2016 Cadillac Ats Safety Report

2016 Cadillac ATS: Powertrain and Airbag Concerns Amidst Unrated Crash Performance

32Complaints
2Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
3Crash Reports
1Fire Reports
5Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (6)Air Bags (4)Steering (3)Power Train,Electrical System,Engine (2)Visibility/Wiper (2)Electrical System (2)Engine (2)Wheels (2)Steering,Suspension,Wheels (1)Electrical System,Fuel/Propulsion System,Back Over Prevention (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Cadillac Ats

The 2016 Cadillac ATS presents a mixed safety picture. While NHTSA crash test ratings are unavailable for this specific model year, the vehicle has accumulated 32 total complaints, including 3 crashes, 1 fire, and 5 injuries. A significant portion of these complaints revolve around the powertrain, specifically the transmission, with 6 complaints directly citing 'POWER TRAIN' and numerous others detailing 'shudder,' 'jerking,' and 'loss of power' issues. This suggests a potential systemic problem with the transmission, which can severely impact vehicle control and safety. Furthermore, 'AIR BAGS' received 4 complaints, including instances of non-deployment in crashes and unintended deployment, raising concerns about occupant protection systems. Recall history includes two significant safety-related recalls. One addresses a 'VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM' issue where a coil antenna module could generate excessive heat, increasing fire risk. The other recall pertains to the 'VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY,' where an inadvertently pressed switch could lead to unintended auto-closure, posing a pinch hazard. The fire incident reported in the complaints could potentially be linked to the HVAC system recall, highlighting the importance of ensuring all recalls are completed. Beyond the powertrain and airbag concerns, 'STEERING' (3 complaints) and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (multiple complaints) also appear as recurring issues. Steering problems, including 'loss of power steering' and 'overcompensation' leading to spins, are critical safety defects. Electrical system failures, particularly those affecting the CUE screen and hands-free safety options, can distract drivers and impair access to essential vehicle functions. The lack of specific NHTSA crash test ratings makes it difficult to assess structural integrity and overall crashworthiness, placing greater emphasis on the complaint data and recall actions.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Cadillac Ats receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2016 Cadillac Ats

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Cadillac Ats:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Transmission Shudder/Failure
Vehicles experience violent shaking, shuddering, jerking, and loss of power, often attributed to torque converter or transmission failure, sometimes leading to full transmission replacement.		 High Common 14000-70000 miles
Airbag Malfunctions
Complaints include 'Service Air Bag' warnings, non-deployment in crashes, and unintended side airbag deployment from minor impacts.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Steering System Failure
Loss of power steering and instances of steering overcompensation leading to loss of control and vehicle spins.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Cue Screen/Electrical System Failure
Touch screen cracking, unresponsiveness, and erratic behavior, affecting radio, Bluetooth, navigation, and hands-free safety options.		 Medium Common unknown miles
Cracked Wheels/Rims
Multiple reports of factory-installed rims cracking under normal driving conditions, leading to air leaks and tire issues.		 Medium Occasional 14000-unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Cadillac Ats:

Power Train 18% of complaints

Frequent complaints about transmission shudder, jerking, hard shifts, and loss of power, often requiring significant repairs or replacement.

Air Bags 12% of complaints

Issues with airbag warning lights, non-deployment during crashes, and unintended deployment.

Steering 9% of complaints

Reports of power steering loss and unpredictable steering behavior.

Electrical System 6% of complaints

Problems with the CUE infotainment screen, radio, and other electrical components.

Wheels 6% of complaints

Multiple instances of cracked rims causing tire air leaks.

Engine 6% of complaints

Complaints including engine power loss and piston/ring replacement.

Visibility/Wiper 6% of complaints

Issues such as shattered rear glass (defroster related) and foggy rearview mirrors.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Cadillac Ats

Is the 2016 Cadillac ATS safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Cadillac ATS has 32 complaints, including 3 crashes, 1 fire, and 5 injuries. While NHTSA crash test ratings are unavailable, there are significant concerns regarding powertrain (transmission) issues, airbag malfunctions, and steering problems, which are critical safety defects. Two recalls address potential fire risk and sunroof hazards. Prospective buyers should be aware of these reported issues.

What are common problems with the 2016 Cadillac ATS?

The most reported issues for the 2016 Cadillac ATS are related to the POWER TRAIN (18.75% of complaints), primarily transmission shuddering, jerking, and failure. Other common problems include AIR BAGS (12.5%), STEERING (9.38%), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6.25%, often CUE screen issues), and WHEELS (6.25%, specifically cracked rims).

Are there any recalls for the 2016 Cadillac ATS?

Yes, the 2016 Cadillac ATS has two recalls. One (NHTSA ID: 15V-519) addresses a potential fire risk from an overheating coil antenna module in the HVAC system. The other (NHTSA ID: 15V-436) concerns the sunroof assembly, where an inadvertently pressed switch could cause unintended auto-closure.

How does the 2016 Cadillac ATS perform in crash tests?

NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) are not available for the 2016 Cadillac ATS. Therefore, its performance in standardized crash tests cannot be assessed based on this data.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Cadillac ATS?

When considering a used 2016 Cadillac ATS, pay close attention to the transmission for any signs of shuddering, jerking, or delayed shifts during a test drive. Check for 'Service Air Bag' warnings or any electrical system malfunctions, especially with the CUE screen. Ensure all two recalls (HVAC fire risk and sunroof) have been completed, and inspect the wheels for any cracks.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the significant number of powertrain and airbag complaints, along with unrated crash performance, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended, focusing on the transmission, steering, and electrical systems, and verifying all recalls are addressed.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Cadillac Ats

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Cadillac Ats. The data includes 32 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.