2003 Cadillac CTS
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Cadillac › CTS › 2003
These records cover every 2003 Cadillac CTS. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2003 Cadillac CTS. Newest first.
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 2, 2014 that they are recalling 554,328 model…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 15, 2014. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 14172.
General motors has notified nhtsa of a defect in certain model year 2003-2007 cadillac CTS vehicles currently registered in or originally sold in connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, washington d.c., west…
Risk and remedy
Risk
The brake hose-tube interface may rupture suddenly without prior warning and increase vehicle stopping distance may occur increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers are to replace both front brake hose assemblies free of charge. the safety recall IS expected to begin during may 2010. Owners may contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339 or at the owner center at www.gmownercenter.com.
Certain minivans, passenger and sport utility vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 225, "child restraint anchorage system." the owner's manual does not explain the meaning of the location symbols for the child restraint lower universal anchorage system.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Remedy
Owners will be provided with a supplement for their owner's manual. this supplement describes and shows the location symbols for the child restraint anchors that are located in the vehicle and on the child restraint or booster cushion. owner notification began august 18, 2003. owners should contact buick at 1-866-608-8080, cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, pontiac at 1-800-620-7668, or oldsmobile at 1-800-630-6537.
Some passenger vehicles have a condition in which the intermediate steering shaft bolt may be loose.
Risk and remedy
Risk
An improperly tightened bolt could loosen, resulting in separation of the upper and lower steering shafts causing a loss of vehicle control. if this happens while the vehicle IS moving, a crash could result without prior warning.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect for the presence of the intermediate steering shaft bolt and ensure that it IS tightened to the proper specification. owner notification began march 20, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact cadillac at 1-800-458-8006.
Owner complaints
313 complaints29 involved a crash12 involved a fire21 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine · Service brakes · Steering
Everything was really grate no problems. My brakes sounds like there is LOTS of AIR Coming from somewhere. My key ignition sometimes want turn over or easy to come out. Than the car started running hot. I've had it looked at Few times and can't seem to fix the problem. I've even brought a new…
Everything was really grate no problems. My brakes sounds like there is LOTS of AIR Coming from somewhere. My key ignition sometimes want turn over or easy to come out. Than the car started running hot. I've had it looked at Few times and can't seem to fix the problem. I've even brought a new coolant box or another name for it.. so now I can't drive it because my fluids keep coming out of the coolant tank please help me I don't know what to do. To complete this message I've even had a smog twice nonpassable. - Thank you any Questions [XXX] call/ text INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
- Electrical system › Adas › Hill start assist › Clutch solenoid · Engine
The contact owns a 2003 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that when driving at various speeds the vehicle would suddenly stalled and the instrument panel would illuminate. The message stating "starting disabled remove key" would display. The contact stated that they would be able to coast and…
The contact owns a 2003 Cadillac CTS. The contact stated that when driving at various speeds the vehicle would suddenly stalled and the instrument panel would illuminate. The message stating "starting disabled remove key" would display. The contact stated that they would be able to coast and restart the vehicle. Other times the contact would have to pull over to the side of the road and restart the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who was unable to diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 121,000.
- Electrical system
The computer isn’t telling the alternator to charge the battery so the batteries are being all of the way drained without anything recharging them. Beans new batteries get ruined fast.
- Air bags
The check air bag warning keeps coming on. when brought to dealer to fix they said it was not under recall and it needs to be since others having the same issue. this IS a safety issue.
- Service brakes
There IS a open recall effecting this year & make although my vin says there's no recalls on my CTS. I had both front brake hose assemblies fail while driving. Luckily we didn't wreck. I've since had both repaired. Curious as to know why car was not listed with open recall.
- Electrical system
The car will not start and I have to bypass the ignition with a jumper in the fusebox
- Electrical system · Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. While driving various speeds, the vehicle suddenly shut off. After restarting the engine, the vehicle operated normally. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 128,900.
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. While driving various speeds, the brake line failed and the check brake indicator illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to an unknown dealer where it was diagnosed with brake failure. The contact discovered nhtsa campaign number: 15v225000 (service…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. While driving various speeds, the brake line failed and the check brake indicator illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to an unknown dealer where it was diagnosed with brake failure. The contact discovered nhtsa campaign number: 15v225000 (service brakes, hydraulic), which he related to the failure. The manufacturer stated that the vin was excluded from the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 144,000.
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system · Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. While driving various speeds, the brake pedal traveled to the floorboard when it was depressed and the vehicle failed to stop. Also, the key became stuck inside the ignition switch and the contact detected fuel leaking from the vehicle. Furthermore, the…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. While driving various speeds, the brake pedal traveled to the floorboard when it was depressed and the vehicle failed to stop. Also, the key became stuck inside the ignition switch and the contact detected fuel leaking from the vehicle. Furthermore, the "remove key" message was displayed and the door lock and air bag warning indicators illuminated. The contact called winter chevrolet (3750 century ct, pittsburg, ca 94565, (925) 232-0290) and informed them of the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the brakes, key, and battery were replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to nhtsa. The failure mileage was 185,000.
- Engine
I bought this car for my son that go to college at san jose state university, his been using this car since 2015 till 2019. Recenty about a month ago his complaining the car has been overheating for no reasons, he says that the gauge goes all the way up everytime he drive it but its ok if the car…
I bought this car for my son that go to college at san jose state university, his been using this car since 2015 till 2019. Recenty about a month ago his complaining the car has been overheating for no reasons, he says that the gauge goes all the way up everytime he drive it but its ok if the car engine IS running but in park mode. We ended up got the car towed to merced. Since july of 2019, the car IS the garage and never drive. We only start the car mostly to warp up the engine but not drive. We have a friend mechanic look at it and can't point out the right problem, a lot of assumption possible the thermostat, or radiator, water pump, or the fan, etc.
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. The contact stated that the transmission assembly made an abnormal sound and the gears slipped without warning. Martin buick GMC (12101 w olympic blvd, los angeles, ca 90064, (310) 622-9334) was unable to provide a permanent remedy; therefore, the failure…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. The contact stated that the transmission assembly made an abnormal sound and the gears slipped without warning. Martin buick GMC (12101 w olympic blvd, los angeles, ca 90064, (310) 622-9334) was unable to provide a permanent remedy; therefore, the failure continued. The vehicle was not repaired after several extensive repairs from the dealer. The contact was provided with a loaner vehicle for more than three months. The dealer returned the vehicle to the contact without it being repaired. The vehicle was unable to be driven safely. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the case manager was to follow-up with the dealer and owner to determine if there were guidelines for a repair. The vin was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 59,000.
- Electrical system · Engine · Structure › Body
At about approximately 4:22 am this morning my car was engulfed in flames in my driveway. I was awakened by my cadillac CTS 2003 car alarm as the flames we're visible thru my bedroom window. At which time I ran outside to turn on the water hose to turn off the fire as my family was sleeping in the…
At about approximately 4:22 am this morning my car was engulfed in flames in my driveway. I was awakened by my cadillac CTS 2003 car alarm as the flames we're visible thru my bedroom window. At which time I ran outside to turn on the water hose to turn off the fire as my family was sleeping in the house. My husband's car was right next to my cadi that had a full tank of fuel. I called 911 and the fire department arrived to turn off the fire on the cadillac CTS 2003. And for more than ten minutes the fire was still blazing as the firemen unable to control the flames. My car IS gone as it burned down. Please help me to understand why this happened. I only carried liability as this was all I could afford. I thank the lord that even when we were in harm's way, he jehovah god protected us. All the glory to jesus christ that their was no lost of life. Material things can be replaced. I am grateful to god for his mercy and grace. He has total control and I know that he was with us. I was not aware that these cars have a history of catching on fire. I am glad that we were not on the road when this happened. My mother suffered a stroke and this could of been more detrimental but god did not permit the hand of the enemy to touch us physically, halelujah to the lamb of god! I am blessed to be a child of god! I know that he will give us justice because he does not forsake his children and he IS a god that does not lie. He IS god emanuel! He IS my shalom!
- Air bags
Drs airbag light on on dash
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Fuel/propulsion system · Vehicle speed control
Driving 70+mph on freeway in fast lane. Car stop accerlating and no rpm the steeling wheel then locked on me while in the fast lane on freeway. I immediately pulled over restarted the car and was able to move safely off freeway.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes · Steering
While driving at a steady speed and for no apparent reason, the stability system engaged, I was unable to control vehicle, could not engage brakes, vehicle began losing power & stalled in freeway traffic. lastly, the brakes vibrate and the car's valve cover gaskets are made of plastic which may leak & start a fire.
- Engine
I was driving downhill on dallas rd in west richland, wa I started to apply brakes to turn into quail springs apartment complex, idk whether it was due to the road or the way I hit the brakes but it moved my key out of the run position causing the engine to turn off, I was slowing down…
I was driving downhill on dallas rd in west richland, wa I started to apply brakes to turn into quail springs apartment complex, idk whether it was due to the road or the way I hit the brakes but it moved my key out of the run position causing the engine to turn off, I was slowing down progressively from 55 miles an hour and heard something that sounded like my engine had fallen apart. after getting it stopped I popped the hood and noticed damage to my tensioner pulley it had came off and my serpentine belt had shredded, I called and got it towed to the nearest place I could to get it looked at. When replacing the serpentine belt they said it'd be good to check the timing belt as well just in case. Upon checking it they noticed pieces of serpentine belt had gotten inside of there somehow causing the timing belt damage. With this type of engine if timing belt gets ruined 98% valves and pistons kiss which causes bent valves on the head. I was told the car would not run anymore unless I put a brandnew engine in and they wanted to charge me 6000 for that, I looked up a used engine on ebay for 650 they still wanted 3000, I don't have that kind of money sitting around and have been suffering without my vehicle since this happened. I've missed work and am lucky me or child weren't hurt during this situation. I called the local cadillac dealership this morning and explained what happened the guy I spoke with was very rude and told me theres nothing the could do to help me, I asked about the recall again and he said I need to call corporate I dialed the number he gave me and didn't get thru to anybody. Lucky I looked up the number myself explained the situation to them they gave me a case # and said I'D be contacted within 1TO 2 business days by a senior advisor. Bottom line IS I'm still stuck without a working vehicle due to this recall.
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. The contact stated that the vehicle was leaking brake fluid and the low brake fluid warning indicator illuminated. The contact observed smoke coming from the rear passenger side of the vehicle near the tire. An independent mechanic confirmed the failure…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. The contact stated that the vehicle was leaking brake fluid and the low brake fluid warning indicator illuminated. The contact observed smoke coming from the rear passenger side of the vehicle near the tire. An independent mechanic confirmed the failure, but did not diagnose the cause of the failure. The contact was advised to refill the brake fluid container. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer for diagnostic testing or repairs. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 126,000.
- Air bags · Seats
Airbag light IS stuck on. After researching issue there was a recall on the passenger side seat airbag sensor. Called dealer and was told this car wasn't part of the recall for this issue. Seems like the same reason the other cars were recalled.
- Air bags
I purchased a 2003 cadillac CTS from car mart in anniston, alabama on or about may 5, 2017. Shortly after signing the contract, which included an airbag reference, the service airbag lights came on. They come on at random times and include service airbag andrew airbag icon. I did not notice that…
I purchased a 2003 cadillac CTS from car mart in anniston, alabama on or about may 5, 2017. Shortly after signing the contract, which included an airbag reference, the service airbag lights came on. They come on at random times and include service airbag andrew airbag icon. I did not notice that the bottom of the airbag on the driver steering wheel had a small crack across it that you could actually see the airbag container. After being assured that an excutive of the company would review our contract and get back with me on this complaint around 2 weeks after taking possession of vechicle. As of today I have have not been contacted even after calling and leaving messages. I was driving down hwy.78 west when the lights first came on and continue to do so at random times. My wife IS short so she IS almost up to the steering wheel. I also have a 5 yr old daughter. I am in constant fear and worry that the airbag will deploy prematurely or when hitting a small pothole. I have checked for any recalls from the manufacturer and there are none. I would truly appreciate any assistance I can get to correct this problem. It IS an accident waiting to happen.
- Electrical system · Structure › Body · Visibility/wiper
My 2003 cadillac CTS caught on fire. Fireman said that it was the windshield wiper module that caught on fire. The car was parked for hours and fire started while we was sleeping. The whole engine IS burnt up and the car IS totaled. Now I have no car and no money to get another car.
- Air bags · Electronic stability control (esc) · Wheels
Traction control always come on,air bags lights on,cuts off if idle to long
- Air bags
On the morning of 9/21/2017 I was in a accident. The front of my car above the bumper was smashed in the engine was pushed bk and IS tipped. Not one of my air bags went off in the accident. My son was in the back seat of my car. By the airbags not going loff I could've died and my son would've been motherless.
- Electrical system
Car shuts down while driving on freeway/and city leaving me to have to put it in neutral to start back up. While car IS rolling .
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. After shifting the vehicle into the reverse position, the air bags deployed independently. The contact stated that the air bag warning indicator illuminated two days prior to the failure. The contact received minor pain, which did not require medical…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 cadillac CTS. After shifting the vehicle into the reverse position, the air bags deployed independently. The contact stated that the air bag warning indicator illuminated two days prior to the failure. The contact received minor pain, which did not require medical attention. The vehicle was towed back to the contact's residence. The worden-martin buick GMC dealer (1404 n dunlap st, savoy, il) was contacted and referred the contact to the manufacturer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact to take the vehicle to the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
- Structure › Body
My car has been garaged kept for 13 years, only came out in the summer and weekends. The last 2 years I have been using it as a daily driver.. In 2012 my mechanic noticed a lot of corrosion on my chasis rails, I notified cadillac, they sent me to the dealer to inspect my complaint and offered me…
My car has been garaged kept for 13 years, only came out in the summer and weekends. The last 2 years I have been using it as a daily driver.. In 2012 my mechanic noticed a lot of corrosion on my chasis rails, I notified cadillac, they sent me to the dealer to inspect my complaint and offered me 3,000 off a new vehicle. 2 weeks ago I went for an oil change and my mechanic noticed how worse the got. I called cadillac and they told me the corrosion warranty was over. My cadillac only has 113,000 miles, now that I noticed how bad they got I will not put my family in the car.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10247269Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10245885Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10245884Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244214This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242298This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10240793This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
- 10236164This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
Every Cadillac CTS model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.