Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Cadillac CT6
The 2018 Cadillac CT6 offers luxury and performance but suffers from several recall and complaint issues, especially related to seat belts and child seat anchors. It's essential for buyers to thoroughly examine these features, as fixes involve safety compliance. Additional concerns include powertrain and engine reliability based on owner complaints.
NHTSA data on file today
try.vin couldn't confirm NHTSA's recall list for the 2018 Cadillac CT6, so this page doesn't state a recall count — check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for current campaigns. 10 owner complaints are on file.
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 3 complaints
- Power Train 3 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 2 complaints
- Steering 2 complaints
- Electrical System 1 complaint
- Exterior Lighting 1 complaint
Known issues to inspect
Rear seatbelt locking failure
How to check: Ensure rear seatbelts lock when fully extended.
Child seat anchor obstruction
How to check: Check for excessive adhesive on anchor bars.
Engine reliability complaints
How to check: Listen for odd noises during the drive.
Electrical system issues
How to check: Test all electronic components inside.
Steering complaints
How to check: Observe steering response and fluidity.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or tapping sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights on display
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test steering responsiveness.
Red flag: Stiff or unresponsive steering
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Feel for smooth power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking while accelerating
- 05
Braking test
What to check: Test brakes for smooth stopping.
Red flag: Grinding or pulling when braking
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test tight turn steering feel.
Red flag: Difficulties or noises when turning
- 07
Final idle
What to check: Check for fluid leaks under the car.
Red flag: Visible oil or coolant leaks
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the rear seatbelt recall been addressed?
- Any unresolved engine or powertrain issues?
- Has the child seat anchor problem been fixed?
- Were there any major repairs or accidents?
- Is the vehicle's maintenance history complete?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall repair records
- Service and maintenance records
- Proof of ownership
- Warranty documents
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Cadillac CT6 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 Cadillac CT6? 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.