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2021 Cadillac CT4 Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·3 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The engine is the most frequently cited complaint area, suggesting potential powertrain durability concerns.
  • Critical airbag recalls necessitate verification of proper repair completion.
  • Software-related issues, particularly concerning exterior lighting, are prevalent among recalls.
  • Transmission problems, including hesitation and hard shifting, have been reported and may require attention.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Cadillac CT4

The 2021 Cadillac CT4 aims for compact luxury, but its first model year in this generation brings notable concerns for used car shoppers. With 10 recalls and 8 complaints logged, issues range from critical airbag recalls to recurring engine and transmission problems. Its 25 MPG combined fuel economy is competitive, but potential buyers should brace for possible repair costs given the number of technical service bulletins (103) and the nature of reported failures.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate potential durability concerns with the powertrain, specifically the engine and transmission. Issues include repeated transmission valve body failures and general hesitation or hard shifting. These can lead to significant downtime.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls10
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

8
Engine2
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.4/ 10

Practicality

4.5/ 10

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers prioritizing sharp styling and a premium interior over long-term, trouble-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a low-maintenance, highly reliable daily driver.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Cadillac CT4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Cadillac CT4.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
25

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

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

2. TIRES:SIDEWALL

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 - Inspect Brakes

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 (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
10 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Cadillac CT4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Cadillac CT4 is 7.4/10. Reliability score is 7.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 10. Owner complaints: 8.

How practical is the 2021 Cadillac CT4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Cadillac CT4 is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission Valve Body (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $2,500).

What engine is in the 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.7.

What transmission does the 2021 Cadillac CT4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Cadillac CT4, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 CT4 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

7 standard and 5 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Forward Collision Warning.

How many people fit in a 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Cadillac CT4, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Cadillac CT4, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Cadillac CT4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Cadillac CT4, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

Top complaint category: engine (2 reports, 25% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

This model year has 10 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Cadillac CT4?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2021 Audi A4.

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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