PROBLEM GUIDE

2013–2016 Cadillac ATS Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated July 2026

160

complaints filed for this model year

2013–2016

Model years affected

$1,300 – $5,600

Typical repair cost, by problem

This nameplate's CUE touchscreen infotainment system is a dominant complaint category — screens develop internal "spider web" cracking, freeze, or become completely unresponsive, and because radio and HVAC controls route through the touchscreen, losing CUE means losing climate and audio control too, at a $1,300-$1,600+ replacement cost. Separately, corroded bolts in the electronic power steering assembly have caused the steering motor to fall in some cases, with some owners reporting total loss of power steering assist or steering wheel lock-up while driving. Airbag non-deployment is documented across multiple crash complaints, including a T-bone collision where the occupant was trapped.

Quick Scan: 5 Issues

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PROBLEM DETAILS

CUE touchscreen infotainment failures

"Spider web" cracking, freezing, or complete unresponsiveness

Check engine light: Off

The CUE touchscreen system is a dominant complaint category: screens develop internal "spider web" cracking patterns, freeze, or become completely unresponsive — and because radio/HVAC controls route through the touchscreen, losing CUE means losing climate and audio control.

$1,300 – $1,600+

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Transmission shifter cable detachment

Vehicle stuck in park or neutral, unable to shift

Check engine light: On

Multiple complaints describe the transmission shifter cable detaching or failing, leaving the vehicle stuck in park or neutral and unable to shift gears.

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Total loss of power steering assist

Corroded bolts causing the steering motor to fall

Check engine light: On

Corroded bolts in the electronic power steering assembly have caused the steering motor to fall, and some owners report total loss of power steering assist or steering wheel lock-up while driving.

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Rear differential leaking and torque converter failures

Poor welding cited by some owners

Check engine light: On

Rear differential leaks and failures are attributed by some owners to poor welding quality; separately, rear axle bolts have been reported missing or loosening.

$3,500 – $5,600128,960 mi

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Metal shavings in engine oil

Serious enough to require full engine replacement in some cases

Check engine light: On

Multiple engine complaints describe metal shavings found in the oil, serious enough to require full engine replacement in some cases. Overheating issues persist despite coolant additions.

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No official recall was identified for this generation. Enter your VIN to check for the current, confirmed recall picture on your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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