The 2004 Cadillac CTS marked Cadillac's entry into the modern sport sedan market, aiming to compete with European rivals. It's a 4-door sedan, part of the first generation (2003-2007). Key trims included the base model and the more luxurious variations. The original pricing ranged from around $30,000 to $40,000. The CTS stood out for its sharp, angular styling, a departure from traditional Cadillac designs, and its focus on performance handling, appealing to a younger demographic.
The Good
The 2004 CTS offered decent performance with its V6 engines and available manual transmission, appealing to enthusiasts. Its distinctive styling made an emotional statement. Practically, it provided a comfortable ride and was relatively affordable compared to its European competitors. While not the most reliable, it offered a good balance of luxury and performance for its price point.
The Bad
The 2004 Cadillac CTS is known for some reliability issues. Potential buyers should watch out for problems with the timing chain, differential, and electrical systems. The interior materials and build quality were sometimes criticized. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. Power window regulators are also prone to failure.
2004 Cadillac CTS: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.6L V6: Standard engine
- 2.6L V6: Available as a lower-cost option (less common)
- Horsepower:
- 3.6L V6: Approximately 255 hp
- 2.6L V6: Approximately 210 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- 3.6L V6: Around 18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- 2.6L V6: Slightly better, around 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway, but varies based on driving style.
- 0-60 Times:
- 3.6L V6: Around 7 seconds
- 2.6L V6: Around 8 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Included features such as:
- Leatherette seating
- Dual-zone climate control
- Power windows and locks
- CD player
- Alloy wheels
- Higher Trims (options, could be package based): Enhanced features such as:
- Leather seating
- Bose audio system
- Sunroof
- Heated seats
- Navigation system (optional)
- Sport suspension (optional)
- Xenon headlights
- Base: Included features such as:
2004 Cadillac CTS Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Cadillac |
| Model | CTS |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LANSING - GRAND RIVER |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1618.42 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 144.02 cm |
| Overall Length | 482.85 cm |
| Overall Width | 179.32 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 288.04 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.6L V6 |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $30,650 USD |
| Invoice Price | $28,351 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $695 USD |
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What Problems Does the 2004 Cadillac CTS Have?
The 2004 Cadillac CTS has several frequently reported problems, impacting its long-term reliability. One prevalent issue involves the timing chain, which can stretch or fail, leading to costly repairs. Differential issues, manifesting as noise or failure, are also common. Electrical problems, including issues with the power windows, door locks, and instrument cluster, are frequently reported.
Recalls for the 2004 CTS included issues with the fuel system and airbags. Owners have also reported problems with the cooling system, such as leaks and overheating. Premature wear of suspension components is another concern.
Rust, especially in areas with road salt, is a long-term concern. The interior materials, particularly the leatherette in the base models, may show wear and tear over time. The build quality of some interior components has also been criticized. While specific issues might vary slightly by model year, the 2004 model shares many of the common problems found in the first-generation CTS, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection crucial. The lack of readily available parts for some repairs can also prolong repair times and increase costs.
Recalls for the 2004 CTS included issues with the fuel system and airbags. Owners have also reported problems with the cooling system, such as leaks and overheating. Premature wear of suspension components is another concern.
Rust, especially in areas with road salt, is a long-term concern. The interior materials, particularly the leatherette in the base models, may show wear and tear over time. The build quality of some interior components has also been criticized. While specific issues might vary slightly by model year, the 2004 model shares many of the common problems found in the first-generation CTS, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection crucial. The lack of readily available parts for some repairs can also prolong repair times and increase costs.
How long will the 2004 Cadillac CTS last?
With proper maintenance, a 2004 Cadillac CTS can reach 200,000 miles or more. However, neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan. Many well-maintained examples are still on the road, nearing or exceeding 20 years of service.
Long-term durability weaknesses include the aforementioned timing chain issues, differential problems, and electrical gremlins. Rust is also a major factor, especially in northern climates. Regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely repairs are crucial to maximizing the vehicle's lifespan. Paying attention to early warning signs of potential problems can prevent more extensive damage down the road.
Long-term durability weaknesses include the aforementioned timing chain issues, differential problems, and electrical gremlins. Rust is also a major factor, especially in northern climates. Regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely repairs are crucial to maximizing the vehicle's lifespan. Paying attention to early warning signs of potential problems can prevent more extensive damage down the road.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Cadillac CTS featured a decent array of technology for its time. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, a CD player, and power windows and locks. Optional features included a Bose audio system, a navigation system (which was fairly basic by today's standards), and heated seats.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It had standard antilock brakes (ABS) and traction control. Stability control was an available option. Safety features included front and side airbags.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) crash-test ratings for the 2004 Cadillac CTS were generally good, earning four or five stars in most categories. However, it's important to note that crash test standards have become more stringent since 2004, so comparing these ratings to modern vehicles isn't directly comparable. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted tests, and results can be found on their website. Keep in mind that the technology of the time pales in comparison to more modern vehicles. There were no blind spot monitoring or automatic emergency braking available.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It had standard antilock brakes (ABS) and traction control. Stability control was an available option. Safety features included front and side airbags.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) crash-test ratings for the 2004 Cadillac CTS were generally good, earning four or five stars in most categories. However, it's important to note that crash test standards have become more stringent since 2004, so comparing these ratings to modern vehicles isn't directly comparable. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted tests, and results can be found on their website. Keep in mind that the technology of the time pales in comparison to more modern vehicles. There were no blind spot monitoring or automatic emergency braking available.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Raven
Light Cashmere
Silver Metallic
Polar White
Blue Chip
Infrared Red
Interior Colors
Black
Light Neutral
Medium Gray
2004 Cadillac CTS Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2004 Cadillac CTS ranged from approximately $30,000 to $40,000 depending on the trim level and options. Currently, used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The CTS has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, reliability concerns, and the availability of newer, more technologically advanced vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of the vehicle, maintenance records, mileage, and the presence of desirable options like leather seats and the Bose audio system. Vehicles with significant mechanical issues or rust will have considerably lower resale value.
2004 Cadillac CTS Cost of Ownership
The 2004 Cadillac CTS is generally not economical to own in the long term. Insurance costs are moderate, but fuel economy is relatively poor compared to modern vehicles. Maintenance and repair costs can be high due to the car's age and potential reliability issues. Parts availability can also be a factor. While the initial purchase price is low, the potential for costly repairs makes it more expensive to own than many newer, more reliable vehicles. Long-term ownership requires diligent maintenance and a preparedness for potential repairs.
2004 Cadillac CTS Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
66.24 liters
City Mileage
7.65 km/l
Highway Mileage
11.05 km/l
2004 Cadillac CTS Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Cadillac CTS Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2010-03-17
Recall no.
10v105000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors HAS Notified Nhtsa OF A Defect IN Certain Model Year 2003-2007 Cadillac CTS Vehicles Currently Registered IN or Originally Sold IN Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington D.c., West Virginia and Wisconsin. Some OF These Vehicles Have A Condition IN Which THE Front Brake Hose Fitting AT THE Caliper MAY Corrode DUE TO Snow or Water, Containing Road Salt or Other Contaminants, Entering and Being Retained IN THE Routing Sleeve. IF THE Fitting Corrodes Significantly, THE Brake Hose-Tube Interface MAY Develop A Leak.
Consequence
THE Brake Hose-Tube Interface MAY Rupture Suddenly Without Prior Warning and Increase Vehicle Stopping Distance MAY Occur Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers ARE TO Replace Both Front Brake Hose Assemblies Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin During MAY 2010. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 09149.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2014-09-09
Recall no.
14v542000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2007 Cadillac Cts-V Vehicles Manufactured October 6, 2003, TO March 15, 2007, and 2006-2007 Cadillac Sts-v Vehicles Manufactured June 23, 2005, TO March 15, 2007. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Electrical Terminals OF THE Fuel Pump Module MAY Overheat Resulting IN THE Melting OF THE Flange Material.
Consequence
IF THE Flange Melts, A Hole MAY BE Created Allowing THE Fuel Pump TO Leak Fuel, Causing THE Vehicle TO Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash. Additionally, Leaking Fuel IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Module and Fuel Tank Jumper Harness, Free OF Charge. GM Sent OUT Interim Notices IN Late October. THE Recall Began ON March 12, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14405.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date
2014-07-02
Recall no.
14v394000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON July 2, 2014 That They ARE Recalling 554,328 Model Year 2003-2014 Cadillac CTS Vehicles Manufactured August 16, 2001, TO April 28, 2014, and 2004-2006 Cadillac SRX Vehicles Manufactured March 20, 2003, TO August 11, 2006. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install Two KEY Rings and AN Insert IN THE KEY Slot or A Cover Over THE KEY Head ON All Ignition Keys, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 15, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14172.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats
Recall date
2003-09-29
Recall no.
03v346000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger and Sport Utility Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 207, "seating Systems." ONE or Both Front Anchor Tabs FOR THE Front Bucket Seats ARE NOT Engaged IN THE Floor PAN Reinforcement Slots. A Seat With Only ONE TAB Engaged or Neither Engaged Would NOT Meet THE Static Rearward Loading Test Requirements OF THE Standard.
Consequence
IN Some Crash Conditions, THE Seat Could Pivot Rearward and ITS Occupant or A Rear Seat Occupant Could BE Injured More Severely.
Remedy
Dealers Will Ensure That Both Front Anchor Tabs ARE Fully Seated IN THE Floor PAN Reinforcement Slots. Owner Notification Began September 19, 2003. Owners Should Contact GM AT 1-800-458-8006.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 03050.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering:linkages
Recall date
2004-06-09
Recall no.
04v273000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Involved IN This Campaign, THE Lower Control ARM Ball Stud Nut/Washer Assemblies With Washers Were Made OF THE Wrong Material. THE Washers MAY Fracture and Become Loose or Fall Away From THE Vehicle, Reducing Clamp Load. Separation OF THE Control ARM Ball Stud and Steering Knuckle, DUE TO Disengagement OF THE Tapered Attachment and Retaining Nut, IS Possible.
Consequence
IF THE Control ARM Separates From THE Knuckle, THE Affected Corner OF THE Vehicle Will Drop and THE Control ARM Would BE Forced Downward, Contacting THE Wheel. THE Affected Wheel Could Tilt Outward and Create A Dragging Action That Would Tend TO Slow THE Vehicle and Create A Tendency FOR THE Vehicle TO Turn IN THE Direction OF THE Affected Wheel. IN Extreme Situations, THE Affected Wheel Assembly Could Separate From THE Vehicle. Separation OF THE Wheel Assembly Would Also Sever That Wheel;s Hydraulic Brake Hose and Result IN Diminished Braking Performance OF THE Vehicle, Which Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Ball Stud Joints and Measure THE Torque OF THE NUT FOR All Front Lower Control Arms IN All Models Affected AS Well AS THE Rear Lower Control Arms ON THE XLR and Corvette. IF THE Torque IS NOT AT Specification, THE Dealers Will Replace THE Ball Stud, THE Knuckle, and THE Nut. IF THE Torque IS AT Specification, THE Dealers Will Replace THE Nut/Washer Assembly Only. THE Recall Will Begin ON August 25, 2004. Owners Should Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339 or Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 04043. Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
AIR Bags
Recall date
2005-01-20
Recall no.
05v024000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, AN Interaction Between THE Sensing and Diagnostic Module and Vehicle's Electrical System MAY Cause THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG And/Or Roof-Mounted Side Impact AIR BAG TO Deploy When THE Ignition KEY IS Turned TO THE "on" Position.
Consequence
A Person Positioned FOR Driving MAY Receive Minor Injuries, Such AS Abrasions, From Contact With A Deploying AIR Bag.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Sensing and Diagnostic Module Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 20, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 05004.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
2004 Cadillac CTS Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2004 Cadillac CTS Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Cadillac CTS is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Cadillac CTS Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2004 Cadillac CTS competed against rivals such as the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Acura TL. In terms of performance, the CTS offered competitive horsepower, but its handling and refinement weren't quite on par with the BMW 3 Series. Feature-wise, it provided a decent array of standard and optional equipment, but the interiors of the Audi A4 and Acura TL were often considered more luxurious and well-built.
Reliability is where the CTS falls short compared to its rivals, particularly the Acura TL, which had a stronger reputation for reliability. The BMW 3 Series also tends to be more reliable, although both are more expensive to maintain. The CTS was generally more affordable than its European competitors, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives to the 2004 CTS include the Acura TL, which offers better reliability and a more refined interior, or the Infiniti G35, which delivers a sportier driving experience. If reliability is a top priority, the Acura TL is a better choice. If performance is paramount and budget allows, a slightly newer BMW 3 Series or Infiniti G35 could be considered.
Reliability is where the CTS falls short compared to its rivals, particularly the Acura TL, which had a stronger reputation for reliability. The BMW 3 Series also tends to be more reliable, although both are more expensive to maintain. The CTS was generally more affordable than its European competitors, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives to the 2004 CTS include the Acura TL, which offers better reliability and a more refined interior, or the Infiniti G35, which delivers a sportier driving experience. If reliability is a top priority, the Acura TL is a better choice. If performance is paramount and budget allows, a slightly newer BMW 3 Series or Infiniti G35 could be considered.
Ranks #1973 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1973 | 2004 Cadillac CTS | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Cadillac CTS a Good Sedan?
The 2004 Cadillac CTS is ideal for someone seeking an affordable entry-level luxury car with distinctive styling and decent performance, but who is willing to accept potential reliability issues. It might be worth buying if you find a well-maintained example at a low price and are prepared to handle potential repairs. It is generally **not** recommended as a primary family vehicle due to reliability concerns.
A higher trim level with leather seats and the Bose audio system would be preferable for added comfort and enjoyment. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is absolutely essential to assess the car's condition and identify potential problems. If you value reliability above all else, consider alternatives like the Acura TL.
A higher trim level with leather seats and the Bose audio system would be preferable for added comfort and enjoyment. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is absolutely essential to assess the car's condition and identify potential problems. If you value reliability above all else, consider alternatives like the Acura TL.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.