2012 Cadillac CTS recalls and problems
The 2012 Cadillac CTS has 2 safety recalls and 65 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Cadillac dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2012 Cadillac CTS vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2012 Cadillac CTS recalls
Recall 14V-394: Electrical System
Problem: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 2, 2014 that they are recalling 554,328 model year 2003-2014 Cadillac CTS vehicles manufactured August 16, 2001, to April 28, 2014, and 2004-2006 Cadillac SRX vehicles manufactured March 20, 2003, to August 11, 2006. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
Risk: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 15, 2014. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14172.
Recall 11V-536: Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Problem: Gm is recalling certain model year 2012 cadillac cts vehicles manufactured from october 21, 2011, through october 26, 2011. These vehicles may have a condition in which the power vacuum brake boost pushrod retention nut may not be torqued to the proper specification. If the nut is not torqued to the proper specification, the nut could loosen and allow the pushrod to separate from the brake pedal.
Risk: This could result in a loss of ability to brake and a vehicle crash without prior warning.
Fix: Cadillac dealers will inspect the power vacuum brake boost pushrod retention nut, and if necessary, torque the nut to the proper specification. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on november 1, 2011. Owners may contact cadillac at 1-800-458-8006.
2012 Cadillac CTS problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 10 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 10 | |
| Service Brakes | 7 | |
| Suspension | 7 | |
| Engine | 6 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 6 | |
| Air Bags | 6 | |
| Structure | 5 | |
| Unknown or Other | 5 | |
| Steering | 4 | |
| Power Train | 4 | |
| Traction Control System | 2 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 4
- Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel — 1
- Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 1
- Structure › Body › Door — 1
- Wheels › Rim — 1
- Air Bags › Side/Window — 1
- Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 43,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2012 Cadillac CTS complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Cadillac CTS years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2012 Cadillac CTS have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2012 Cadillac CTS: 14V-394 (electrical system), 11V-536 (service brakes, hydraulic). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2012 Cadillac CTS?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (10 reports), followed by exterior lighting (10). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 43,000 miles.
Are Cadillac recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Cadillac dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.