2018 Cadillac CTS
Only 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2003 | 313 |
| 2004 | 224 |
| 2005 | 277 |
| 2006 | 269 |
| 2007 | 217 |
| 2008 | 175 |
| 2009 | 167 |
| 2010 | 67 |
| 2011 | 101 |
| 2012 | 65 |
| 2013 | 72 |
| 2014 | 144 |
| 2015 | 46 |
| 2016 | 31 |
| 2017 | 26 |
| 2018 | 8 |
| 2019 | 10 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 8 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 8 total reports mention: power train.
3 of 8 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? From 2018. The uauto start/stop system has failed 3 times. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?
NHTSA ODI report, 20251223
CUE DISPLAY PANEL SUDDENLY HAS STRANGE WEB-LIKE DEFECTS IN RIGHT SIDE OF PANEL. VEHICLE HAS BEEN MOSTLY PARKED IN SHADED DRIVEWAY DUE TO COVID-19 CLOSURES AND RESTRICTIONS. DRIVEN 2 -3 TIMES A WEEK ON GROCERY TRIPS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200726
1 of 8 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
Show complaint excerpts
THE CADILLAC DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS AND HEADLIGHTS EXCEED AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION EYE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF 3000K COLOR TEMPERATURE OR LESS. THE CADILLAC LIGHTS ARE DAMAGING THE EYES OF DRIVERS OF ONCOMING VEHICLES AND OF PEDESTRIANS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190118
1 of 8 total reports mentions: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
I WAS DRIVING MY 2018 CADILLAC CTS BETWEEN 50-60MPH AND I LIGHTLY TAPPED ON THE GAS AND THE CAR STARTED SHAKING AND VIBRATING. FELT LIKE IT COULD BE A TRANSMISSION OR A ENGINE MISFIRE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210324
1 of 8 total reports mentions: air bags.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
The airbag system failed to deploy during a single-vehicle accident in which the car left the service road and struck a tree. The vehicle sustained significant front-end damage.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250417
SAFETY TIMELINE
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, and 2017 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist system may fail.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the power steering gear assembly, free of charge. The recall began June 13, 2019. GM' number for this recall is N182182760.
Campaign 19V086000 — check if this car was fixed
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, 2017-2018 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist may fail.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the power steering gear assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2025. Owners may contact Cadilac customer service at 1-800-333-4223 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
Campaign 25V175000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 Cadillac CTS — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 19V086000 (steering) has been completed.
- Verify recall 25V175000 (steering) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2018 Cadillac CTS reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Cadillac CTS?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Cadillac CTS have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.