Cadillac Cts Years: We’ve rank every Cadillac CTS model for every generation, so that you don’t end up choosing the worst Cadillac CTS years and go to the top Cadillac CTS years.
This guide will go through the entire Cadillac CTS generations, unveiling the best years to purchase and its most shady Cadillac CTS years to avoid.
Our findings are based on reliable information from sources such as NHTSA as well as Consumer Reports, making sure we have a thorough evaluation of the performance of each model security, reliability, and safety.
In particular, I’ll explain details of every Cadillac CTS generation’s engine performance technological advances and safety enhancements, as well as common issues and recalls.
Let’s begin!
Best & Worst Cadillac CTS Years Generations
Cadillac CTS Cadillac CTS, initially introduced in 2003, was an important change in the approach of Cadillac to luxurious sedans. The initial model, renowned for its distinctive style and performance-driven design, offered several powerful engines as well as an elegant spacious interior.
It set the bar for Cadillac in the area of blending performance and luxurious.
Here’s a table that outlines Cadillac CTS generations between 2003 to 2019. Cadillac stopped production of its CTS in 2019, when it was replaced by the CT5. CT5.
| Generation | Years |
| 1st Generation (GMX320) | 2003-2007 |
| 2nd Generation (GMX322) | 2008-2013 |
| 3rd Generation | 2014-2019 |
Understanding these changes through generations is essential in determining which model year will be most suitable based on developments or specific issues to each generation.
Cadillac CTS Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When we evaluate the Cadillac CTS across its generations We take into consideration a variety of factors to determine which are the best and worst years. These include:
- Reliability of the owner (surveys)
- Costs of annual maintenance
- Ratings for safety
- Consumer Reports ratings on its reliability
- Consumer Reports Owner satisfaction scores
- NHTSA recalls, investigates and also, complaints
- Edmunds owner reviews
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- Ratings of owners on the VehicleHistory website
- Cars.com owner reviews
The graph that is coming together will summarize the ratings of all the models, giving an overall view of the performance of the Cadillac CTS over the years.
We’ve divided each model year into top neutral, worst, and best years based on our extensive research. See the following table.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st Generation (GMX320) | 2007 | N/A | 2003 2004 2005 2006 |
| 2nd Generation (GMX322) | 2010 2011 2012 2013 | N/A | 2008 2009 |
| 3rd Generation | 2016 2017 2018 2019 | 2015 | 2014 |
“Neutral Years”neutral Years” are ones which did not particularly excel nor substantially fell short of our standards, but that showed an average level of reliability, performance and overall satisfaction with the owner.
Certain elements, such as NHTSA recalls are a negative factor in the reliability of a car. An increase in complaints and recalls usually indicate less reliability for a car.
Let’s take a look at the Cadillac CTS’s greatest neutral, worst, and best years.
Best & Worst Years for Cadillac CTS 1st Generation (2003-2007)
The Cadillac CTS’s initial generation, which was launched in 2003, was the introduction of a premium car with a sporty flair with a variety of engines and a style which merged modern style with traditional Cadillac style.
Honestly, the original-generation Cadillac CTS models are problematic in comparison to the time and the price 2007 is the most desirable year to purchase.
The Best Year: 2007
2007. The Cadillac CTS stands out as the most successful year of this generation.
It came with two major engines to choose from that included The 2.8L LP1 V6 that produced 210 horsepower as well as the more powerful 3.6L LY7 V6 with 255 horsepower.
These engines were coupled with 6-speed or 5-speed manual transmissions. The efficiency of the fuel was moderate with an average of 15 city/25 highway miles per gallon.
The 2007 model was a showcase of technological advances, like the latest infotainment system as well as safety features like improved stability control and improved airbag systems.
Although it was subject to recalls due to leaks in the rear axle seal The overall reliability and high-quality of 2007 models substantially improved over previous models which resulted in the most refined and reliable high-end driving experience.
The Worst Years: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
We have classified those years of 2003 and 2004 2005 and the 2006 Cadillac CTS model years as the worst because of numerous recalls and complaints by owners to NHTSA.
In 2003, the Cadillac CTS was particularly problematic because of issues in the electrical system that led to problems with transmission and power.
These models also experienced major recalls, such as the ignition switch malfunctions and front brake corrosion in the hose.
In 2004, the Cadillac CTS was plagued by brake and transmission problems, as well as new problems like leaks in the rear axle seal and the fuel pump terminal overheating.
The issues remained in both the 2006 and 2005 Cadillac CTS models, with further issues such as inaccurate fuel gauges as well as rear differential problems.
Consumers have rated them as Cadillac CTS models low on VehicleHistory and Cars.com, so avoid them.
Read about NHTSA for 2003, 2004, 2005, 2005, and 2006. Cadillac CTS recalls and complaints.
Best & Worst Years for Cadillac CTS 2nd Generation (2008-2013)
This was the second version of Cadillac CTS, spanning from 2008 until 2013, featured significant improvements in performance, design and technology.
The second generation was a success with 2010-2013 being the most successful Cadillac CTS years. The years 2008 and 2009 are the most disastrous Cadillac CTS years to avoid with a vengeance.
The Best Years: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
The second-generation Cadillac CTS the Cadillac CTS’s greatest times were between 2010 and 2013.
The models offered a range of engines such as an 3.0L V6 that had 270 hp (2010-2011) and the more robust 3.6L V6 that produced 318 horsepower.
The engines were fitted to 6-speed automatic transmissions. The fuel efficiency of the 3.0L model was around 18 mpg in the city and 27 on the highway..
The safety features of the past were the most advanced, with features like an electronic stability system and anti-lock brakes and a variety of airbags.
The interior was characterized by a luxurious feel, featuring a range of trim levels, high-end materials, a modern navigation system and premium audio systems.
The models were well-received due to the improved quality of their construction and reliability as well as the high-end features. They were one of the best years in the second generation of the CTS lineup.
The Worst Years: 2008, 2009
What years of Cadillac CTS should you avoid? The years 2008 and 2009 were among the worst of the second-generation Cadillac CTS years, with numerous recalls and complaints by CTS owners.
The early days of second generation had issues mostly in the electrical system and engine.
Owners have reported a variety of electrical issues as well as periodic illumination of warning lights as well as engine misfiring and stopping.
In 2008, the Cadillac CTS was subjected to an recall due to the heated windshield washer module short circuit.
Engine issues were more evident during the 2009 Cadillac CTS, with many owners expressing frustration over timing chain issues.
Read about NHTSA for 2008, 2009 Cadillac CTS recalls and complaints.
Best & Worst Years for Cadillac CTS 3rd Generation (2014-2019)
The 3rd version of the Cadillac CTS, which ran from 2014 to 2019 is distinguished by its sleek style, enhanced driving dynamics, as well as high-tech features.
The 2016-2019 versions are Cadillac CTS’s top and most reliable models The year 2014 was the most dangerous year to stay clear of.
The Best Years: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
What are the most successful Cadillac CTS years? 2016/2017, 2018 and 2019 are the Cadillac CTS’s most reliable as well as the most stable years since the third generation of its model.
These models featured a range of engine options, such as the fuel-efficient 2.0L LTG Ecotec turbocharged four-cylinder producing 268 hp and an 3.6L LGX V6 that produces 335 horsepower and the Cadillac CTS-V’s 6.2L LT4 V8 with 640 horsepower.
With an eight-speed auto transmission, they offer were able to balance power and smooth operation. Efficiency of fuel for the 2.0L engine was around 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway..
The safety features were top-of-the-line and included driver assistance options such as adaptive cruise control, automatic lane-keeping assistance, and emergency brakes.
The interior of these cars was luxurious, featuring a range of different trim levels, with high-end materials, modern infotainment systems and adjustable ambient lighting.
2016 Cadillac CTS Luxury Full review
Walkaround, Start Up, Trunk, Engine, Interior, & Exterior
The Neutral Year: 2015
The year 2015 for the Cadillac CTS is considered a neutral year.
Although it shared a lot of features and options for engines with the most popular years however, it wasn’t as refined. quality of the models that came later.
It has provided the same variety of engines as well as an 8-speed auto transmission, which is a plus. It also has a number of safety features, as well as an interior that was well-equipped.
But, minor problems and a somewhat less modern technology set-up compared to the following years have been classified as neutral.
The Worst Year: 2014
With the most complaints and recalls 2014 was the worst Cadillac CTS year to avoid.
This year, the car was plagued by issues in the powertrain. owners reporting problems with rear differentials that caused grinding noises as well as an oily smell.
Recalls of this model year concern contamination of the electronic chassis control module and transmission shift cable detachment, as well as a non-operational wiper mechanism.
These issues and their effect on the overall reliability of the vehicle and overall driving experience have resulted in the 2014 model being less popular in the third-generation CTS lineup.
Read about NHTSA for 2014 Cadillac CTS recalls and complaints.
Cadillac CTS Resale Values
This graph offers a fascinating analysis of the average resales prices for Cadillac CTS models across different generations.
Conclusion
Our study shows that for those who want the most satisfying Cadillac CTS experience, 2010-2013 and 2016-2019 are among the top years for high-end and reliable.
However 2008, 2009 and 2014 as well as the beginning year of the new generation are among the most difficult Cadillac CTS years to avoid.
What have you experienced about CTS? Cadillac CTS, and how do they match with our research findings?
Tell us about your experiences in the comments section below!
