Before you buy
This 2008 Cadillac Dts has 86 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Electrical Faults.
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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2008 Cadillac Dts Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 2 2008 Cadillac Dts 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. 2 trims analysed.
2008 Cadillac Dts Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial 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 DTS 2008 has 86 NHTSA complaints, with electrical faults (39) and engine problems (16) most common. There are 3 recalls and 6 crash-related complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Cadillac
- Model
- Dts
- Model year
- 2008
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 86
- Crash-related complaints
- 6
- Safety recall campaigns
- 3
- Top reported component
- Electrical Faults
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 18
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 15 / 22
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2008 Cadillac Dts problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Electrical Faults
Engine Problems
Fuel/Propulsion System
Complaint patterns center on Electrical Faults, Engine Problems, Fuel/Propulsion System. 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 2008 Cadillac Dts?
The 2008 DTS may be worth considering if you are prepared for potential electrical and engine repairs, but the low confidence level means these patterns are not definitive. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential.
Electrical faults and engine problems are the top complaints, which can lead to costly repairs and safety concerns. Understanding these patterns helps you negotiate price and plan for maintenance.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who prioritize comfort and luxury and are willing to invest in proactive maintenance and repairs.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking maximum reliability and minimal repair costs should consider other years or models.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2008 Cadillac Dts
Inspection Focus
- Inspect all electrical systems, including lights, windows, and dashboard.
- Check engine for signs of stalling, rough idle, or check engine light.
- Verify headlight and taillight operation for any failures.
Before You Close the Deal
- Have a mechanic inspect the electrical system thoroughly.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and electrical repairs.
- Test drive to check for engine stalling or hesitation.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2008 Cadillac Dts, 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 2008 Cadillac DTS has 86 complaints, with electrical faults (39) and engine problems (16) being the most reported. There are 3 recalls and 6 crash-related complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, the 2008 DTS has a moderate complaint count, but without data on other years, a direct comparison is not possible.
Recall context: With 3 recalls, it is critical to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase.
- Electrical faults account for 39 of 86 total complaints.
- Engine problems are the second most common issue with 16 complaints.
- There are 6 crash-related complaints and 3 recalls.
- Electrical faults (39 complaints) including potential wiring and module failures.
- Engine problems (16 complaints) such as stalling or performance issues.
- Fuel/propulsion system issues (8 complaints).
Full breakdown
All 2008 Cadillac Dts complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2008 Cadillac Dts. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Faults | 39 | 1 | 4 | — | |
| Engine Problems | 16 | — | 1 | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 8 | — | 2 | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 7 | — | 1 | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 6 | — | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 6 | 4 | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 6 | 1 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 5 | 1 | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 5 | 2 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Visibility | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 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 2008 Cadillac Dts. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2008 Cadillac DTS. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at an independent mechanic for an oil change, the vehicle was diagnosed with an oil leak from the oil pan. The contact was informed that the oil pan needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repa…
Tire size: 235/55R17 99H In February 2022, I purchased a set of 4 Yokahama tires from Discount Tire Co., located at 2707 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78230. The mileage on the car was approx. 89,000. In February of 2024, my mechanic notice tread lifting on the tires, so I too…
I have a very bad oil leak in my vehicle, which Is creating a mess and alot of smoke.
The contact owns a 2008 Cadillac DTS. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Alternator Not Charging" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that oil was leaking onto the alternator and exhaust manifo…
The contact owns a 2008 Cadillac DTS. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle there was smoke coming from under the hood. Upon inspection, it was discovered that engine oil had leaked onto the hot surface in the engine compartment. The leaking oil also caused damage t…
DECEMBER 16 2020 NHTSA ID NUMBER 11383838 OIL LEAK UNDER ENGINE COMING FROM ENGINE, TRANSMISSION, AND POWER STEERING PUMP. ALSO WHITE SMOKE COMING FROM ENGINE ON PASSENGER SIDE FOLLOWING STOP ON DRIVEWAY.
OIL LEAK UNDER ENGINE COMING FROM ENGINE TRANSMISSION AND POWER PUMP. ALSO WHITE SMOKE COMING FROM ENGINE ON PASSENGER SIDE WHEN STOPPED ON DRIVEWAY.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 CADILLAC DTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS OIL AND TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKING FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE ENGINE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY. ALSO, UPON COMING TO A STOP, THERE WAS WHITE SMOKE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE ENGINE ON THE …
REAR FUSE BLOCK FUEL PUMP RELAY SHORTED OUT MELTED FUSE BLOCK...COULD CATCH BACK SEAT ON FIRE AND VERY CLOSE TO GAS TANK.
MY WINDSHIELD WASHER SPRAYER JUST STOPPED WORKING AND NOW I'M BEING TOLD THAT THIS IS A COMMON WITH THIS YEAR VEHICLE. I JUST BROUGHT THIS VEHICLE AND HAVE NOT EVEN REGISTER IT AT THE BMV. JUST WANTING TO KNOW IF ANY RECALLS FOR THIS PROBLEM WAS MADE.
THE CAR GIVES OFF FALSE OIL PRESSURE INFORMATION ON CARS MESSAGE CENTER. I REPLACED THE SENSOR AS DISCRIBED, VERIFIED MY OIL LEVEL, CLEANED THE CONNECTOR TO OIL PRESSURE SENSOR AND STILL EVERY 2 OR 3 MINTUES I GET ENGINE OIL PRESSURE LOW, STOP VEHICHLE. WHEN I STOP THE OIL LEVEL …
REAR PASSENGER FUSE BLOCK (P/N 19116816) GETS MELTED BY A FAULTY FUSE PUMP RELAY BURNING UP DUE TO A FAULTY DESIGN WITHIN THE FUEL PUMP SYSTEM. FUEL PUMP PUTTING A LOT OF RESISTANCE ON THE WIRING, RELAY WON'T BLOW, BUT IT MELTS. WITHOUT CORRECTING THIS, THE FUSE BOX WILL BE AFFEC…
MY 2008 CADILLAC DTS WOUDL NOT START, I FOUND THE FUEL PUMP RELAY TO BE BURNT. I REPLACED AND WAS ABLE TO DRIVE FOR 150 MILES, SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN. REPLACED THE RELAY AGAIN IN ORDER TO GET HOME. I THEN REPLACED THE FUEL PUMP, SAME THING HAPPENED. THEN I RESEARCHED THAT THIS…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 CADILLAC DTS. THE CONTACT NOTICED OIL SPOTS ON THE GARAGE FLOOR. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO GUYS BUICK GMC TRUCK (1316 N MILDRED ST, RANSON, WV 25438) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT OIL WAS LEAKING FROM THE CRANK CASE IN THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT WAS …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 CADILLAC DTS. THE CONTACT SMELLED A ROTTING ODOR INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND THE RADIO REMAINED IN VALET MODE. ALSO, THE TURN SIGNALS FAILED TO ACTIVATE CORRECTLY AND THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE TO FULL CAPACITY. THE CONTACT ALSO EXPERIENCED SEVERAL…
CAR STOPPED OPERATING ALL OF A SUDDEN. BATTERY CHARGING ISSUE.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 CADILLAC DTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHROME ON THE RIMS PEELED AND BUBBLED, CAUSING THE TIRES TO CONSTANTLY LOSE AIR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE RIMS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WOND…
2008 CADILLAC DTS (100K MI) WAS PARKED AND ENGINE WOULD TURN OVER BUT NOT START. I DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS NO FUEL TO ENGINE BY CHECKING SCHRADER VALVE ON FUEL RAIL. PROCEEDED TO CHECK FUEL PUMP (FP) FUSE (OK) AND FP RELAY (BURNED ON PIN 30 ALONG WITH FUSE BLOCK). REPLACED …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 CADILLAC DTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDOW WASHER FLUID WAS LEAKING AND COULD POTENTIALLY SHORT OUT THE OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS OF THE REAR WINDSHIELD WIPER. THE FAILURE WAS BURNING UP THE FUSES AND COULD CAUSE A FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS EXPERIE…
THE CHECK ENGINE CODE SHOWED THE INTERNAL POWER MODULE FAILURE CAUSED THE ENGINE TO SHUT DOWN WHILE TRAVELING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. THIS WAS WITHOUT WARNING AND MADE THE CAR'S POWER BRAKES AND STEERING TO BECOME ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO STEER AND BRAKE THE CAR BY MY WIFE. I TOOK…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2008 Cadillac Dts.
Safety recalls
2008 Cadillac Dts recalls
3 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2008 Cadillac Dts. With 3 recalls, it is critical to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
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Questions
2008 Cadillac Dts buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2008 Cadillac Dts reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 86 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 3 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2008 DTS may be worth considering if you are prepared for potential electrical and engine repairs, but the low confidence level means these patterns are not definitive. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is 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 2008 Cadillac Dts?▾
#1: Electrical Faults (39 complaints). #2: Engine Problems (16 complaints). #3: Fuel/Propulsion System (8 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2008 Cadillac Dts?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2008 Cadillac Dts?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2008 Cadillac Dts, NHTSA complaints include 6 crash-related reports and 6 fire reports out of 86 total complaints. 7 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2008 Cadillac Dts have any recalls?▾
Yes. 3 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2008 Cadillac Dts. A major recall area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION. With 3 recalls, it is critical to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2008 Cadillac Dts?▾
The 2008 DTS may be worth considering if you are prepared for potential electrical and engine repairs, but the low confidence level means these patterns are not definitive. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential. Electrical faults and engine problems are the top complaints, which can lead to costly repairs and safety concerns. Understanding these patterns helps you negotiate price and plan for maintenance. Pay extra attention to Electrical Faults 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 Dts reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2008 Cadillac Dts 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.