Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Cadillac ATS
The 2018 Cadillac ATS is generally reliable, but check for potential steering and fuel pump issues due to recalls. Buyer attention is necessary for recurring issues, including the powertrain and electrical system. Confirm any recall repairs have been completed before purchase to ensure safety and performance reliability.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Cadillac ATS has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 22 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #25V175000 Loss of Power Steering Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V358000 Fuel Pump Flange Weld may Fracture NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 7 complaints
- Electrical System 3 complaints
- Steering 3 complaints
- Air Bags 2 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 2 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 2 complaints
Of the 22 complaints on file, 1 reports a crash; across all 22 complaints, owners report 1 injury (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Power steering assist failure
How to check: Test steering at low speeds and tight turns.
Fuel pump may detach
How to check: Inspect for recall repairs, listen for unusual sounds.
Occasional transmission issues
How to check: Test drive, listen for shifts and response.
Electrical system malfunctions
How to check: Test all electronics, including lights and dashboard.
Airbag system concerns
How to check: Ensure airbags are operational, check dash lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from engine.
Red flag: Loud clanking or rattling sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights on
- 03
Low-speed maneuvers
What to check: Test steering ease and feel.
Red flag: Heavy or no assist in steering
- 04
City driving
What to check: Monitor transmission shifts for smoothness.
Red flag: Hard or delayed shifts
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Evaluate power and response on demand.
Red flag: Poor acceleration or hesitation
- 06
Braking test
What to check: Check for firm pedal feel and response.
Red flag: Spongy pedal or delayed braking
- 07
Parking
What to check: Listen for suspension noises over bumps.
Red flag: Clunking or knocking sounds
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the steering recall been addressed?
- Were any fuel pump repairs completed?
- Have there been any transmission issues?
- What electrical problems have you faced?
- Have the airbags ever deployed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of recall repairs
- Full service history
- Accident and repair reports
- Ownership history
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Cadillac ATS at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 Cadillac ATS? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.