Model-year record

2013 Cadillac CTS
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Complaints filed
72
Reports to NHTSA, 2013
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 (28% of 72 reports), followed by air bags (14%).
+ 6 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 72 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 10762003, ODI 10643834, ODI 11339767, ODI 11205913, ODI 11181763.
Individual complaint reports(72)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsSuspensionMar 2025 · ODI 11647538Details +Close −
My 2013 has only 75k miles on it and all the dash lights flash and the car fails every couple of days. It has a brand new battery but the gauges on the dash continue to dance. I’m not sure what the problem is but it’s a huge safety factor in drivability.
- Reported
- Mar 2025
- Incident date
- Feb 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainFeb 2025 · ODI 11645666Details +Close −
driving to work on very busy highway. The engine light and Service Battery charging system came on, then went to battery saver almost instantly. Radio cut off, heat cutt off and the Car cut off in the middle of the highway before I could safely get over. this caused me to fear for my life as the cars behind me barely had time to stop. a hair probably could not have fit between us. I did eventually safely get off the highway, had the car towed to a service center. There was 14 different codes.(low voltage, engine running lean, low voltage and more. battery was checked and was 95 %, Alternator fine. was told it was the ECM. After looking on google some sites say there is a recall for 2013 cts some say there is not. there are multiple complaints on this issue and it is not safe. I called Cadillac gave my vin number and was told there was not a recall. Cadillac/GMC really need to issue a recall before something tragic happens, as it almost was me. Thank God that it wasn't.
- Reported
- Feb 2025
- Incident date
- Feb 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsDec 2024 · ODI 11632917Details +Close −
I noticed that on the dash a message that service is needed on one of the airbags. I then scheduled appointment to have the problem corrected. I was informed by the dealership’ service department that I need a passenger airbag replacement on the passenger side of the car, and they also informed me that GM no longer manufactures the airbag that I need. I was not given any assistance on how to replace this safety feature in the car, nor was I notified by the manufacturer that airbag was discontinued.
- Reported
- Dec 2024
- Incident date
- Dec 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainApr 2024 · ODI 11584526Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2013 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that the transmission fluid was leaking, and the vehicle stalled while driving at various speeds. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission fluid was significantly low. The transmission was topped off. The contact stated that the vehicle was driven to the residence; however, on arrival the transmission fluid level was abnormally low. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 31,000.
- Reported
- Apr 2024
- Incident date
- Aug 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionMar 2024 · ODI 11579082Details +Close −
Found a crack along the tab of my subframe along the rear control arm pocket. Searching for solutions and repairs, I found several hundred people who broke the tab while driving on CTSVowners, ctsvforum and various Facebook groups This seems to impact both the base model and V series CTS.
- Reported
- Mar 2024
- Incident date
- Mar 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureJan 2024 · ODI 11563838Details +Close −
Cracked subframe. The CTS-V is known for this. Many of the guys on the news groups have the same issue. I had mine welded and replaced the lower control arms as a result.
- Reported
- Jan 2024
- Incident date
- Jun 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsDec 2022 · ODI 11495714 · crashDetails +Close −
Air bags didn’t come out
- Reported
- Dec 2022
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)Jan 2022 · ODI 11448072Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2013 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the electronic stability control and an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer could not duplicate the failure. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic and the mechanic cleaned the transmission; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.
- Reported
- Jan 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMay 2021 · ODI 11415011 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A DEER WHICH CAUSED AN AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT MESSAGE; THE AIR BAGS WERE NOT DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT STATED ONLY AN ODD SMELLING POWDER EMITTED FROM THE AIR BAG LOCATION. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BRUISING IN TORSO, AND SWELLING IN EYES DUE TO POWDER; MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT SOUGHT. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO LOCAL TOW LOT WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH BEING DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
- Reported
- May 2021
- Incident date
- Mar 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJan 2021 · ODI 11387263Details +Close −
THE NIPPENDENSO FUEL PUMP NECK IS CRACKED AND IS LEAKING FUEL. $3200 BUCKS FOR THE DEALER TO REPLACE. BOUGHT ON LINE AND REPLACED FOR $1256 BUCKS. EVERY CTS V HAS THIS ISSUE. I CANNOT IMAGINE THAT THIS IS NOT A RECALL. PUMPING ON THE GROUND IS A SAFETY ISSUE. CHECK THE FORUMS AND YOU WILL SEE ALL OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A FUEL LEAK PROBLEM.
- Reported
- Jan 2021
- Incident date
- Dec 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJul 2020 · ODI 11339767Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED WHILE THE ENGINE WAS IDLING WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ECM WIRING WAS DEFECTIVE. THE WIRING WAS REPLACED ALONG WITH THE CAMSHAFT SENSOR AND ECM. THE FAILURE WAS REMEDIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,000.
- Reported
- Jul 2020
- Incident date
- Apr 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingJun 2020 · ODI 11327442Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT WAS NOT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND CONFIRMED THAT THE HEADLIGHT WAS NOT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HERITAGE CADILLAC, INC. (303 W ROOSEVELT RD, LOMBARD, IL 60148) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SEAL ON THE HEADLIGHTS WERE IMPROPERLY INSTALLED AND THAT THERE WAS A COST TO REPAIR THE HEADLIGHTS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 31,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2020
- Incident date
- Mar 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMay 2020 · ODI 11324898Details +Close −
SERVICE AIR BAG LIGHT ON
- Reported
- May 2020
- Incident date
- May 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsDec 2019 · ODI 11287256 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT WITH MY 2013 CADILLAC, SUFFERING A SEVERED LIP, REQUIRING 24 STITCHES IN MY BOTYOMLIP, LOST TOOTH, AND SUFFERED NECK AND BACK PAIN DUE TO AIRBAGS NOT DEPLOYING.
- Reported
- Dec 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Air BagsOct 2019 · ODI 11269767Details +Close −
I WAS DRIVING ALONG HIGHWAY 70 DOWNTOWN ST LOUIS WHEN ALL THE SUDDEN ALL 4 CEILING/CURTAIN AIRBAGS WENT OFF ONLY, NO OTHER AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, JUST THE ONES STATED. I PULLED THE VEHICLE OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BACK TO MY HOUSE WHERE IT REMAINS. THIS INCIDENT HAPPENED ON THE EVENING OF OCTOBER 19, 2019. I JUST PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE 3 WEEKS AGO. THE DEALERSHIP IS CLOSED ON SUNDAYS WHERE I PURCHSED IT. THERE IS NO BODY DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE, LIKE I SAID THE AIRBAGS JUST WENT OFF FOR NO REASON.
- Reported
- Oct 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringOct 2019 · ODI 11269500Details +Close −
THE ELECTRICALLY ADJUSTABLE STEERING WHEEL HAS TWO BOLTS THAT HOLD THE UP DOWN BRACKET ON THE STEERING WHEEL. ONE BOLT FELL OUT AND THE OTHER ONE WAS LOOSE. THE LOCKTITE BLUE WAS ONLY ON ONE THREAD. IF YOU CHECK THE NEWS GROUPS IT SEEMS LIKE A COMMON PROBLEM ON THE CTS. I THINK THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL DUE TO THE FACT IF THE OTHER BOLT FELL OUT THE STEERING COLUMN WOULD FLOP AROUND CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOOSE CONTROL.
- Reported
- Oct 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingJun 2019 · ODI 11228234Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS WERE VERY DIM. UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT WATER WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEAD LAMP ASSEMBLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FALKNER CADILLAC (447 E. ST RD, TREVOSE, PA) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENTIRE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED TO PREVENT THE WATER FROM LEAKING INSIDE THE ASSEMBLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2019
- Incident date
- Jun 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJun 2019 · ODI 11217452Details +Close −
TAKATA, SERVICE AIR BAG IS ON ACROSS STEREO CONSOLE & LIGHT ON DASH. IT CAME ON WITHIN LAST 4 WEEKS WHILE DRIVING & AFTER A BUMP IN ROAD. WON'T GO OFF. DEEPLY CONCERNED. ALSO DRIVER POWER SEAT MODULE DOESN'T WORK TO RAISE NOT GREAT FOR SOMEONE SHORT.
- Reported
- Jun 2019
- Incident date
- May 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMay 2019 · ODI 11205913Details +Close −
EVAPORATING SYSTEM AND LIGHTS AND ELECTRICAL
- Reported
- May 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2019 · ODI 11181763Details +Close −
THE ENGINE CONTINUES TO RUN EVEN AFTER SHUTTING THE CAR OFF AND REMOVING THE KEY, THE ENGINE HAS JUST STARTED TO ACCELERATE IN THIS POSITION IN THE LAST FEW DAYS. THE BACKUP CAMERA HAS STOPPED WORKING AND THE REVERSE LIGHTS ARE ON AT ALL TIMES (EVEN WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD). AS OF YESTERDAY THE POWER SEATS TO BE LAGGING, SOME OF THE BUTTONS TAKES SEVERAL TRIES TO WORK.
- Reported
- Feb 2019
- Incident date
- Feb 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2019 · ODI 11172061Details +Close −
I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE IN MAY 2016. IN NOVEMBER 2016 I WENT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BUT IT WOULD NOT GO INTO GEAR. IT WAS TOWED TO LINDSAY CADILLAC. I WAS TOLD THE DRAFT SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. ON JANUARY 18, 2019 AFTER BEING PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY 15 MINUTES UPON STARTING AND PUTTING IT INTO GEAR I HEARD A CLICKING NOISE. IT WAS TOWED TO CAPITOL CADILLAC WHERE AGAIN I WAS TOLD THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE DRIVE SHAFT. I WAS FURTHER TOLD THAT THE BOLTS WERE SHEARED OFF. THIS IS NO COINCIDENCE THAT I HAD THE SAME ISSUE TWO YEARS LATER AND $841.00 LATER. I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS COULD HAPPEN AGAIN. HOW DO BOLTS GET SHEARED OFF. I WAS TOLD THAT THE DEALERSHIP COULD HAVE USED USED THE WRONG SIZE BOLTS OR THE PARTS COULD HAVE BEEN DEFECTIVE. IN ANY EVENT I AM WITHOUT FAULT AND HAVE A GENUINE CONCERN THAT THIS COULD HAPPEN AGAIN. COULD IT HAPPEN WHILE I AM DRIVING?
- Reported
- Jan 2019
- Incident date
- Jan 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesNov 2018 · ODI 11154620Details +Close −
CAR HAS NO BREAKS WHEN FIRST STARTED IT TAKES ABOUT 30 SECONDS AFTER START FOR BREAKS TO WORK THIS HAPPENS AFTER CAR IS PARKED OVERNIGHT ALL THE TIME
- Reported
- Nov 2018
- Incident date
- Jan 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingMay 2018 · ODI 11096964Details +Close −
WAS STOPPED BY THE POLICE BECAUSE MY LICENSE PLATE LIGHTS AND 3RD BRAKE LIGHT WEREN'T WORKING. I CHECKED ONLINE CADILLAC FORUMS AND DISCOVERED A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE WIRING HARNESS BREAKING WHERE IT BENDS NEXT TO THE PASSENGER TRUNK HINGE. WHEN I CHECKED MY WIRE HARNESS I DISCOVERED 3 BROKEN WIRES AND 2 PARTIALLY BROKEN WIRES.
- Reported
- May 2018
- Incident date
- May 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlApr 2018 · ODI 11089627 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
BRAKES ON MY CTS 2013 CADILLAC , ON MARCH 29, I MADE A TURN TO PARK MY CAR FROM THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE STREET MAMARONECK AVENUE IN WHITE PLAINS TO THE LEFT THERE WERE NO PARKING SPACES ON THE RIGHT . AS I TURN THE STEERING WHEEL THE CAR WENT OUT OF CONTROL THE CAR SPEED UP AND HIT THE CURB, KNOCKING OVER TWO PARKING METERS AND HURTING MY FINGER ON MY RIGHT HAND AND LATER MY LEFT LEG. I HAD JUST TAKEN MY CAR TO PEPE CADILLAC IN WHITE PLAINS ,N. Y. TO GET MY BRAKES REPAIRED. MY CAR WAS TOWED TO BRENNENAN TOWING SERVICE IN ELMSFORD. THEY CLAIM IT WAS REPAIRED!!!!SINCE THEN WHICH WAS LAST SUMMER MY CAR HAS BEEN IN AND OUT OF THE REPAIR SHOP AS MANY AS 9 OR 10 TIMES WITH THE BRAKE LIGHT COMING ON AND OTHER LIGHT SUCH AS THE TRACTION , THE ABS, THE LOCK ON PASSENGER DID NOT WORK UNTIL I ASK THEM TO REPAIR IT! I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE MY CAR. WHEN I TAKE IT TO MT. KISCO CADILLAC THEY FIX A DIFFERENT THING, BUT ANOTHER SITUATION OCCURS. I AM SO UPSET AND SAD ABOUT THIS SITUATION N, BECAUSE I AM A RETIRED COUNSELOR ON A FIXED INCOME AND I PAID FOR MY CAR IN FULL AND I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO USE IT... PLEASE HELP ME OR LET ME KNOW WHAT I CAN DO ABOUT THIS SITUATION.
- Reported
- Apr 2018
- Incident date
- Mar 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Electrical SystemFeb 2018 · ODI 11074975Details +Close −
INTERMITTENTLY THE DASHBOARD AND INTERIOR TRIM LIGHTS ARE OUT AND WILL RESUME AT UNFORESEEN TIMES
- Reported
- Feb 2018
- Incident date
- Dec 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
WheelsDec 2017 · ODI 11057480Details +Close −
FRONT HUB BEARINGS DAMAGED AT 77,000 MILE AND AGAIN AT 129,000 MILES. CADILLAC FORUM HAS MULTIPLE PEOPLE COMPLAINING ABOUT THE SAME COMPLAINT
- Reported
- Dec 2017
- Incident date
- Dec 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionOct 2017 · ODI 11031841Details +Close −
I'VE NOTICED MY VEHICLE ALWAYS BEING OUT OF BALANCE, SO NATURALLY I FIRST ALIGNED AND BALANCED THE TIRES AT A REPUTABLE SHOP. THE FIRST DAY IT DROVE LIKE A DREAM, BUT AFTER THAT THE VIBRATION CAME BACK. EVER SINCE THEN IVE BOUGHT NEW TIRES, BRAKES, BALANCED THE WHEELS 4 TIMES WITHIN A YEAR AND ONCE AT THE DEALERSHIP(ED MORSE CADILLAC SAWGRASS) WHICH WAS A ROAD FORCE BALANCE AND NOONE SEEMS TO KNOW THE PROBLEM. MY VEHICLE HAS 45K MILES ON IT AND THE SUSPENSION INCLUDING THE RIMS ARE OEM. ITS FRUSTRATING TO DRIVE A VEHICLE THAT COSTS $75000 TO DRIVE HORRIBLY. THIS CONCERNS ME WITH THE INTEGRITY OF THE VEHICLE. THIS POSES A DANGER IF ITS A PROBLEM THAT MAY ESCALATE TO SOMETHING ELSE THAT NOONE KNOWS INCLUDING THE "GREAT" MECHANICS AT THE DEALERSHIP.
- Reported
- Oct 2017
- Incident date
- May 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemAug 2017 · ODI 11019893Details +Close −
BOTH THE HEATED SEAT OPTION AND SEAT/MIRROR MEMORY SETTINGS STOPPED WORKING SUDDENLY.
- Reported
- Aug 2017
- Incident date
- Aug 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesAug 2017 · ODI 11014238Details +Close −
I HAVE ATTACHED A PDF OR MY EXPERIENCE AND SAFETY ISSUES WITH 2013 CADILLAC CTS AWD. 1900 CHARACTERS WASN'T ENOUGH TO EXPLAIN THE ISSUE
- Reported
- Aug 2017
- Incident date
- Aug 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsAug 2017 · ODI 11012048Details +Close −
OVER 1 YEAR AGO (JULY 2016) I WAS NOTIFIED OF A SAFETY RECALL OF AIRBAG INFLATORS CAN DEGRADE IN HOT HUMID AREAS. I LIVE IN TEXAS WHERE IT'S CURRENTLY OVER 105 DEGREES. THE NOTIFICATION STATES I WILL BE NOTIFIED WHEN PARTS ARE AVAILABLE. NOW I SEE A YEAR LATER THERE IS NO REMEDY FOR THIS PROBLEM.
- Reported
- Aug 2017
- Incident date
- Jul 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJun 2017 · ODI 11000171Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE SHIFTED INTO REVERSE AND HAD DIFFICULTY STOPPING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CAPITOL CADILLAC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS DEFECTIVE DUE TO A LEAK AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE REMEDY WOULD BE AT HIS EXPENSE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WAS NEVER NOTIFIED BY THE DEALER OF ANY TRANSMISSION ISSUES, EVEN THOUGH THE MANUAL STATED THAT THEY WERE SUPPOSED TO CHECK. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 93,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2017
- Incident date
- Apr 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJun 2017 · ODI 10992842Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT NOTIFIED THE DEALER (VERA CADILLAC IN PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33025 (954) 871-2630), BUT WAS INFORMED THAT NOTHING COULD BE DONE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,500.
- Reported
- Jun 2017
- Incident date
- Mar 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionMar 2017 · ODI 10959125Details +Close −
TWO WHEEL BEARINGS HAD TO BE REPLACED, ONE IN DEC 2016 AND THE OTHER IN FEB 2017. CAR HAS ONLY 42,000 MILES. IS THERE A SERVICE MEMO ABOUT THIS?
- Reported
- Mar 2017
- Incident date
- Feb 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainOct 2016 · ODI 10914894Details +Close −
SOLENOID THAT COMMUNICATES WITH THE TRANSMISSION AND THE COMPUTER. (THIS WAS CAUSING THE THE STABILITY TRAC TO KICK ON AND SOMETIMES SHUT THE CAR OFF WHILE DRIVING OR SITTING STILL TURNING) THEY ALSO DISCOVERED THAT THE ENTIRE REAR DIFFERENTIAL HAD TO BE REPLACE. THIS IS A 2013 CTS COUPE 69000 MILES WHEN PURCHASED. I CONTACTED GM CORPORATE OFFICE FOR ASSISTANCE. (P0101 ,P0100, U0101, LOST OF COMMUNICATION TO TCM.
- Reported
- Oct 2016
- Incident date
- Jul 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemAug 2016 · ODI 10896419Details +Close −
AIR BAG LIGHT HAS CAME ON. WHILE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THE PASSENGER REAR WINDOW CAME DOWN ON IT'S OWN AND WOULD NOT ROLL BACK UP. MY CAR ONLY HAVE 60,000 MILES.
- Reported
- Aug 2016
- Incident date
- Aug 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJul 2016 · ODI 10882856Details +Close −
WITHIN ONE WEEK OF PURCHASE WE NOTICED THAT THE CAR IS PULLING TO THE LEFT CAUSING A NEW DRIVER TO OVER CORRECT AND DRIFT INTO THE RIGHT LANE. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. DEALER IS REPLACING STEERING COLUMN. 27000 MILES
- Reported
- Jul 2016
- Incident date
- Jun 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2016 · ODI 10876224Details +Close −
AS I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY, MY SUNROOF BLEW COMPLETELY OFF OF MY VEHICLE, HIT AND DAMAGED THE FRONT OF ANOTHER VEHICLE (A SUV) AND FROM THE IMPACT OF THAT HIT, IT WAS STRUCK A MOTORCYCLIST.
- Reported
- Jun 2016
- Incident date
- Jun 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2016 · ODI 10822895Details +Close −
GROSS MOLDY ODOR EMANATING FROM THE HVAC SYSTEM CAUSED BY WHAT APPEARS TO BE A DEFECT IN THE SYSTEM WHICH ALLOWS MOISTURE TO CONDENSE ON THE COILS CAUSING MOLD AND BACTERIA TO BE DISPERSED THROUGHOUT THE VEHICLE. GM ATTEMPTS TO ADDRESS THIS EXPANSIVE ISSUE BY ADDING DEODORANT TO THE SYSTEM AND THEN HOPE CONSUMERS WILL GO AWAY.
- Reported
- Jan 2016
- Incident date
- Sep 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2016 · ODI 10822183Details +Close −
I HAVE A 2013 CTS CADILLAC AND THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES FOG UP ON THE INSIDE OF THE ASSEMBLY. THIS HAPPENS WHEN IT RAINS OR IS WET DEALER REPLACED THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES BUT THESE ARE WORST THAN THE ORIGINALS. DEALER NOW SAYS THIS IS NORMAL THEDEALER REFERS TO A BULLETIN 01-08-42-001J WHICH STATES THAT LIGHTS MIGHT EXHIBIT A FINE MIST OR WHITE FOG ON THE INSIDE OF THE LAMP LENS. THE BULLETIN STATES THAT IT REQUIRES 2 TO 6 HOURS TO CLEAR THE LAMP AND WORKS BETTER IF VECHICLE IN MOTION WITH HEADLIGHTS ON. .I'VE HAD THE HEADLIGHTS ON BRIGHT UP TO 2 HOURS AND THE ASSEMBLIES STILL HAVE SOME FOG INSIDE THEM. THIS DECREASES THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE HEADLIGHTS AND CREATES FUTURE ELECTRICAL PROBELMS BECAUSE OF THE MOISTURE WITHIN THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY. THE FOG SHOWS UP WHEN YOU ARE DRIVING THE VECHICLE WITH THE HEADLIGHTS ON. LAST DATE THIS HAPPENED WAS 1/15/2016. CAR HAS A LITTLE MORE THAN 17000 MILES ON AND WAS BOUGHT NEW. THIS HAD BEEN A CONTINUING PROBLEM THAT HAPPENS IRREGULAR.
- Reported
- Jan 2016
- Incident date
- Jan 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainDec 2015 · ODI 10809934Details +Close −
THE CAR HESATATES LIKE IT WANTS TO CUT OFF POPPING IN THE FRONT END TROTTLE BODY STABLE LINK THE MOTOR MOUNT WAS BROKE THEY JUST FIXED IT. CANT BELEIVE A 2013 NEEDS THESE THINGS ALREADY HAVE BEEN TO CAD 5 TIMES AND THEY CLAIM THEY CANT FIND THE PROBLEM. IM VERY DISAPPOINTED IN THIS
- Reported
- Dec 2015
- Incident date
- Sep 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherOct 2015 · ODI 10785849Details +Close −
SUNROOF HAS A RATTLE. CAN BE HEARD AT MODERATE SPEEDS OVER MODERATE TERRAIN. OF COURSE THE BUMPIER THE ROADS, THE MORE RATTLING CAN BE HEARD.
- Reported
- Oct 2015
- Incident date
- Jan 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingOct 2015 · ODI 10785847Details +Close −
LCD TEMPERATURE DISPLAY ON PASSENGER SIDE IS INTERMITTENT.
- Reported
- Oct 2015
- Incident date
- Aug 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2015 · ODI 10762435Details +Close −
THE VEHICLE STALED ON THE STREET AND THE TWO SIGNS POPPED UP ABOUT STABILITY CONTROL AND TRACTION. CARS HAD TO ACT QUICKLY SO THEY WOULDN'T HIT ME FROM BEHIND
- Reported
- Sep 2015
- Incident date
- Sep 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemSep 2015 · ODI 10762003 · crashDetails +Close −
WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PULL OUT OF RESIDENTIAL DRIVEWAY FROM DEAD STOP, CTS ACCELERATED ON ITS ON TO AND UNKNOWN AND UNCONTROLLABLE SPEED. CAUSING COLLISION TO NEIGHBORS VEHICLE IN OPPOSTITE DRIVEWAY DRIVEWAY DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM WHERE CTS WAS PARKED. VEHICLE ALSO HAD POWER FAILURES AS WELL, DOORS NOR WINDOWS WOULD WORK. HAD TO EXIT VEHICLE BY CRAWLING OUT ON THE WINDOW. CAUSE DAMAGED TO BOTH VEHICLES AND PROPERTY DAMAGES FROM NEIGHBOR VEHICLE PUSH BY CTS INTO GARAGE AND STRUCTURE.
- Reported
- Sep 2015
- Incident date
- Sep 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
SteeringFeb 2015 · ODI 10683742Details +Close −
AT 27K MILES OUR 2013 CTS PREMIUM MODEL DEVELOPED A UNIQUE NATURAL CHARACTERISTIC, THE FRONT WHEELS BIND WHEN TURNING. THIS NATURAL CHARACTERISTIC IS LABELED AS (STICK/ SLIP) WHEN MAKING A RIGHT HAND TURN OUT ONTO A BUSY ROAD I WAS ALMOST BROADSIDED BY AN ONCOMING DUMP TRUCK AND CAR. I PULLED OUT ONTO THE ROAD AND THE CAR BEGAN TO (STICK AND SLIP) HINDERING ITS FORWARD MOVEMENT. HAD THE LEFT LANE NOT BEEN OPEN FOR THE ONCOMING TRAFFIC TO SWERVE AROUND ME, I PROBABLY WOULD NOT BE WRITING THIS. THE CERTIFIED SERVICE TECH AT THE DEALERSHIP SAID THE FRONT WHEELS WERE BINDING. GM ENGINEERS SAID,? IT IS THE NATURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CAR. THE CAR IS PERFORMING TO GM STANDARDS. I WAS HANDED A NHTSA ID #10043010 BULLETIN WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATED WHICH CARS AND WHAT SUSPENSION AND TIRES COULD EXPERIENCE THIS. IT ALSO STATES THIS STICK AND SLIP CONDITION WOULD BE NOTICED WHEN THE CAR STEERING IS AT FULL LOCK. NO ONE MAKES A TURN ONTO A ROAD AT FULL LOCK. MY SUSPENSION IS A FE5 WITH GOODYEAR EAGLE RS TIRES . THIS SUSPENSION AND TIRE COMBO IS NOT PART OF THIS BULLETIN. IF THIS IS THE NATURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CAR THEN WHY DID IT APPEAR AROUND 27K?? I BELIEVE THIS CONDITION IS VERY DANGEROUS IN SPITE OF WHAT GM CLAIMS. WE ARE AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR BUT HAVE NO CHOICE BECAUSE WE CAN'T AFFORD TO TAKE A LOSS AND PURCHASE ANOTHER MODEL. *TR
- Reported
- Feb 2015
- Incident date
- Dec 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJan 2015 · ODI 10670307Details +Close −
I HAD JUST FILED A COMPLAINT ON MY CTS AND THOUGHT I SHOULD ADD THAT IT ALMOST STALLED OUT ON A STEEPHILL WITH A MAJOR INTERSECTION, QUIT AFTER I STARTED IT IN MY DRIVE ON A LEVEL GROUND. NO STALLING SOUND TO GIVE WARNING. I AM SURE THERE IS MORE, BUT THESE ARE THE EASY ONES. AGAIN, CADILLAC CUSTOMER SERVICE SAID IT THE STOPPING IN TRAFFIC ONLY HAPPENED ONCE, SO NOT SO BAD! *TR
- Reported
- Jan 2015
- Incident date
- Aug 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJan 2015 · ODI 10670303Details +Close −
MY 2013 CTS HAS HAD A NUMBER OF PRIOR ISSUES BUT AT THIS TIME, I STARTED THE CAR, GOT INTO TRAFFIC AND THE VEHICLE JUST STOPPED RUNNING. IT EVERYTHING QUIT. I HAD NO POWER TO STEERING, BRAKES, LIGHTS. I COASTED PARTWAY INTO A PARKING SPACE I=ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD BUT DID NOT HAVE ENOUGH MOMENTUM TO FULLY PULL INTO THE SPACE AS I WAS HEADED UP A SLIGHT INCLINE. I WAS STUCK WITH MY REAR END IN TRAFFIC AND NO ABILITY TO MOVE. I TURNED OFF THE CAR AND RESTARTED AND IT STARTED UP. THIS IS NOT THE FIRST ISSUE AS ABOUT HALF DOZEN TIMES THE CAR HAS REFUSED TO ENGAGE WHEN I HAVE TURNED THE KEY. NOTHING HAPPENS. NO BATTERY SOUND, NOTHING. I HAVE CALLED ONSTAR SEVERAL TIMES TO GET CONFIRMATION OF ISSUES AND THEY HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO DETECT AN ISSUE. I FEEL MY LIFE IS AT RISK AS WELL AS OTHERS OF THE PUBLIC AND CADILLAC CUSTOMER SERVICE HAS JUST TOLD ME SINCE THERE IS NO PROOF THIS HAPPENS AND THEY CANNOT RECONSTRUCT IT HAPPENING THEY CANNOT BUY BACK THE CAR. ALREADY THE MOTOR FAN HAD TO BE REPLACED, IT HAS ROLLED BACK 4-5 FEET WHILE IN DRIVE IT HAS REFUSED TO MOVE WHEN IN DRIVE, I PUT IT BACK IN NEUTRAL, BACK TO DRIVE AND THE TRANSMISSION GAVE A HUGE CLUNK AND IT DROVE FORWARD. THE VEHICLE LOCKED ME IN. I COULD NOT PULL UP THE LOCKS, COULD NOT OPEN WITH THE CLICKER, WOULD NOT OPEN WITH THE WINDOW DOWN AND PULLING ON THE EXTERIOR HANDLE. I HAD TO CLIMB OUT THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR. THE CAR WAS GIVING OFF A RAW GAS SMELL WHEN IDLING IN THE AM. THIS MAY HAVE BEEN FIXED AS IT HAS NOT DONE IT LATELY. THEY MUST THINK I HAVE NOTHING BETTER TO DO THAN MAKE UP COMPLAINTS ABOUT THEIR PRODUCT. *TR
- Reported
- Jan 2015
- Incident date
- Aug 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringDec 2014 · ODI 10667264 · crashDetails +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING AT APPROXIMATELY 2 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT THE VEHICLE ROLLED AND CRASHED INTO A POLE. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON TWO OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,474.
- Reported
- Dec 2014
- Incident date
- Jul 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Electrical SystemOct 2014 · ODI 10649860Details +Close −
THIS CAR ON YOUR LIST SHOWS "RECALL INCOMPLETE" ! THIS IS NOT CORRECT! RECALL WAS CORRECTED BY ME (OWNER AT HOME) WITH THE GM KIT AND I SENT THE ENCLOSED GM RECALL SIGNATURE FORM TO 'RECALL PROCESSING CENTER, PO BOX 909989, MILWAUKEE, WI, 53209, AS INSTRUCTED! FORM DATED SEPT. 16, '14. PLEASE CHECK YOUR/ GM CADILLAC RECORDS!! [XXX], LEASE /OWNER INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
- Reported
- Oct 2014
- Incident date
- Sep 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineOct 2014 · ODI 10649758Details +Close −
THE SUPERCHARGER WAS REPLACED FOR ABNORMAL NOISE AND FUNCTION AS PER CADILLAC TSB.THE NEW SUPERCHARGER WHICH HAD A SOLID RATHER THAN 2 PIECE CONNECTOR(ISOLATOR) RESULTED IN A LOUD GROAN AND VIBRATION BETWEEN 800 AND 1100 RPM WHEN IN GEAR.CADILLAC HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THIS GROAN/VIBRATION AND AT FIRST DEEMED IT "NORMAL".NOW THEY HAVE RESTATED THEIR POSITION AND ALLEGE THAT THEIR ENGINEERS ARE WORKING ON THE PROBLEM. THE DEALER'S SERVICE DEPT HAS BEEN TOLD NOT TO ATTEMPT TO WORK ON A SOLUTION TO THE ABOVE.THE NEW 2014 CTSVS WHICH HAVE THE NEW SUPERCHARGERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM.THE GROWL/VIBRATION HAS BECOME MORE INTENSE AND I WORRY ABOUT CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. GM CUSTOMER SERVICE REPS HAVE BEEN LESS THAN HELPFUL.THIS IS YET ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF "CAVEAT EMPTOR". *TR
- Reported
- Oct 2014
- Incident date
- Aug 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
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 →Electrical SystemJan 2014 · 14V614000Details +Close −
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Cadillac CTS, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL, and 2014 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Express, Impala, Silverado HD, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Savana, and Sierra HD vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the chassis electronic module may be internally contaminated, resulting in an electrical short.
Risk: If the module experiences an electrical short, the vehicle could stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the chassis electronic module, free of charge. The recall began on December 26, 2014. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), and 1-800-462-8782 (GMC). GMs number for this recall is 14515.
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
2013 Cadillac CTS 4 DR RWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2013 Cadillac CTS 4 DR AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2013 Cadillac CTS SW RWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2013 Cadillac CTS SW AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2013 Cadillac CTS 2 DR RWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Not rated
- Frontal
- Not rated
- Side
- Not rated
- Rollover
- Not rated
2013 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 | 26 | 21 |
| CTS | 3.0L 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.
2013 Cadillac CTS: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2013 Cadillac CTS?
Owners filed 72 NHTSA complaints about the 2013 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 2013 Cadillac CTS?
The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (28% of complaints) and air bags (14%).
How many recalls does the 2013 Cadillac CTS have?
2 recalls have been issued that affect the 2013 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 2013 Cadillac CTS get?
The EPA rates the 2013 Cadillac CTS between 14 and 21 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.