There are no safety recalls for the 2009 Cadillac STS, but owners have filed 15 complaints with NHTSA.
2009 Cadillac STS problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Air Bags | 5 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 4 | |
| Steering | 3 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Engine | 2 | |
| Equipment | 1 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
| Wheels | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Traction Control System | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 70,000 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 2009 Cadillac STS complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Engine · reported Apr 20, 2026
The known timing chain issue GM done a warranty for to fix it but wonât fix it now. My car is running sluggish because of it and had numerous times that it wouldnât go up to the speed limit almost caused accidents because of it and Iâm afraid to even drive it anymore knowing that itâs a time bomb waiting to happen that could blow up on the highway that can cause accidents.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) · reported Dec 25, 2019
When driving in rain the smallest amount of water will cause the reduced engine power to engage and it does not go off until the vehicle has sat for a long amount of time. Extremely dangerous. First the ABS light comes on and then you lose power. 3rd row LED taillight out... 400 to fix. Purchased in march of 2018 with 93k miles. Currently at 104k.
Air Bags · at 80,000 miles · reported Dec 20, 2019
My airbags did not deploy and my traction control failed. The airbag light remains on and there is a faulty code. The vehicle lost ability to control it to turn. I went straight into the fence. The airbags were not addressed by the body shop or repair shop.
Air Bags · at 90,000 miles · reported Oct 26, 2019
The car traction control failed and the vehicle had the service stability system come on. The ABS light was lit and the vehicle would not accelerate or turn easily. The vehicle went into the ditch. This vehicle had headlights prior to the incident with bulbs popping out inside and moisture. After the repairs were done by the body shop the new headlights have had that same problem. The airbags never came out, and there is a message displayed indicating they needed service. It was never addressed by the body shop. Also prior to the incident the steering had an issue causing pain to my shoulder.…
Air Bags · at 145,000 miles · reported Nov 5, 2017
Takata recall. Passenger seat, passenger detect sensor (Pps) stopped working. No physical damage. Passenger present light says, passenger air bag off. Air bag dash light always on. I checked wiring under the seat and can not visually see any damage to the wiring going to the seat cushion sensor or the seat buckle sensor.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2009 Cadillac STS have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2009 Cadillac STS as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2009 Cadillac STS?
Owners report air bags problems most often (5 reports), followed by electronic stability control (esc) (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 70,000 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.