The 2008 Cadillac CTS marked the beginning of the second generation for Cadillac's entry-level luxury sedan. It featured a sleek, angular design, signaling a shift towards a more modern aesthetic for the brand. This four-door sedan was available in several trims, including base, Luxury, and Performance. New pricing ranged from around $32,000 to $40,000, depending on the trim and options. Its bold styling and available V6 power made it a popular choice for buyers looking for a stylish and engaging driving experience.
The Good
The 2008 Cadillac CTS offered a blend of performance and luxury. Its powerful V6 engines provided engaging acceleration, appealing to the emotional buyer.
Practically, it boasted a comfortable interior with available features like leather seats and premium audio. While not the most efficient, it offered decent fuel economy for its class. The striking design gave it a unique road presence, increasing its overall value proposition.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2008 Cadillac CTS include reported issues with the timing chain, particularly in early production models. Some owners have experienced problems with the electronics, such as the navigation system and radio.
Also, be aware of potential issues with the direct injection system, which can lead to carbon buildup. Suspension components may also require attention over time.
2008 Cadillac CTS: Quick Overview
Here's a bullet-point summary of the 2008 Cadillac CTS key specifications:
- Engine Options:
- 3.6L V6 VVT (Variable Valve Timing): Standard on base and Luxury trims.
- 3.6L V6 DI (Direct Injection): Standard on Performance trim, optional on Luxury.
- Horsepower:
- 3.6L V6 VVT: 258 hp.
- 3.6L V6 DI: 304 hp.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 3.6L V6 VVT: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (RWD).
- 3.6L V6 DI: 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (RWD).
- AWD models will have slightly lower fuel economy.
- 0-60 Times:
- 3.6L V6 VVT: Around 7.2 seconds.
- 3.6L V6 DI: Around 6.3 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not officially rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Leatherette seating, dual-zone climate control, eight-speaker audio system, 17-inch wheels.
- Luxury: Leather seating, wood trim, heated front seats, Bose premium audio system, Bluetooth connectivity.
- Performance: Sport-tuned suspension, HID headlights, performance tires, available navigation system, sport seats.
2008 Cadillac CTS Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Cadillac |
| Model | CTS |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Rear-Wheel Drive 3.6-Liter |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LANSING - GRAND RIVER |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1756.31 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1757.22 kg |
| Overall Height | 147.32 cm |
| Overall Length | 486.66 cm |
| Overall Width | 184.15 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 288.04 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.6-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $33,245 USD |
| Invoice Price | $31,084 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $745 USD |
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Cadillac CTS Have?
The 2008 Cadillac CTS has faced some frequently reported problems, notably regarding its timing chain. This issue can manifest as a rattling noise upon startup or, in severe cases, lead to engine damage. The Direct Injection engine, while providing increased power, is also prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves, potentially impacting performance and fuel economy over time.
Some owners have also reported issues with the electronic systems, including the navigation system, radio, and climate control. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, can wear out, leading to a less comfortable ride and potential handling issues.
Several recalls were issued for the 2008 CTS, including issues related to the fuel system, airbags, and steering. Prospective buyers should check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recall work. Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the complexity of the vehicle's systems, which can become more prone to failures as the car ages. Regular maintenance, particularly oil changes and fuel system cleaning, is crucial to mitigate some of these issues. Some model year issues may also pertain to the automatic transmission, with reports of rough shifting or failure.
Some owners have also reported issues with the electronic systems, including the navigation system, radio, and climate control. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, can wear out, leading to a less comfortable ride and potential handling issues.
Several recalls were issued for the 2008 CTS, including issues related to the fuel system, airbags, and steering. Prospective buyers should check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recall work. Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the complexity of the vehicle's systems, which can become more prone to failures as the car ages. Regular maintenance, particularly oil changes and fuel system cleaning, is crucial to mitigate some of these issues. Some model year issues may also pertain to the automatic transmission, with reports of rough shifting or failure.
How long will the 2008 Cadillac CTS last?
With proper maintenance, a 2008 Cadillac CTS can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report getting 10-15 years of service from their vehicles, depending on driving conditions and maintenance habits. Regular oil changes, timely replacement of wear items (brakes, tires, etc.), and addressing any mechanical issues promptly are crucial for long-term durability.
Weaknesses that may emerge over time include potential rust in areas prone to road salt, as well as the aforementioned timing chain and carbon buildup issues. Electrical components may also exhibit age-related failures. Keeping up with preventative maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of the vehicle.
Weaknesses that may emerge over time include potential rust in areas prone to road salt, as well as the aforementioned timing chain and carbon buildup issues. Electrical components may also exhibit age-related failures. Keeping up with preventative maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of the vehicle.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2008 Cadillac CTS came standard with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-speaker audio system, and keyless entry. Optional tech and entertainment features included a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, a Bose premium audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a sunroof. Driver-assistance features were limited for this model year, primarily consisting of stability control and traction control.
Safety features included antilock brakes (ABS), front and side airbags, and curtain airbags for both rows. Optional features included rear parking sensors. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally positive, with the CTS receiving four or five stars in various categories for frontal and side crash protection.
The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the 2008 CTS a "Good" rating in frontal offset crash testing. Higher trim levels offered features like adaptive headlights that swivel to improve visibility in corners. Overall, the 2008 CTS provided a decent level of technology and safety for its time, although it lacked some of the more advanced driver-assistance features found in newer vehicles. The integrated navigation system, while available, can feel dated compared to modern smartphone-based navigation systems.
Safety features included antilock brakes (ABS), front and side airbags, and curtain airbags for both rows. Optional features included rear parking sensors. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally positive, with the CTS receiving four or five stars in various categories for frontal and side crash protection.
The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the 2008 CTS a "Good" rating in frontal offset crash testing. Higher trim levels offered features like adaptive headlights that swivel to improve visibility in corners. Overall, the 2008 CTS provided a decent level of technology and safety for its time, although it lacked some of the more advanced driver-assistance features found in newer vehicles. The integrated navigation system, while available, can feel dated compared to modern smartphone-based navigation systems.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Raven
Red Jewel Tintcoat
Gold Mist Metallic
Radiant Bronze Metallic
Liquid Amethyst Metallic
Stealth Gray Metallic
Blue Chip Metallic
Silver Lightning Metallic
Interior Colors
Light Cashmere
Titanium
Ebony
2008 Cadillac CTS Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2008 Cadillac CTS ranged from approximately $32,000 to $40,000, depending on the trim level and optional features. Currently, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, with lower prices for higher-mileage or poorly maintained examples.
The CTS has depreciated significantly over time, which is typical for luxury vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (mechanical and cosmetic), maintenance history, trim level, and geographic location. Models with the more powerful direct-injection engine and desirable options like navigation and a sunroof tend to hold their value slightly better. High mileage and documented issues will obviously reduce value.
The CTS has depreciated significantly over time, which is typical for luxury vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (mechanical and cosmetic), maintenance history, trim level, and geographic location. Models with the more powerful direct-injection engine and desirable options like navigation and a sunroof tend to hold their value slightly better. High mileage and documented issues will obviously reduce value.
2008 Cadillac CTS Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2008 Cadillac CTS can be moderately costly. Insurance rates are generally average for a luxury sedan. Fuel costs can be high, especially with the 3.6L DI engine and in city driving. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to the complexity of the car and potential issues like timing chain problems and carbon buildup.
Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance habits; neglecting repairs can lead to more significant and expensive problems down the road. Overall, it's not the most economical car to own.
Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance habits; neglecting repairs can lead to more significant and expensive problems down the road. Overall, it's not the most economical car to own.
2008 Cadillac CTS Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
42.6 liters
City Mileage
5.57 km/l
Highway Mileage
3.83 km/l
2008 Cadillac CTS Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2008 Cadillac CTS Recalls & Defects
Electrical System
Recall date
2010-06-04
Recall no.
10v240000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2009 Buick, Lucerne; Cadillac Dts; Hummer H2; Model Year 2008-2009 Buick Enclave; Cadillac Cts; Model Year 2007-2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe; GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL; Saturn Outlook; and Model Year 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Equipped With A Heated Washer Fluid System (Hwfs). A Recall WAS Implemented IN 2008 TO ADD A Fuse TO THE Control Circuit Harness TO Address THE Potential Consequences OF A Printed Circuit Board (Pcb) Electrical Short. However, There Have Been NEW Reports OF Thermal Incidents ON Hwfs Modules After This Improvement WAS Installed. These Incidents Resulted From A NEW Failure Mode Attributed TO THE Device's Thermal Protection Feature. THE Significance Varies From Minor Distortion TO Considerable Melting OF THE Plastic Around THE Hwfs Fluid Chamber.
Consequence
IT IS Possible FOR THE Heated Washer Module TO Ignite and A Fire MAY Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Permanently Disable and Remove THE Heated Washer Fluid Module. AN Updated Page FOR THE Owner Manual Will BE Provided and Inserted IN THE Owner Manual TO Document That THE Feature HAS Been Permanently Disabled and Removed From THE Vehicle. THE Safety Recall Began ON June 11, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 and Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes
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> .
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.
2008 Cadillac CTS Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2008 Cadillac CTS Insurance
Insurance for a 2008 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 2008 Cadillac CTS Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2008 Cadillac CTS competed with other entry-level luxury sedans like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and Infiniti G35. In terms of performance, the CTS, particularly with the 3.6L DI engine, offered comparable acceleration to the Infiniti G35 but lagged slightly behind the BMW 3 Series in handling. Feature-wise, the CTS provided a similar level of luxury and technology to its rivals, although the interfaces of its infotainment systems were often considered less intuitive than those of BMW or Audi.
Reliability is where the CTS fell somewhat short compared to the Lexus IS, which is known for its dependability. The BMW and Audi models also tend to have higher repair costs. Pricing for the CTS was generally competitive with its rivals when new and is now often more affordable on the used market.
Alternatives to the 2008 CTS include the Lexus IS250/350 for superior reliability, the BMW 3 Series for a more engaging driving experience, or the Acura TL for a balance of features and reliability. If reliability is a top priority, the Lexus IS would be a better choice. For driving enthusiasts, the BMW 3 Series remains a strong contender.
Reliability is where the CTS fell somewhat short compared to the Lexus IS, which is known for its dependability. The BMW and Audi models also tend to have higher repair costs. Pricing for the CTS was generally competitive with its rivals when new and is now often more affordable on the used market.
Alternatives to the 2008 CTS include the Lexus IS250/350 for superior reliability, the BMW 3 Series for a more engaging driving experience, or the Acura TL for a balance of features and reliability. If reliability is a top priority, the Lexus IS would be a better choice. For driving enthusiasts, the BMW 3 Series remains a strong contender.
Ranks #1831 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 | (5.0★) |
| 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★) |
| 1831 | 2008 Cadillac CTS | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Cadillac CTS a Good Sedan?
The 2008 Cadillac CTS is ideal for buyers looking for a stylish and relatively affordable luxury sedan with a distinctive design. It's worth buying *used*, but only if you are willing to accept the potential for higher maintenance costs and are prepared to do your due diligence on the vehicle's maintenance history and condition.
The Performance trim with the 3.6L DI engine is the most desirable, offering the best combination of power and features. However, a well-maintained Luxury trim can also be a good value. Avoid models with a questionable maintenance history or signs of neglect. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to assess potential issues, especially regarding the timing chain and carbon buildup. For buyers prioritizing reliability above all else, other options might be more suitable.
The Performance trim with the 3.6L DI engine is the most desirable, offering the best combination of power and features. However, a well-maintained Luxury trim can also be a good value. Avoid models with a questionable maintenance history or signs of neglect. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to assess potential issues, especially regarding the timing chain and carbon buildup. For buyers prioritizing reliability above all else, other options might be more suitable.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma