2017 Cadillac CTS Transmission and drivetrain Problems
- Complaints
- 9about this part
- Share
- 33%of 27 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 51,124miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 9 complaints about the transmission and drivetrain of the 2017 Cadillac CTS, 33% of the 27 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 51,124 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.
“Car has locked in 2nd or 3rd gear two different times, both after long drives (2+ hours at highway speeds) and would not downshift into 1st to stop movement. The first time was a stop light and almost caused an accident, the second time was in my driveway and almost hit the house. Good brakes are the only thing that saved me. Both times, the vehicle shifted to 1st with a loud bang. Transmission also jerks the car forward from the stopped position when engine starts at a stop sign or light (when auto-start./stop is enabled).”
NHTSA complaint #11222338, filed 2019-06, 35,000 miles“The car has 37250 miles on it. 6 months ago, it started shifting roughly between 1st and 2nd gear. We took it to waldorf Cadillac/GM in waldorf, md. They acknowledged it was a known issue and would take the following steps: flush the transmission, re-program the transmission, replace the valve, and ultimately, replace the transmission. They have done all the actions except replace the transmission and won't take further action. The car shifts so violently at times that you don't know if you're going to hit the car in front of you. …”
NHTSA complaint #11288587, filed 2019-12, 37,247 miles“I purchased this vehicle is certified preowned Cadillac and during the warranty time I had a transmission issue that was causing the transmission to jerk when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear and at highway speeds, it would start jerking nonstop. I took it to the dealer and as per a service bulletin, they flushed the transmission fluid and replaced the transmission fluid. …”
NHTSA complaint #11688656, filed 2025-09“The rear differential has failed in my vehicle, and I was told by the dealer it is a safety hazzard & could lock up, leave me stranded or cause an accident. (this is the same safety issue as thousands of other vehicles most from 2014 & 2015 that IS on a recall).”
NHTSA complaint #11604960, filed 2024-07“I began hearing a “hum” when driving my vehicle and dismissed it thinking it was the type of low profile, no flat tires. After a getting new tires, brakes, brake pads, and control arms, we still heard the “hum” and it continued to get louder. We took the car to 4 different places where they all stated the rear differential is the problem. I never had a service engine light come on. We found out that there was a recall on this part for other Cadillac CTS vehicles but my VIN did not come up as one that has a recall. …”
NHTSA complaint #11672975, filed 2025-07Related service bulletins
- 11019516Apr 17, 2025This preliminary informational (PI) bulletin provides information to dealership personnel that may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers.
- 11014622Mar 2, 2025This Preliminary information communicates Diagnostic aids for a no start or DTC'S following a transmission replacement
- 11014621Mar 2, 2025This Preliminary information communicates Diagnostic aids for a no start or DTC'S following a transmission replacement
- 11014353Feb 12, 2025This service bulletin provides information on Transmission Adaptive Functions and Correcting Low Mileage Harsh Shifts, Slips, or Flares.
- 11013069Jan 9, 2025This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
- 11011989Nov 27, 2024This service bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
- 11011205Oct 28, 2024This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.
- 11011436Oct 10, 2024This Preliminary information communicates for Technicians installing a Service Replacement Transmission Assembly to contact Technical Assistance to make sure unit is not suspect…
- 11009756Sep 17, 2024This bulletin provides information on Policies Applicable to All U.S. Dealers for Engine and Transmission Assembly Replacement Under Warranty, Policy or Customer Enthusiasm and…
- 11009088Sep 16, 2024This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be…
Transmission and drivetrain: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 3 | 30% |
| 2018 | 3 | 38% |
| 2017 | 9 | 33% |
| 2016 | 9 | 29% |
| 2015 | 20 | 41% |
| 2014 | 84 | 58% |
| 2013 | 13 | 18% |
| 2012 | 4 | 6% |
| 2011 | 22 | 22% |
| 2010 | 9 | 13% |
| 2009 | 28 | 17% |
| 2008 | 21 | 12% |
| 2007 | 33 | 15% |
| 2006 | 45 | 17% |
| 2005 | 82 | 30% |
| 2004 | 52 | 23% |
| 2003 | 25 | 8% |
Other parts of the 2017 Cadillac CTS
8 complaintsOther or unknown
4 complaintsWheels
3 complaintsAir bags
2 complaintsElectrical system
2 complaintsEngine
1 complaintsSeats
1 complaintsSuspension
1 complaintsTires
1 complaintsVehicle speed control
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2017 Cadillac CTS
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 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