2018 Cadillac Ats Problems
The 2018 Cadillac ATS has 21 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls, with transmission issues being the top concern. Based on 21 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Transmission / Drivetrain the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2018 Cadillac Ats has 21 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Transmission / Drivetrain.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2018 Cadillac Ats Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 7 2018 Cadillac Ats trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 7 trims analysed.
2018 Cadillac Ats Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program4 variants tested — showing 2018 Cadillac ATS 2DR RWDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not RatedFrontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
Not RatedSource: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
CADILLAC ATS 2018 has 21 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls. Transmission/drivetrain issues lead with 6 complaints, followed by electrical faults and steering defects (3 each). Only 1 crash-related complaint was reported. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Cadillac
- Model
- Ats
- Model year
- 2018
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 21
- Crash-related complaints
- 1
- Safety recall campaigns
- 2
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 23
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 20 / 29
- Fuel type
- Premium Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2018 Cadillac Ats problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Electrical Faults
Steering Defects
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Electrical Faults, Steering Defects. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2018 Cadillac Ats?
The 2018 Cadillac ATS may be worth considering if you find a well-maintained example, but the transmission complaints warrant caution. Pre-purchase inspection and recall verification are essential.
Transmission problems can lead to costly repairs, and electrical or steering issues affect safety and drivability. These patterns help buyers prioritize inspection areas.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who prioritize luxury features and are willing to perform thorough pre-purchase checks.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking maximum reliability or who cannot accommodate potential transmission repairs should avoid this year.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2018 Cadillac Ats
Inspection Focus
- Inspect transmission for slipping, harsh shifting, or warning lights.
- Check electrical systems including infotainment, windows, and lights.
- Test steering for unusual noises or stiffness.
Before You Close the Deal
- Have a mechanic inspect the transmission for any signs of failure.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for transmission, electrical, and steering repairs.
- Test drive to check for transmission shudder or hesitation.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2018 Cadillac Ats, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2018 Cadillac ATS shows a low complaint volume but notable transmission/drivetrain issues (6 complaints). Electrical faults, steering defects, and airbag malfunctions also appear. With only 1 crash-related complaint and 2 recalls, the data suggests a mixed reliability picture, though confidence is low due to limited sample size. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, 2018 has a low complaint count but transmission issues are more prominent than in some earlier years.
Recall context: With 2 recalls, buyers should verify all open recalls are completed before purchase.
- Transmission/drivetrain accounts for 6 of 21 total complaints.
- Electrical faults and steering defects each have 3 complaints.
- There is 1 crash-related complaint among the 21 total.
- Transmission / Drivetrain issues (6 complaints)
- Electrical faults (3 complaints)
- Steering defects (3 complaints)
Full breakdown
All 2018 Cadillac Ats complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2018 Cadillac Ats. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2018 Cadillac Ats. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Both side mirrors failed. Internal components corroded, one almost fell off when driving, the other later became completely detached. Failed parts that could have caused a major safety issue if they were to fail during operation.
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 engine…
Rear differential. This part will be available after removal. This put me at risk of potentially locking up while driving. According to the dealership, Faulkner Cadillac, "found rear differential bearings damaged, causing noise in the rear end. The Rear Differential will need re…
My vehicle recently started experiencing an issue where the power steering would randomly cut out while I was driving. If I pulled over and shut the car off and then turned it back on the power steering would come back. But sometimes I would have to do this multiple times in a si…
The power steering will randomly stop working while driving! We have had it in the shop 3 times and they can't find anything! We have replaced alternator, battery and it still isn't fixed! I seen u had a recall on the 16, 17, and some 18s for this issue! We have always bought GMs…
The car was parked outside at around 85 degrees. After entering the vehicle and driving with the AC on for a few minutes the CUE screen started to crack on the inside like a spider web. This has already been reported in 11576315 and 11325962. But I can't find any manufacturer com…
While driving started to smell gas. On same day, car stalled at an intersection in a downtown area. I could not start car. Had to push car in busy traffic to a safe place and called a tow truck. Auto shop I took to said the fuel pump came loose somehow and caused the fuel lines t…
Hi, the cue screen is cracked which makes it no longer handsfree. It cracked in July of 2023 and it's a 2018, purchased in October 2017, the dealer will not fix it, I don't have $1500 to replace it with a one year warranty and it could happen again. I am not eligible for the clas…
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. Th…
Unexpected shutter of vehicle, loss of power, unpredictable forward motion, erratic movement, delayed acceleration.
The contact owns a 2018 Cadillac ATS. The contact stated that while the front passenger’s side seat was occupied, the air bag (SRS) restraint system warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the presence module needed to be r…
The contact owns a 2018 Cadillac ATS. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and axles, gaskets, and seals were replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehic…
5am, 2/9/23, it's dark and I'm driving 90 minutes to Portland Airport. ~10 cars that came up behind with what seemed to me to have their bright lights on high beam. Approximately 7 vehicles of these were: ALL Ford F-150 (newish) pickups. Bright lights shining in rear view mi…
2018 cadillac ats (most of the cadillac vehicles reported same issue). The transmission fluid is wrong fluid by manufacturer and driving at regular speed all of a sudden it starts shuddering and loses power or slows down at freeway speeds or any local roads. took the car for insp…
Transmission shudder noticed between 42 to 48 mph. It appears the transmission is shaking, it seems to be continually shifting between gears in the 42 to 48 mph range.
Vehicle was involved in a accident all front damage and airbags didn’t deploy
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 be…
NO POWER STEERING CLUSTER WARNING SAYS SERVICE POWER STEERING DRIVE WITH CARE
THE SCREEN IS STARTING TO SPIDER CRACK UNDERNEATH THE GLASS. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY IN MY DRIVEWAY. *TR
HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2018 Cadillac Ats.
Safety recalls
2018 Cadillac Ats recalls
2 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2018 Cadillac Ats. With 2 recalls, buyers should verify all open recalls are completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2018 Cadillac Ats buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2018 Cadillac Ats reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 21 owner complaints, 1 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2018 Cadillac ATS may be worth considering if you find a well-maintained example, but the transmission complaints warrant caution. Pre-purchase inspection and recall verification are essential. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Cadillac Ats?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (6 complaints). #2: Electrical Faults (3 complaints). #3: Steering Defects (3 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2018 Cadillac Ats?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2018 Cadillac Ats?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2018 Cadillac Ats, NHTSA complaints include 1 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 21 total complaints. 1 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2018 Cadillac Ats have any recalls?▾
Yes. 2 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2018 Cadillac Ats. A major recall area is FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP. With 2 recalls, buyers should verify all open recalls are completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2018 Cadillac Ats?▾
The 2018 Cadillac ATS may be worth considering if you find a well-maintained example, but the transmission complaints warrant caution. Pre-purchase inspection and recall verification are essential. Transmission problems can lead to costly repairs, and electrical or steering issues affect safety and drivability. These patterns help buyers prioritize inspection areas. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Cadillac Ats reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2018 Cadillac Ats based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.