The Cadillac CT6 Years To Avoid
We've identified two Cadillac CT6 years to avoid based on common complaints and issues. See which ones so you can make a smart used car shopping decision.
The Cadillac CT6, introduced in 2016, represents a bold attempt by the American luxury brand to reclaim its position in the full-size sedan market. This rear-wheel-drive flagship aimed to blend performance, technology, and comfort in a package that could compete with the best from Europe and Asia.
While the CT6 offered a range of powertrains throughout its lifespan, including a potent twin-turbo V8 known as the Blackwing, its journey was not without challenges. From its impressive handling for its size to its mixed reception in the luxury market, the embattled CT6 had a rough run and was eventually discontinued in its 2020 model year.
If you’re considering a used unit or simply curious about Cadillac’s recent history, knowing which Cadillac CT6 years to avoid can save you from headaches down the line.
Which Cadillac CT6 Years to Avoid?
The Cadillac CT6 wasn’t a very popular luxury sedan, so as far as complaints go, it never received too many. However, there are some years that struggled with major mechanical and electrical issues, making them the prime candidates to avoid when shopping for a used car. Below are the Cadillac CT6 years to avoid:
- 2016 Cadillac CT6
- 2017 Cadillac CT6
2016 Cadillac CT6
Like many models, the debut of the CT6 wasn’t exactly a paragon of reliability. Sadly, it received numerous complaints of major issues, including the transmission.
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Rough shifting
The 2016 Cadillac CT6 has gained notoriety among owners for its problematic transmission – thus, we recommend approaching this with caution. Many drivers report experiencing shuddering, hesitation, and rough shifts, particularly during acceleration or when slowing down and speeding up again. These issues persist even after dealer interventions, including transmission oil changes and harness replacements.
Some owners describe the sensation as similar to being rear-ended or driving over rumble strips. The problems appear to affect vehicles across various mileages, from relatively low (8,500 miles) to higher (92,000 miles). While some dealerships have attempted to downplay these concerns as typical for a “busy” transmission, the frequency and severity of complaints suggest a more significant underlying issue.
The transmission problems in the 2016 CT6 are not just inconvenient but potentially costly. Out-of-warranty repairs can run into thousands of dollars, leaving owners frustrated with what they perceive as a defect in a supposedly premium vehicle.
Drivetrain woes
The 2016 Cadillac CT6 also faced significant drivetrain issues beyond its transmission problems. Owners reported unexpected acceleration while in reverse, which was alarming and potentially dangerous. Some drivers experienced sudden jerking motions at stops and delayed performance when accelerating, making city driving particularly challenging.
The vehicle’s unpredictable behavior extended to gear shifts, with many owners describing hard shifts, clunking noises in low gears, and violent forward jolts. These issues persisted across various mileages, affecting both new and used CT6 models.
Keep in mind these instances were only limited to a few reports, so they’re not widespread issues by any means. However, despite the low number of reports, it’s always best to know about these major mechanical problems.
2017 Cadillac CT6
Sadly, the follow-up to the CT6 debut had some questionable reliability quirks that were retained from the previous model, making it one of the Cadillac CT6 years to avoid.
Transmission problems
The 2017 Cadillac CT6 continued to exhibit reliability issues, particularly with its transmission. Owners reported persistent problems similar to those seen in the 2016 model, indicating that Cadillac had not fully resolved the drivetrain concerns.
Many drivers experienced hard shifting, especially between first and second gears, with some describing the transitions as violent. The transmission’s behavior was often unpredictable, with delays when shifting from neutral to reverse and instances where the car wouldn’t move immediately upon pressing the accelerator. This could be particularly alarming in traffic situations.
Owners also noted a shuddering sensation during acceleration, which typically worsened over time. Some reported pulsating sensations when coming to a stop and surging while idling at traffic lights. These issues occurred across various mileages, from nearly new vehicles to those with tens of thousands of miles.
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Faulty drivetrain
The 2017 Cadillac CT6 not only struggled with transmission issues but also faced criticism for its drivetrain performance. Owners reported significant turbo lag in the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine, which required drivers to anticipate power delivery carefully. This lag could lead to hesitation when quick acceleration was needed, potentially creating safety concerns in certain traffic situations.
The turbo lag issue demanded a learning curve for drivers, as they needed to understand when the turbochargers would engage to manage the car’s power effectively. While some owners adapted to this characteristic, others found it frustrating and unpredictable, especially in scenarios requiring immediate power.
This drivetrain quirk, combined with the ongoing transmission problems, further complicated the driving experience of the 2017 CT6, adding to the model year’s reliability concerns.
Which Cadillac CT6 Years are Safe to Buy as Used?
That wraps up our list of the worst Cadillac CT6 years to avoid, but which ones should you invest in instead?
2018 Cadillac CT6
If you’re in the market for a used luxury sedan, the 2018 Cadillac CT6 deserves your attention. You’ll find a comfortable ride and spacious interior that can rival European competitors. The Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving feature is a nice touch, as is the powerful 3.0L twin-turbo engine and the smooth ride courtesy of the Magnetic Ride Control. Audiophiles will appreciate the Panaray sound system, while the Night Vision technology adds a layer of safety and sophistication.
However, be aware that some owners have reported issues. You might encounter transmission quirks, such as harsh shifts or hesitation. In extreme weather, the climate control system could struggle to maintain your desired temperature. The infotainment system and Apple CarPlay might also present occasional hiccups.
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Despite these potential drawbacks, many CT6 owners are quite satisfied overall. If you do your homework and have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough inspection before purchase, a used 2018 CT6 could provide you with excellent value in a feature-packed luxury sedan.
Ultimately, the Cadillac CT6’s journey was marked by both innovation and setbacks. While early models had significant issues, later years showed improvement. For those considering a used CT6, careful research and inspection are non-negotiable.
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