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Cadillac · Known Issues

2009 Cadillac DTS Problems: 6 Known Issues

2009 model year · 220+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 220+ owner reports, the 2009 Cadillac DTS has 6 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Heated Washer Fluid Module Can Ignite — Recall 10V240000, Recall 14V355000: Heavy Key Ring Can Move the DTS Ignition Switch Out of Run and Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure ($3,000-$6,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Rear Air Suspension Compressor and Leveling Failure with 220 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • DTS Electrical2
  • DTS Engine2
  • DTS Suspension1
  • DTS Steering1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical2
  • Engine2
  • Suspension1
  • Steering1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS201120102009200820072006200520042003200220012000

On the 2006-2009 Cadillac DTS, nHTSA recall 10V240000 covers 2006-2009 Cadillac DTS sedans built with the optional heated washer fluid system (HWFS). A 2008 recall had already added a fuse to the module's control circuit harness to limit the effects of a printed circuit board short, but GM continued to receive reports of thermal incidents on modules that had already received that fix. NHTSA states the consequence plainly: the heated washer module can ignite and a fire may occur. Only DTS models actually equipped with the heated washer fluid option are involved — if your DTS never had the feature, this campaign does not apply to it. The campaign as a whole covers roughly 1,365,070 GM vehicles across many brands and models, not DTS alone.

Common Symptoms

  • Smoke or a burning smell from the underhood area
  • Fire originating at the heated washer fluid module

How to Fix

The remedy is free at any Cadillac dealer. The dealer permanently disables and removes the heated washer fluid module from the car — the feature is not repaired or replaced, it is deleted — and supplies an updated owner manual page to be inserted documenting that the feature has been permanently disabled and removed. The safety recall began June 11, 2010. If you previously had the 2008 fuse-harness repair done, that is not sufficient; this later remedy is still required. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm whether your DTS is open for this campaign, or call Cadillac at 1-866-982-2339.

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, every model year of the Cadillac DTS, 2006 through 2011, is covered by GM recall 14V355000. NHTSA's stated defect is that the weight on the key ring, plus road conditions or some other jarring event, may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position. GM's summary opens by saying the defect can affect the safe operation of the air bag system: if the key is not in run, the air bags may not deploy in a crash. The same event also shuts down engine power, power steering and power braking. Interim guidance to owners was blunt - remove everything from the key ring except the ignition key, and take the key fob off too.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine shuts off without warning while driving
  • Key found out of the run position after a bump or rough pavement
  • Steering effort suddenly increases
  • Braking suddenly requires much more pedal force

How to Fix

Free of charge at a Cadillac dealer. The dealer hands over two key rings and installs an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on each of the vehicle's ignition keys, which keeps key-ring weight from rotating the switch. The recall began September 23, 2014. If you bought your DTS used and have no service history for it, check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or call Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; GM's internal number for the campaign is 14299.

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS Northstar 4.6L V8, the 2006-2011 DTS (DeVille's successor) continues to use the Northstar 4.6L V8 with the same head bolt thread-stripping issue. GM made minor improvements to the later Northstar engines (L37 and LD8 variants) but never fully resolved the fundamental design flaw of steel bolts in aluminum threads. The DTS Northstar is slightly improved over the DeVille era but still fails at 100,000-150,000+ miles. Same symptoms, same repair as the DeVille.

This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Cascada

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant loss with no visible external leak
  • White smoke from exhaust
  • Overheating in stop-and-go traffic
  • Milky residue on oil cap
  • Bubbles in coolant overflow
  • Sweet exhaust smell

How to Fix

Same as DeVille - engine removal and Norm's head stud or Time-Sert installation with new head gaskets. The DTS engine drops out the bottom. Find a Northstar specialist shop for the best results.

Typical repair cost:$3,000 - $6,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS 4.6L Northstar V8, gM bulletin 01-06-01-011O covers 2024 and prior GM passenger cars and directs technicians to inspect the oil pan, engine covers, oil lines and fittings for external leakage. It does not establish that every 2006-2011 DTS leak comes from the rear main seal or oil-pan gasket, so the source must be confirmed before parts replacement.

This issue also affects: Cadillac Allante, Cadillac STS

Common Symptoms

  • Engine oil spots or drips
  • Engine oil level drops between checks

How to Fix

Have the leak source inspected using current GM Service Information before replacing a rear seal, oil-pan gasket or other engine component. Verify the oil level and specification, inspect the pan, covers, lines and fittings, repair the confirmed source as necessary and monitor the level afterward. Do not order parts from this diagnosis-only card.

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NHTSA Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
Community reported
220 owners

On the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, the DTS rear self-leveling air suspension compressor burns out from overwork when the air springs develop slow leaks. The rubber air springs crack with age, causing the rear to sag overnight and the compressor to run constantly until it fails.

Common Symptoms

  • Rear of car sagging overnight
  • Compressor running constantly
  • Rear end bouncy over bumps
  • Service ride control message
  • Car leans to one side
  • Compressor no longer activates

How to Fix

Replace the rear air springs and the compressor as a set. Alternatively, convert to conventional coil springs with a conversion kit. Inspect the air lines for cracks as well.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $1,200

Research This Issue

Based on 220 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence220 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, the power-adjustable steering column motors fail, leaving the column stuck in one position or failing to retract when the vehicle is turned off. The column is supposed to retract for easy entry/exit and can block the driver from comfortably entering the vehicle when it fails in the extended position.

Common Symptoms

  • Steering column does not adjust
  • Column stuck in extended position
  • Column does not retract on vehicle shutdown
  • Motor noise but no movement

How to Fix

Replace the faulty steering column motor(s). There are separate motors for tilt and telescope functions. The column shroud must be removed for access. Test all column functions after replacement. In some cases, the issue is a failed relay or corroded connector rather than the motor itself — check these first.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $600

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls5 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille, 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, 2006-2014 Chevrolet Impala, and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.

Campaign #14V35500023/06/2014

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010-2011 DTS AND BUICK LUCERNE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V8 ENGINES. THE STARTER OR ALTERNATOR CABLE IS IN CONTACT WITH THE POWER STEERING RETURN LINE. IF EITHER THE STARTER OR ALTERNATOR CABLE IS CONTACTING THE POWER STEERING RETURN LINE, THE CABLE COULD WEAR THROUGH THE LINE, CAUSING A POWER STEERING FLUID LEAK.

Campaign #10V55300005/11/2010

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

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Other Cadillac Models

Cadillac XTS30Cadillac CT524Cadillac Escalade20Cadillac Lyriq19Cadillac XT617Cadillac CT617

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Cadillac DTS problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 220+ owner reports, the 2009 Cadillac DTS has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Heated Washer Fluid Module Can Ignite — Recall 10V240000, Recall 14V355000: Heavy Key Ring Can Move the DTS Ignition Switch Out of Run, Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Cadillac DTS reliable?

The 2009 Cadillac DTS has 6 known issues documented across 220+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Heated Washer Fluid Module Can Ignite — Recall 10V240000 and Recall 14V355000: Heavy Key Ring Can Move the DTS Ignition Switch Out of Run and Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure. 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 DTS problems?

Repair costs for known Cadillac DTS issues range from $200 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2006-2009 Cadillac DTS Heated Washer Fluid Module Can Ignite — Recall 10V240000?

NHTSA recall 10V240000 covers 2006-2009 Cadillac DTS sedans built with the optional heated washer fluid system (HWFS). A 2008 recall had already added a fuse to the module's control circuit harness to limit the effects of a printed circuit board short, but GM continued to receive… Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS Recall 14V355000: Heavy Key Ring Can Move the DTS Ignition Switch Out of Run?

Every model year of the Cadillac DTS, 2006 through 2011, is covered by GM recall 14V355000. NHTSA's stated defect is that the weight on the key ring, plus road conditions or some other jarring event, may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position. GM's summary open… Severity: high.

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.

Data sourced from 220+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

GM IS RECALLING MODEL YEAR 2010 CADILLAC DTS VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS". THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL, WHICH LISTS THE PROPER TIRE AND VEHICLE LOADING INFORMATION, WAS NOT INSTALLED ON THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THERE ARE TWO LABELS AFFIXED TO AFFECTED VEHICLES THAT INCORRECTLY DESCRIBE THEM AS AN INCOMPLETE VEHICLE. ONE LABEL IS THE VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL, WHICH CERTIFIES THAT THE VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE U.S. FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY, BUMPER, AND THEFT PREVENTION STANDARDS. THE SECOND LABEL IS THE SERVICE PARTS IDENTIFICATION LABEL, WHICH LISTS VARIOUS COMPONENTS USED IN THE MANUFACTURING OF THE VEHICLE.

Campaign #09V48000017/12/2009

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 BUICK, LUCERNE; CADILLAC DTS; HUMMER H2; MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 BUICK ENCLAVE; CADILLAC CTS; MODEL YEAR 2007-2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; GMC ACADIA, SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL; SATURN OUTLOOK; AND MODEL YEAR 2009 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WASHER FLUID SYSTEM (HWFS). A RECALL WAS IMPLEMENTED IN 2008 TO ADD A FUSE TO THE CONTROL CIRCUIT HARNESS TO ADDRESS THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF A PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD (PCB) ELECTRICAL SHORT. HOWEVER, THERE HAVE BEEN NEW REPORTS OF THERMAL INCIDENTS ON HWFS MODULES AFTER THIS IMPROVEMENT WAS INSTALLED. THESE INCIDENTS RESULTED FROM A NEW FAILURE MODE ATTRIBUTED TO THE DEVICE'S THERMAL PROTECTION FEATURE. THE SIGNIFICANCE VARIES FROM MINOR DISTORTION TO CONSIDERABLE MELTING OF THE PLASTIC AROUND THE HWFS FLUID CHAMBER.

Campaign #10V24000004/06/2010

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

GM IS RECALLING 857,735 MY 2006-2008 BUICK LUCERNE; CADILLAC DTS; HUMMER H2; MY 2007-2008 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; GMC ACADIA, SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL, SATURN OUTLOOK; AND MY 2008 BUICK ENCLAVE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WIPER WASHER FLUID SYSTEM. A SHORT CIRCUIT ON THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE WASHER FLUID HEATER MAY OVERHEAT THE CONTROL-CIRCUIT GROUND WIRE.

Campaign #08V44100028/08/2008

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure?

The 2006-2011 DTS (DeVille's successor) continues to use the Northstar 4.6L V8 with the same head bolt thread-stripping issue. GM made minor improvements to the later Northstar engines (L37 and LD8 variants) but never fully resolved the fundamental design flaw of steel bolts in a… Repairs typically run $3,000-$6,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS Rear Air Suspension Compressor and Leveling Failure?

The DTS rear self-leveling air suspension compressor burns out from overwork when the air springs develop slow leaks. The rubber air springs crack with age, causing the rear to sag overnight and the compressor to run constantly until it fails. Repairs typically run $300-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS Power Tilt/Telescope Steering Column Motor Failure?

The power-adjustable steering column motors fail, leaving the column stuck in one position or failing to retract when the vehicle is turned off. The column is supposed to retract for easy entry/exit and can block the driver from comfortably entering the vehicle when it fails in t… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS Confirm the Oil Leak Source Before Rear-Seal or Oil-Pan Repair (01-06-01-011O)?

GM bulletin 01-06-01-011O covers 2024 and prior GM passenger cars and directs technicians to inspect the oil pan, engine covers, oil lines and fittings for external leakage. It does not establish that every 2006-2011 DTS leak comes from the rear main seal or oil-pan gasket, so th… Severity: medium.