2016 Cadillac CTS-V Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2016 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2016 Cadillac CTS-V has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $1,200 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 1 Known Issues
On the 2009-2019 Cadillac CTS-V, the CTS-V (2nd and 3rd gen) comes standard with Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) shocks that use magnetorheological fluid to adjust damping. These expensive shocks have a limited lifespan, typically 60,000-100,000 miles, after which the MR fluid degrades and the shocks either become too stiff, too soft, or leak. Replacement with OEM MRC shocks is very expensive ($500-800 per shock). Many owners switch to traditional high-performance shocks to avoid the recurring cost.
Common Symptoms
- SERVICE RIDE CONTROL warning message
- Harsh ride quality / excessive road noise
- Bouncy or floaty ride (fluid degraded)
- Shock leaking visible fluid
- Uneven ride quality corner-to-corner
How to Fix
Replace MRC shocks with OEM or aftermarket MRC-compatible units. Bilstein B8 DampTronic shocks are the premier aftermarket MRC-compatible option. Alternatively, convert to non-MRC shocks (Koni, Bilstein B8 non-MRC) with an MRC bypass module. The bypass option is cheaper long-term but loses the adaptive damping feature.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeBilstein B8 DampTronic shocks - MRC-compatible replacement that maintains magnetic ride functionality. Premium quality. (Bilstein B8 DampTronic Shock Set (CTS-V))
- TipIf converting to non-MRC shocks, you need an MRC bypass module (D2 Racing or similar) to prevent constant warning messages