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2017 Cadillac CT6 Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 8-speed automatic transmission is a primary concern, with many owners reporting harsh shifts, shuddering, and hesitation. This can significantly impact drivability and potentially lead to costly repairs.
  • Electrical system issues, including water intrusion affecting infotainment and climate controls, are another common complaint. Inspect these systems thoroughly.
  • A sunroof failure (exploding glass) was reported at over 100,000 miles, suggesting a potential material or stress issue.
  • Two recalls were issued for exterior lighting. Ensure these have been addressed by a dealer.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Cadillac CT6

The 2017 Cadillac CT6 aimed for the luxury sedan segment with a blend of technology and comfort. For the used-car shopper, however, its appeal is tempered by documented reliability issues. The most prominent concerns center on the powertrain, specifically the 8-speed automatic transmission, which has drawn numerous complaints for harsh shifting and shuddering. Electrical system issues, including water intrusion affecting various components, also appear frequently. While safety ratings are not provided, the vehicle did have two recalls related to exterior lighting. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential mechanical and electrical gremlins.

Critical Failure Risk

The 8-speed automatic transmission (8L90) is prone to harsh shifts, shuddering, and hesitation. This can be exacerbated by the auto stop/start system. Some reports indicate potential for loss of traction control and active steering due to these issues.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

23
Power Train8
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.7/ 10

Practicality

5.3/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a luxury sedan experience on a tighter budget, willing to accept potential reliability risks.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand absolute mechanical dependability and low running costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Cadillac CT6 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Cadillac CT6.

  • 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. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 8 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 4 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 Brake System - Inspect Suspension Components

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Cadillac CT6 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Cadillac CT6 is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 23.

How practical is the 2017 Cadillac CT6 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.3/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Cadillac CT6 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Automatic Transmission (typical at 72,027 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

Base MSRP is $83,795.

What engine is in the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

Engine specs list 2.0T • 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2017 Cadillac CT6 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac CT6, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 CT6 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

12 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 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac CT6, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac CT6, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Cadillac CT6 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac CT6, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

Top complaint category: power train (8 reports, 34.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Cadillac CT6?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class and 2017 Audi A6.

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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