“Purchased car from dealership in oct 2015. While driving, I begin to smell burning oil and noticed oil leak under vehicle on left side. Took it to a mechanic to see where leak is coming from and he stated that valve cover gasket is leaking oil out as well as oil is present in the spark plug reservoirs. Will have to get gaskets replaced before further damage is caused.”
Owner complaint, filed Nov 5, 2015 at 145,000 miles
“Leaking valve cover gaskets resulting in oil on coils, oxygen sensor and risk for oil related fires. The smell of burning oil is prevalent because of oil on hot engine parts. A review of various internet forums shows this is a common problem on this make/model. A consensus opinion appears to be the valve cover gaskets were made from inferior materials.”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 22, 2015 at 75,000 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)
Complaints about the 2003 CTS peaked in 2014, with 42 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 15% of the complaints. In 2023 owners filed 1 so far.
Defect. 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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings10V105000
Filed Mar 17, 2010139,131 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. GENERAL MOTORS HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA OF A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003-2007 CADILLAC CTS VEHICLES CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN OR ORIGINALLY SOLD IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE FRONT BRAKE HOSE FITTING AT THE CALIPER MAY CORRODE DUE TO SNOW OR WATER, CONTAINING ROAD SALT OR OTHER CONTAMINANTS, ENTERING AND BEING RETAINED IN THE ROUTING SLEEVE. IF THE FITTING CORRODES SIGNIFICANTLY, THE BRAKE HOSE-TUBE INTERFACE MAY DEVELOP A LEAK.
Risk. THE BRAKE HOSE-TUBE INTERFACE MAY RUPTURE SUDDENLY WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING AND INCREASE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE MAY OCCUR INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS ARE TO REPLACE BOTH FRONT BRAKE HOSE ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339 OR AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.
Equipment › Other › Owners/Service/Other Manual03V250000
Defect. CERTAIN MINIVANS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." THE OWNER'S MANUAL DOES NOT EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER UNIVERSAL ANCHORAGE SYSTEM.
Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
Remedy. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A SUPPLEMENT FOR THEIR OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS SUPPLEMENT DESCRIBES AND SHOWS THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORS THAT ARE LOCATED IN THE VEHICLE AND ON THE CHILD RESTRAINT OR BOOSTER CUSHION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Filed Mar 24, 200347,835 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT BOLT MAY BE LOOSE.
Risk. AN IMPROPERLY TIGHTENED BOLT COULD LOOSEN, RESULTING IN SEPARATION OF THE UPPER AND LOWER STEERING SHAFTS CAUSING A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. IF THIS HAPPENS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING, A CRASH COULD RESULT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR THE PRESENCE OF THE INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT BOLT AND ENSURE THAT IT IS TIGHTENED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 20, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006.
All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.
Technical service bulletins
506 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 CTS. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
equipment 174electrical system 80engine 68transmission 40body and frame 22fuel system 14equipment adaptive/mobility 14wheels 11
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system
Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …
03049Service campaignOct 1, 2003tires
TIRE INNER SIDEWALL CRACK/BULGE. CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM BULLETIN. *TT
This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
Showing the newest 6 of 68 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Service BrakesFire
Filed Apr 9, 2023CA
Everything was really grate no problems. My brakes sounds like there is LOTS of AIR Coming from somewhere. My key ignition sometimes want turn over or easy to come out. Than the car started running hot. I've had it looked at Few times and can't seem to fix the problem. I've even brought a new coolant box or another name for it.. so now I can't drive it because my fluids keep coming out of the coolant tank please help me I don't know what to do. To complete this message I've even had a smog twice nonpassable. - Thank you any Questions [XXX] call/ text INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Engine
Filed Jul 5, 2022121,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2003 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that when driving at various speeds the vehicle would suddenly stalled and the instrument panel would illuminate. The message stating "starting disabled remove key" would display. The contact stated that they would be able to coast and restart the vehicle. Other times the contact would have to pull over to the side of the road and restart the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who was unable to diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 121,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jun 25, 2021UT
The computer isn’t telling the alternator to charge the battery so the batteries are being all of the way drained without anything recharging them. Beans new batteries get ruined fast.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 17, 2020FL
THE CHECK AIR BAG WARNING KEEPS COMING ON. WHEN BROUGHT TO DEALER TO FIX THEY SAID IT WAS NOT UNDER RECALL AND IT NEEDS TO BE SINCE OTHERS HAVING THE SAME ISSUE. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE.
Service Brakes
Filed Jul 16, 202083,000 milesKY
THERE IS A OPEN RECALL EFFECTING THIS YEAR & MAKE ALTHOUGH MY VIN SAYS THERE'S NO RECALLS ON MY CTS. I HAD BOTH FRONT BRAKE HOSE ASSEMBLIES FAIL WHILE DRIVING. LUCKILY WE DIDN'T WRECK. I'VE SINCE HAD BOTH REPAIRED. CURIOUS AS TO KNOW WHY CAR WAS NOT LISTED WITH OPEN RECALL.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 20, 2020150,000 milesOK
THE CAR WILL NOT START AND I HAVE TO BYPASS THE IGNITION WITH A JUMPER IN THE FUSEBOX
Electrical System
Filed Dec 18, 2019128,900 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF. AFTER RESTARTING THE ENGINE, THE VEHICLE OPERATED NORMALLY. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 128,900.
Service Brakes
Filed Nov 6, 2019144,000 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE BRAKE LINE FAILED AND THE CHECK BRAKE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH BRAKE FAILURE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V225000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC), WHICH HE RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 144,000.
Service Brakes
Filed Oct 28, 2019185,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP. ALSO, THE KEY BECAME STUCK INSIDE THE IGNITION SWITCH AND THE CONTACT DETECTED FUEL LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. FURTHERMORE, THE "REMOVE KEY" MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED AND THE DOOR LOCK AND AIR BAG WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED WINTER CHEVROLET (3750 CENTURY CT, PITTSBURG, CA 94565, (925) 232-0290) AND INFORMED THEM OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE BRAKES, KEY, AND BATTERY WERE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000.
Engine
Filed Aug 19, 201925 milesCA
I BOUGHT THIS CAR FOR MY SON THAT GO TO COLLEGE AT SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY, HIS BEEN USING THIS CAR SINCE 2015 TILL 2019. RECENTY ABOUT A MONTH AGO HIS COMPLAINING THE CAR HAS BEEN OVERHEATING FOR NO REASONS, HE SAYS THAT THE GAUGE GOES ALL THE WAY UP EVERYTIME HE DRIVE IT BUT ITS OK IF THE CAR ENGINE IS RUNNING BUT IN PARK MODE. WE ENDED UP GOT THE CAR TOWED TO MERCED. SINCE JULY OF 2019, THE CAR IS THE GARAGE AND NEVER DRIVE. WE ONLY START THE CAR MOSTLY TO WARP UP THE ENGINE BUT NOT DRIVE. WE HAVE A FRIEND MECHANIC LOOK AT IT AND CAN'T POINT OUT THE RIGHT PROBLEM, A LOT OF ASSUMPTION POSSIBLE THE THERMOSTAT, OR RADIATOR, WATER PUMP, OR THE FAN, ETC.
Power Train
Filed Apr 29, 201959,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY MADE AN ABNORMAL SOUND AND THE GEARS SLIPPED WITHOUT WARNING. MARTIN BUICK GMC (12101 W OLYMPIC BLVD, LOS ANGELES, CA 90064, (310) 622-9334) WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE A PERMANENT REMEDY; THEREFORE, THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AFTER SEVERAL EXTENSIVE REPAIRS FROM THE DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED WITH A LOANER VEHICLE FOR MORE THAN THREE MONTHS. THE DEALER RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO THE CONTACT WITHOUT IT BEING REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN SAFELY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND THE CASE MANAGER WAS TO FOLLOW-UP WITH THE DEALER AND OWNER TO DETERMINE IF THERE WERE GUIDELINES FOR A REPAIR. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,000.
Structure › BodyFire
Filed Mar 12, 2019157,000 milesTX
AT ABOUT APPROXIMATELY 4:22 AM THIS MORNING MY CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES IN MY DRIVEWAY. I WAS AWAKENED BY MY CADILLAC CTS 2003 CAR ALARM AS THE FLAMES WE'RE VISIBLE THRU MY BEDROOM WINDOW. AT WHICH TIME I RAN OUTSIDE TO TURN ON THE WATER HOSE TO TURN OFF THE FIRE AS MY FAMILY WAS SLEEPING IN THE HOUSE. MY HUSBAND'S CAR WAS RIGHT NEXT TO MY CADI THAT HAD A FULL TANK OF FUEL. I CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED TO TURN OFF THE FIRE ON THE CADILLAC CTS 2003. AND FOR MORE THAN TEN MINUTES THE FIRE WAS STILL BLAZING AS THE FIREMEN UNABLE TO CONTROL THE FLAMES. MY CAR IS GONE AS IT BURNED DOWN. PLEASE HELP ME TO UNDERSTAND WHY THIS HAPPENED. I ONLY CARRIED LIABILITY AS THIS WAS ALL I COULD AFFORD. I THANK THE LORD THAT EVEN WHEN WE WERE IN HARM'S WAY, HE JEHOVAH GOD PROTECTED US. ALL THE GLORY TO JESUS CHRIST THAT THEIR WAS NO LOST OF LIFE. MATERIAL THINGS CAN BE REPLACED. I AM GRATEFUL TO GOD FOR HIS MERCY AND GRACE. HE HAS TOTAL CONTROL AND I KNOW THAT HE WAS WITH US. I WAS NOT AWARE THAT THESE CARS HAVE A HISTORY OF CATCHING ON FIRE. I AM GLAD THAT WE WERE NOT ON THE ROAD WHEN THIS HAPPENED. MY MOTHER SUFFERED A STROKE AND THIS COULD OF BEEN MORE DETRIMENTAL BUT GOD DID NOT PERMIT THE HAND OF THE ENEMY TO TOUCH US PHYSICALLY, HALELUJAH TO THE LAMB OF GOD! I AM BLESSED TO BE A CHILD OF GOD! I KNOW THAT HE WILL GIVE US JUSTICE BECAUSE HE DOES NOT FORSAKE HIS CHILDREN AND HE IS A GOD THAT DOES NOT LIE. HE IS GOD EMANUEL! HE IS MY SHALOM!
Air Bags
Filed Dec 26, 2018131,063 milesSC
DRS AIRBAG LIGHT ON ON DASH
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Oct 8, 2018103,000 milesCA
DRIVING 70+MPH ON FREEWAY IN FAST LANE. CAR STOP ACCERLATING AND NO RPM THE STEELING WHEEL THEN LOCKED ON ME WHILE IN THE FAST LANE ON FREEWAY. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER RESTARTED THE CAR AND WAS ABLE TO MOVE SAFELY OFF FREEWAY.
Service Brakes
Filed Oct 5, 2018111,992 milesCA
WHILE DRIVING AT A STEADY SPEED AND FOR NO APPARENT REASON, THE STABILITY SYSTEM ENGAGED, I WAS UNABLE TO CONTROL VEHICLE, COULD NOT ENGAGE BRAKES, VEHICLE BEGAN LOSING POWER & STALLED IN FREEWAY TRAFFIC. LASTLY, THE BRAKES VIBRATE AND THE CAR'S VALVE COVER GASKETS ARE MADE OF PLASTIC WHICH MAY LEAK & START A FIRE.
Engine
Filed Jul 28, 2018193,000 milesWA
I WAS DRIVING DOWNHILL ON DALLAS RD IN WEST RICHLAND, WA I STARTED TO APPLY BRAKES TO TURN INTO QUAIL SPRINGS APARTMENT COMPLEX, IDK WHETHER IT WAS DUE TO THE ROAD OR THE WAY I HIT THE BRAKES BUT IT MOVED MY KEY OUT OF THE RUN POSITION CAUSING THE ENGINE TO TURN OFF, I WAS SLOWING DOWN PROGRESSIVELY FROM 55 MILES AN HOUR AND HEARD SOMETHING THAT SOUNDED LIKE MY ENGINE HAD FALLEN APART. AFTER GETTING IT STOPPED I POPPED THE HOOD AND NOTICED DAMAGE TO MY TENSIONER PULLEY IT HAD CAME OFF AND MY SERPENTINE BELT HAD SHREDDED, I CALLED AND GOT IT TOWED TO THE NEAREST PLACE I COULD TO GET IT LOOKED AT. WHEN REPLACING THE SERPENTINE BELT THEY SAID IT'D BE GOOD TO CHECK THE TIMING BELT AS WELL JUST IN CASE. UPON CHECKING IT THEY NOTICED PIECES OF SERPENTINE BELT HAD GOTTEN INSIDE OF THERE SOMEHOW CAUSING THE TIMING BELT DAMAGE. WITH THIS TYPE OF ENGINE IF TIMING BELT GETS RUINED 98% VALVES AND PISTONS KISS WHICH CAUSES BENT VALVES ON THE HEAD. I WAS TOLD THE CAR WOULD NOT RUN ANYMORE UNLESS I PUT A BRANDNEW ENGINE IN AND THEY WANTED TO CHARGE ME 6000 FOR THAT, I LOOKED UP A USED ENGINE ON EBAY FOR 650 THEY STILL WANTED 3000, I DON'T HAVE THAT KIND OF MONEY SITTING AROUND AND HAVE BEEN SUFFERING WITHOUT MY VEHICLE SINCE THIS HAPPENED. I'VE MISSED WORK AND AM LUCKY ME OR CHILD WEREN'T HURT DURING THIS SITUATION. I CALLED THE LOCAL CADILLAC DEALERSHIP THIS MORNING AND EXPLAINED WHAT HAPPENED THE GUY I SPOKE WITH WAS VERY RUDE AND TOLD ME THERES NOTHING THE COULD DO TO HELP ME, I ASKED AB
Service BrakesFire
Filed Jul 16, 2018126,000 milesKY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING BRAKE FLUID AND THE LOW BRAKE FLUID WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT OBSERVED SMOKE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE NEAR THE TIRE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC CONFIRMED THE FAILURE, BUT DID NOT DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO REFILL THE BRAKE FLUID CONTAINER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 126,000.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 9, 2018107,000 milesOK
AIRBAG LIGHT IS STUCK ON. AFTER RESEARCHING ISSUE THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT AIRBAG SENSOR. CALLED DEALER AND WAS TOLD THIS CAR WASN'T PART OF THE RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE. SEEMS LIKE THE SAME REASON THE OTHER CARS WERE RECALLED.
Air Bags
Filed May 19, 201887,000 milesAL
I PURCHASED A 2003 CADILLAC CTS FROM CAR MART IN ANNISTON, ALABAMA ON OR ABOUT MAY 5, 2017. SHORTLY AFTER SIGNING THE CONTRACT, WHICH INCLUDED AN AIRBAG REFERENCE, THE SERVICE AIRBAG LIGHTS CAME ON. THEY COME ON AT RANDOM TIMES AND INCLUDE SERVICE AIRBAG ANDREW AIRBAG ICON. I DID NOT NOTICE THAT THE BOTTOM OF THE AIRBAG ON THE DRIVER STEERING WHEEL HAD A SMALL CRACK ACROSS IT THAT YOU COULD ACTUALLY SEE THE AIRBAG CONTAINER. AFTER BEING ASSURED THAT AN EXCUTIVE OF THE COMPANY WOULD REVIEW OUR CONTRACT AND GET BACK WITH ME ON THIS COMPLAINT AROUND 2 WEEKS AFTER TAKING POSSESSION OF VECHICLE. AS OF TODAY I HAVE HAVE NOT BEEN CONTACTED EVEN AFTER CALLING AND LEAVING MESSAGES. I WAS DRIVING DOWN HWY.78 WEST WHEN THE LIGHTS FIRST CAME ON AND CONTINUE TO DO SO AT RANDOM TIMES. MY WIFE IS SHORT SO SHE IS ALMOST UP TO THE STEERING WHEEL. I ALSO HAVE A 5 YR OLD DAUGHTER. I AM IN CONSTANT FEAR AND WORRY THAT THE AIRBAG WILL DEPLOY PREMATURELY OR WHEN HITTING A SMALL POTHOLE. I HAVE CHECKED FOR ANY RECALLS FROM THE MANUFACTURER AND THERE ARE NONE. I WOULD TRULY APPRECIATE ANY ASSISTANCE I CAN GET TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM. IT IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN.
Structure › BodyFire
Filed Feb 4, 2018130,000 milesVA
MY 2003 CADILLAC CTS CAUGHT ON FIRE. FIREMAN SAID THAT IT WAS THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE THAT CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE CAR WAS PARKED FOR HOURS AND FIRE STARTED WHILE WE WAS SLEEPING. THE WHOLE ENGINE IS BURNT UP AND THE CAR IS TOTALED. NOW I HAVE NO CAR AND NO MONEY TO GET ANOTHER CAR.
Air Bags
Filed Dec 24, 2017CA
TRACTION CONTROL ALWAYS COME ON,AIR BAGS LIGHTS ON,CUTS OFF IF IDLE TO LONG
Air BagsCrash
Filed Sep 25, 2017MN
ON THE MORNING OF 9/21/2017 I WAS IN A ACCIDENT. THE FRONT OF MY CAR ABOVE THE BUMPER WAS SMASHED IN THE ENGINE WAS PUSHED BK AND IS TIPPED. NOT ONE OF MY AIR BAGS WENT OFF IN THE ACCIDENT. MY SON WAS IN THE BACK SEAT OF MY CAR. BY THE AIRBAGS NOT GOING LOFF I COULD'VE DIED AND MY SON WOULD'VE BEEN MOTHERLESS.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 4, 2017CA
CAR SHUTS DOWN WHILE DRIVING ON FREEWAY/AND CITY LEAVING ME TO HAVE TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL TO START BACK UP. WHILE CAR IS ROLLING .
Air Bags1 injured
Filed Sep 1, 2017115,000 milesIL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. AFTER SHIFTING THE VEHICLE INTO THE REVERSE POSITION, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED TWO DAYS PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED MINOR PAIN, WHICH DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE WORDEN-MARTIN BUICK GMC DEALER (1404 N DUNLAP ST, SAVOY, IL) WAS CONTACTED AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 115,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Jun 12, 201770,000 milesNJ
MY CAR HAS BEEN GARAGED KEPT FOR 13 YEARS, ONLY CAME OUT IN THE SUMMER AND WEEKENDS. THE LAST 2 YEARS I HAVE BEEN USING IT AS A DAILY DRIVER.. IN 2012 MY MECHANIC NOTICED A LOT OF CORROSION ON MY CHASIS RAILS, I NOTIFIED CADILLAC, THEY SENT ME TO THE DEALER TO INSPECT MY COMPLAINT AND OFFERED ME 3,000 OFF A NEW VEHICLE. 2 WEEKS AGO I WENT FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND MY MECHANIC NOTICED HOW WORSE THE GOT. I CALLED CADILLAC AND THEY TOLD ME THE CORROSION WARRANTY WAS OVER. MY CADILLAC ONLY HAS 113,000 MILES, NOW THAT I NOTICED HOW BAD THEY GOT I WILL NOT PUT MY FAMILY IN THE CAR.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Mar 20, 2017125,000 milesAL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING OUT OF THE PARKING LOT, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND ABRUPTLY SHUT DOWN. AS A RESULT, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED NECK, SHOULDER, AND HEAD INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Sep 30, 2016TN
I SAW A BLUE SPAKE WHEN I HAD GOTTEN OUT OF MY CAR AND LEFT THE DOOR OPEN. THE SPARK WAS LOCATED ON THE INSIDE OF THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR. I GOT BACK IN MY CAR. IT SHOWED THAT THE DRIVERS DOOR WAS AJAR. I RESHOT THE DOOR IT STILL SHOWED THE DOOR WAS AJAR. I PRESSED THE CLEAR BOTTOM THE CAR SEEMED SMOKY I TRIED TO ROLL DOWN THE WINDOW BUT MY WINDOWS WAS NOT WORKING NOR WAS THE RADIO. I DROVE A MILE TO MY HOME AND PARKED AWAY FROM THE HOUSE. I RUSHED TO GET EVERYTHING OUT OF THE CAR. THE TRUNK WOULD NOT OPEN SO I LET THE BACK SEAT DOWN SO I COULD REACH MY THINGS. THE CAR CONTINUED TO SMOKE AND ENDED IN A FULL BLAZE. WE CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE TRUCK CAME AND PUT OUT THE FIRE.
Visibility › Glass, Side/Rear
Filed Aug 5, 2016200,000 milesWV
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT A STOP, THE REAR WINDOW EXPLODED WITH A LOUD NOISE. THE GLASS SHATTERED INTO PIECES WITHOUT WARNING. THE PASSENGERS IN THE REAR SEAT INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY SAW A SPARK. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OLD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEALER DID NOT INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL AND THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 200,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jul 25, 2016144,000 milesDE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, THE AIR CONDITIONER STOPPED WORKING. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED AS NEEDING THE ECM REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 144,000.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jun 7, 201649,000 milesOH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHEN THE CONTACT OPENED THE VEHICLE DOORS WITH THE KEY FOB, THE HEADLIGHTS AND OVERHEAD LIGHTS ILLUMINATED EXTREMELY BRIGHT AND THEN DIMMED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM FAILED. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS A LEGAL ISSUE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,000.
Engine
Filed May 18, 201670,000 milesCA
THE CRANK AND CAM SENSORS HAVE CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STALL OUT WHILE DRIVING OR BEING STOPPED. I HAVE SEEN SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ONLINE REGARDING THIS ISSUE IN MY CAR AND OTHER GM CARS. HOW MANY COMPLAINTS HAVE YOU RECEIVED FOR THIS ISSUE IN GM CARS. IT SEEMS THE DEALERSHIP SHOULD HAVE RECALLED THIS SINCE IT IS A WELL KNOWN AND DOCUMENTED ISSUE AND IS A SAFETY ISSUE WITH CARS STALLING IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING AND WHILE BEING STOPPED. I STALLED ON A FREEWAY ON RAMP, AT A STOP SIGN AND WHILE BEING PARKED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD.
Electrical System
Filed May 10, 2016MD
2003 CADILLAC CTS. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE STARTS UP AND DRIVES FOR A WHILE THEN SHUTS DOWN WITHOUT WARNING. *SMD THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THE IDLER ARMS AND CRANK SENSORS WERE REPLACED. *JB
Air Bags
Filed Apr 11, 201631,500 milesAZ
PASSENGER SEAT BELT (FEMALE) ASSEMBLY USING A TAKATA INITIATOR (CYLINDER ALONGSIDE THE SEAT) FOR AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT SENSOR FAILURE. DEALER SAYS PARTS IN NO LONGER MADE, NO ONE MAKES AFTERMARKET PARTS FOR THE SRS, THEREFORE NO REPAIR CAN BE MADE AND JEOPARDIZES SAFETY AND OMITS THE PURPOSE OF AN SRS.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 6, 2016FL
THE FRAME HAS RUSTED OUT ON BOTH SIDES UNDER THE FRONT OF THE CAR WHERE THE MANUFACTURER INSTALLED WATER LINES THAT DRIPPED ON THE FRAME CAUSING IT TO RUST COMPLETELY THROUGH ON ONE SIDE AND THE OTHER IS ALMOST THERE. THE DEALERSHIP AND AN AUTO BODY MAN TOLD ME THAT IT WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. I HAVE DONE EVERYTHING TO TAKE GOOD CARE OF MY CAR SO THAT I COULD KEEP IT FOR A LONG TIME. I CANNOT DRIVE OR EVEN SELL MY CAR. THIS IS A DEFECT FOR THE 2003 BUT HAS NOT BEEN CALLED AND I WANT TO KNOW WHY? I WANT MY CAR FIXED BY THE MANUFACTURER....
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Apr 6, 2016IL
WHEN THE CAR IS DRIVING AT 50 MPH OR HIGHER A MESSAGE IS SENT ACROSS THE DASHBOARD SAYING TO "SERVICE STABILITY SYSTEM" I TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC SO SENSORS WERE BAD AND HE COULD NOT FIND THE ISSUE, WHEN THIS MESSAGE APPEARS ON THE DASHBOARD AT HIGH SPEEDS IT FEELS LIKE ABS KICKS IN WITHOUT ME TOUCHING THE BRAKES AT ALL, SO THE CAR WILL BRAKE ON ITS OWN AND ALMOST CAUSED A MULTI-CAR PILE UP BECAUSE MY CAR STARTED BRAKING ON ITS OWN OUT OF MY CONTROL
Engine
Filed Feb 3, 2016140,000 milesMD
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT LEFT THE VEHICLE AT THE DEALER OVERNIGHT FOR AN OIL CHANGE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A CALL FROM THE DEALER THAT, DUE TO A STRIPPED SCREW IN THE OIL PAN, THE OIL CHANGE COULD NOT BE PERFORMED. THE CONTACT OBSERVED A LARGE AMOUNT OF OIL UNDER THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WHEN IT WAS RETRIEVED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 140,000.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Jan 17, 201651,000 milesTN
CAR SHUTDOWN DURING DRIVING. THIS HAS HAPPENED 2 TIMES SINCE I BOUGHT IT USED IN DECEMBER 2015
Service Brakes
Filed Dec 16, 201542,473 milesVA
CUSTOMERS BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON WHILE DRIVING TO REPAIR SHOP, 3 MILE TRIP, FLUID WAS LOW, P/S FRONT HOSE WAS SWOLLEN AND BUSTED LEAKING FLUID, D/S FRONT HOSE WAS SWOLLEN. LOSS OF BREAKING CONTROL EVIDENT WHILE PULLING CAR INTO SHOP. CONTACTED DEALER TO CHECK ON RECALL, WAS INFORMED VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED. ALL SIGNS, INCLUDING VIN BREAK WERE THE SAME. REPAIR IS BEING DONE IN FACILITY, NOT UNDER RECALL.
Engine
Filed Nov 5, 2015145,000 milesDE
PURCHASED CAR FROM DEALERSHIP IN OCT 2015. WHILE DRIVING, I BEGIN TO SMELL BURNING OIL AND NOTICED OIL LEAK UNDER VEHICLE ON LEFT SIDE. TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC TO SEE WHERE LEAK IS COMING FROM AND HE STATED THAT VALVE COVER GASKET IS LEAKING OIL OUT AS WELL AS OIL IS PRESENT IN THE SPARK PLUG RESERVOIRS. WILL HAVE TO GET GASKETS REPLACED BEFORE FURTHER DAMAGE IS CAUSED. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL VEHICLE AND I RECENTLY SAW ON NEWS WHERE GM RECALLED OTHER MODELS AND YEARS OF VEHICLE WITH SAME ISSUE. WHY WASN'T THIS MODEL CADILLAC INCLUDED IN THE RECALL WHEN IS SHOULD HAVE?
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 30, 201586,000 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRAME UNDERNEATH THE FRONT DRIVER SEAT WAS RUSTED OUT, CAUSING HOLES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE AND THAT THERE WAS NO REMEDY AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.
Service Brakes
Filed Oct 15, 201554,578 milesMD
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V394000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE TECHNICIANS THAT THE BRAKE LINES AND CALIPERS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO CORROSION. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V105000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 54,578.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 8, 201599,000 milesLA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REPAIR FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V394000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) WAS PERFORMED; HOWEVER, THE REPAIR DID NOT REMEDY THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED SEVERAL TIMES WHILE DRIVING AND THAT THE 'REMOVE DISABLE KEY' WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE COULD BE RESTARTED AND RESUMED TO NORMAL FUNCTION. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,000.
Service Brakes
Filed Aug 6, 201568,000 milesSD
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AFTER THE BRAKES WERE ENGAGED. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOOR BOARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN IN FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,000.
Steering
Filed Aug 2, 2015115,909 milesCA
WAS ENTERING THE ON RAMP ON TO A FREEWAY AND JUST TAPPED THE BRAKE AND NOTICED AND HEARD THE LEFT FRONT TIRE GRIND AND THE STEERING WHEEL PULLED TO THE LEFT REAL HARD. I WAS GOING INTO A BLIND UNDER PASS AND THOUGHT THAT IF IT SEIZED UP AROUND THE BLIND CORNER I WOULD SURELY BE IN AN ACCIDENT. I FIRST THOUGHT THAT A STONE CHIP WAS IN BETWEEN THE BRAKE AND ROTOR. THE CAR WAS TOWED AWAY TO A AAA LOCATION ABOUT 3 MILES AWAY. THE SERVICE STATION THEN TOOK IT OUT AROUND THE BLOCK AND WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE. THE PUT THE CAR UP AND THE LIFT AND COULD NOT SEE ANYTHING THAT WAS WRONG. THEN I TOOK THEM OUT AROUND THE BLOCK REAL SLOW AND THE LEFT FRONT BRAKES WOULD GRIND AWAY. THEY TESTED IT AND COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG NO ERROR CODES. THEY I SAID COULD DRIVE THE CAR HOME FROM SAN DIEGO TO SOUTH ORANGE COUNTY NOT DIDN'T MAKE IT A BLOCK AWAY BEFORE IT LOCKED UP THE LEFT FRONT TIRE. WAS ABLE TO LIMP TO MARVIN K. BROWN AUTO CENTER ABOUT A MILE AWAY AND IT WAS THERE FOR TWO WEEKS AND $500.00 FOR A STEERING SENSOR REPLACED. THEN IT CONTINUED TO HAPPEN AND THE CTS WAS TAKEN TO TUSTIN CADILLAC AND THEY TRIED TO CORRECT THE PROBLEMS AFTER SPENDING 2 DAYS AT THE DEALER AND $1700.00 LATER THE CAR CONTINUES TO HAVE NOT ONLY THE LEFT FRONT BUT NOW IT IS THE RIGHT FRONT. THE BRAKES CONTINUE TO ACTIVATE ON BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT AT ANYTIME AT ANY SPEED. THIS LAST TIME IT FELT LIKE THE LEFT REAR ACTIVATED, THE CAR GOT OUT OF CONTROL EVERY ONE AROUND ME BACKED OFF. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING TH
EngineCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 26, 201550,000 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE CONTACT TURNED SHARPLY TO AVOID AN ANIMAL. THE ENGINE STALLED, BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO COAST AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE CONTACT WAS LAUNCHED THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED LOWER BACK, NECK, AND HEAD INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V394000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS ALREADY EXPERIENCED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
Engine
Filed Jun 8, 201567,000 milesWI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE HAD TO COOL DOWN COMPLETELY BEFORE THE VEHICLE RESTARTED. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V394000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 67,000.
Steering
Filed May 28, 2015IL
MY 2003 CTS CADILLAC KEY STUCK IN IGNITION AND CAR ENGINE SHUTS COMPLETELY DOWN. THE ECM IS READING LIKE SOMEONE IS STEALING THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING OF PARK AND WANT START. DEFECTIVE RECALL. GM SHOULD REIMBURSE CUSTOMERS FOR THIS DEFECTIVE PRODUCT. THEY DID NOT FIX THE RECALL PROBLEM, THEY JUST PUT A BAND AID ON IT AND SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS RECALL FOR THEIR DEFECTIVE PRODUCT. NO QUALITY IN THEIR VEHICLES. THE CONSUMER IS PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THEIR DEFAULTS. THIS ARE NOT CHEAP INVOICE VEHICLES, WHILE THEY ARE GETTING BAIL OUTS, NOW WE KNOW WHY. AND PAYING THEIR CEO BILLIONS OF DOLLARS ON THE CONSUMER'S BACK. WHY?? NO CONSUMER, NO JOBS FOR ANY OF GM EMPLOYEES. I WANT TO BE REIMBURSED. AGED OF THE VEHICLE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH DEFAULT OF GM VEHICLE PRODUCTS.
Electrical System
Filed May 27, 2015SC
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. AFTER RESTARTING, THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMALLY. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON A SEPARATE OCCASION. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED SIX MONTHS AGO UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V394000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) HOWEVER, THE REMEDY FAILED TO CORRECT THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED FOR THE MOST RECENT FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Engine
Filed May 26, 201579,000 milesCA
MY CAR JUST SHUT OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF EXCELERATION.........THIS HAPPEN TO ME 2X... ONCE TO ONCOMING TRAFFIC!!! AND THE OTHER JUST BEFORE A BLUE LINE TRAIN ...DEALERSHIP TAKES THIS VERY LIGHTLY.I GUESS SOMEONE HAS TO DIE FIRST..IT IS IN THE SHOP RIGHT NOW. I HAVE SO MANY ISSUES THAT I DON'T THINK I SHOULD BE HAVING OR HAD WHEN NEW TOO. .I ALSO NOTICED THAT WHERE MY AIRBAG ON MY STEERING WHEEL .IS LOOKS LIKE IT IS SEPARATING...NOT SURE BUT IT IS NOT FLUSH....I'M AFRAID TO ASK ABOUT THAT SINCE ALL IT DOES IS COST ME$$$$$$$ ALSO I HAD BRAKES FIXED THAT WEREN'T THAT BAD BECAUSE OF NOISE BUT THE NOISE IS STILL THERE NOT ALL THE TIME BUT MORE FREQUENT AND IT SOUNDS LIKE ITS FROM SOME PART OF CLUTCH PART NOT THE BRAKES..... NEW BRAKES DIDN'T FIX ANYTHING.. I AM FIXING THIS CAR MORE THAN WHAT I AM WRITING ABOUT. THE 1ST MONTH I BOUGHT IT I HAD TO RETURN FOR A BOLT WAS COMING LOOSE ON MY STEERING COLUMN...FOUND OUT IT WAS A RECALL. I NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE FOR WORK THAT WAS DONE TO MY CAR THAT LATER I FOUND WAS NOT MY WORK ORDER OR MY VIN #. OR MY MILEAGE... AFTER I PAID FOR HALF THE WORK SINCE MY CAR WASN'T BROUGHT IN FOR ANY OF THAT STUFF.. ONLY A STABILITY LIGHT TO BE CHECKED... WHICH AFTER 11MONTHS WHEN I TOOK IT BACK AGAIN... FOUND THAT WAS NEVER TAKEN CARE OF.. THATS WHY IT WOULD COME OFF AND ON ... I WAS JUST TIRED OF BEING TAKEN... THATS HOW I FELT.. BEING THAT I AM A WOMEN........
Electrical System
Filed Apr 29, 2015OH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC CTS. SINCE THE CONTACT HAS OWNED THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS AN INTERMITTENT SHORT PERTAINING TO THE CONNECTION OF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS TO BE FURTHER INSPECTED AND DIAGNOSED TO DETERMINE IF THERE WAS AN ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Complaints 1-50 of 313, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the CTS years to avoid: owners filed 313 complaints, 2.1 times as many as a typical CTS year. The most common complaint is about the engine (15%).
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Cadillac CTS?
The engine: 47 of the 313 complaints (15%) are about it. Owners most often say it leaks oil or fluid (43%), smokes or smells of burning (21%) and stalls (19%). The typical report comes at 73,638 miles.
How many recalls does the 2003 Cadillac CTS have?
4 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 2, 2014. The largest, 03V250000, covered 1,707,825 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2003 Cadillac CTS problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 72,300 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 73,638 miles.
Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Cadillac CTS?
The manufacturer filed 506 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (80), the engine (68) and the transmission (40). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jul 2, 2014. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.