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ProblemsByVin File / 2018-CADILLAC-ATS
2018 · cadillac

cadillac ATS problems

0 safety recalls. 20 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.

0 5 10
Reliability score
8.6 / 10

Above-average reliability for the segment. Few systemic issues on file.

0
Critical
0
Severe
0
Moderate

Top trouble spots 3 categories with 3+ complaints

powertrain
6 reports · avg $2,500
moderate
electrical
3 reports · avg $850
moderate
steering
3 reports · avg $700
moderate

What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim

2018 ATS · electrical
The contact owns a 2018 Cadillac ATS. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and the mechanic determined that the F-module, Part Number: 86815664, used to control the…
12/22/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11706515.0
2018 ATS · powertrain
The contact owns a 2018 Cadillac ATS. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, there was an abnormal growling sound coming from the vehicle. The contact looked underneath the vehicle, checked the tires, and checked the inside of the vehicle but found no failure.…
11/28/2023 · NHTSA ODI #11557178.0
2018 ATS · tires
This is the 3rd tire now that I am going to have to replace. PEPE Cadillac replaced the 1st one on 4/21/20 and another one on 6/30/21 and now another one any day. It seems like the tires start bulging off the rim and as per the dealership they are unsafe to drive and need to…
11/18/2021 · NHTSA ODI #11440887.0
2018 ATS · steering
NO POWER STEERING CLUSTER WARNING SAYS SERVICE POWER STEERING DRIVE WITH CARE
08/03/2020 · NHTSA ODI #11343094.0

Estimate your repair exposure

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Likely repair cost in next 24 months
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Common questions

Is the 2018 Cadillac ATS reliable?

Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 8.6 out of 10 based on 20 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2018 Cadillac ATS is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.

What's the most common problem on the 2018 Cadillac ATS?

Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is powertrain, with 6 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $2,500 at an independent shop.

What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?

The powertrain is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $2,500 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.

How do I check if my Cadillac ATS has open recalls?

Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2018 Cadillac ATS?

Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 20 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $2,500, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.

Related vehicles

Recall and complaint data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database, last synced 15 hours ago. Editorial commentary written by ProblemsByVin contributors and reviewed by ASE-certified mechanics. We are not affiliated with cadillac. Some links on this page are affiliate links and we may earn a commission if you complete a quote or purchase.
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