Cadillac CTS Recalls: Every NHTSA Recall by Model Year
The Cadillac CTS has 27 NHTSA safety recalls across model years 2003–2018; the most recent is 26V329000 (May 21, 2026) for air bags, covering 2015–2016 models. The 2014 model year has the most, with 6.
Recall repairs are free at Cadillac dealers. This list is model-level, so it can't tell you whether your car is affected or already fixed. For that, check your VIN.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns · Data pulled Nov 7, 2026 · By CarWhere Research
Most CTS recalls involve air bags (5), steering (4) and electrical system (3).
Cadillac CTS recalls by model year
Campaigns that cover each model year. One campaign can cover several years, so it is counted once in every year it covers.
| Model year | Recalls | Main components | Per-year check |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 2 | steering | 2018 CTS recalls |
| 2017 | 2 | steering | 2017 CTS recalls |
| 2016 | 4 | air bags, steering, seats | 2016 CTS recalls |
| 2015 | 3 | air bags, seats, service brakes | 2015 CTS recalls |
| 2014 | 6 | seats, electrical system, powertrain / transmission | 2014 CTS recalls |
| 2013 | 2 | electrical system | 2013 CTS recalls |
| 2012 | 2 | electrical system, service brakes | 2012 CTS recalls |
| 2011 | 2 | electrical system, air bags | 2011 CTS recalls |
| 2010 | 3 | electrical system, suspension, equipment | 2010 CTS recalls |
| 2009 | 5 | electrical system, suspension, equipment | 2009 CTS recalls |
| 2008 | 2 | electrical system | 2008 CTS recalls |
| 2007 | 6 | fuel system, electrical system, air bags | 2007 CTS recalls |
| 2006 | 6 | fuel system, electrical system, air bags | 2006 CTS recalls |
| 2005 | 6 | fuel system, electrical system, air bags | 2005 CTS recalls |
| 2004 | 6 | fuel system, electrical system, service brakes | 2004 CTS recalls |
| 2003 | 4 | electrical system, service brakes, equipment | 2003 CTS recalls |
Biggest Cadillac CTS recalls
Ranked by the number of vehicles NHTSA lists for the whole campaign. That total often includes other models.
CTS model years: 2003
CTS model years: 2008–2009
CTS model years: 2003–2014
CTS model years: 2005–2007
CTS model years: 2003–2007
All 27 Cadillac CTS recalls (newest first)
May 21, 202626V329000Air bags2015–2016
Component: Air bags (frontal, driver side, inflator module)
CTS model years: 2015–2016 · about 5,014 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, XTS, 2015-2016 Cadillac ATS, CTS, and SRX vehicles. The front-driver air bag inflator may rupture during deployment.
The risk: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix: Dealers will replace the front-driver air bag module, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed June 19, 2026. Additional letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. The manufacturer's number for this recall is N262555870. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 21, 2026.
Mar 20, 202525V175000Steering2016–2018
Component: Steering (electric power assist system)
CTS model years: 2016–2018 · about 934 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: 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.
The risk: A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: 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. GM's number for this recall is N252497020.
Feb 7, 201919V086000Steering2016–2018
Component: Steering (electric power assist system)
CTS model years: 2016–2018 · about 26,772 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: 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.
The risk: Loss of power steering assist would require a higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: 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.
Sep 7, 201818V595000Seats2014–2016
Component: Seats (front assembly, seat heater/cooler)
CTS model years: 2014–2016 · about 52,867 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Cadillac CTS vehicles, equipped with heated front seats. The flexible heating mats in the front seats may be damaged over time, resulting in the seat heaters producing excessive heat.
The risk: In cold ambient temperatures, the seat heaters in these vehicles can turn on automatically when the vehicle is remotely started. If a damaged seat heater is turned on while no one is inside the vehicle, the damaged seat heater can overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will recalibrate the body control module, disabling the automatic activation of the heated seat when the vehicle is remotely started, free of charge. The recall began November 1, 2018. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for the recall is 18286.
Jun 9, 201515V358000Service brakes2015
Component: Service brakes
CTS model years: 2015 · about 2,163 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015 Cadillac ATS and CTS vehicles. The affected vehicles have a bracket between the brake pedal assembly and the rod that actuates the brakes that may fracture during normal brake pedal operation.
The risk: If the bracket fractures, the driver would not be able to apply the brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle and replace any affected bracket, free of charge. The recall began July 6, 2015. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 15352.
Oct 1, 201414V614000Electrical system2013–2014
Component: Electrical system
CTS model years: 2013–2014 · about 106,307 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: 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.
The risk: If the module experiences an electrical short, the vehicle could stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: 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). GMÂs number for this recall is 14515.
Sep 9, 201414V542000Fuel system2004–2007
Component: Fuel system
CTS model years: 2004–2007 · about 10,005 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 Cadillac CTS-V vehicles manufactured October 6, 2003, to March 15, 2007, and 2006-2007 Cadillac STS-V vehicles manufactured June 23, 2005, to March 15, 2007. In the affected vehicles, the electrical terminals of the fuel pump module may overheat resulting in the melting of the flange material.
The risk: If the flange melts, a hole may be created allowing the fuel pump to leak fuel, causing the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. Additionally, leaking fuel in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel module and fuel tank jumper harness, free of charge. GM sent out interim notices in late October. The recall began on March 12, 2015. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14405.
Jul 23, 201414V446000Seats2014
Component: Seats
CTS model years: 2014 · about 124,007 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Buick Encore and Cadillac ATS; 2014 Cadillac CTS, ELR, Chevrolet Caprice and SS vehicles; and 2014-2015 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Trucks. Due to an incomplete weld on the seat hook bracket assembly, the front seats in the affected vehicles may not stay secured in place during a high load condition such as a crash.
The risk: A seat that does not stay secured increases the risk of occupant injury in a vehicle crash.
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the seat hook bracket assembly weld and replace the lower seat track, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 15, 2014. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), and 1-800-462-8782 (GMC). GM's number for this recall is 14340.
Jul 2, 201414V394000Electrical system2003–2014
Component: Electrical system (ignition)
CTS model years: 2003–2014 · about 554,328 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: 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.
The 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.
The fix: 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.
Jun 19, 201414V341000Air bags2011
Component: Air bags
CTS model years: 2011 · about 16,932 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011 Cadillac CTS vehicles manufactured October 18, 2010, to June 2, 2011. In the affected vehicles, vibrations from the drive shaft may cause the vehicle's roll over sensor to command the roof rail air bags to deploy.
The risk: If the roof rail air bags deploy unexpectedly, there is an increased risk of crash and injury to the occupants.
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear drive shaft assembly, free of charge. General Motors distributed an interim letter to owners on August 27, 2014. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14233.
Jun 19, 201414V338000Powertrain / transmission2014
Component: Powertrain / transmission (automatic transmission)
CTS model years: 2014 · about 90,750 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Cadillac ATS vehicles manufactured April 23, 2012, to March 20, 2014, and 2014 Cadillac CTS vehicles manufactured June 10, 2013, to March 20, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the transmission shift cable may detach from either the bracket on the transmission shifter or the bracket on the transmission.
The risk: If the transmission shift cable detaches while the vehicle is being driven, the transmission gear selection may not match the indicated gear and the vehicle may move in an unintended or unexpected direction, increasing the risk of a crash. Furthermore, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, despite selecting the 'PARK' position, the transmission may not be in 'PARK.' If the vehicle is not in the 'PARK' position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles to make sure the cable is properly seated at the transmission and shifter brackets, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in early August 2014. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14179.
May 15, 201414V253000Visibility2014
Component: Visibility (windshield wiper/washer, motor)
CTS model years: 2014 · about 19,225 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014 Cadillac CTS vehicles manufactured June 10, 2013, through February 26, 2014. If the vehicle is turned off with wiper functionality left on and the wipers then become restricted, such as when covered in ice or snow, and the vehicle's battery goes dead and needs to be jump started, upon being jump started, the wipers will be inoperative.
The risk: An inoperative windshield wiper system may decrease the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front wiper module, free of charge. The recall began on July 14, 2104. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14157.
Nov 2, 201111V536000Service brakes2012
Component: Service brakes
CTS model years: 2012 · about 674 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: 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.
The risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF ABILITY TO BRAKE AND a vehicle CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
The fix: 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.
Feb 11, 201111V089000Suspension2009–2010
Component: Suspension (rear)
CTS model years: 2009–2010 · about 44,147 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 CADILLAC CTS VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH A WAX COATING ON THE REAR SUSPENSION TOE LINK JAM NUTS MAY ALLOW THE NUT(S) TO LOOSEN. IF A NUT SUFFICIENTLY LOOSENS, THE TOE LINK COULD SEPARATE AND THE REAR WHEEL WOULD BE ABLE TO TURN INBOARD OR OUTBOARD. OWNERS MAY HEAR A METALLIC CLANKING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE THAT MAY WARN OF A LOOSENING NUT.
The risk: THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE SUDDEN CHANGES WITH VEHICLE HANDLING AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL CLEAN ALL WAX RESIDUE FROM THE REAR SUSPENSION TOE LINK AND INSTALL TWO NEW JAM NUTS. IF NECESSARY THE REAR SUSPENSION TOE LINK MAY BE REPLACED. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE MARCH 24, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339 AND AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.
Dec 17, 201010V644000Air bags2005–2007
Component: Air bags (frontal, sensor/control module-inactive)
CTS model years: 2005–2007 · about 95,927 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2007 CADILLAC CTS VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH REPEATED FLEXING OF THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM MAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAY CAUSE THE MAT TO KINK, BEND, OR FOLD. THIS FLEXING CAN BREAK THE CONNECTIONS IN THE MAT. IF THIS OCCURS, THE SENSOR MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A FRONT SEAT PASSENGER AND WILL DISABLE THE AIR BAG.
The risk: NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH NECESSITATING THAT AIR BAG'S DEPLOYMENT MAY REDUCE PROTECTION OF THE PASSENGER AND INCREASE THE RISK OR SEVERITY OF INJURY TO THEM.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MARCH 15, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 AND AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.
Sep 13, 201010V414000Equipment2009–2010
Component: Equipment
CTS model years: 2009–2010 · about 20,224 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 CADILLAC CTS ALL WHEEL DRIVE AND CTS-V VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
The risk: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE FRONT PASSENGER MAY BE AT AN INCREASED RISK OF LEG INJURY.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT ASSEMBLY AND, IN SOME VEHICLES MODIFY THE INSTRUMENT PANEL STRUCTURE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 20, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339.
Jun 4, 201010V240000Electrical system2008–2009
Component: Electrical system
CTS model years: 2008–2009 · about 1,365,070 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 BUICK, LUCERNE; CADILLAC DTS; HUMMER H2; MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 BUICK ENCLAVE; CADILLAC CTS; MODEL YEAR 2007-2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; GMC ACADIA, SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL; SATURN OUTLOOK; AND MODEL YEAR 2009 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WASHER FLUID SYSTEM (HWFS). A RECALL WAS IMPLEMENTED IN 2008 TO ADD A FUSE TO THE CONTROL CIRCUIT HARNESS TO ADDRESS THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF A PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD (PCB) ELECTRICAL SHORT. HOWEVER, THERE HAVE BEEN NEW REPORTS OF THERMAL INCIDENTS ON HWFS MODULES AFTER THIS IMPROVEMENT WAS INSTALLED. THESE INCIDENTS RESULTED FROM A NEW FAILURE MODE ATTRIBUTED TO THE DEVICE'S THERMAL PROTECTION FEATURE. THE SIGNIFICANCE VARIES FROM MINOR DISTORTION TO CONSIDERABLE MELTING OF THE PLASTIC AROUND THE HWFS FLUID CHAMBER.
The risk: IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE HEATED WASHER MODULE TO IGNITE AND A FIRE MAY OCCUR.
The fix: DEALERS WILL PERMANENTLY DISABLE AND REMOVE THE HEATED WASHER FLUID MODULE. AN UPDATED PAGE FOR THE OWNER MANUAL WILL BE PROVIDED AND INSERTED IN THE OWNER MANUAL TO DOCUMENT THAT THE FEATURE HAS BEEN PERMANENTLY DISABLED AND REMOVED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 11, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 AND HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493 OR AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.
Mar 17, 201010V105000Service brakes2003–2007
Component: Service brakes
CTS model years: 2003–2007 · about 139,131 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: 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.
The 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.
The fix: 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.
Nov 5, 200808V582000Air bags2009
Component: Air bags (frontal)
CTS model years: 2009 · about 12,662 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: GM IS RECALLING 12,662 MY 2009 CADILLAC CTS VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, A SOFTWARE CONDITION WITHIN THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM MAY DISABLE THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG WHEN IT SHOULD BE ENABLED OR ENABLE IT WHEN IT SHOULD BE DISABLED.
The risk: IN A VEHICLE CRASH, IF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG DOES NOT OPERATE AS DESIGNED, INCREASED PERSONAL INJURY COULD OCCUR.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339 OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM>HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM</A> .
Dec 20, 200707V589000Powertrain / transmission2005–2007
Component: Powertrain / transmission (axle assembly, axle shaft, seal)
CTS model years: 2005–2007 · about 275,936 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE REAR AXLE PINION SEAL DOES NOT MEET ALL OF THE SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY EXPERIENCE A FLUID LEAK.
The risk: A REAR DIFFERENTIAL FAILURE MAY CAUSE LOSS OF MOTIVE POWER AND POSSIBLY LOSS OF CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PINION SEAL FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 1, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006 OR HTTP://WWW.CADILLAC.COM; PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668 OR HTTP://WWW.PONTIAC.COM; AND SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876 OR HTTP://WWW.SATURN.COM.
Oct 4, 200707V468000Structure2007
Component: Structure (body, roof and pillars)
CTS model years: 2007 · about 16,677 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 118, 'POWER OPERATED WINDOW, PARTITION, AND ROOF PANEL SYSTEMS.' UNDER THE STANDARD, THE SUNROOF MAY ONLY BE CLOSED WHEN THE IGNITION IS ON, OR AFTER THE IGNITION IS TURNED OFF, BUT BEFORE EITHER OF THE FRONT DOORS ARE OPENED. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CONDITION WHERE THE SUNROOF CAN BE CLOSED AFTER THE IGNITION IS TURNED OFF AND THE DOORS ARE OPENED.
The risk: THIS STANDARD SPECIFIES REQUIREMENTS FOR POWER OPERATED WINDOW, PARTITION, AND ROOF PANEL SYSTEMS TO MINIMIZE THE LIKELIHOOD OF DEATH OR INJURY FROM THEIR ACCIDENTAL OPERATION.
The fix: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A WIRE HARNESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 29, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339.
Jan 25, 200606V020000Fuel system2005–2006
Component: Fuel system
CTS model years: 2005–2006 · about 17,462 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V6 ENGINES MAY HAVE A CONDITION WHERE FUEL IS NO LONGER SUPPLIED TO THE ENGINE. THIS CONDITION OCCURS WITHOUT THE ILLUMINATION OF THE FUEL LEVEL LOW INDICATOR LIGHT OR THE WARNING CHIME.
The risk: IF THE ENGINE STOPS RUNNING, THE OPERATOR WILL NOT BE ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM) WITH NEW SOFTWARE FREE OF CHARGE. OWNERS WERE NOTIFIED IN DECEMBER 2005 AND ASKED TO MAINTAIN AT LEAST 1/4 OF A TANK FUEL LEVEL TO AVOID THIS CONDITION UNTIL THE PARTS ARE AVAILABLE. THE PARTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE, OWNER RENOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MARCH 23, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339.
Jan 20, 200505V024000Air bags2004
Component: Air bags
CTS model years: 2004 · about 87,000 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, AN INTERACTION BETWEEN THE SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE AND VEHICLE'S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAY CAUSE THE DRIVER'S FRONTAL AIR BAG AND/OR ROOF-MOUNTED SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG TO DEPLOY WHEN THE IGNITION KEY IS TURNED TO THE "ON" POSITION.
The risk: A PERSON POSITIONED FOR DRIVING MAY RECEIVE MINOR INJURIES, SUCH AS ABRASIONS, FROM CONTACT WITH A DEPLOYING AIR BAG.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 20, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339.
Jun 9, 200404V273000Steering2004
Component: Steering (linkages)
CTS model years: 2004 · about 41,928 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THIS CAMPAIGN, THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL STUD NUT/WASHER ASSEMBLIES WITH WASHERS WERE MADE OF THE WRONG MATERIAL. THE WASHERS MAY FRACTURE AND BECOME LOOSE OR FALL AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE, REDUCING CLAMP LOAD. SEPARATION OF THE CONTROL ARM BALL STUD AND STEERING KNUCKLE, DUE TO DISENGAGEMENT OF THE TAPERED ATTACHMENT AND RETAINING NUT, IS POSSIBLE.
The risk: IF THE CONTROL ARM SEPARATES FROM THE KNUCKLE, THE AFFECTED CORNER OF THE VEHICLE WILL DROP AND THE CONTROL ARM WOULD BE FORCED DOWNWARD, CONTACTING THE WHEEL. THE AFFECTED WHEEL COULD TILT OUTWARD AND CREATE A DRAGGING ACTION THAT WOULD TEND TO SLOW THE VEHICLE AND CREATE A TENDENCY FOR THE VEHICLE TO TURN IN THE DIRECTION OF THE AFFECTED WHEEL. IN EXTREME SITUATIONS, THE AFFECTED WHEEL ASSEMBLY COULD SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE. SEPARATION OF THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY WOULD ALSO SEVER THAT WHEEL;S HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSE AND RESULT IN DIMINISHED BRAKING PERFORMANCE OF THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BALL STUD JOINTS AND MEASURE THE TORQUE OF THE NUT FOR ALL FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS IN ALL MODELS AFFECTED AS WELL AS THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARMS ON THE XLR AND CORVETTE. IF THE TORQUE IS NOT AT SPECIFICATION, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BALL STUD, THE KNUCKLE, AND THE NUT. IF THE TORQUE IS AT SPECIFICATION, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE NUT/WASHER ASSEMBLY ONLY. THE RECALL WILL BEGIN ON AUGUST 25, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339 OR CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438.
Sep 29, 200303V346000Seats2004
Component: Seats
CTS model years: 2004 · about 6,771 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: CERTAIN PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS." ONE OR BOTH FRONT ANCHOR TABS FOR THE FRONT BUCKET SEATS ARE NOT ENGAGED IN THE FLOOR PAN REINFORCEMENT SLOTS. A SEAT WITH ONLY ONE TAB ENGAGED OR NEITHER ENGAGED WOULD NOT MEET THE STATIC REARWARD LOADING TEST REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
The risk: IN SOME CRASH CONDITIONS, THE SEAT COULD PIVOT REARWARD AND ITS OCCUPANT OR A REAR SEAT OCCUPANT COULD BE INJURED MORE SEVERELY.
The fix: DEALERS WILL ENSURE THAT BOTH FRONT ANCHOR TABS ARE FULLY SEATED IN THE FLOOR PAN REINFORCEMENT SLOTS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 19, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT GM AT 1-800-458-8006.
Jul 15, 200303V250000Equipment2003
Component: Equipment (other, owners/service/other manual)
CTS model years: 2003 · about 1,707,825 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: 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.
The risk: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
The fix: 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.
Mar 24, 200303V115000Steering2003
Component: Steering
CTS model years: 2003 · about 47,835 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT BOLT MAY BE LOOSE.
The 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.
The fix: 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.
How to check if your CTS has an open recall
- Find the 17-character VIN on the driver-side dashboard (visible through the windshield), the door-jamb sticker, or your registration.
- Enter it in the free VIN recall check. It queries NHTSA for your exact vehicle, not just the model.
- If a recall is open, call any Cadillac dealer's service department to book the free repair. Bring the recall number from the list above.
- Buying used? Ask the seller for the dealer's recall-completion printout before you pay.
Or browse by year, for example the 2018 Cadillac CTS recall check.
Recalls are only part of the picture. Owner complaints show which years have the most problems: Cadillac CTS years to avoid.
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Cadillac CTS have?
27 NHTSA safety recall campaigns cover the Cadillac CTS across model years 2003–2018. A single campaign often spans several model years, so the per-year counts in the table add up to more than 27. The 2014 model year has the most, with 6.
What is the latest Cadillac CTS recall?
26V329000, filed with NHTSA on May 21, 2026: air bags (frontal, driver side, inflator module), covering 2015–2016 CTS models. The fix is free at Cadillac dealers.
What is the biggest Cadillac CTS recall?
By vehicles covered, 03V250000 (Jul 15, 2003), a equipment campaign covering about 1,707,825 vehicles in total. That count is for the whole campaign, which can include other models besides the CTS.
How do I check if my Cadillac CTS has an open recall?
Run your 17-character VIN through a VIN recall check. A model-level list can't tell you whether your car was built in the affected range or has already been repaired. Any Cadillac dealer can also look up the VIN and do the repair.
Are Cadillac recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety-recall repairs are done free at franchised Cadillac dealers, whether or not the warranty has expired and wherever you bought the car. Manufacturers must offer a free remedy for vehicles up to 15 years old at the time the recall is filed, and many still repair older ones.
Sources and method
- NHTSA recalls database: every campaign for the CADILLAC CTS, queried by model year through NHTSA's public recalls API (api.nhtsa.gov).
- Affected-vehicle counts are NHTSA's "potential units affected" for the whole campaign, which can include other models.
- Campaigns filed under a separate NHTSA model name (for example a hybrid or heavy-duty variant) are not included here.
- Data pulled Nov 7, 2026. Problem, risk and fix text is NHTSA's own campaign wording.