AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2004 Cadillac Sts
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $5,000–$9,000
The 2004 Cadillac STS has a moderate number of owner complaints, spread across various components, indicating diverse issues. No overwhelming pattern of failure stands out, resulting in an average reliability rating based on component diversity.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| electrical system | 80,000–110,000 miles | $300–$800 | common |
| fuel system | 70,000–100,000 miles | $400–$900 | occasional |
| engine and cooling | 90,000–120,000 miles | $500–$1,200 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil change every 5,000 miles
- Replace air filter annually
- Brake fluid change every 30,000 miles
- Transmission service at 60,000 miles
- Coolant flush every 60,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Electrical issues with dashboard lights
- Fuel system leaks
- Engine overheating warnings
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/23/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.