Transmission complaints by model year
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (automatic and manual transmissions, CVT, axles, driveshaft, 4WD/AWD).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
Tl contact owns a 2005 Cadillac Deville. While driving 70 MPH, the transmission intermittently fails to shift into gear. The brake light also illuminates intermittently. The dealer tested the computer the first time. The second time, they cleaned the transmission valve body and replaced it the third time. The fourth time, the dealer reprogrammed the computer. The fifth time, the dealer test drove the vehicle and found no failure. The sixth and final time, the manufacturer informed the dealer not to take any action. The failure mileage was 8,000 and current mileage was 17,000. Updated 03-11-08 updated 03/11/08
When trying to make a turn on wet roadway (not a puddle of water) or trying to turn at a light for instance while it is raining, even at a low rate of speed, the power steering locks and the car will not continue to turn, causing traffic behind you to come to a screeching halt.after stopping the steering will slowly loosens up allowing you to complete the turn. I have had it checked out with my repair garage but they couldn't find anything. Since I am aware of this happening I'm very careful when making a turn in the rain. I'm thankful I wasn't on the interstate doing 60.
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac Deville. The contact stated while driving at 35 MPH, the vehicle jerked. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred during the warm weather season. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was serviced for an Emissions tesand the contact was informed that the torque converter clutch door was stuck. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 209.817.
Torque converter develops leaks which is a full rebuild of transmisson issue, this can result in vehicle to stop running in traffic conditions without any prior knowledge of problem. It is a problem that should be rectified by car manufacturer, as peoples safety is at risk, let alone he thousands of dollars required to fix this issue for such an expensive car. I now have ownership of a car I cannot register as it won't pass smog due to this issue. It is useless to me and I am in dire need of a vehicle to get to dr. Appointments as I am disabled. And money is gone so public transportation which is very little in my area is a cost I cannot assorb. Thankyou g.m.....you build a beautiful vehicle and put a crap transmisson in it!
Tl* the contact owns a 2003 Cadillac Deville. The contact indicated that the ABS sensor, brake sensor and traction control sensor illuminated intermittently. The contact stated that while reversing out of the driveway, the brakes failed and the pedal sank into the floor. The contact mentioned that the vehicle rolled away in reverse and crashed into a fence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 51,000.
2003 Cadillac Deville with approx. 65,900 miles on 07/11/07. The "service engine soon" warning light appeared on vehicle control panel & took vehicle to dealership same date 07/11/07. Dealer performed oil change & informed that entire transmission is about to fail & quoted $4,027.00 for repairs. Dealer refused to honor warranty past 50,000 miles & informed entire cost was the responsibility of the customer. GM was contacted & refused to provide any financial or repair assistance for defect and repeatedly delayed any decision until approximately 08/02/07 (after repeated attempts by customer to contact/resolve problem), other than a $1,000.00 customer loyalty certificate to buy a new car on approx 8/02/07. GM representative called & recorded phone conversation with customer without customer advance knowledge or consent on 8/01/07 & 8/02/07. …
A 2002 Cadillac Deville dhs 4-door sedan was originally parked head-first into a parking space. When the driver started the ignition, stepped on the brake and then put the vehicle into the reverse gear "r", slowly and partially releasing the brake, the vehicle moved back normally as expected. After about 15 feet, the driver turned the steering wheel to the right to maneuver the vehicle into position to leave the parking lot. At that moment, the engine unexpectedly revved up, the brakes failed, the vehicle accelerated in the reverse direction, the steering mechanism failed (driver's actions on the steering wheel had no impacts on the actual motions of the front wheels), and a significant "clanking" noise (as if some major components in and around the engine compartment area had been broken) was clearly noticeable. …
Takata air bag, do not know if that item is in my car but they say it is. Also like so many northstar engines there is trouble with the head gasket, and according to the hydrocarbon block test, mine must be replaced. In order to replace it, the engine and power train must be removed, at my expense. Due to this issue, my car continues to try and overheat after about 29 miles of driving. After listening to those folks on the Cadillac forum, I have been lead to believe, the overheating issue May be, partly the fault of the fine thread head bolts and or studs. Many mechanics I have spoken with have said that I need a new engine, although the folks on the Cadillac fourm have said that time-serts, or the larger studs/bolts might fix the issue. …
Frequently asked questions
Which Cadillac Deville years have transmission problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 2002 (15), 2003 (14), 2000 (12), 1995 (11) and 1996 (11) model years. Transmission complaints make up 9% of all complaints for the 2002.
Is there a recall for Cadillac Deville transmission problems?
No. NHTSA lists no transmission & drivetrain recall for any Cadillac Deville model year. A widespread problem may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin, so ask a dealer.
At what mileage do Cadillac Deville transmission problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 81,000 miles; 22% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the automatic transmission (44 mentions), followed by the automatic transmission › control module (tcm/pcm/tecm) (11).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.