2008 Cadillac CTS Review: Not the Best Deal You’ll Find in 2008, but the Best You’ll Find on a Cadillac

Jun 5, 2023

The 2008 Cadillac CTS is marginally outclassed in more ways than not by competing luxury sedans from Acura and Lexus. But only the Cadillac CTS offers a Cadillac driving experience. If you’re a diehard fan of the iconic automaker, typical listing prices in the low $6,000 range may be hard to resist.

The Good

It’s a Cadillac, so you’ve got a strong power train, a first-class interior, and one of the biggest cabins in its class.

The Bad

The CTS is not as reliable as comparable sedans from Lexus and Acura.

Is the 2008 Cadillac CTS a Good Used Car?

Overall Rating 8/10 – It’s not exactly the best luxury sedan released in 2008, but it’s everything you want a Cadillac to be.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – The 2008 CTS boasts one of the most spacious, comfortable cabins in its class.
Reliability 7/10 – Major mechanical issues are few, but the car is unlikely to reach 250,000 miles without a breakdown.
Safety 9/10 – The CTS packs every standard safety feature you can expect for 2008, plus a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS.
Gas Mileage 7/10 – Cadillacs don’t have the best reputation for fuel economy, but 17/26, city/highway, isn’t terrible for a mid-size sedan.
Value 7/10 – If you’re willing to save up a couple extra thousand bucks, a Lexus ES or an Acura TL will deliver a comparable driving experience with a longer life expectancy. But, if you’re a fan of Caddies, it’s hard to argue with sticker prices in the low $6,000 range.

Positive Owner Reviews

Darlene J

Made by a company that has proven time and time again to be the most reliable.

I love this car, have never had any major or minor problems with it. This car is classy, very reliable, great mileage and rides so smooth.

Kyra W

That it is good on gasoline. It doesn't take much to get far.

This vehicle is a luxury sedan, with beige leather interior. It is comfortable transportation for me and my family! I've never had any problems with it.

Oliver V

Futuristic looking car with luxury

This car is my favorite car it's my everyday driver. A bit a lot and it does run it to problems but it's still reliable.

Daniel M

It is as smooth as glass I love it.

I own a 2008 Cadillac cts v6 direct-injection. I love my car I has 130 thousand miles on it never had a problem. Interesting enough this is the only car I have owned that you do not have to rotate the tires they all wear the same always. Only parts I had to buy for is driver's and passenger disc brake rotors. And driver's side door lock solenoid. I have never had any other problems. Oh and a tune-up spark plugs air filter that is it. When I purchase the vehicle had 78000 miles on it.

Jeannette B

Great gas mileage for a large car with all the bells and whistles.

My caddy give a smooth ride with comfortable leather adjustable seats. The Bose sound system is clear and relaxing during a long ride for any type of music. What can I say about the color choice it a head turner, depending on how the light shines on her, she can be purple or maroon just like a woman cannot decide what looks good so put on what is right for the time of day.

Lara R

The sport mode it goes really fast.

Its really reliable and comfortable I've had it for years. It really is stylish and is a great brand Cadillac really takes care of their buyers. Pleases them by offering loaner cars when your car is in service. I have always been placed into great loaner cars and given good customer service.

Liz A

Cadillac cts: smooth, stylish and comfortable ride.

This car is very fast, dependable, quiet and still drives good. I service it at the miles requested and keep the synthetic oil changed. It has very few problems and Cadillac stands behind their vehicles with great customer service. My car only has 51k miles on it and drives like brand new. I would not hesitate to purchase another Cadillac in the future. This is a smooth riding car, with quick acceleration and very airtight. I do not use the sunroof, and would not purchase one in the future. It has a great sound system and very attractive body style. It was Motor Trend car of the year when I purchased it. I test drove the new SUV and would consider purchasing it in the future. It drove well too.

Michael L

It is has an aftermarket exhaust.

I love the look of the design of the car. Also love the special color red that it is. And I love the classic styling of Cadillacs.

Negative Owner Reviews

Constance R

It's been very reliable. We have not had any problems.

It's tight inside. It rides good. I like the color.

Dee D

Outdated technology. Not premium.

Total gas guzzler. Technology in it is extremely outdated. How is this a high end car?

Amanda K

Okay car. Cheap quality considering cost of car and the parts.

Have had many issues. Have replaced 4 of 6 cylinders. Needs a new timing chain. Only has 90, 000 miles on it. Looks sharp, but durability isn't good. Bought because it has all wheel drive, which is nice. Parts are of course expensive so take that in consideration. Including headlight bulbs.

Elizabeth P

Caddy review great car for the past 10 years.

It is a good car have not really had any problems with it except for leaking in trunk and interior, I also do not like that you have to open trunk through the back seat, if you have stuff or a person is sitting there then you have to move everything thing in order to pull the seat down and pull the clasp to open it up, but other than that there have been 0 problems in 10 years.

Cathy J

Not easy to get in the car.

It is difficult to get in because it sits so low. When you attempt to get in the car, you must bend your neck sideways to keep from bumping your head. The navigation system somewhat outdated and it does not always take you to the route you select. It does not have Bluetooth capability with mobile phones and I do not wish to pay for the OnStar feature.

Deborah C

It gets me where I need to go and I try to take care of it.

It was used when I got it and still runs good but a lot of features are starting to wear out. The paint is peeling and fading.

Matt B

It drives like a tank. It feels safe.

It is too big and old. I like that I can use it for free.

Shelly S

The Cadillac CTS is a nice enough car.

The Cadillac CTS is a nice car with a lot of nice features. It's reliable enough but one issue I have with it is it is really hard on gas. It has a large engine, which requires a lot of gas to run. This is something I was not aware of when I bought the vehicle. But other than that it is a good car.

What Do Critics Say About the 2008 Cadillac CTS?

Consumer Reports found the 2008 Cadillac CTS to be a welcome improvement over earlier models, comparing the car favorably to leading German and Japanese sport sedans. They found the suspension pleasingly taut, the handling agile, and the ride compliant. They even had praise for the first-class interior trim quality.

Kelley Blue Book liked the visual design of the car, both modernized and classic at the same time. They named the 2008 CTS as a luxury sedan that lives up to the Cadillac name. They note that competition is stiff, however, and that the CTS doesn’t give a clear reason to choose it over a Lexus or Infiniti.

Edmunds found the 2008 CTS to be roomier than other luxury sedans in the same price range, they liked the secure handling and intuitive interior design, and they liked the all wheel drive option. They note that the additional cabin space comes at the tradeoff of less nimble cornering than its smaller competitors.

What Common Problems Does the 2008 Cadillac CTS Have?

The 2008 Cadillac CTS has generated 167 complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with electrical issues taking the lead at 35 reports. Drivers have reported brake lights failing to engage due to the wiring repeatedly pinching when the trunk is opened and closed.

Drivers have reported a handful of fuel issues including fuel leaks stemming from faulty fuel pump modules. This usually manifests in the form of engine stall and a strong gasoline odor inside the cabin. There has been no recall on the matter, so sniff around on the test drive.

A handful of owners have reported poor seals along the door gaskets, leading to rain water leaking into the car. At the least this presents a mold risk, and it can also result in short circuits and damaged wiring.

The 2008 Cadillac CTS has only been recalled twice, which is low for a vehicle this old.

How Long Will the 2008 Cadillac CTS Last?

With good maintenance, the 2008 Cadillac CTS could last around 200,000 miles before the expensive repairs start to pile up. Any car can theoretically last forever with excellent care from day one, but, buying used, you should expect your CTS to show its age before you hit a quarter million miles.

Repairpal estimate an annual maintenance cost of around $599, which isn’t bad for a luxury sedan, as a Cadillac doesn’t require the expensive specialty repairs of a BMW or Mercedes. Fuel level sending unit replacements are by far the most expensive common repairs, starting at around $1,551.

Cathy M

An old car is an old car and every car has issues I mean no car is perfect but this car went a long time without causing problems it may have small fixes but that is all.

Jason F

It is reliable. I have had problems with the ABS system, traction control system and the check engine soon light has come on.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment features in the 2008 Cadillac CTS are basic, but high-end. For onboard features all you get is a CD/MP3 player and XM Satellite radio, but this comes with a premium 8-speaker Bose sound system, and the acoustics in the CTS are excellent.

Safety features are very good for the model year. StabiliTrak, anti-lock brakes, and traction control all come standard.

Is the 2008 Cadillac CTS a Good Value?

The 2008 Cadillac CTS is a decent value. Fair market prices range from around $4,898 to $6,141, with typical listing prices around $6,257. These prices are for models with around 135,000 miles on the odometer. If you can go another 65,000 miles with no breakdowns, that’s less than ten cents a mile.

There are more cost-effective options out there. A comparable Lexus or Acura will likely last another hundred thousand miles for the same price. But, if you have a soft spot for Cadillacs or American-made luxury sedans in general, the CTS is priced fairly.

What are the Different Models of the 2008 Cadillac CTS?

The 2008 Cadillac CTS is only offered in one trim level, but it is available in rear or all wheel drive. Standard features include:

8-way power-adjust driver seat
Leather wrapped steering wheel with mounted audio, HVAC, and cruise controls
Dual zone automatic air conditioning
CD/MP3 player with 8-speaker Bose sound system
Anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak, and traction control
Heated mirrors
Leather seating
Remote keyless entry

RWD w/1SA

263 HP 21-22 MPG

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AWD w/1SA

263 HP 21-21 MPG

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RWD w/1SB

304 HP 21-22 MPG

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AWD w/1SB

304 HP 22-22 MPG

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What Engines Come In the 2008 Cadillac CTS?

The 2008 CTS comes packed with a 3.6L V6 engine delivering 263 horsepower and 253 lb.-ft. of torque. This is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission in rear wheel drive, and it averages 17/26 miles to the gallon, city/highway.

What Colors Does the 2008 Cadillac CTS Come In?

How Comfortable Is the 2008 Cadillac CTS?

The 2008 CTS is pretty much everything you hope a Cadillac to be in the comfort department. The back seat stretches a decent 54 inches across, interior trim is first class all the way, suspension feels strong without being rigid, and the cabin is whisper quiet.

How Much Storage Space Does the 2008 Cadillac CTS Have?

The 2008 Cadillac CTS offers a little more than 13 cubic feet in the trunk. This should pack four or five medium suitcases. This puts the CTS in roughly the same range as that year’s Accord, Camry, and Altima.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

2008 was the first model year in the CTS’ 2nd Generation, running from 2008 to 2014.

2006: Cadillac gave the CTS’ transmission an overhaul for 2006, giving the car a more responsive feel.

2007: The addition of OnStar was the biggest change for 2007.

2008: Cadillac gave the 2nd Gen relaunch a new front-end with a more Caddilac-ish grille, and they overhauled the engine cooling system.

2009: Improved steering and braking led a small handful of minor mechanical tweaks in 2009.

2010: An improved air filtration system and some 19″ polished alloy wheels were new for 2010.

How Does the 2008 Cadillac CTS Compare to the Competition?

The 2008 Lexus ES is 9 horsepower stronger than the CTS and a couple MPGs more fuel-efficient, and more likely to last a quarter million miles.

A 2008 Acura TL offers roughly the same performance as the CTS, at the entry level, but will also last closer to 250,000 miles. Both of these cars are a couple grand pricier than a CTS, but worth the extra cost.

On paper, the TL and the ES are the clear winners. But, they’re not Cadillacs, and for some drivers that’s going to make all the difference in the world.

Ranks #10 Luxury Midsize Cars by Owners

2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class

4.83

2008 Cadillac CTS

4.41

Do Owners Recommend the 2008 Cadillac CTS?

Cathy M

Yes I love it! It is spacious somewhat high tech and a beautiful body with amazing small awesome things that make me love it even more.

Tabatha B

For the most part. Have had trouble with ABS, Traction Control lights come on and the check engine soon light has come on.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Daniel M on April 2, 2021

It is as smooth as glass I love it.

Amanda K on March 12, 2021

Okay car. Cheap quality considering cost of car and the parts.

Kea S on February 21, 2021

Great sturdy and reliable

Great reliable vehicle that I really feel safe in. Great on gas and so far not many issues for being 11 years old. Only things that have come up have been basic maintenance as well as replacing the tire sensor. A friend also had one that she was in a nasty accident in and she walked away completely unharmed. This is definitely a car I would recommend or invest in going forward with the later models.

Lance R on January 24, 2021

It has excellent reliability and comfort.

Overall it has great gas mileage and is low maintenance. It is safe and family friendly with extra airbags and also anti lock brakes. It also features a sunroof for greater pleasure. There is large trunk space and also storage in the back of the car. Overall it is in excellent shape.

Kris G on January 15, 2021

Smooth ride and very reliable.

Very smooth ride and does fantastic on gas! I have no issues with maintaining the great condition of the vehicle. As long as you ride responsibly, this vehicle will last a very long time.

Destiny W on January 6, 2021

It is beige with leather and wood grain interior.

I haven't had any problems other than when I bought it I didn't notice it didn't have aux. It averages probably 25-30 mph. It is pretty reliable, it is an everyday driver. It has pretty comfortable leather seats which wood grain interior. It has heated seats which is pretty great too.

Taylor T on December 27, 2020

I bought it from reputable used car dealer the car is good on gas.

I like that it is reliable and rarely has problems. There is nothing I dislike about it. Although it is not the most current car, it can still keep up with the features of today.

Lindy S on December 17, 2020

It has a lot of power to get going, be careful if you have a lead foot.

I love how comfortable it is and I was surprised that it gets better gas mileage than I had anticipated. I dislike how expensive it is to fix.

Sheila H on December 16, 2020

The one most important thing is it gets my family from point A to point B safely and in style

I like the car's design I like the car's performance I like the car's color the one thing I dislike is it isn't quite big enough for my family

Constance R on December 5, 2020

It's been very reliable. We have not had any problems.

It's tight inside. It rides good. I like the color.

Chris S on November 18, 2020

Best mid size Cadillac ever.

The cts is a very reliable and convenient care. Fast and fuel efficient. Daily driver. I have only had 1 problem. I had to change the battery and spark plugs. I am still on the original set of tires and brakes. I might need to change the timing belt at 100k miles. The paint still looks great and the interior is perfect.

Crystal B on November 13, 2020

It is fantastic on gas mileage. Makes it better for traveling.

I love the inside and trunk space. It's a nice looking vehicle from the inside and outside. I just don't like the color of the vehicle. It's my only dislike about it. It's great on gas as well.

Liz A on October 28, 2020

Cadillac cts: smooth, stylish and comfortable ride.

John B on October 2, 2020

Fast and sleek automobiles.

There isn't any problems with Cadillac cars. The performance is what you would expect, it handles perfect. Very fast and sleek car that fit in traffic and under the radar. Leather and wood makes it all worth it. The sound system could be better be it suits the car well.

Yolanda B on September 4, 2020

Has very good acceleration and is very dependable. Not a lot of maintenance required.

Very comfortable car to drive. Good on gas mileage.

Suzanne D on August 22, 2020

A great looking car with lots of pep and energy.

I have had no problems with this vehicle, it is very comfortable and easy to drive and very stylish. If you have company you can easily seat five people and has enough pep to get you where you are going. I have had a lot of people come up to me and ask me about it as they admire the looks of it.

June W on August 1, 2020

Sporty sedan with a lot of power.

I love the cts it glides on the road you do not feel the bumps, the moonroof is a wonderful feature we never had a problem with leaks. The all-wheel drive is very nice handling on the road in snow and ice. The car makes sharp turns which is a nice feature and some vehicles do not make very sharp turns. I like the v6 as it takes off when you push the gas there is no hesitation.

Ernest Rucker on July 31, 2020

Reliability

Had my 08 CTS 2yrs. Now just had to change battery, it was the original Delco! 12yrs. Old, really like this car fun to drive smooth as silk, plenty of power, took 2 trips to Conn. From Jersey just like going around the corner.

Tammy G on July 25, 2020

Cadillac is not just for old people so everyone should check them out

It is an older car so some things are getting worn out but it has lots of great features. I look forward to the day when I can afford to buy a new car in a few years

Deborah C on July 14, 2020

It gets me where I need to go and I try to take care of it.

It was used when I got it and still runs good but a lot of features are starting to wear out. The paint is peeling and fading.

Thomas M on June 25, 2020

2008 Cadillac cts silver luxury.

I like my 2008 Cadillac cts but its not very sturdy, as a lot of problems happen with it. The air doesn't always work good depending on the weather out which I have looked up and a lot of other users have had the same issue. The car itself is a very comfortable drive.

Cesar C on June 12, 2020

The power that is sometimes underlooked due to its luxurious recognition.

I like that it has a modern, luxurious, and sporty design. I don't like the maintenance expenses

Ms Gerry Brunk on June 3, 2020

Reliable s**y car

I was in love with my car the first time I saw it, and still am 11years later. Best car I ever bought!!

Kyra W on May 17, 2020

That it is good on gasoline. It doesn't take much to get far.

This vehicle is a luxury sedan, with beige leather interior. It is comfortable transportation for me and my family! I've never had any problems with it.

Michael L on May 12, 2020

It is has an aftermarket exhaust.

I love the look of the design of the car. Also love the special color red that it is. And I love the classic styling of Cadillacs.

Carol W on April 18, 2020

It was purchased on sale so costs a lot less than one would expect.

It's reliable and safe. It has pretty good gas mileage on the highway. It has a good service record. It comes equipped with OnStar and satellite radio.

Alicia S on April 17, 2020

Very safe and reliable comfortable car.

I really love my Cadillac very safe and reliable. Smooth an classy luxury. Love the comfy seats good on gas. Very safe for long trips.

Sandra C on March 2, 2020

It has held up well mechanically and cosmetically.

This car has been reliable, dependable. I have had no problems with it at all. I love the styling of the car and the timelessness of the look.

Jeannette B on January 19, 2020

Great gas mileage for a large car with all the bells and whistles.

Donna S on January 4, 2020

Very reliable. Well worth the money in the long run.

Never have problems with the Cadillac it was well worth the money. Very reliable and i have owned many cars and this is the best. Head turner everyone who sees this loved it.

Manuel H on December 19, 2019

Cadillac cuts review 2018.

Car rides smooth at most times and rough at other times during summer months. Nice paint job and good tires. Transmission shifts well. The motor has many miles on it. Windows has a dark tint. Interior has leather seats and brown mats and carpet. Battery is in good working order.

Ria G on December 18, 2019

The car looks great it runs for 10 yrs, before repairs and runs another 10 yrs.

After 10 years there are a lot of costly repairs. If you get this car you should have about $5000 to repair it because once one thing breaks like the fuel tank then so does everything else. But it's a great looking car and runs well after it has a repair done to it.

Jessica H on December 16, 2019

Very reliable. Great on gas.

I have only had my car for a year now. There have been no problems. But. . . I recently ran over a rabbit and the whole thing messed up. Bumper fell off. Exhilarators messed up, $500 worth of damages because of a rabbit. Not okay for how much I pay. As far as comfort, the front seat has plenty of space. The back seat on the other hand is so small. Very uncomfortable to travel.

Dee D on November 25, 2019

Outdated technology. Not premium.

Total gas guzzler. Technology in it is extremely outdated. How is this a high end car?

Brooke B on November 23, 2019

My car is a very good value. Unlike some cars, after 10 years it is still running very good.

I love the way that my car looks. It was the first car I ever bought on my own and I'm proud of it. I also love the sound system. It has never given me any real problems and it still looks great and runs good after 10 years.

David H on October 29, 2019

Reliable, dependable and stylish looking!

It's stylish looking but the only problem is that it tends to leak in certain places when it rains hard.

Lisa V on October 21, 2019

Fast powerful car, 3.6 liter.

Sporty, fast, big, luxury. Heavy, status symbol.... Not new, so no warranty.. No back up camera or side alerts.

Hon S on October 4, 2019

The color and the brand. I love it.

I love it, its comfortable and easy to drive. I can use it anywhere I want very nice and amazing. This is the most beautiful car I ever had. I love the style and color. My husband love it too. If I am going to buy another car I would the same brand but made it sooner and newer. I am so lucky I drive this car very nice. I love it.

Case C on October 3, 2019

Standard 6 speed vehicle with rear wheel drive

Very nice vehicle, smooth yet powerful, very fun to drive. The only issues I have with the Cadillac are the lack of AWD as well as the weight of the car... It's a boat yet handles quite well. I would recommend the cts to anyone looking for a reliable and safe vehicle that also packs a punch.

Matt B on September 17, 2019

It drives like a tank. It feels safe.

It is too big and old. I like that I can use it for free.

Kate G on September 1, 2019

Love this car. Great, smooth ride. The only cons are the same as any car..cost of replacing tires..keeping maintained.

It is very reliable and really comfortable to drive.

Darlene J on August 13, 2019

Made by a company that has proven time and time again to be the most reliable.

I love this car, have never had any major or minor problems with it. This car is classy, very reliable, great mileage and rides so smooth.

Amy S on August 8, 2019

My Cadillac has been very reliable and I have been very happy with my choice.

I bought my car in 2012. I love the style of the car. I have had it for over 7 years now and it has been very reliable. I have only experienced a few issues with it. I have had to replace the battery once and the daytime headlights a few times. The only thing I do not love about this car is that is has a very rough ride when driving around town. It is very smooth on The freeway but very bumpy around town. I wish it had a smoother ride.

Elizabeth P on July 30, 2019

Caddy review great car for the past 10 years.

Jo G on July 25, 2019

The car's interior is beautiful. Even after 10 years, it still looks elegant.

Car gets rained in. It needs a new sunroof. Drive is amazing. It is lasted me 10 years. It does need headlight replacement after 8 years. Which is excusable. Comfortable for long drives.

Jace G on July 5, 2019

The car had seats that are very comfy

The vehicle is actually really cool and has much room. The car drives smoothly but it takes a lot of gas to fill up the tank.

Robin C on June 29, 2019

For 11 yrs old still sounds and handles brand new. And that says a lot.

I really love my vehicle. It has more modern functions then most cars from that year. It lets me know when one of the tires are low and which one. It not only tells you engine problem with the light but actually tell you what the problem is. The car handles like a dream very smooth ride. No one believes it's 11 years old. I haven't had a single problem with the car. It is very comfortable to be in for long or short rides. The seats are heated for colder days. Air conditioning and heat everyone can control their own comfort. Stereo sounds awesome came with Bose speakers and has 5 disc CD player. I haven't had any problems at all with her. I am the second owner. And I did check car facts and she hasn't been in any accidents before I bought her. When I am ready for a new car I believe I will be buying another Cadillac. They are very dependable.

L S on June 23, 2019

2008 Cadillac cts with new brakes and tires. Nice and most 100 thousand miles

I have a 2008 Cadillac cts its silver. It's a great family car plenty of space. It's runs good the only problem I've had is with the over heating other than that it's a wonderful smooth ride. It has close to 100 thousand miles and it's up to date with oil changes and I do tune up every year to ensure it runs the very best. The breaks are new as well as the tires.

Wil L on June 6, 2019

That is breaking down way too early. It only has a hundred thousand miles on it.

Looks good. Drives OK. Not the most reliable. Doesn't handle well in the rain. Leaks from the sunroof and it shouldn't. OK gas mileage.

Larry H on June 1, 2019

The most important thing to know is that it can go from a manual to an automatic.

I like the panoramic roof. I like the XM radio. I do not like the gas mileage but that maybe do to a need to change the oil.

Gilbert Smith

Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.