Most common 2001 Cadillac STS problems
Share of the 12 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Cadillac STS complaints by model year
Best STS years: 2002, 1999, 2003. Years to avoid: 2006, 2005, 2008, 2007. Compare all years →
What 2001 Cadillac STS owners say
Steering
Tl contact owns a 2001 Cadillac seville STS. The contact stated that the battery failed. He attempted to remove the rear seat cushion according to the owner's manual and the instructor's service manual. The plastic rear seat cushion frame cracked and failed near the clips. The dealer ordered the rear seat frame; however, the parts will not be available for approximately 11 months. The rear seat cannot be used and the vehicle has not yet been repaired. The failure mileage was 36,200. Updated 05/28/08 the consumer also experienced problems with the steering shaft, e-brake which would not release and the upper cowl engine. The consumer also stated the plastic fasteners on the body panel over the radiator were defective as well as the plastics fasteners on the lower front deflector or splash shield. Updated 05/28/08
1.clunk noise from front end, continuous play in front end. 2.high speed shake or vibration. 3.repeated dealer fixes fail to solve the problem.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2001 Cadillac STS a good car?
Based on 12 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2001 STS rates average: about as many complaints as a typical year of the STS at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2001 Cadillac STS?
The steering — 3 complaints, 25% of all complaints for this model year, most often about hydraulic power assist system. Next are the brakes (2) and engine & cooling (2).
How many recalls does the 2001 Cadillac STS have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2001 Cadillac STS. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Cadillac STS?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2002, 1999 and 2003. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2006, 2005, 2008 and 2007. See the full Cadillac STS years comparison.
At what mileage do 2001 Cadillac STS problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 33,000 miles; 86% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
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.