2015 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2015 Cadillac ATS has 5 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. 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 $0 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS, 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.
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.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS 2.0T LTG, 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.
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.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS, 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.
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.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS, the rear differential output shaft seals develop leaks, allowing gear oil to seep onto the rear brakes and driveway. The 2.0T and 3.6L models are both affected. Low differential fluid from the leak causes bearing noise and eventual differential damage if not addressed.
Replace the leaking output shaft seal(s). This requires removing the half-shafts for access. Top off the differential with the correct fluid after seal replacement. Inspect the rear brake pads and rotors for oil contamination — contaminated pads must be replaced. Clean the rear brake components thoroughly.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS, the sunroof drain tubes clog with debris, causing water to overflow into the headliner and A-pillar area during rain. The water can damage electronics, the headliner fabric, and cause musty odors from trapped moisture. The drain tubes are narrow and easily blocked by leaves and pollen.
Clear the sunroof drain tubes using compressed air or a flexible wire. The tubes exit near the front fenders and rear quarter panels. Clean the sunroof trough of debris. Some owners install small mesh screens over the drain openings to prevent future clogging. Check drains seasonally.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, 2017-2018 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist may fail.
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, and 2017 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist system may fail.
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Cadillac ATS vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to June 25, 2015. The affected vehicles may experience the roof panel closing automatically when the non-recessed switches are pressed and the roof panel is open. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 118, "Power-Operated Window, Partition, and Roof Panel Systems."
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015 Cadillac ATS and CTS vehicles. The affected vehicles have a bracket between the brake pedal assembly and the rod that actuates the brakes that may fracture during normal brake pedal operation.
+ 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
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According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2015-2015 Cadillac ATS has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch (ATS V6 models), CUE Infotainment Touchscreen Delamination and Failure, Rear Differential Output Seal Leak. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 2015-2015 Cadillac ATS has 5 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.
Repair costs for known Cadillac ATS issues range from $0 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.
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… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,500. Severity: high.
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. C… Repairs typically run $150-$700. Severity: medium.
The rear differential output shaft seals develop leaks, allowing gear oil to seep onto the rear brakes and driveway. The 2.0T and 3.6L models are both affected. Low differential fluid from the leak causes bearing noise and eventual differential damage if not addressed. Repairs typically run $250-$600. Severity: medium.
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… Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: medium.
The sunroof drain tubes clog with debris, causing water to overflow into the headliner and A-pillar area during rain. The water can damage electronics, the headliner fabric, and cause musty odors from trapped moisture. The drain tubes are narrow and easily blocked by leaves and p… Repairs typically run $0-$200. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
