date
- Nov 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesNov 2021 · ODI 11439097Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the traction control and ABS warning lights illuminated. The contact stated the traction control was off. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacture was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.
- Reported
- Nov 2021
- Incident date
- Oct 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingMay 2021 · ODI 11415097Details +Close −
I WAS SENT A LETTER ABOUT THE RECALL AND I SENT IT BACK SAYING I COULD NOT AFFORD TO PAY UP FRONT. THE SENT ANOTHER LETTER ABOUT THE DEADLINE AND I SENT BACK I COULD NOT AFFORD TO PAY UP FRONT. I NEVER GOT A RESPONSE BACK. MY LIGHTS ARE GETTING DIMMER AND CAN'T SEE AT NIGHT. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD THAT I DIDN'T CAUSE AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN REQUIRED TO REPAIR. I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE USED AND HAVE A FEW PAYMENTS LEFT. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND IT'S INCONVENIENT. THIS NEED TO BE INVESTIGATED.
- Reported
- May 2021
- Incident date
- May 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2020 · ODI 11361939Details +Close −
MY CAR WAS BROUGHT IN FOR VIBRATION AT ALDERMAN CADILLAC IN MERIDEN I TOOK IT IN AND COME TO FIND OUT, IT WAS THE POWER STEERING AND A MOTOR MOUNT. THE DEALER ASKED ME IF I WANTED TO TAKE THE CAR AFTER IT WAS FIXED ALTHOUGH HE TOLD ME THAT IT WOULDN'T BE SAFE TO DRIVE. I RECEIVED THE VEHICLE 3 DAYS LATER AND THE PROBLEM WAS STILL THERE. MY STEERING WHEEL WAS ALSO LOOSE AND THE ALIGNMENT WAS OFF. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER WITHING 20 HOURS TO TELL THEM THAT IT WAS NOT FIXED AND THAT THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN DRIVES TOTALLY DIFFERENT AND NOT IN A GOOD WAY. THE MANAGER OF THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT TOLD ME THAT THEY CAN'T FIX THE CAR BECAUSE IT'S TOO MUCH WORK. I DID NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING MY VEHICLE WHICH I TOLD THE DEALER ABOUT 5 TIMES. THAT DID NOT MATTER TO THEM AT ALL. THE DEALER ARGUED ME DOWN AND I TOLD THEM THAT I WILL NOT DRIVE MY VEHICLE IN THE POSITION IT WAS IN. I WILL CONTINUE TO GO AS FAR AS I NEED TO DO GET THIS UNSAFE SITUATION HANDLED. I DO NOT APPRECIATE THIS. I TRUSTED IN CADILLAC AND I WILL NEVER GO BACK THERE AGAIN.
- Reported
- Sep 2020
- Incident date
- Sep 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingMay 2020 · ODI 11324556Details +Close −
THE HEAD LAMP HAS CONDENSATION AND WATER BUILT UP IN IT CAUSING THE BULB TO SHORT OUT. THE CLEAR COVER HAS BECOME STAINED YELLOW RUST COLOR FROM THE WATER. *TR
- Reported
- May 2020
- Incident date
- May 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2020 · ODI 11301410Details +Close −
LIFTGATE ON 2012 CADILLAC CTS SPORTWAGON FALLS WITHOUT WARNING A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO MY WIFE WAS RETRIEVING ITEMS OUT OF THE REAR CARGO AREA WHEN SUDDENLY THE HATCH CAME DOWN ON TOP OF HER FORCING HER DOWN TO THE TOP OF THE BUMPER. THE VEHICLE WAS ON LEVEL GROUND AND STATIONARY. SHE ESCAPED BY QUICKLY SLIDING OUT FROM UNDER IT BEFORE IT CLOSED AND WAS NOT INJURED. THE LIFT GATE HAD NEVER FAILED LIKE THIS BEFORE.. IT NOW DOES THIS ROUTINELY THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE THAT COULD EASILY INJURE OR KILL A SMALL CHILD OR PET. RECALL#15V415000 OPENED ON 6/30/2015 COVERING SEVERAL GM VEHICLES BUT NO CADILLACS. THE MECHANISM IS THE SAME OR VERY SIMILAR TO ALL THESE OTHER CARS. WHY AREN'T THE CTS WAGONS PART OF THE 15V415000 RECALL? THANKS, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
- Reported
- Jan 2020
- Incident date
- Jan 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJan 2020 · ODI 11301395Details +Close −
THE CAR BEGAN CUTTING OFF UNEXPECTEDLY WHEN STOPPING. THE MECHANIC TOLD US THE TIMING CHAIN WAS FAULTY. THE CAR BARELY HAS 65,000 MILES ON IT AND HAS PRIMARILY BEEN DRIVEN TO WORK ONLY, AVERAGING 20 MILES A DAY! WE CONTACTED THE COMPANY BUT THEY HAVE NOT RECALLED THE TIMING CHAIN ON THIS PARTICULAR CAR. IT HAS ON OLDER MODELS SO I WANTED TO REPORT TO HAVE THE NEWER MODELS FURTHER RESEARCHED AS WELL. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY CONCERN AS INTERSECTIONS CAN BE DANGEROUS FOR AN UNPREDICTABLE CAR.
- Reported
- Jan 2020
- Incident date
- Jan 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlJan 2020 · ODI 11301471Details +Close −
WHILE AT A RED LIGHT THE ENGINE IDLED DOWN AND THE TRACTION CONTROL WENT OFF, THEN THE VEHICLE POWER IS REDUCED
- Reported
- Jan 2020
- Incident date
- Jan 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
WheelsNov 2019 · ODI 11282966Details +Close −
ON 3/23/2019 BOUGHT BRIDGESTONE TIRE PACKAGE FOR 2012 CADILLAC CTS PERFORMANCE. MY VEHICLE REQUIRES 2 SIZES OF TIRES, 265/45/18 & 235/50/18. THE TIRES ARE ALMOST BALD ARE 265/45/18 POTENZA. ON 11/29/2019 TIRE CHECK LIGHT COMES ON TO CHECK TIRE PRESSURE TO RIGHT REAR TIRE. SINCE WEATHER IS COLD, I EXPECT THE TIRE LIGHT TO COME ON AND OFF WHEN AIR HAS BEEN PUT IN. I WENT TO DISCOUNT TIRE TO PUT AIR, AND THE TECH INDICATED THE BACK 2 TIRES HAS A THREAD DEPTH OF 2 AND UNSAFE. I IMMEDIATELY WENT TO FIRESTONE COMPLETE AUTO CARE WHO I GOT THE TIRES FROM AND INSTALLATION. THEY PUT THE TIRE UP ON A SCOPE AND BOTH 2 TIRES IN BACK WERE ALMOST BALD IN THE MIDDLE. THE THREAD ON THE OUTER TIRES SEEMED FINE, BUT THE MIDDLE SECTION OF THE TIRE WAS ALMOST COMPLETELY BALD. THE TIRE TECHNICIAN TOOK MY CAR FOR TEST DRIVE TO SEE IF THERE WERE BALL JOINTS, SUSPENSION OR OTHER ISSUES THAT MAY BE CAUSING THE WEAR ON THE TIRE AND THE TECH FOUND NONE. I GO FAITHFULLY EVERY 3,000 MILES FOR OIL CHANGE AND TIRE ROTATION AT THE DEALERSHIP SO IF THERE ARE ISSUES, I WOULD HAVE KNOWN ABOUT THEM AND CORRECT THEM IMMEDIATELY. THERE WERE NO ISSUES FOUND AND THE ONLY EXPLANATION THAT FIRESTONE CAN GIVE ME IS THAT THESE TIRES ARE NOT MADE FOR YOUR CAR SINCE IT WAS A PERFORMANCE CAR.
- Reported
- Nov 2019
- Incident date
- Nov 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingSep 2019 · ODI 11254777Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS MOISTURE IN THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CADILLAC OF NAPERVILLE (630-219-0417, LOCATED AT 1507 W OGDEN AVE, NAPERVILLE, IL 60540) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 30,000.
- Reported
- Sep 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlAug 2019 · ODI 11242117Details +Close −
WHEN USING FULL THROTTLE, (FLOORED ACCELERATOR) THE GAS PEDAL GETS STUCK IN WOT POSITION. THIS OCCURS INTERMITTENTLY, FIRST TIME WAS APPROXIMATELY 3/2015.
- Reported
- Aug 2019
- Incident date
- Jul 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingJul 2019 · ODI 11230716Details +Close −
BOTH HEADLIGHTS ON THE VEHICLE HAVE HAD TO BE REPLACED VERY RECENTLY (SPRING/SUMMER) FOLLOWING A COLD AND HARSH WINTER. WE BELIEVE THAT THE PROBLEM IDENTIFIED WITH THE SRX MODELS EXTENDS TO THE CTS AND PERHAPS OTHER CADILLAC MODELS GIVEN THE NUMBER ON THE STREET WITH A SINGLE HEADLIGHT; HOWEVER, CADILLAC HAS DENIED OUR CLAIM. THE COST OF REPAIR OF BOTH HEADLIGHTS EXCEEDED $600.
- Reported
- Jul 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJul 2019 · ODI 11228889Details +Close −
WHILE DRIVING HEARD CLANKING UNDER THE CAR FOR ABOUT 2 BLOCKS THEN STOPED. TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND FOUND OUT 2 BOLTS HAD BACKED OUT OF THE DRIVE SHAFT AND ONE HAD SHEARED. HAD THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM WITH A 2011 CTS. I HAD PURCHASED A WARRANTY WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR IN 2018, CAR WAS REPAIRED. I DID NOTIFY CADILLAC. RIGHT FRONT HEADLIGHT HAS MOISTURE. UNDERSTAND CADILLAC USED INFERIOR SEALS PREVIOUSLY. WILL NEED TO REPLACE. LIGHT COST APPROXIMATELY $250.00.
- Reported
- Jul 2019
- Incident date
- Jun 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJul 2019 · ODI 11228628Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL SOUND UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MOORE CADILLAC (LOCATED AT 25450 PLEASANT VALLEY RD, CHANTILLY, VA 20152, (703) 939-9351) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT TWO DRIVESHAFT BOLTS FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,318.
- Reported
- Jul 2019
- Incident date
- Jun 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingMay 2019 · ODI 11205045Details +Close −
I PURCHASED A NEW 2012 CADILLAC CTS IN JANUARY, 2012. THE CAR HAS BEEN GARAGE KEPT SINCE NEW AND HAS ONLY 27,000 MILES. BOTH HEADLAMPS RECENTLY BEGAN ACCUMULATING HEAVY CONDENSATION CAUSING VERY DIM LIGHTING AT NIGHT. THIS HAZARDOUS CONDITION IS CLEARLY A MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND NOT CAUSED BY EXCESSIVE USE OF THE VEHICLE NOR EXPOSURE TO THE ELEMENTS.
- Reported
- May 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingMay 2019 · ODI 11205051Details +Close −
I PURCHASED A NEW 2012 CADILLAC CTS IN JANUARY, 2012. THE CAR HAS BEEN GARAGE KEPT SINCE NEW AND HAS ONLY 27,000 MILES. BOTH HEADLAMPS RECENTLY BEGAN ACCUMULATING HEAVY CONDENSATION CAUSING VERY DIM LIGHTING AT NIGHT. THIS HAZARDOUS CONDITION IS CLEARLY A MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND NOT CAUSED BY EXCESSIVE USE OF THE VEHICLE NOR EXPOSURE TO THE ELEMENTS.
- Reported
- May 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMar 2019 · ODI 11183840Details +Close −
DOOR OFTEN WILL NOT OPEN FROM THE INSIDE WHEN BUTTON IS PUSHED TO OPEN DOOR. IF I WAS IN A ACCIDENT OR THERE WAS A FIRE I MAY NOT BE ABLE TO GET OUT OF DOOR BECAUSE IT WON'T OPEN. GM HAS BEEN MADE AWARE OF THIS BUT REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING.
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainOct 2018 · ODI 11142901Details +Close −
BOLTS BACKED OUT OF DRIVE SHAFT
- Reported
- Oct 2018
- Incident date
- Oct 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingJul 2018 · ODI 11110608Details +Close −
MY STATION WAGON IS A 2012 THAT I BOUGHT NEW IN AUG 2013. IN ABOUT A YEAR I NOTICED CONDENSATION ON THE INSIDE OF THE SEALED LED HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY
- Reported
- Jul 2018
- Incident date
- Nov 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJun 2018 · ODI 11104691 · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING OR IMPACT. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO COAST THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BACK INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO QUANTRELL AUTO GROUP (1440 E NEW CIRCLE RD, LEXINGTON, KY 40509, (859) 266-2161) WHERE DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WAS COMPLETED, BUT THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF THE RESULTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 47,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2018
- Incident date
- Mar 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- 1 injuries
SuspensionMay 2018 · ODI 11092729Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE REAR DRIVESHAFT AND THE SUPPORT BEARING CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CADILLAC NORWOOD (700 BOSTON PROVIDENCE HWY, NORWOOD, MA 02062) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUPPORT BEARING NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. A FEW DAYS LATER, WHILE DRIVING, THE ENGINE OVERHEATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WATER PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,478.
- Reported
- May 2018
- Incident date
- Apr 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
WheelsJan 2018 · ODI 11064230Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE OEM RIMS FROM THE MANUFACTURER PREVENTED THE TIRES FROM HOLDING AIR. THE CONTACT HAD TO CONSTANTLY REFILL THE AIR IN THE TIRES. THE DEALER (LOCKHART CADILLAC OF GREENWOOD, 1287 US-31, GREENWOOD, IN 46143, (317) 865-1551) HAD NOT INSPECTED AND DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE TO DETERMINE A SOLUTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TWO INDEPENDENT TIRE REPAIR FACILITIES FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
- Reported
- Jan 2018
- Incident date
- Jun 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlOct 2017 · ODI 11032834Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY TO 90 MPH AFTER THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS SHIFT TO MANUAL. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AL MOORE CADILLAC LOCATED AT 9177 W BROAD ST, RICHMOND, VA 23294 WHERE THE DIAGNOSIS WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,000.
- Reported
- Oct 2017
- Incident date
- Sep 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlMay 2017 · ODI 10991625 · crash · 2 injuriesDetails +Close −
THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVING IN NORMAL CONDITIONS, AT APPROX 40MPH IN THE EVENING. WHEN ACCELERATING TO PASS A CAR GOING SLOW IN A 50MPH+ ROAD, THE ACCELERATOR STUCK IN THE CADILLAC. THIS FORCED A DEFENSIVE DECISION TO UNFORTUNATELY HIT THE CAR IN FRONT VERSUS UNKNOWN CLEARING. AFTER (NOW AT 60MPH), THE ACCELERATOR STAYED STUCK, WHICH REQUIRED THE CAR TO THEN STRIKE A POLE AT 100MPH! THIS WAS A VERY DANGEROUS SCENARIO AND ONLY BY GRACE WERE ALL PARTIES SAFE IN THE PRIMARY CAR (CADILLAC REFERENCED), AND THE CAR STRUCK. THE CAR WAS TOTALED AND EVEN THE BLACK BOX WAS NOT OPERATIONAL AFTER SITTING FOR A 3 WEEK SPAN IN A TOW LOT.
- Reported
- May 2017
- Incident date
- Apr 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 2 injuries
Electrical SystemMay 2017 · ODI 10990875Details +Close −
DRIVER SIDE DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN FROM OUTSIDE WITH KEY OR FROM INSIDE WITH MANUAL LEVER. THE DOOR LOCK BUTTON WOULD NOT MOVE TO UNLOCK DOOR BY THE ELECTRIC SWITCH OR BY HAND. I HAD TO EXIT VEHICLE BY CRAWLING OVER CENTER CONSOLE AND EXITING PASSENGER SIDE. AT SOME LEVEL I CAN UNDERSTAND THE ELECTRICAL DOOR CONTROL FAILING, BUT I DO NOT FEEL IT IS SAFE TO NOT HAVE A MECHANICAL OPTION TO OPEN THE DOOR UNDER ELECTRICAL FAILURE. THIS FIRST HAPPENED WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. MECHANIC NEEDED TO CRAWL IN THE PASSENGER SIDE AND REMOVE DOOR PANEL TO REPLACE DOOR LATCH ASSEMBLY. 62014 ON ODOMETER AT REPAIR TIME.
- Reported
- May 2017
- Incident date
- May 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingMar 2017 · ODI 10967316Details +Close −
2012 CADILLAC CTS WAGON: REAR STOP, TURN SIGNAL, BACK-UP, BRAKE LIGHTS ARE COMING AWAY FROM BODY OF VEHICLE. THE TABS UNDER THE TOP HAVE BROKEN OFF AND LIGHTS DO NOT FIT THE BODY OF VEHICLE AS DESIGNED. THE LIGHTS WORK AS DESIGNED, PHOTOS ATTACHED OF COMPLAINT. IT APPEARS THAT THE PLASTIC THESE LIGHTS WERE MANUFACTURED FROM IS DEFECTIVE AND LIGHTS COULD BE CHANGING SHAPE AND DISTORTING UNDER TEMPERATURE CHANGES, THE HOLDING TABS UNDER THE LIGHTS MUST WEAKEN AND EVENTUALLY BREAK OFF. HAVE BEEN TOLD BY DEALER THIS IS NORMAL? WOW! UPON SEARCH OF WWW AND CADILLAC FORUMS FOUND THAT THESE REAR LIGHTS WERE DEFECTIVE AND I READ WHERE THEY HAVE BEEN REPLACED BY DEALERS UNDER ORIGINAL BTB WARRANTY (IF THE OWNERS COMPLAINED HARD ENOUGH). I AM NOW THE THIRD OWNER AND WARRANTY HAS EXPIRED. HERE IS THE KICK IN THE GROIN: GM/CADILLAC IN OCT 2012 REMANUFACTURED THESE LIGHTS FROM A HIGHER QUALITY PLASTIC TO RESOLVE THE BAD MANUFACTURING-POOR QUALITY PLASTIC USED PREVIOUSLY. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE FOR BOTH DRIVER, PASSENGER AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC. A CAR WASH WILL EVENTUALLY DESTROY AND OR REMOVE THESE LIGHTS FOR ME. OR IF HAND WASHING VEHICLE I COULD CUT AN ARM OR FINGER. I ALSO BELIEVE THAT THERE WERE INSUFFICIENT OF THESE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED/BUILT AND THEREFORE THE DEALERS AND GM/CADILLAC DON'T FEEL THE NEED FOR FURTHER ACTION OR ASSISTANCE TO CURRENT OWNERS OUT OF WARRANTY. WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO SAFETY ISSUES HERE? I COULD EPOXY/GLUE THESE LIGHTS TO STAY IN PLACE AND MAKE THE REMOVAL OF THEM IMPOSSIBLE FOR FUTURE SERVICE, POSSIBLY DOING ADDITIONAL DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE, OR I CAN PURCHASE NEW OEM REPLACEMENTS! AS LONG AS THE REPLACEMENT LIGHTS ARE MANUFACTURED AFTER OCT 2012. THANK YOU FOR READING MY COMPLAINT.
- Reported
- Mar 2017
- Incident date
- Feb 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2017 · ODI 10953837Details +Close −
STEERING WHEEL DOES NOT HEAT UP. DEALER SAYS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY I DON'T KNOW IF IT WILL CAUSE A FIRE
- Reported
- Feb 2017
- Incident date
- Feb 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2017 · ODI 10949693Details +Close −
MY SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY SHATTERED
- Reported
- Feb 2017
- Incident date
- Jan 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilityJan 2017 · ODI 10947541Details +Close −
MY SUNROOF SHATTERED WHILE DRIVING. *TR
- Reported
- Jan 2017
- Incident date
- Jan 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJan 2017 · ODI 10947692Details +Close −
HEARD A GRINDING NOISE WHEN BRAKES WERE APPLIED, IMMEDIATELY TOOK TO DEALERSHIP, WAS TOLD BRAKES WERE COMPLETELY GONE, METAL ON METAL. ASKED WHY NO WARNING BRAKES WERE GOING BAD AND WHY ALL FOUR BRAKES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED ON SO CALLED HIGH END/TOP QUALITY VEHICLE LIKE A CADILLAC AT ONLY 30,000 MILES AND WAS TOLD "BECAUSE IT HASN'T BEEN DRIVEN ENOUGH AND BRAKES WORE FASTER DUE TO RUST". ALTHOUGH THE MECHANICS AGREED THIS WAS AN ILLOGICAL EXPLANATION AND SEEMS LIKE A PRODUCT DEFECT, I WAS STILL EXPECTED TO PAY $600-800 TO REPLACE THE FAULTY PARTS - WHICH I HAVE NOT YET DONE. I WAS NEVER PROVIDED AN EXPLANATION FOR WHY THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NO WARNING THAT THE BRAKES WERE FAILING, EVEN THOUGH I EXPRESSED MY CONCERN ABOUT THIS BEING A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE. AFTER A QUICK GOOGLE SEARCH, I DISCOVERED OTHERS HAVE EXPERIENCED PREMATURE BRAKE WEAR ON CADILLAC VEHICLES.
- Reported
- Jan 2017
- Incident date
- Jan 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureJun 2016 · ODI 10873272Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ELECTRICAL TOUCH PAD SEIZED TO OPERATE WITHOUT WARNING, WHICH CAUSED THE DOOR NOT TO OPEN NORMALLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE ONLY OCCURRED ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF A MANUFACTURER'S CUSTOMER SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO ADDRESS THE FAILURE BY PRESSING AN EMERGENCY RELEASE BUTTON, BUT IT DID NOT REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2016
- Incident date
- Feb 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionApr 2016 · ODI 10860646 · crash · 2 injuriesDetails +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, A LOUD NOISE EMITTED OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE AND LOWER CONTROL ARM DETACHED COMPLETELY. IN ADDITION, THE BRAKES, ROTORS, AND OTHER SUSPENSION SUPPORT DETACHED ONTO THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE BARRIER. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A LOWER BACK INJURY. THE FRONT SEAT OCCUPANT SUFFERED FROM A BUMP TO THE HEAD. THE INJURIES REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILALBE.
- Reported
- Apr 2016
- Incident date
- Apr 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 2 injuries
SuspensionApr 2016 · ODI 10860647Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH MERGING ONTO THE HIGHWAY, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL SOUND NEAR THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE SUSPENSION SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000.
- Reported
- Apr 2016
- Incident date
- Apr 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherDec 2015 · ODI 10809470Details +Close −
THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR ON MY CTS COUPE HAS AN ELECTRICAL "TOUCH PAD" THAT HAS CEASED TO FUNCTION NORMALLY. TWICE I HAVE HAD TO CRAWL INTO THE VEHICLE FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE WHICH HAS NOT BEEN AFFECTED. DEALERSHIP HAS STATED THAT THE PROBLEM IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY BECAUSE THE MILEAGE IS IN EXCESS OF 50,000 (MY VEHICLE IS AT 55,690). PAIN IN THE NECK.
- Reported
- Dec 2015
- Incident date
- Nov 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainNov 2015 · ODI 10787838Details +Close −
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE I HAVE EXPERIENCED ISSUES WITH THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ISSUE WHEN THE VEHICLE SHIFTS GEARS. THE CAR WILL VIBRATE WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SHIFT GEARS AND CAUSE ME TO OCCASIONALLY HAVE TO SLOW DOWN OR SPEED UP IN ORDER FOR THE TRANSMISSION TO SHIFT INTO THE NEXT GEAR. THE ISSUE IS REFLECTING IN THE RPM GAUGE, WHICH WHEN THIS PROBLEM OCCURS THE RPMS APPEAR TO BOUNCE UP AND DOWN UNTIL THE GEARS FULLY ENGAGE. I HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS ISSUE WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MERGE ONTO THE HIGHWAY WHERE THE CAR WILL VIBRATE WHILE UPSHIFTING AND I WILL HAVE TO EITHER LET OFF OF THE GAS PEDAL OR PUSH DOWN MORE IN ORDER TO MAKE THE ISSUE STOP. SHIFTING IS FAR FROM SMOOTH IN THIS VEHICLE. ISSUE HAS BEEN OCCURRING SINCE MARCH OF 2015 WHEN I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. I HAVE ALREADY TAKEN IT TO THE LOCAL DEALER, WHICH I HAVE BEEN TOLD CADILLAC AND GM ARE AWARE, BUT THE DEALER WAS ADVISED NOT TO CONDUCT ANY REPAIRS.
- Reported
- Nov 2015
- Incident date
- Mar 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureSep 2015 · ODI 10763816Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT AND REAR BUMPERS WERE LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH AND NEEDED BODY WORK PRIOR TO IT BEING PURCHASED BY THE CONTACT. IN ADDITION, AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS MISSING COMPONENTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,500.
- Reported
- Sep 2015
- Incident date
- Jul 2012
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJun 2015 · ODI 10726607 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL EXTENDED TO THE FLOOR WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT REAR ENDED THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE OTHER DRIVER WAS INJURED, BUT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2015
- Incident date
- Apr 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Electrical SystemApr 2015 · ODI 10712837Details +Close −
ATTEMPTED TO TURN ONTO MAJOR ROAD AND CAR STOPPED RUNNING LEAVING CAR 3 QUARTERS OF THE WAY INTO RIGHT LANE. HAS HAPPENED 5 PREVIOUS TIMES. WAS ALMOST HIT BY SEMI TRUCK WHICH WOULD HAVE KILLED MYSELF AND CHILD. HAS BEEN TAKEN TO 3 DIFFERENT DEALERSHIPS ON 5 DIFFERENT OCCASIONS FOR SAME FAILURE. NONE OF THE DEALERSHIPS COULD FIX THE ISSUE BUT ALL AGREE IT IS ELECTRONIC OR ELECTRICAL. CAR EMITS STRANGE SMELL AFTER LOSING POWER. CALLED GM HELP/CARE LINE AND FILED A CLAIM. CASE# [XXX]. SPOKE WITH SUPERVISOR [XXX] 1-800-790-5600 EXTENSION [XXX]. GM IS NOT WILLING TO CORRECT THE FAILURE OR INVESTIGATE CLAIM. OFFERED TO PAY FOR 1 HOUR OF SERVICE TIME TO TRY TO IDENTIFY ISSUE. VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AND WILL NOT LET WIFE OR CHILD RIDE IN. AFRAID THIS WILL BECOME ANOTHER FORD/FIRESTONE ISSUE AND KILL INNOCENT CONSUMERS. ALMOST KILLED ME. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
- Reported
- Apr 2015
- Incident date
- Apr 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemMar 2015 · ODI 10701802Details +Close −
AFTER FUELING THE CAR I WAS DISTRACTED AND FAILED TO REMOVE THE NOZZLE FROM THE TANK FILLER. AS I MOVED FORWARD, I HEARD A THUMP AND STOPPED. THE FUELING HOSE WAS PULLED FROM THE FILLER AND WAS ALSO DISCONNECTED FROM THE GAS PUMP. THERE IS A QUICK DISCONNECT ON THE HOSE THAT PARTED. EVIDENTLY ENOUGH PEOPLE MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE OTHERWISE THE QUICK DISCONNECT WOULD NOT HAVE BEE PROVIDED. THE STATION ATTENDANT SAID NOT TO WORRY IT IS EASY TO RECONNECT. HE SAID I WAS NOT THE FIRST PERSON TO DO THIS AND WON'T BE THE LAST. THERE IS AN EASY REMEDY TO PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING. ALL CARS SHOULD BE EQUIPPED WITH A SOUND WARNING INDICATING THAT THE FUEL HOSE IS STILL IN THE FILLER. EVEN BETTER THERE SHOULD BE AN INTERLOCK TO PREVENT THE CAR FROM STARTING. THIS WOULD NOT BE A VERY EXPENSIVE WARNING DEVICE. IT CERTAINLY WOULD MAKE MORE SENSE THAN HAVING THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON WHEN RAIN IS DETECTED. *TR
- Reported
- Mar 2015
- Incident date
- Mar 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2015 · ODI 10691138Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V394000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE RECALL REMEDY WAS NOT EFFECTIVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS THE ISSUE, NOT THE KEY FOB OR KEY RING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
- Reported
- Feb 2015
- Incident date
- Feb 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilityJan 2015 · ODI 10670039Details +Close −
FRONT SUNROOF GLASS EXPLODED AND SHATTERED WITHOUT WARNING. *TR
- Reported
- Jan 2015
- Incident date
- Dec 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsDec 2014 · ODI 10662860 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND FAILED TO RESPOND. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A HEAD, CHEST AND FOOT INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000.
- Reported
- Dec 2014
- Incident date
- Jul 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls(2)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Electrical SystemFeb 2014 · 14V394000Details +Close −
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 2, 2014 that they are recalling 554,328 model year 2003-2014 Cadillac CTS vehicles manufactured August 16, 2001, to April 28, 2014, and 2004-2006 Cadillac SRX vehicles manufactured March 20, 2003, to August 11, 2006. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
Risk: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 15, 2014. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14172.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Service BrakesFeb 2011 · 11V536000Details +Close −
GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CADILLAC CTS VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 21, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 26, 2011. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE POWER VACUUM BRAKE BOOST PUSHROD RETENTION NUT MAY NOT BE TORQUED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. IF THE NUT IS NOT TORQUED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION, THE NUT COULD LOOSEN AND ALLOW THE PUSHROD TO SEPARATE FROM THE BRAKE PEDAL.
Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF ABILITY TO BRAKE AND a vehicle CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy: CADILLAC DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE POWER VACUUM BRAKE BOOST PUSHROD RETENTION NUT, AND IF NECESSARY, TORQUE THE NUT TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 1, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
0 NHTSA investigations on record
No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.
Crash-test ratings
2012 Cadillac CTS 4 DR RWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2012 Cadillac CTS SW RWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2012 Cadillac CTS 2 DR RWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Not rated
- Frontal
- Not rated
- Side
- Not rated
- Rollover
- Not rated
2012 Cadillac CTS 4 DR AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2012 Cadillac CTS SW AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2012 Cadillac CTS 2 DR AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Not rated
- Frontal
- Not rated
- Side
- Not rated
- Rollover
- Not rated
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CTS | 3.0L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 18 | 27 | 21 |
| CTS | 3.6L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 18 | 27 | 21 |
| CTS | 3.6L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 16 | 26 | 19 |
| CTS | 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 14 | 19 | 16 |
| CTS | 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 12 | 18 | 14 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2012 Cadillac CTS: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2012 Cadillac CTS?
Owners filed 67 NHTSA complaints about the 2012 Cadillac CTS. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2012 Cadillac CTS?
The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (13% of complaints) and exterior lighting (13%).
How many recalls does the 2012 Cadillac CTS have?
2 recalls have been issued that affect the 2012 Cadillac CTS, covering components such as electrical system. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2012 Cadillac CTS get?
The EPA rates the 2012 Cadillac CTS between 14 and 21 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.