What are the most common problems with the 2014 Cadillac CTS?

The power train group has the most complaints with 84. Suspension, electrical and steering follow.

Does the 2014 Cadillac CTS have recalls?

Yes. The by-year data shows 7 recalls for this model year. See the Recalls section for the full list.

What gas mileage does the 2014 Cadillac CTS get?

See the fuel economy section on this page for the EPA figures.

Is the 2014 Cadillac CTS reliable?

Owner complaints are one signal. Look at the problems, recalls and year comparison sections together.

2014 Cadillac CTS Problems, Recalls and MPG

Q: How many complaints does the 2014 Cadillac CTS have?

NHTSA has 146 owner complaints on file.

NHTSA has 146 owner complaints on file for the 2014 Cadillac CTS^[1]. The same year also has 7 recalls on record^[2].

146owner complaints^[1]

7recalls^[2]

14–23MPG combined (EPA)^[3]

5★NHTSA overall rating^[4]

Problems
Recalls
Fuel economy
Safety
Engine and size
By year
Verdict
FAQ

Most reported problems

Owners filed complaints across several parts of the car, and one group stands well above the rest.

Power train. 84 complaints^[5]. In the stories we read, owners describe trouble with the rear axle and differential, including noise, vibration and a rear end that locked up while driving. Some also describe warning messages and reduced power, and a car that shifted itself into park.
Suspension. 17 complaints^[6]. Owners describe worn bushings, a failing hub bearing and broken struts, along with clunking noises when turning.
Electrical system. 13 complaints^[7]. In the stories we read, owners describe a car that would not start, ignition switch trouble and starters that failed more than once. One owner describes a stall that led to a crash.
Steering. 13 complaints^[8]. Owners describe power steering that quit without warning, a wheel that seized up and a steering rack or motor that had to be replaced.
Unknown or other. 13 complaints^[9]. These do not fit a single named part.
Engine. 9 complaints^[10].
Wheels. 6 complaints^[11].
Seats. 5 complaints^[12].

Recalls

Newest first. Each recall covers only certain vehicles, so not every 2014 CTS is necessarily included.

Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit (20V038), January 2020. About 2,866 vehicles are potentially affected across every model and year the recall names. The recall names these risks: a crash. Dealers do the repair free of charge.^[13]
Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler (18V595), September 2018. About 52,867 vehicles are potentially affected across every model and year the recall names. The recall names these risks: fire. Dealers do the repair free of charge.^[14]
Electrical System (14V614), October 2014. About 106,307 vehicles are potentially affected across every model and year the recall names. The recall names these risks: a crash, stalling. Dealers do the repair free of charge.^[15]
Seats (14V446), July 2014. About 124,007 vehicles are potentially affected across every model and year the recall names. The recall names these risks: a crash, injury. Dealers do the repair free of charge.^[16]
Electrical System › Ignition (14V394), July 2014. About 554,328 vehicles are potentially affected across every model and year the recall names. The recall names these risks: a crash, injury, an air bag that may not work as intended. Dealers do the repair free of charge.^[17]
Power Train › Automatic Transmission (14V338), June 2014. About 90,750 vehicles are potentially affected across every model and year the recall names. The recall names these risks: a crash, injury, the car rolling away. Dealers do the repair free of charge.^[18]
Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer › Motor (14V253), May 2014. About 19,225 vehicles are potentially affected across every model and year the recall names. The recall names these risks: a crash, reduced visibility. Dealers do the repair free of charge.^[19]

Fuel economy

EPA ratings depend on the engine and drive. Annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not prices when the car was new.

Version	City / highway / combined MPG	Annual fuel cost
CTS Sedan AWD, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive^[20]	18 / 26 / 21	$3,200
CTS AWD, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive^[21]	18 / 26 / 21	$3,200
CTS, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive^[22]	18 / 27 / 21	$3,200
CTS Wagon, 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive^[23]	18 / 26 / 21	$3,200
CTS Wagon AWD, 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive^[24]	18 / 26 / 21	$3,200
CTS Wagon AWD, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive^[25]	18 / 26 / 21	$3,200
CTS Wagon, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive^[26]	18 / 26 / 21	$3,200
CTS Sedan AWD, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive^[27]	19 / 28 / 22	$3,050
CTS Sedan, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive^[3]	20 / 29 / 23	$2,900
CTS, 6.2L 8-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive^[28]	14 / 19 / 16	$5,150
CTS V, 6.2L 8-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive^[29]	14 / 19 / 16	$5,150
CTS, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive^[30]	12 / 18 / 14	$5,850
CTS V, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive^[31]	12 / 18 / 14	$5,850
CTS Wagon, 6.2L 8-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive^[32]	14 / 19 / 16	$5,150
CTS Wagon, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive^[33]	12 / 18 / 14	$5,850
CTS Sedan, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S8), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive^[34]	18 / 28 / 22	$3,050
CTS Sedan, 3.6L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive^[35]	16 / 24 / 18	$4,550

Safety ratings

Version	Overall	Frontal	Side	Rollover	Rollover risk
4 DR AWD^[4]	5	5	5	5	10.1%
4 DR RWD^[36]	5	5	5	5	10.1%
4 DR AWD^[37]	n/a	n/a	5	4	10.3%
4 DR RWD^[38]	n/a	n/a	5	4	10.3%

NHTSA lists these versions as not rated: 2 DR AWD^[39], SW AWD^[40], SW RWD^[41], 2 DR RWD^[42].

Engine and size

Horsepower is the rating listed for EPA test vehicles.

Engine	Horsepower
2014 Cadillac CTS with 3.6L 6-cylinder^[43]	301 to 420 hp
2014 Cadillac CTS with 6.2L 8-cylinder^[44]	556 hp

How 2014 compares with other years

Owner complaints filed with NHTSA for each CTS model year. The 2014 is highlighted^[2].

Show the numbers

Model year	Complaints	Recalls
2003	313	4
2004	229	7
2005	284	7
2006	272	7
2007	218	7
2008	175	2
2009	167	5
2010	68	3
2011	108	2
2012	67	2
2013	73	2
2014	146	7
2015	50	4
2016	31	4
2017	27	2
2018	8	2
2019	10	0

NHTSA's counts for the CTS show 146 complaints and 7 recalls for 2014^[2]. Among the 17 model years listed, 9 have fewer complaints than 2014 and 7 have more^[2]. The fewest complaints are for 2018 (8) and the most are for 2003 (313)^[2]. These counts are not adjusted for sales, so treat them as a rough guide. The chart above shows every year.

Should you buy a used 2014 CTS?

The 2014 Cadillac CTS has a fairly long complaint record at 146 reports^[1]. Most of the weight sits in the power train group at 84 complaints^[5], so that is the area to ask about first. Suspension, electrical and steering groups are smaller but still show up in owner stories^[6]^[7]^[8]. These are unverified owner reports and are not adjusted for sales. Check the recall and year comparison sections on this page before you decide.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems with the 2014 Cadillac CTS?: The power train group has the most complaints with 84^[5]. Suspension, electrical and steering follow^[6]^[7]^[8].
Does the 2014 Cadillac CTS have recalls?: Yes. The by-year data shows 7 recalls for this model year^[2]. See the Recalls section for the full list.
How many complaints does the 2014 Cadillac CTS have?: NHTSA has 146 owner complaints on file^[1].
What gas mileage does the 2014 Cadillac CTS get?: See the fuel economy section on this page for the EPA figures.
Is the 2014 Cadillac CTS reliable?: Owner complaints are one signal^[1]. Look at the problems, recalls and year comparison sections together.

Keep exploring

Other model years of the Cadillac CTS

2004 229 complaints, 7 recalls
2005 284 complaints, 7 recalls
2006 272 complaints, 7 recalls
2007 218 complaints, 7 recalls
2008 175 complaints, 2 recalls
2009 167 complaints, 5 recalls
2010 68 complaints, 3 recalls
2011 108 complaints, 2 recalls
2013 73 complaints, 2 recalls
2014 this page
2015 50 complaints, 4 recalls
2016 31 complaints, 4 recalls

Compare all model years of the Cadillac CTS

Other Cadillac models from 2014

2014 Cadillac SRX 390 complaints, 2 recalls

All Cadillac models

Similar cars from 2014: midsize cars

2014 Dodge Challenger 149 complaints, 4 recalls
2014 Ford Fusion 1,432 complaints, 20 recalls
2014 Honda Accord 1,012 complaints, 5 recalls
2014 Kia Optima 621 complaints, 7 recalls
2014 Lexus ES 46 complaints, 1 recall
2014 Lincoln MKZ 125 complaints, 13 recalls

All midsize cars we cover

Facts and sources

NHTSA has 146 owner complaints on file for the 2014 Cadillac CTS (4 mention a crash, 0 a fire, 5 injuries, 0 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
Owner complaints and recalls for every Cadillac CTS model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
EPA rating for CTS Sedan, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 20 city / 29 highway / 23 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,900. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR AWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 10.1%. NHTSA vehicle records
84 complaints name the power train component group (1 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 78,000). NHTSA vehicle records
17 complaints name the suspension component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 60,000). NHTSA vehicle records
13 complaints name the electrical system component group (1 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 23,962). NHTSA vehicle records
13 complaints name the steering component group (1 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 40,400). NHTSA vehicle records
13 complaints name the unknown or other component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 36,700). NHTSA vehicle records
9 complaints name the engine component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 85,000). NHTSA vehicle records
6 complaints name the wheels component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries). NHTSA vehicle records
5 complaints name the seats component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries). NHTSA vehicle records
Recall 20V038, filed January 23, 2020: Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit. NHTSA recall database
Recall 18V595, filed September 7, 2018: Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater / Cooler. NHTSA recall database
Recall 14V614, filed October 1, 2014: Electrical System. NHTSA recall database
Recall 14V446, filed July 23, 2014: Seats. NHTSA recall database
Recall 14V394, filed July 2, 2014: Electrical System › Ignition. NHTSA recall database
Recall 14V338, filed June 19, 2014: Power Train › Automatic Transmission. NHTSA recall database
Recall 14V253, filed May 15, 2014: Visibility › Windshield Wiper / Washer › Motor. NHTSA recall database
EPA rating for CTS Sedan AWD, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS AWD, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 27 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Wagon, 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Wagon AWD, 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Wagon AWD, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Wagon, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Sedan AWD, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, All-Wheel Drive: 19 city / 28 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,050. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS, 6.2L 8-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 14 city / 19 highway / 16 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $5,150. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS V, 6.2L 8-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 14 city / 19 highway / 16 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $5,150. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 12 city / 18 highway / 14 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $5,850. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS V, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 12 city / 18 highway / 14 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $5,850. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Wagon, 6.2L 8-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 14 city / 19 highway / 16 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $5,150. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Wagon, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 12 city / 18 highway / 14 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $5,850. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Sedan, 3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (S8), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 28 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,050. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
EPA rating for CTS Sedan, 3.6L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S8), Premium, Rear-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 24 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR RWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 5 stars; rollover risk 10.1%. NHTSA vehicle records
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR AWD: side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 10.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR RWD: side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 10.3%. NHTSA vehicle records
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 2 DR AWD: not rated. NHTSA vehicle records
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, SW AWD: not rated. NHTSA vehicle records
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, SW RWD: not rated. NHTSA vehicle records
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 2 DR RWD: not rated. NHTSA vehicle records
EPA Test Car List, 2014 Cadillac CTS with 3.6L 6-cylinder: rated 301 to 420 hp depending on version. www.epa.gov
EPA Test Car List, 2014 Cadillac CTS with 6.2L 8-cylinder: rated 556 hp. www.epa.gov

Complaints submitted to NHTSA by owners; unverified reports, one complaint can name several components. Complaint counts are not normalized by sales; compare years of the same model, not different models. EPA annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the car was new. Horsepower is the rating listed for EPA test vehicles. Dimensions are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US models.

2014 Cadillac CTS: problems, recalls and fuel economy