2012 Cadillac CTS Exterior lighting Problems
- Complaints
- 10about this part
- Share
- 15%of 65 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 28,500miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 10 complaints about the exterior lighting of the 2012 Cadillac CTS, 15% of the 65 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 28,500 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Both headlights on the vehicle have had to be replaced very recently (spring/summer) following a cold and harsh winter. We believe that the problem identified with the srx models extends to the CTS and perhaps other Cadillac models given the number on the street with a single headlight; however, Cadillac has denied our claim. The cost of repair of both headlights exceeded $600.”
NHTSA complaint #11230716, filed 2019-07, 68,000 miles“While driving heard clanking under the car for about 2 blocks then stoped. Took it to the dealer and found out 2 bolts had backed out of the drive shaft and one had sheared. Had the exact same problem with a 2011 CTS. I had purchased a warranty when I bought the car in 2018, car was repaired. I did notify Cadillac. Right front headlight has moisture. Understand Cadillac used inferior seals previously. Will need to replace. Light cost approximately $250.00.”
NHTSA complaint #11228889, filed 2019-07, 65,300 miles“While driving on a road with many curves at approximately 40 MPH, I went to turn on the bright lights by pushing lever on left side of steering wheel outwards the bright lights came on as intended but at the same time I apparently hit the switch which controls the lights in different positions. The bright lights went off and I was left with parking lights only and could not see at all. There was no road shoulder as it was only one lane in each direction. I reduced my speed to 4 or 5 MPH and did not know what I had done to cause this. …”
NHTSA complaint #10481256, filed 2012-10, 6,000 miles“I purchased a new 2012 Cadillac CTS in january, 2012. The car has been garage kept since new and has only 27,000 miles. Both headlamps recently began accumulating heavy condensation causing very dim lighting at night. This hazardous condition is clearly a manufacturing defect and not caused by excessive use of the vehicle nor exposure to the elements.”
NHTSA complaint #11205045, filed 2019-05, 27,000 miles“I purchased a new 2012 Cadillac CTS in january, 2012. The car has been garage kept since new and has only 27,000 miles. Both headlamps recently began accumulating heavy condensation causing very dim lighting at night. This hazardous condition is clearly a manufacturing defect and not caused by excessive use of the vehicle nor exposure to the elements.”
NHTSA complaint #11205051, filed 2019-05, 27,000 milesRelated service bulletins
- 10249011Jan 12, 2024This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10246003Oct 16, 2023This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Service Engine Soon Malfunction Indicator Lamp on. Technician will…
- 10232136Feb 15, 2023This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
Exterior lighting: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 1 | 13% |
| 2015 | 1 | 2% |
| 2014 | 4 | 3% |
| 2013 | 5 | 7% |
| 2012 | 10 | 15% |
| 2011 | 8 | 8% |
| 2010 | 7 | 10% |
| 2009 | 3 | 2% |
| 2008 | 6 | 3% |
| 2007 | 5 | 2% |
| 2006 | 7 | 3% |
| 2005 | 5 | 2% |
| 2004 | 7 | 3% |
| 2003 | 37 | 12% |
Other parts of the 2012 Cadillac CTS
10 complaintsBrakes
9 complaintsOther or unknown
7 complaintsSuspension
7 complaintsAir bags
6 complaintsEngine
6 complaintsVehicle speed control
6 complaintsBody and structure
5 complaintsSteering
4 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
4 complaintsWheels
2 complaintsElectronic stability control
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2012 Cadillac CTS
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology