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2019 Cadillac ATS Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Cadillac ATS is rated as 'Average' for reliability, underscoring the need for careful pre-purchase inspection.
  • Key ownership concerns center on intermittent issues with the engine, steering, electrical system, and service brakes, which have been reported early in the vehicle's life.
  • With 0 recalls, there are no outstanding manufacturer safety campaigns, but this does not negate potential reliability concerns.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving a combined 23 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Cadillac ATS

The 2019 Cadillac ATS, a compact luxury sedan, offers a compelling blend of sharp handling and upscale appointments, making it an attractive option on the used market. Under the hood, a capable 3.6L V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power. Its rear-wheel-drive bias, with available all-wheel drive, contributes to its sporty character. However, potential buyers should be aware of its average reliability rating. While there are no recalls, a small number of complaints point to issues in the engine, steering, electrical system, and brakes, some appearing at low mileage. The high TSB count suggests underlying complexity.

Critical Failure Risk

Intermittent stalling at a complete stop, with the vehicle restarting after a delay. This can be concerning in traffic.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

4
Engine1
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

3.7/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a sporty and luxurious compact sedan with engaging handling.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Owners who demand near-flawless reliability and minimal unscheduled maintenance.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Cadillac ATS Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Cadillac ATS.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
23

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See the full 2019 Cadillac ATS buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

2. Steering

Usage: 1 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 System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Cadillac ATS reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Cadillac ATS is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 4.

How practical is the 2019 Cadillac ATS for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 4.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Cadillac ATS is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 3.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Control Module (ECM) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $1200).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

Base MSRP is $48,395.

What engine is in the 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2019 Cadillac ATS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac ATS, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

10 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac ATS, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac ATS, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Cadillac ATS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac ATS, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

What are the most common engine problems on the 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

Top complaint category: engine (1 reports, 25% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Cadillac ATS?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Audi A4 and 2019 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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