Used Vehicle Review: Cadillac CTS, 2003-2007

[91 s-10baja]

July 5, 2007

Used Vehicle Review:
Cadillac CTS, 2003-2007

2004 Cadillac CTS. Click image to enlarge
Review by Chris Chase; photos by Greg Wilson
Discuss this story in the forum at CarTalkCanada Cadillac pretty much hit rock bottom in 1982, with the Cimarron. It was a rebadged Chevy Cavalier, and about as far from what a Cadillac should be as you could get, considering that half a century previous, the brand called itself "The Standard of the World" and built cars powered by 16-cylinder engines.
http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/cc/03-07cts.htm

[91 s-10baja]

Transport Canada Recall Number: 2004206; Units affected: 1,411 2004 (affects other GM models): Certain vehicles were produced with lower control arm ball stud nut/washer assemblies with washers made of the wrong steel material. The washers may fracture and become loose or fall away from the vehicle, reducing clamp load. Separation of the control arm ball stud and steering knuckle, due to disengagement of the tapered attachment and retaining nut, is possible and may occur without prior indication to the vehicle operator. If the control arm separates from the knuckle, the affected corner of the vehicle will drop and the control arm would be forced downward, contacting the wheel. The affected wheel could tilt outward and create a dragging action that would tend to slow the vehicle and create a tendency for the vehicle to turn in the direction of the affected wheel. In extreme situations, the affected wheel assembly could separate from the vehicle. Separation of the wheel assembly would also sever that wheel's hydraulic brake hose and result in diminished braking performance of the vehicle, which could result in a crash. Correction: Dealers will install a new nut and washer, and if required, replace the ball stud and/or steering knuckle.

Mine had this recall performed!

The steering sensor, which is apparently tied into the Stabilitrak traction and stability control system used in the CTS, is known to go bad, and it looks like crankshaft position sensors might be a weak point, too.

Mine had this issue too!! My stabilty control system continued to pop up on my screen while I was going 50mph plus in a straight line!!

[AndrewGS]

Not a bad used buy as it seems. I'll have to flip through eBay to see if there are any interesting deals.