2006 Cadillac Dts Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2006 Cadillac Dts, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Electrical7923.4%
- Exterior lighting7823.1%
- Engine4713.9%
- Steering339.8%
- Driver assistance236.8%
- Airbags123.6%
- Interior & seats123.6%
- Tires & wheels103.0%
- Brakes103.0%
- Visibility61.8%
- Other / unspecified61.8%
- Powertrain (other)51.5%
- Fuel system41.2%
- Body & structure41.2%
- Suspension41.2%
- Heating & air conditioning30.9%
- Transmission10.3%
- Seat belts10.3%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
While driving at night in July, 2023 on [XXX] , both headlights began to go out intermittently but not simultaneously. Continued driving for approximately 3 hours to final destination. Took to local Cadillac dealer for diagnostics (Invoice [XXX]) and after dialogue with dealer had both assemblies replaced as was informed the electronics have been noted to fail in these assemblies. I replaced both assemblies for approximately $2,950.00 (Invoice [XXX}). As a follow-up, during a recent 5,000 mile trip during February 2024, driving in cold, rain, snow and road spray conditions for days, both headlight assemblies accumulated a significant amount of moisture (see photo) behind the lenses. Cadillac dealer did replace left assembly (drivers side) under parts warranty but not the right side. Both headlight assemblies are operating without incident since replacement, except as noted above on assemblies not sealed against environment/elements. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Driving at night on I-29 South and headlights went off intermittently but not simultaneously. Headlamps continued intermittent cut-out until reached destination (approx 3 hours later). As a safety issue for driving while dark, had both assemblies replaced at Cadillac dealer for approx $3,950.00. Replacement was Cadillac recommendation as it was stated the electronics do fail in these headlight assemblies. After replacement and as a follow-up, new assemblies were installed and are not sealed against the elements. In February 2024, on a 5,000 mile trip, drove several hours during cold, snowy and raining conditions. Both headlight assemblies had a considerable amount of moisture inside the lens housings (see photo). Cadillac dealer did replace one of the new headlight assemblies due to moisture accumulation in assembly under parts warranty, but not both.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
While driving at night in July, 2023 on [XXX] , both headlights began to go out intermittently but not simultaneously. Continued driving for approximately 3 hours to final destination. Took to local Cadillac dealer for diagnostics (Invoice [XXX]) and after dialogue with dealer had both assemblies replaced as was informed the electronics have been noted to fail in these assemblies. I replaced both assemblies for approximately $2,950.00 (Invoice [XXX}). As a follow-up, during a recent 5,000 mile trip during February 2024, driving in cold, rain, snow and road spray conditions for days, both headlight assemblies accumulated a significant amount of moisture (see photo) behind the lenses. Cadillac dealer did replace left assembly (drivers side) under parts warranty but not the right side. Both headlight assemblies are operating without incident since replacement, except as noted above on assemblies not sealed against environment/elements. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Driving at night on I-29 South and headlights went off intermittently but not simultaneously. Headlamps continued intermittent cut-out until reached destination (approx 3 hours later). As a safety issue for driving while dark, had both assemblies replaced at Cadillac dealer for approx $3,950.00. Replacement was Cadillac recommendation as it was stated the electronics do fail in these headlight assemblies. After replacement and as a follow-up, new assemblies were installed and are not sealed against the elements. In February 2024, on a 5,000 mile trip, drove several hours during cold, snowy and raining conditions. Both headlight assemblies had a considerable amount of moisture inside the lens housings (see photo). Cadillac dealer did replace one of the new headlight assemblies due to moisture accumulation in assembly under parts warranty, but not both.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2006 Cadillac DTS. The contact stated he became aware that oil was leaking underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the oil pan was replaced; however, the failure reoccurred and the oil pan was replaced again. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 132,000.
So we bought the car. In 2012 or 2013. And in 2014 we received a yellow letter in the mail saying that our car needed to be serviced for a recall. We set it up. Ended up taking it in To be serviced for the recalls. Not knowing in 2008 they recalled what is now going wrong in the car, I didn’t say anything at the time we repaired it. It they didn’t either I believe and even if we didn’t say anything they honestly should’ve just repaired the part that was messed up for us and then let us know: now we have spent so much money towing our car back to our house so that it is safe, and have missed appointments, been stranded, I mean we have really, honestly and truly, very very compromised but this issue with the electrical system Our car is having all the time since this recall repair was administered: NOW IT HAS JUST GOTTEN SO BAD WE CAN NOYT EVEN DRIVE IT. We will get stuck where ever we turn it off unfortunately. I’ve not looked online at information taken all the necessary needs to find out if my vehicle was given the recall before we owned it just to be sure too, it was not. I know that everything that I have read relates directly perfectly to Every single issue that we are have ig Now on our car. The recall from 2014 the key doesn’t come out the ignition anymore and that’s very good, but I know that The CADILLAC Dealer, DID NOT!! Install any other part into the car but that service it asked for. Like beyond a doubt I don’t know what to do and would love to be able to get some answers soon. Thank you very much. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2006 Cadillac DTS. The contact stated that a recurring power steering failure had occurred at startup, and the steering wheel was firm. The contact stated that upon adding power steering fluid to the power steering reservoir, there was an immediate power steering fluid leak. Additionally, the brakes and check engine warning lights were illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 06V105000 (Steering). However, after contacting the manufacturer, the contact was informed the vehicle was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was referred to a local dealer for potential assistance from Goodwill. The failure mileage was approximately 192,000.
I called OnStar because my car would not start and they sent someone from GM. The guy looked at my car, could not identify the problem, so I got it towed to a repair shop. Ends up, I had to replace the transmission. The repair shop ran electric test on the vehicle and no codes or issues. My dash is now reading service power steering and this is a safety issue that needs to be fixed by the manufacturer.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
I called OnStar because my car would not start and they sent someone from GM. The guy looked at my car, could not identify the problem, so I got it towed to a repair shop. Ends up, I had to replace the transmission. The repair shop ran electric test on the vehicle and no codes or issues. My dash is now reading service power steering and this is a safety issue that needs to be fixed by the manufacturer.
Stabilitrak light on
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
Suffered chemical burn to my right lower arm after airbag deployed & ruptured in my 2006 Cadillac DTS sedan during a front-impact motor vehicle accident.
TODAY I HAD THE GM RECALL 14299 PERFORMED ON MY CADILLAC DTS AT MY LOCAL CADILLAC DEALERSHIP. THE REPAIR TOOK ABOUT 1 HOUR AND THE CAR WAS RETURNED TO ME WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE DEALERSHIP THAT ONE KEY HAD A "CLAMP" ON IT AND IF I REMOVED THE "CLAMP" AND THE NEW KEY INSERT DID NOT STAY IN PLACE THAT THEY WOULD NEED TO "FIGURE SOMETHING OUT". I WAITED AN HOUR FOR THE GLUE TO DRY AND ATTEMPTED TO REMOVE THE "CLAMP" AND THE INSERT WAS ADHERED TO THE CLAMP AS IT APPEARED RESIDUAL GLUE HAD STUCK TO THE FACE OF THE INSERT AND THE UNDERNEATH SLIDE OF THE CLAMP. I THEN WENT TO PUT A KEY CHAIN ON MY GM VALET KEY AND THE INSERT POPPED OUT OF PLACE ON THAT KEY AS WELL. I HAVE NOT YET CONTACTED THE GM DEALERSHIP, BUT THIS RECALL REPAIR IS VERY TROUBLING AS IT DOES NOT APPEAR THAT THIS REPAIR WILL HAVE THE LONGEVITY NEEDED TO STAY IN PLACE AND PROTECT THE CONSUMER. I HAVE PHOTOS OF THE KEYS IF NEEDED. *TR
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC DTS. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE AT NIGHT, THE HEADLIGHTS CONTINUSLY FLASHED OFF AND ON. OCCASIONALLY, ONLY ONE HEADLIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE AND THE SECOND LIGHT WOULD RANDOMLY SHUT OFF. ALSO, THE INTERIOR DOME LIGHTING WOULD REMAIN ILLUMINATED WHILE DRIVING. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER (ED MORRIS CADILLAC OF TAMPA, FLORIDA) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 48,000.
PASSENGER SIDE SEAT HEATING ELEMENT NOT WORKING.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC DTS EQUIPPED WITH DEXTERO TOURING DTR1 TIRES, SIZE: 225/55/R17 (NA). THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS WIFE'S CO-WORKER NOTICED BUBBLES ON THE SIDEWALL OF THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTO CENTER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIRE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO PAY OUT OF POCKET AND SEEK REIMBURSEMENT; HOWEVER, THE TIRE WAS OUT OF STOCK. THE TIRE WAS NOT REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO CALL NHTSA. THE APPROXIMATE VEHICLE AND TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 148,000. THE DOT NUMBER WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM STAYS ON EVEN WHEN TIRES ARE PROPERLY INFLATED. *TR
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC DTS. WHILE UNDERGOING AN OIL CHANGE AT LINDSAY CADILLAC OF ALEXANDRIA (1525 KENWOOD AVE, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22302, (703) 935-4445), THE DEALER NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE AND FUEL LINES WERE CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND CONFIRMED CORROSION WAS PRESENT ON THE FUEL LINE AND BRAKE LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 44,000.*CW *DL
STABILITRAC/BRAKES WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD COME ON INTERMITATELY, WHEN IT'S HOT OUT. OR JUST SITTING AT IDLE FOR 30 SECONDS. FRONT BRAKES PUMP ON AND OFF, WHEN MOVING
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT 65 MPH AND SUDDENLY I SAW A FLASH OUT OF THE CORNER OF MY EYE OVER MY HEAD FOLLOWED BY A TREMENDOUS "BOOM" ABOVE ME. THE SUNROOF THEN DISINTEGRATED INTO MANY SHARP SHARDS AND RAINED AROUND THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER GETTING INTO THE SHIFTING MECHANISM, ELECTRIC SEATS, SEATBELT CONNECTORS AND ALL OVER THE PASSENGERS. THERE WAS NO IMPACT AND THE SUNROOF BLEW UP AND OUTWARDS FROM THE INSIDE OF THE CAR. *TR
06 CADILLAC DTS HAS HAD SERIOUS ELECTRICAL/COMPUTER SYSTEM FAILURES SINCE NEW. VEHICLE WILL SUDDENLY LOSE ALL ELECTRONICS, INSTRUMENTS, LIGHTS BUT ENGINE WILL STILL RUN. AFTER DEALER ATTEMPTED REPAIR, PROBLEMS CONTINUE. HEADLIGHTS FLICKER AND SOMETIMES GO OUT. GPS GOES TO NIGHT SCREEN DURING THE DAY. AUTO HEADLIGHT DIMMER FAILS. POWER POINTS, INSTRUMENTS, SEATS PERIODICALLY FAIL. ONE DAY SEAT COOLER WILL WORK, OTHERS IT WON'T. WINDSHIELD WIPERS AUTOMATIC FUNCTION, "RAINSENSE" STARTS NORMALLY BUT THEN STOPS IN HEAVY RAIN REQUIRING MANUAL OPERATION. ALL ITEMS REPORTED TO DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES WITH THE SAME RESULT "UNABLE TO DUPLICATE CUSTOMER'S PROBLEM." PROVIDED CELL PHONE VIDEO OF SYSTEM FAILURES BUT DEALER STILL SAYS THEY CANNOT DUPLICATE. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
DURING A FAMILY OUTING, I NOTICED A REAR TIRE THAT HAD LOST AIR PRESSURE AGAIN. I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO VISIT A DISCOUNT TIRE, TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. WE HADN'T RUN OVER A NAIL NOR A SCREW, BUT HAD BECOME THE VICTIMS OF CADILLAC'S INFERIOR PRODUCTION. THE CHROME PLATING BEGAN TO PEEL, AND SEPARATE FROM THE ALLOY WHEELS. I WAS FORCED TO PURCHASE INFERIOR AFTERMARKET WHEELS IN ORDER TO GET MY FAMILY HOME. THE INFORMATIVE, AND INTEGRATIVE AGENT AT DISCOUNT TIRE SHOWED ME THAT ALL FOUR OF MY STOCK, CHROME, CADILLAC WHEELS HAD PREMATURELY CORRODED, FORCING MY WIFE AND I TO REPLACE THE WHEELS. WE HAVE BEEN SPUN, DISMISSED, AND IGNORED BY NUMEROUS CADILLAC CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AGENTS, REGARDING THIS ISSUE, IN SPITE OF NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS LOGGED BY OTHER DTS OWNERS, POSTED ONTO GMINSIDER.COM. CADILLAC HAS BEEN WELL ADVISED OF THIS FAILURE, YET CADILLAC FAILS TO ACCEPT THAT THEIR PRODUCT IS SUBSTANDARD. MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP, COUGHLIN MOTORS OF MARYSVILLE, OHIO, IS RETICENT TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE, BUT, MY QUESTION IS, DOESN'T THE PRESIDENT OF OUR GREAT NATION, RIDE IN A DTS? IF I'M NOT MISTAKEN, WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS OF HIS WHEELS? WELL, OUR VEHICLE HAD THE SAME WHEELS. IT IS MY PROFESSIONAL OPINION, CADILLAC HAS PRODUCED AN INFERIOR PRODUCT, AND THEY SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR IT. AFTER ALL, THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, AND HIS FAMILY, SHOULD BE WELCOMED TO THE SAME DURABILITY AND LONGEVITY, OF CADILLAC'S PRODUCT, MY FAMILY AND I, ARE ENTITLED TO? AFTER ALL, DIDN'T ALL OF US BAIL OUT GENERAL MOTORS IN ADVERSE CONDITIONS? IN SHORT, CADILLAC HAS PRODUCED YET ANOTHER INFERIOR PRODUCT. ISN'T IT TIME THAT GM ANSWERS FOR ANOTHER INFERIOR PRODUCT, THAT AFFECTS OUR SAFETY? GRANTED, THE POTUS HAS ANOTHER DTS LIMO AT HIS DISPOSAL; AND I'M GRATEFUL FOR THAT. SADLY, MY FAMILY OF FIVE, DOES NOT. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC DTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FACTORY JACK FAILED TO HOLD THE VEHICLE WHILE THE CONTACT WAS CHANGING A TIRE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE JACK WAS NOT REPLACED. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
I JUST PURCHASED A 2006 CADILLAC DTS, WE GOT GAS FOR IT AND VERY SOON AFTER WE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT AND THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF BUT STARTED BACK UP IMMEDIATELY. NONE OF THE CLIMATE CONTROL OR ANYTHING TURNED OFF JUST THE ENGINE. ALSO SOMETIMES WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IDILING IN PARK,DRIVE, OR AT LOW SPEEDS THE VEHICLE WILL IDLE VERY LOW THEN THE RPM'S WILL INCREASE TO NORMAL AFTER ABOUT A SECOND. IF YOU ARE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS AND THE CAR DOES THAT WHEN IT REVS UP TO NORMAL IT JERKS. THE LAST PART IS WHEN YOU GET TO LOWER THAN HALF A TANK IT STARTS STUDDERING WHEN YOU COAST THEN ACCELERATE.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC DTS. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND OIL WAS LEAKING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE ALTERNATOR, OIL, AND ENGINE INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO GREAT RIVER CHEVROLET GMC (264 DEVEREUX DRIVE, NATCHEZ, MS 39120, 601-653-4829) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS AN OIL LEAK AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ABLE TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC DTS. WHILE UNDERGOING AN OIL CHANGE AT LINDSAY CADILLAC OF ALEXANDRIA (1525 KENWOOD AVE, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22302, (703) 935-4445), THE DEALER NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE AND FUEL LINES WERE CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND CONFIRMED CORROSION WAS PRESENT ON THE FUEL LINE AND BRAKE LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 44,000.*CW *DL
DURING A FAMILY OUTING, I NOTICED A REAR TIRE THAT HAD LOST AIR PRESSURE AGAIN. I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO VISIT A DISCOUNT TIRE, TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. WE HADN'T RUN OVER A NAIL NOR A SCREW, BUT HAD BECOME THE VICTIMS OF CADILLAC'S INFERIOR PRODUCTION. THE CHROME PLATING BEGAN TO PEEL, AND SEPARATE FROM THE ALLOY WHEELS. I WAS FORCED TO PURCHASE INFERIOR AFTERMARKET WHEELS IN ORDER TO GET MY FAMILY HOME. THE INFORMATIVE, AND INTEGRATIVE AGENT AT DISCOUNT TIRE SHOWED ME THAT ALL FOUR OF MY STOCK, CHROME, CADILLAC WHEELS HAD PREMATURELY CORRODED, FORCING MY WIFE AND I TO REPLACE THE WHEELS. WE HAVE BEEN SPUN, DISMISSED, AND IGNORED BY NUMEROUS CADILLAC CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AGENTS, REGARDING THIS ISSUE, IN SPITE OF NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS LOGGED BY OTHER DTS OWNERS, POSTED ONTO GMINSIDER.COM. CADILLAC HAS BEEN WELL ADVISED OF THIS FAILURE, YET CADILLAC FAILS TO ACCEPT THAT THEIR PRODUCT IS SUBSTANDARD. MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP, COUGHLIN MOTORS OF MARYSVILLE, OHIO, IS RETICENT TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE, BUT, MY QUESTION IS, DOESN'T THE PRESIDENT OF OUR GREAT NATION, RIDE IN A DTS? IF I'M NOT MISTAKEN, WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS OF HIS WHEELS? WELL, OUR VEHICLE HAD THE SAME WHEELS. IT IS MY PROFESSIONAL OPINION, CADILLAC HAS PRODUCED AN INFERIOR PRODUCT, AND THEY SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR IT. AFTER ALL, THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, AND HIS FAMILY, SHOULD BE WELCOMED TO THE SAME DURABILITY AND LONGEVITY, OF CADILLAC'S PRODUCT, MY FAMILY AND I, ARE ENTITLED TO? AFTER ALL, DIDN'T ALL OF US BAIL OUT GENERAL MOTORS IN ADVERSE CONDITIONS? IN SHORT, CADILLAC HAS PRODUCED YET ANOTHER INFERIOR PRODUCT. ISN'T IT TIME THAT GM ANSWERS FOR ANOTHER INFERIOR PRODUCT, THAT AFFECTS OUR SAFETY? GRANTED, THE POTUS HAS ANOTHER DTS LIMO AT HIS DISPOSAL; AND I'M GRATEFUL FOR THAT. SADLY, MY FAMILY OF FIVE, DOES NOT. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
THE PLASTIC UNDERCARRIAGE COVER BEGAN DRAGGING ON THE GROUND. I PLACED DUCK TAPE ON IT IN ORDER TO GET IT TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER REMOVED THE TAPE AND REFASTENED ONE OF THE PLASTIC BOLTS AND SAID IT HAD BEEN HIT WITH SOMETHING SO THE WARRENTLY WOULD NOT COVER IT. I AM THE ONLY DRIVER AND I DID NOT HIT ANYTHING. BEFORE I GOT HOME IT WAS DRAGGING AGAIN. PART OF IT HAD TO BE CUT OFF BECAUSE IT WAS SO TORN UP AND MANY OF THE BOLTS WERE LOST. WE ULTIMATELY HAD TO WIRE IT ON TO HOLD IT UP.
2006 CADILLAC DEVILLE CONSOLE DESIGN IS FAULTY, CARS SLIDES WHEN MAKING SHARP TURN. THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE TRYING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AND WOULD NOT LET HIM PULL THE KEY OUT OF THE IGNITION. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE CONSOLE IS IN THE WAY, IT IS LOCATED ON THE WRONG SIDE OF THE CAR , THEREFORE MAKING IT DIFFICULT SO THAT THE RIGHT DRIVING FOOT GETS CAUGHT WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE GAS TANK CAP IS DIFFICULT TO OPEN AND THE CONSUMER BEING SO TALL HE WOULD HAVE TO BRING AN OBJECT ALONG TO CLOSE THE DOOR SO HE WOULD NOT FALL OUT OF THE VEHICLE. ALSO, THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE IS SLIDING WHILE MAKING A SLIGHT TURN AND THE LEATHER SEATS GET REALLY HOT WHILE CONSUMER IS DRIVING. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
MY LIGHTS I HAVE CHANGED AND TRIED EVERY THING ONLY GOT 1 TO WORK SO FAR ! I SMELL A ! BURNING SMELL ! MY POWER STEERING IS SCREWED AND LIKES A SMALL LEEK ALL ELECTRIC SOME THINGS HAS HAD ISSUES ! BLOW FUSES CIGARETTE LIGHTER STOPS WORKING CAN'T CHARGE PHONE ! BACK REAR POWER STRUTS ONLY WORK PART TIME ME L BACK UP LIGHTS THAT WARNS DON'T WORK MOST OF THE TIME ! MY KEY CAN TURN THE CAR BUT DRIVE WITH OUT KEY IN THE IGNITION THE IGNITION CAN SWITCH IT SELF ! HAVE HAD TO FIX BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR PROBLEMS AND FRONT TIRE PROBLEMS!
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC DTS. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH A SQUEAKING NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. THE FAILURE WOULD NOT OCCUR WHENEVER THE VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING AT A HIGHWAY SPEED. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER ON NINE SEPARATE OCCASIONS FOR THE IDENTICAL FAILURE. THE STEERING VALVE AND STEERING GEAR WERE REPLACED FOR THE MALFUNCTION. ADDITIONALLY, THE FRONT PASSENGER TIRE EXHIBITED SEVERE DEFECTS AND WAS REPLACED AT 20,000 MILES. THE FAILURE CONTINUED TO OCCUR. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE OTHER RESOLUTIONS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 17,386. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 48,881. UPDATED 06/02/10. *LJ THE VEHICLE WOULD PULL TO THE RIGHT. THE POWER STEERING PUMP WAS REPLACED. UPDATED 10/12/10
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Heating & air conditioning
Reports naming the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system.
From owner reports, verbatim
HEATED AND COOLED SEATS STOPPED WORKING WHILE DRIVING AFTER BURNING SMELL AND SMOKE THAT WAS COMING FROM UNDER PASSENGER SEAT. *TR
AS PART OF STATE INSPECTION, TOLD DEALER THAT FRONT SEATS ARE NOT HEATING. TOLD BY DEALER THAT PROBLEM WAS "CONNECTOR TO CLIMATE CONTROL SEAT MODULE BURNED/SHORTED OUT MODULE" AND TO REPLACE CONNECTOR AND MODULE WOULD COST $1016. ASKED DEALER PERSONNEL IF A SAFETY ISSUE AND THEY SAID IT IS A ROUTINE/RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THESE COMPONENTS MELTING FROM THE HEAT BUT DON'T WORRY IT'S NOT A SAFETY ISSUE (DESPITE REFERENCE TO " BURNED/SHORTED OUT"). INTERNET SEARCH SHOWED SIMILAR PROBLEM WITH SAME COMPONENTS IN OTHER CADILLACS BUT ACCOMPANIED BY/WITH SMOKE AND/OR FIRE-- IF OCCURS WHILE OPERATING VEHICLE AT A HIGH SPEED ON A BUSY STREET OR HIGHWAY, COULD RESULT IN A MAJOR ACCIDENT INVOLVING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC DTS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT WOULD SPORADICALLY HEAR A LOUD GROWLING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THEY REPLACED THE DIFFERENTIAL COURIER. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE REPAIR, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY WERE AWARE OF THE FAILURE, BUT COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OR PROVIDE A REMEDY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 16,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 23,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
THE STEERING IN THE CONSUMER 2006 CADILLAC DTS WAS SENSITIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A SINGLE CAR ACCIDENT WHEN THE DRIVER OVERCORRECTED TO AVOID COLLIDING WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HIT TWO GUARDRAILS AND OVERTURNED ONTO IT'S TOP. *NM THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELTS DID NOT SECURE THE OCCUPANTS DURING THE IMPACT. THE CONSUMER STATED THE PRE-TENSIONERS DID NOT ACTIVATE. *JB THE CONSUMER WAS UNABLE TO UNLOCK THE TRUNK DOOR MANUALLY. UPDATED *JB *NM UPDATED
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .