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[Cadillac Tony]

Dealer Business Center

[Chuck]

Hi Tony,
I have a chance to buy an '04 CTS-V with only 16,xxx miles previously owned by a 65 yr.old man. The car appears to be in perfect condition complete with new OE tires. I have read about some of the rear end issues and am concerned. My "spirited driving" consists of running through the gears on occasion from a roll. I just now got the results of my VIN check and see that the transmission was replaced last month. Have those been an issue too?
I really like the car but it will be my DD and I need some reassurance. Thanks in advance for your help.

Chuck

[Cadillac Tony]

Howdy, Chuck!

The rear differential issues on the CTS are blown way out of proportion on these forums. There are an above average number of CTSs that have a "hum" or "whine" noise from the differential at certain speeds, but it's certainly not a sign of failure and definitely nothing to be overly concerned about. Make a few tight turns in a parking lot to be sure there's no clunking or binding in the rear and you should be fine. I'd recommend asking the dealer to drain and refill the differential with fresh synthetic fluid and a bottle of "friction modifier" (all parts departments have it) just to start with fresh fluid back there.

As far as the transmission, I haven't seen too many of those replaced, but cars are made by humans and some just break. As long as the new transmission is acting properly, I'd consider it a bonus (new tranny! )

Thanks for valuing my advice, and if you have any other questions relating to the car or the purchase then let me know!

[Chuck]

Originally Posted by Cadillac Tony

Howdy, Chuck!

The rear differential issues on the CTS are blown way out of proportion on these forums. There are an above average number of CTSs that have a "hum" or "whine" noise from the differential at certain speeds, but it's certainly not a sign of failure and definitely nothing to be overly concerned about. Make a few tight turns in a parking lot to be sure there's no clunking or binding in the rear and you should be fine. I'd recommend asking the dealer to drain and refill the differential with fresh synthetic fluid and a bottle of "friction modifier" (all parts departments have it) just to start with fresh fluid back there.

As far as the transmission, I haven't seen too many of those replaced, but cars are made by humans and some just break. As long as the new transmission is acting properly, I'd consider it a bonus (new tranny! )

Thanks for valuing my advice, and if you have any other questions relating to the car or the purchase then let me know!

Hi Tony,
The dealer said the trans had a vibration in 6th at 70 mph. I spoke to the previous owner and he said he had not noticed it so it must have been pretty minor. I test drove it yesterday, bought it this morning and I pick it up Monday. I'm not a "clutch-dropper" so hopefully I won't have any diff issues. The car appears to be a perfect blend of performance, luxury, and 4-door convenience. Thanks for you help.

Chuck

[Cadillac Tony]

You're quite welcome, Chuck. Congratulations on the new car.

[Chuck]

Thanks Tony. I drove it home and put it in the garage so I haven't had a chance to enjoy it yet. I need to drive my '01 Regal GS for exposure so I can get it sold.

Chuck