AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data

Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2006 Cadillac Cts

Overall rating NHTSA-grounded

Below average

Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $6,000–$10,000

The 2006 Cadillac CTS suffers from multiple safety-related recalls involving the fuel system, ignition, and airbag deployment issues. These issues, combined with owner complaints primarily around miscellaneous problems, suggest reliability concerns impacting its ownership experience.

Most-common failures

Part Typical mileage Cost range Frequency
fuel pump50,000–80,000 miles$400–$800common
ignition system60,000–90,000 miles$250–$600common
airbag system70,000–100,000 miles$600–$1,200occasional
brake lines80,000–110,000 miles$300–$500occasional
rear axle seal90,000–120,000 miles$150–$300rare

Scheduled maintenance to budget

Routine items every owner should plan for.

  • Oil and filter change every 5,000 miles
  • Tire rotation every 7,500 miles
  • Replace brake fluid every 30,000 miles
  • Air filter replacement every 15,000 miles
  • Coolant replacement every 60,000 miles
  • Transmission fluid change every 100,000 miles

Warning signs to watch for

Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.

  • Fuel pump noise or failure
  • Airbag warning light
  • Braking performance issues
  • Oil leakage near rear axle
  • Difficulty starting or stalling

Generated by gpt-4o on 6/4/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.