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2019 Cadillac CTS Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Top safety ratings (5-star overall) provide peace of mind.
  • The 3.6L V6 engine delivers capable performance, but engine and powertrain complaints are notable.
  • A high TSB count suggests potential complexity or frequent minor updates requiring attention.
  • Be vigilant for issues like sporadic acceleration, hard shifting, and potential differential noise.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Cadillac CTS

The 2019 Cadillac CTS presents a compelling blend of luxury and performance, featuring a standard 3.6L V6 engine and available all-wheel drive. It achieved top marks in NHTSA crash tests, earning 5 stars overall. However, prospective buyers should be aware of its 'Below Average' reliability rating. While there are no recalls, a significant number of owner complaints and a high TSB count (209) point to potential issues, particularly concerning the powertrain, engine, and electronic systems. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, rated at 19 MPG combined.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues with the powertrain, including hard shifting and potential differential problems. This can manifest as clunks, hesitations, or noticeable changes in how the transmission engages gears.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

16
Power Train3
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.9/ 10

Practicality

3.6/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a comfortable and safe luxury sedan with a powerful V6.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing long-term, trouble-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Cadillac CTS Reliability Analysis

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

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Wagon
EPA Combined MPG
19

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

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 3 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 2 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

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 (4 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 CTS reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Cadillac CTS is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 16.

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

Practicality score is 3.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

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

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Cadillac CTS is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 3.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Cadillac CTS?▾

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 at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1500 • Max: $3500).

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

Base MSRP is $54,695.

What engine is in the 2019 Cadillac CTS?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2019 Cadillac CTS use?▾

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

Does the 2019 CTS require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

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

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

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

11 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 CTS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac CTS, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Cadillac CTS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac CTS, body style is wagon.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Cadillac CTS use?▾

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

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Cadillac CTS?▾

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

What are the most common power train problems on the 2019 Cadillac CTS?▾

Top complaint category: power train (3 reports, 18.8% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Cadillac CTS?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Audi A6 and 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-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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