Vehicles / Cadillac / STS / 2006

2006 Cadillac STS

139 federal complaints (197 component records) · 4 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 696 service bulletins · 5 Canadian recalls
See all 14 model years of the Cadillac STS →
Engine
3.6L 6-cyl
Fuel
Premium, Regular
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
16 city / 25 hwy
Federal complaints
139
Recall campaigns
4
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Air bags
59
Engine & cooling
28
Electrical system
22
Fuel system
21
Power train
13
Stability control
9
Speed control
6
Seats
6
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 9 complaints01 years old: 7 complaints2 years old: 8 complaints3 years old: 8 complaints4 years old: 11 complaints5 years old: 3 complaints56 years old: 5 complaints7 years old: 7 complaints8 years old: 22 complaints9 years old: 29 complaints10 years old: 9 complaints1011 years old: 10 complaints12 years old: 3 complaints13 years old: 4 complaints14 years old: 2 complaints15 years old: 1 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 1 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 139 of 139 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 13 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 12 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 14 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 21 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 21 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 17 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 6 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 7 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 2 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 0 complaints200,000+ miles: 0 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 113 of 139 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Air bags

59 complaint records2 fire reports14 crash reports
"PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON AND HAS STAYED ON. THE AIR BAG SENSOR DOES NOT RECOGNIZING A FRONT SEAT PASSENGER. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse air bags parts in the directory →

Engine & cooling

28 complaint records3 fire reports4 crash reports
"WHILE DRIVING, THE ENTIRE PANEL GOES "OFF" SHUTTING DOWN THE CAR COMPLETELY. THE PANEL BOARD IS COMPLETELY DARK, NO ELECTRIC SUPPLY, NO GAS SUPPLY...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Electrical system

22 complaint records3 fire reports1 crash report
"WHILE DRIVING, THE ENTIRE PANEL GOES "OFF" SHUTTING DOWN THE CAR COMPLETELY. THE PANEL BOARD IS COMPLETELY DARK, NO ELECTRIC SUPPLY, NO GAS SUPPLY...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse electrical system parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
PE07037
opened Jul 2007
closed Dec 2007Power TrainFAILURE OF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL - led to recall 07V589000
ODI EVALUATED TWO DIFFERENT ALLEGED DEFECTS INVOLVING REAR DRIVETRAIN COMPONENTS DURING THIS PRELIMINARY EVALUATION.GM IS CONDUCTING A RECALL TO ADDRESS ONE OF THE DEFECT CONDITIONS AND ODI HAS OPENED AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO CONTINUE ITS INVESTIGATION OF...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
14V542000Fuel System, GasolineGeneral Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 Cadillac CTS-V vehicles manufactured October 6, 2003, to March 15, 2007, and 2006-2007 Cadillac STS-V vehicles manufactured June 23, 2005, to March 15,...Normally free
07V589000Power TrainON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE REAR AXLE PINION SEAL DOES NOT MEET ALL OF THE SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY EXPERIENCE A FLUID LEAK.Normally free
06V020000Fuel System, GasolineCERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V6 ENGINES MAY HAVE A CONDITION WHERE FUEL IS NO LONGER SUPPLIED TO THE ENGINE. THIS CONDITION OCCURS WITHOUT THE ILLUMINATION OF THE FUEL LEVEL LOW INDICATOR LIGHT OR THE WARNING CHIME.Normally free
06V007000Vehicle Speed ControlON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ALL WHEEL DRIVE AND A 3.6L V6 ENGINE, THE TORQUE MONITORING FUNCTIONS OF THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL (ETC) ARE NOT ENABLED.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2014381
2014-09-09
Fuel System377On certain vehicles, an electrical terminal on the fuel pump module may overheat and melt, potentially allowing fuel to leak and/or affecting fuel system pressure.
2008145
2008-05-01
Other1,825Certain vehicles fail to conform with CMVSS 118 - Power-operated Roof Panels. The subject vehicles may exhibit a condition where the sunroof can be closed after the ignition is turned off and the doors are opened.
2007417
2007-12-19
Powertrain20,052On certain vehicles, the drive axle differential seal may leak (note that all-wheel drive vehicles have two seals). Reduced lubrication may cause the differential to become noisier.
2006016
2006-01-23
Fuel System1,137On certain vehicles, fuel starvation may cause the engine to stall when fuel level is less than ¼ tank. This condition occurs without the illumination of the Fuel Level Low indicator light or the warning chime.
2006008
2006-01-12
Other186Certain all wheel drive vehicles equipped with a 3.6L engine did not have the torque monitoring functions of the electronic throttle control (ETC) enabled during vehicle assembly.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
PIP5601C
Jul 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.
PIT5074R
May 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
PIP4964F
May 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Service Engine Soon Malfunction Indicator Lamp on. Technician will find Diagnostic Trouble Code P2097 or P2099.
PIP5358D
Feb 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering.
PIT5074Q
Dec 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
PIP4723J
Oct 2024
Electrical SystemThis Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving...
PIT5099H
Sep 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air.
02-00-89-002X
Sep 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
PIT3271P
Sep 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles.
General Communication
Aug 2024
SERVICE CAMPAIGNElectrical SystemVehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions).
01-06-01-011P
Aug 2024
EngineThis service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
24-NA-141
Jul 2024
Power TrainGM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping.
16-NA-383
Jun 2024
EngineThis service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
18-NA-099
Jun 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
24-NA-098
Jun 2024
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
08-07-30-035H
May 2024
Power TrainThis bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
09-00-89-008G
May 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
06-00-89-029V
May 2024
SeatsThis service bulletin includes information on Interior Cleaning - Instrument Panel (IP), Hard or Plastic Surfaces, Seats, Carpet, Leather, Vinyl, Fabric Cleaner, Stain Remover, Restorer - Product Availability.
13-08-116-001J
Apr 2024
Electrical SystemThe intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them.
00-03-10-006P
Apr 2024
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Tire Radial Force Variation (RFV).
10-08-45-001H
Mar 2024
Electrical SystemThis bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
16-NA-383
Mar 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
07-00-89-037S
Mar 2024
EquipmentThis warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
22-NA-074
Feb 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
16-NA-338
Feb 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis Warranty Admin service bulletin provides guidelines for Dealers Not Required and for Dealers Required to Contact the PQC for engine or transmission assembly replacement and explains the PQC process, GWM Transaction submission, vehicle service record retention and proper...
18-NA-099
Jan 2024
EquipmentThis bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
02-08-42-001J
Jan 2024
Exterior LightingThis informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
PI1394B
Jan 2024
Power TrainThis PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
PIP5601B
Jan 2024
EquipmentThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair.
PI0592I
Jan 2024
Electrical SystemThis preliminary information (PI) provides information om Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes (E4398, E4399, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491 or E6961).
PIT5074P
Dec 2023
EquipmentThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
23-NA-219
Dec 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
03-00-91-001I
Nov 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.
PIP4964E
Oct 2023
Fuel SystemThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Service Engine Soon Malfunction Indicator Lamp on. Technician will find Diagnostic Trouble Code P2097 or P2099.
01-06-01-011O
Oct 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
17-NA-170
Oct 2023
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
02-00-89-002W
Sep 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
10-00-89-006J
Sep 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
PIT5099G
Sep 2023
VisibilityThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air.
07-08-49-020R
Sep 2023
Electrical SystemThis informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
23-NA-153
Sep 2023
Power TrainThe service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
PIP4112T
Sep 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician of a complaint of a sag or hesitation when accelerating.
18-NA-073
Aug 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
PIP5628G
Aug 2023
EngineThis Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
PIP5358C
Jul 2023
EquipmentThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering.
01-06-01-011N
Jun 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
13-08-116-001I
Jun 2023
Electrical SystemThe intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them.
02-00-89-002V
Jun 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. Dealers Only).
12-03-10-001E
May 2023
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Vibration Shortly After Tires are Mounted/Preventing Vibration from Wheel Slip (Tire Sliding on Wheel).
17-NA-170
Apr 2023
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
19-NA-219
Apr 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
PIP5628F
Apr 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
12-03-10-001D
Apr 2023
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Vibration Shortly After Tires are Mounted/Preventing Vibration from Wheel Slip (Tire Sliding on Wheel).
08-07-30-035G
Apr 2023
Power TrainThis bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
19-NA-219
Mar 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
22-NA-009
Mar 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
16-NA-130
Mar 2023
Power TrainThis service bulletin provides information for after installation of a replacement upper valve body, the transmission may have no Reverse and no 2nd gear.
17-NA-073
Feb 2023
EquipmentThis warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
01-08-42-001O
Feb 2023
Exterior LightingThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
PIP5628E
Feb 2023
EquipmentThis Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D

Showing 60 of 696 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Watch the airbag warning light through a full key cycle.It should light on start and go out within seconds. A light that stays on, or never lights at all, means the system needs attention. Run the VIN for inflator recalls specifically.
  2. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  3. Sit in it with the engine off and test everything that has a switch.Windows, locks, lights, the cluster, the radio. Electrical faults are this vehicle's story and the hardest to see on a drive: an intermittent no-start waits for the second week of ownership. Ask for the battery's age and whether any control module has been replaced.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 4 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Cadillac STS →