Cadillac ATS Problems: 3 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2013-2019 model years · Based on 0+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical by the Au7o research team. The most serious is 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch (ATS V6 models) ($2,500-$4,500 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $150 to $4,500. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 3 Known Issues
ATS models equipped with the 3.6L V6 (LFX/LGX) share the same timing chain stretch issue as the CTS. The three timing chains and plastic guides wear prematurely, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. The 2013-2015 LFX variant is most affected; the 2016+ LGX has improved chains but is not immune. Chain stretch causes timing correlation codes, misfires, and potential catastrophic engine damage if the chain jumps.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with P0008, P0009, P0016-P0019 codes
- Rattling from engine on cold start
- Rough idle or misfires
- Reduced engine power / limp mode
- Engine stalling
How to Fix
Complete timing chain replacement including all three chains, guides, tensioners, and sprockets. Replace water pump at the same time (chain-driven). Cloyes 9-0753S complete kit is the recommended aftermarket option. Labor is 10-14 hours.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeCloyes 9-0753S timing chain kit - complete kit with improved guide material for 3.6L V6 (Cloyes #9-0753S)
- UpgradeAC Delco 251-749 water pump - replace while timing cover is off, chain-driven pump frequently fails (AC Delco #251-749)
- NoteThe 3.6L is an interference engine - if the chain jumps, valves will contact pistons and destroy the engine
The 2.0L turbocharged LTG engine in 2013-2019 ATS models shares the same PCV valve cover failure, wastegate actuator issues, and turbo oil line problems as the CTS 2.0T. The PCV system integrated into the valve cover fails between 50,000-100,000 miles causing oil consumption and vacuum leaks. The wastegate actuator can fail causing boost control issues. Same root cause and fixes as the CTS 2.0T.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with boost-related codes
- Excessive oil consumption
- Rough idle or misfires
- Turbo whine or whistling changes
- Loss of boost / reduced acceleration
- Blue smoke on acceleration
How to Fix
Replace valve cover with integrated PCV (GM 55573746) for oil consumption. Replace wastegate actuator if boost control issues. Turbo oil lines should be inspected. Regular 5,000-mile oil changes with full synthetic are critical.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeGM 12655189 PCV valve (inside cam cover) for LTG 2.0T (GM #12655189)
- UpgradeZZPerformance billet wastegate actuator - eliminates LTG wastegate rattle permanently (ZZPerformance #ZZP-LTG-WG)
- TipThe LTG 2.0T is robust if maintained - 5,000-mile oil changes and prompt PCV replacement keep it running strong to 200k miles
The Cadillac User Experience (CUE) touchscreen in 2013-2019 ATS models has the same widespread delamination and touch failure issue as the CTS and other Cadillac models. The capacitive touchscreen develops bubbles, becomes unresponsive, or cracks from internal adhesive failure. Controls for climate, audio, navigation, and vehicle settings become inaccessible. Same root cause and fix as the CTS CUE screen issue.
Common Symptoms
- Screen appears bubbly or cloudy
- Touch inputs not registering or wrong location
- Screen cracks without physical impact
- Screen goes black intermittently
- Ghost touches activating features randomly
How to Fix
Replace the CUE screen with OEM or aftermarket unit. The screen snaps out from the dashboard. Aftermarket screens from CUE screen specialists ($150-300) work well. Apply a screen protector after installation to prevent future delamination.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeOEM Cadillac CUE replacement screen 23106488 - factory replacement with updated adhesive (GM #23106488)
- TipCheck if your VIN qualifies for GM Customer Satisfaction Program 14311 before buying a screen
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Cadillac ATS problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch (ATS V6 models), CUE Infotainment Touchscreen Delamination and Failure, 2.0T LTG Turbo System Issues - PCV and Wastegate. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Cadillac ATS reliable?
The 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS has 3 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch (ATS V6 models). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Cadillac ATS problems?
Repair costs for known Cadillac ATS issues range from $150 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch (ATS V6 models), typically costs $2,500-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Cadillac ATS is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Cadillac ATS. Based on owner reports, issues are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS with 3 documented issues from 0+ owner reports.
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