Before you buy
This 2006 Cadillac Sts has 141 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Airbag Malfunctions.
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.
Free preview · Full report from $12.95.
2006 Cadillac Sts Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 5 2006 Cadillac Sts 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. 5 trims analysed.
2006 Cadillac Sts 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 STS 2006 has 141 NHTSA complaints, with airbag malfunctions (58) as the top issue. Engine problems (28) and electrical faults (21) are also common. Four recalls exist. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Cadillac
- Model
- Sts
- Model year
- 2006
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 141
- Crash-related complaints
- 17
- Safety recall campaigns
- 4
- Top reported component
- Airbag Malfunctions
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 18
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 15 / 24
- Fuel type
- Premium Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2006 Cadillac Sts problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Airbag Malfunctions
Engine Problems
Electrical Faults
Complaint patterns center on Airbag Malfunctions, Engine Problems, Electrical Faults. 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 2006 Cadillac Sts?
The 2006 Cadillac STS is a high-risk purchase due to the prevalence of airbag malfunctions and other significant complaints. Buyers should proceed with caution and ensure all recalls are addressed.
Airbag malfunctions directly impact safety, and engine or electrical issues can lead to costly repairs. These patterns indicate potential reliability and safety risks.
May Suit
This year may suit a buyer willing to invest in thorough inspections and repairs, or one who prioritizes the STS's luxury features over reliability.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking a reliable, low-maintenance used luxury sedan should avoid the 2006 STS due to its high complaint volume.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2006 Cadillac Sts
Inspection Focus
- Inspect airbag system for warning lights and recall completion.
- Check engine for codes, leaks, and unusual noises.
- Test all electrical components including windows, lights, and infotainment.
Before You Close the Deal
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, especially for airbag systems.
- Request service records for airbag, engine, and electrical repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the airbag system, engine, and electrical components before purchase.
- Check for any NHTSA investigations or service bulletins related to the 2006 STS.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2006 Cadillac Sts, 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 2006 Cadillac STS shows a high number of airbag malfunction reports (58 complaints), which is a critical safety concern. Engine problems (28 complaints) and electrical faults (21 complaints) are also notable. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, the 2006 STS has a high complaint count, but data for adjacent years is not available for direct comparison.
Recall context: With 4 recalls, pre-purchase verification of recall completion is essential to address known safety defects.
- Airbag malfunctions account for 58 of 141 total complaints.
- Engine problems total 28 complaints, the second most common issue.
- Electrical faults represent 21 complaints, indicating systemic electrical issues.
- Airbag Malfunctions (58 complaints) are the top safety concern.
- Engine Problems (28 complaints) may lead to drivability issues.
- Electrical Faults (21 complaints) could affect multiple systems.
Full breakdown
All 2006 Cadillac Sts complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2006 Cadillac Sts. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag Malfunctions | 58 | 13 | 2 | — | |
| Engine Problems | 28 | 4 | 3 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 21 | 1 | 3 | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 18 | — | 3 | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 13 | 1 | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 8 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 6 | 1 | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 6 | — | 1 | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 6 | — | 1 | — | |
| Steering Defects | 5 | 1 | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 4 | 3 | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 3 | 2 | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electric | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Traction Control System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 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 2006 Cadillac Sts. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2006 Cadillac STS. The contact stated that while reversing out of the driveway at approximately 2 MPH, the driver's side tie rod fractured into two pieces. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and…
The contact owns a 2006 Cadillac STS. The contact stated while inspecting the vehicle, he noticed fuel dripping from the fuel tank. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure w…
WHILE DRIVING, THE ENTIRE PANEL GOES "OFF" SHUTTING DOWN THE CAR COMPLETELY. THE PANEL BOARD IS COMPLETELY DARK, NO ELECTRIC SUPPLY, NO GAS SUPPLY.
SERVICE AIRBAG ON THE DASH / AIRBAG LIGHT ON
MY CAR HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED AS HAVING 'EXTENDED CRANK'. MY LOCAL CHEVY DEALER MADE APPROXIMATELY FIFTEEN ATTEMPTS AT FIXING IT TO NO AVAIL. I'M TOLD IT'S THE CHECK VALVE, BUT I HAVE NOT HAD THAT DONE BECAUSE ALL ATTEMPTS BY THE DEALER DIDN'T WORK; E.G., NEW COMPUTER (AND REMOVED)…
I UNDERSTAND THAT 2006 CADILLAC CTS HAS A RECALL FOR AIRBAG PROBLEMS. CADILLAC DOESN'T DENY THAT THE SAME SYSTEM WAS USED IN THE STS. I'VE SEEN SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME PROBLEM. I JUST WONDER WHY THE STS WAS NOT RECALLED. I KNEW THERE WAS NO WARRANTY, AND THAT'S W…
LEAKS FUEL IF YOU FILL THE TANK TO CAPACITY. THIS WAS AN EARLIER RECALL, EXACT SAME THING HAPPENING AGAIN.
CERTAIN TIMES WHILE DRIVING, THE TRACTION ASSIST COMES ON, AND ALL POWER IS LOST TO THE ENGINE. LIGHTS ARE STILL ON, CAR IS STILL ON, BUT GAS DOES NOT ACCELERATE AND CAR IS HARD TO STEER. I HAVE HAD TO PULL OVER 6 TIMES IN THE LAST FEW MONTHS, TURN THE CAR OFF, RESTART AND HOPE I…
PUMP IS GOING OUT
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC STS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND SPUTTERED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED, THE…
PURCHASED 2006 CADILLAC STS BUILT ON JUNE 21 2005 LAST DAY OF 2005 MODEL. CAR HAS HAD ALL THE ISSUES THAT 22005 VEHICLE HAD. JUNE 23RD 2005 WAS FIRST DAY OF PRODUCTION. AT EVERY CORNER VIN # ARE NOTED HOWEVER FOR THIS MODEL THE BUILD DAYS WHICH NOTED BY CADILLAC ARE THE IMPORTA…
A HIGH PITCH FIRE ALARM NOISE INTERMITTENT GOING OFF INSIDE VEHICLE SOMETIMES DEAFENING, CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOOSE ALL ATTENTION AND COVERING EARS FROM SOUND. THE SOUND SEEMS TO BE RADIATING FROM THE 15.1 BOSE SOUND SYSTEM. THIS PROBLEM MAY PRESENT ITSELF AT DIFFERENT TIMES WE…
DRIVING OUT OF TOWN STOP GOT GAS EVERYTHING FINE 20 MIN FROM THEN I PULL OVER THE SIDE OF ROAD TURN CAR GET SOMETHING OUT THE TRUNK BACK IN THE CAR TURN FUEL GAUGE READS ALMOST EMPTY NOW I'M WAY OUT IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE.DID GET ANY WARNING ETC BUT NOW I DON'T KNOW IF I'VE GAS…
SERVICE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC STS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED LIT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DIAGNOSED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS …
"TAKATA RECALL"
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC STS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON TELLING YOU TO SERVICE AIRBAG. I TOOK IT TO THE SHOP THEY FIXED IT, 1 WEEK LATER CAME BACK ON. THEY SAID IT HAS TO DO WITH THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE. THEY SAID THE PART THET YOU CONNECT TO SECURE YOU IN THE SEAT BELT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. UNTIL THEN THE AIRBAG LIGHT…
STARTED RECEIVING A CONSTANT, "SERVICE AIR BAG" WARNING MESSAGE AFTER 125,000 MILES. THE DEALER TOLD ME THE PASSENGER PRESENCE MODULE NEEDED REPLACED. IT WILL COST $1,000 FOR THE PART, LABOR, AND PROGRAMMING. NOW I READ ON THIS FORUM THAT THE SAME ISSUE WAS FOUND ON THE CTS MO…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CADILLAC STS. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED LIT. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED (ORR CADILLAC, SHREVEPORT, LA 71105, 318-798-7250) AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF …
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2006 Cadillac Sts.
Safety recalls
2006 Cadillac Sts recalls
4 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2006 Cadillac Sts. With 4 recalls, pre-purchase verification of recall completion is essential to address known safety defects. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2006 Cadillac Sts buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2006 Cadillac Sts reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 141 owner complaints, 17 crash-related complaints, and 4 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2006 Cadillac STS is a high-risk purchase due to the prevalence of airbag malfunctions and other significant complaints. Buyers should proceed with caution and ensure all recalls are addressed. 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 2006 Cadillac Sts?▾
#1: Airbag Malfunctions (58 complaints). #2: Engine Problems (28 complaints). #3: Electrical Faults (21 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2006 Cadillac Sts?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2006 Cadillac Sts?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2006 Cadillac Sts, NHTSA complaints include 17 crash-related reports and 6 fire reports out of 141 total complaints. 20 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2006 Cadillac Sts have any recalls?▾
Yes. 4 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2006 Cadillac Sts. A major recall area is FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP. With 4 recalls, pre-purchase verification of recall completion is essential to address known safety defects. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2006 Cadillac Sts?▾
The 2006 Cadillac STS is a high-risk purchase due to the prevalence of airbag malfunctions and other significant complaints. Buyers should proceed with caution and ensure all recalls are addressed. Airbag malfunctions directly impact safety, and engine or electrical issues can lead to costly repairs. These patterns indicate potential reliability and safety risks. Pay extra attention to Airbag Malfunctions 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 VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Cadillac Sts reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2006 Cadillac Sts based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
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.