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2014 Cadillac ATS Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis
2014 Cadillac ATS Report

Overall Score

7.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2014 Cadillac ATS has a 'Below Average' reliability rating, with significant concerns in its powertrain, engine, and electrical systems.
  • Common issues include engine stalling, power loss, and electrical system failures, sometimes appearing at very low mileage.
  • Four recalls were issued, covering components like the automatic transmission shift cable and seat security.
  • Safety ratings are excellent, with perfect scores in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2014 Cadillac ATS

The 2014 Cadillac ATS aimed for compact luxury sport sedan supremacy, offering sharp styling and engaging handling. For the used-car shopper, it presents a compelling, if complex, choice. This ATS features a 3.6L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, delivering a respectable 22 MPG combined. However, a high volume of complaints, particularly concerning the powertrain, electrical system, and engine, coupled with four recalls, signals potential ownership challenges. Buyers should be aware of recurring issues and prioritize thorough pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent reports of transmission issues, including shift cable detachment and differential leaks, are a significant concern. These can lead to loss of propulsion or unintended movement.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

140
Power Train27
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
22
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing sharp styling and a premium interior over long-term reliability.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who expect flawless, trouble-free ownership.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 Cadillac ATS Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 Cadillac ATS.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
22

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 27 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 16 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2014 Cadillac ATS reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Cadillac ATS is 7.8/10. Reliability score is 7.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 140.

How practical is the 2014 Cadillac ATS for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Cadillac ATS is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission Shift Cable (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2014 Cadillac ATS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Cadillac ATS, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Cadillac ATS, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2014 Cadillac ATS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Cadillac ATS, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

Top complaint category: power train (27 reports, 19.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2014 Cadillac ATS?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2014 Audi A4 and 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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