2016 Cadillac ATS Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2016 Cadillac ATS is rated below average for reliability, with significant owner concerns in the powertrain, steering, and electrical systems.
- Powertrain issues, including shuddering and hard shifts, are the most common complaints, potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Electrical system problems, notably with the CUE touchscreen, and steering system failures are also prevalent.
- Safety-critical complaints include airbag system malfunctions and wheel cracking, demanding thorough inspection.
2016 Cadillac ATS
The 2016 Cadillac ATS, while offering a premium feel and engaging driving dynamics for its class, carries a significant reliability question mark for used buyers. Despite a relatively low recall count of 2, a substantial 39 complaints highlight recurring problems. The most frequently cited issues involve the powertrain, electrical system, airbags, wheels, and steering. These areas, particularly the powertrain and steering, have been linked to serious drivability concerns and even accidents. With 889 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), there's a clear indication of ongoing quality control efforts or persistent issues that warrant careful consideration.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints frequently cite hard downshifts, shuddering, stalling, and transmission problems, sometimes requiring component replacement. This is the most reported issue category.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Enthusiasts seeking a sharp-handling luxury sedan who are willing to accept higher maintenance risks.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance vehicle.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Cadillac ATS Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Cadillac ATS.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 8 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 5 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Cadillac ATS reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Cadillac ATS is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 39.
How practical is the 2016 Cadillac ATS for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Cadillac ATS is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 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 System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,500).
What engine is in the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2016 Cadillac ATS use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Cadillac ATS, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2016 ATS require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Cadillac ATS, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Cadillac ATS use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Cadillac ATS, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
Top complaint category: power train (8 reports, 20.5% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Audi A4 and 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.