2004 Cadillac CTS Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2004 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2004 Cadillac CTS has 1 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch and Premature Failure ($2,500-$4,500 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $2,500 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 1 Known Issues
On the 2004-2015 Cadillac CTS, the GM 3.6L V6 (LY7, LLT, LFX variants) used in 2004-2015 CTS models is notorious for premature timing chain stretch, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. The engine uses three timing chains (one primary, two secondary) and plastic chain guides that wear and break. When the chain stretches, it throws timing off, causing misfires and check engine lights. If the chain jumps or breaks, it can cause catastrophic valve-to-piston contact. This is the single most common and expensive CTS repair. GM updated the chain design for the 2012+ LFX variant, but early LFX engines still have issues.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with P0008, P0009, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019 codes
- Rattling noise from engine on cold start
- Rough idle or misfires (P0300-P0306)
- Reduced engine power / limp mode
- Engine stalling at idle
- Engine will not start (chain has jumped)
How to Fix
Complete timing chain replacement including all three chains, guides, tensioners, and sprockets. This is a major repair requiring front cover removal - labor is 10-14 hours. Must replace all three chains even if only one is stretched. Updated Cloyes kit includes improved chain guides. The water pump is driven off the timing chain and should be replaced at the same time. Preventive replacement at 80,000-100,000 miles is recommended for high-mileage 3.6L engines.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeCloyes 9-0753S timing chain kit - complete kit with all 3 chains, guides, tensioners, and sprockets. Improved guide material. (Cloyes #9-0753S)
- UpgradeGM OEM 12680750 timing chain kit - complete OEM kit with chains, tensioners, guides, bolts, seal. For 2012+ LFX/LGX engines. (GM #12680750)
- UpgradeAC Delco 251-749 water pump - replace while timing cover is off, as it is chain-driven and frequently fails (AC Delco #251-749)
- TipWhen replacing timing chains, also replace the water pump (chain-driven) and cam position actuator solenoids. The labor overlap saves $500+
- NoteDo NOT ignore timing chain rattle - if the chain jumps, the interference engine will bend valves, turning a $3k repair into a $6-8k engine replacement