The Truth About Cadillac Cars

Summary

In this video, Scotty Kilmer discusses the reliability of various cars and engines, providing advice on purchasing older models. He warns against older Cadillac CTS V6 engines due to reliability issues but mentions that V8 models can be fun to drive despite potential problems. Scotty advises against the 2018 Mazda CX-5 due to engine issues over time and cautions a viewer on paying too much for a used Kia. He highlights the importance of finding an experienced, honest mechanic and shares concerns about modern mechanics' pressure to upsell unnecessary repairs.

Takeaways

• 🚗 Cadillac CTS older models are not reliable, especially the V6 engines. The V8 can be acceptable if it's not the Northstar engine, but even then, motor mount issues are common.
• 🔧 If you are looking for a used car, avoid V6 Cadillac engines as they are prone to breakdowns, particularly when turbocharged.
• 📉 Mazda CX-5 models with manual transmissions are good for up to 120,000 miles but may develop costly VVT system issues afterward.
• 💵 When buying used cars, price varies significantly by region, with Canadian prices typically higher than those in the U.S.
• 🚙 The GM 3400 V6 engine is reliable, but its durability depends on driving style. Aggressive driving can cause transmission failures.
• 🛠️ Finding a reliable mechanic is challenging; word of mouth and experience are key factors to consider.
• ⚙️ Electronic power steering issues in models like the 2013 Dodge Dart may require professional diagnostics, which can be costly.
• 💬 Online reviews can be misleading due to fake positive feedback. Relying on recommendations from friends and family is a safer bet.
• 🔎 An experienced mechanic is invaluable; younger, less experienced mechanics may lack the necessary know-how for complex issues.
• 🔧 Always get potential problems scanned and diagnosed before proceeding with major repairs to avoid unnecessary costs.

Q & A

What does Scotty say about the reliability of the older generation Cadillac CTS?

Scotty says the older generation Cadillac CTS is not reliable, especially with a V6 engine. He notes that V6 engines are prone to issues, and turbos added to increase power don't hold up well over time. However, if you get a V8 engine that's not the Northstar version, it might be better.

Why should you avoid the Northstar engine in a Cadillac CTS, according to Scotty?

Scotty advises avoiding the Northstar engine because it has a reputation for being unreliable. He recommends running away from it if you come across a Cadillac CTS with that engine.

What potential problems might you encounter with a V8 Cadillac CTS, even if it's fun to drive?

Scotty mentions that even a V8 Cadillac CTS can have issues, such as frequent motor mount failures that could cost around $1,000 to fix. Although the car might be fun to drive, he still wouldn't personally buy one.

Is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 a good purchase for someone who wants a manual transmission, according to Scotty?

Scotty has mixed feelings about the 2018 Mazda CX-5. While he likes that it has a manual transmission, he notes that as they age, these vehicles tend to develop costly engine problems related to the VVT system.

How long can you expect a Mazda CX-5 to run trouble-free, and what are the risks after that period?

Scotty suggests that a Mazda CX-5 may run trouble-free for about 100,000 to 120,000 miles, but after that, there's a risk of significant engine problems that could cost almost as much as the vehicle itself to fix.

What does Scotty think about buying a 14-year-old Kia with under 100,000 miles for $5,560?

Scotty thinks the price is too high, especially for a 14-year-old Kia. He suggests paying no more than $2,500 for such a vehicle, but he acknowledges that prices may vary depending on the location.

Is GM's 3400 V6 engine reliable, according to Scotty?

Yes, Scotty believes GM's 3400 V6 engine is solid and reliable. However, he notes that the rest of the vehicle, especially the electronics and automatic transmission, were not as durable.

What advice does Scotty give for finding a good mechanic?

Scotty advises relying on word of mouth and asking friends for recommendations. He warns against trusting online reviews too much, as some shops may post false reviews to boost their reputation.

What potential issues might arise with a 2013 Dodge Dart’s steering system?

Scotty suggests that a 2013 Dodge Dart, which uses Fiat technology, may develop problems with its electronic power steering system. If the steering becomes harder to turn, it might need diagnostic testing with a professional scan tool to identify the issue.

What should you do if your Dodge Dart's steering wheel becomes harder to turn occasionally?

Scotty recommends having the steering system scanned by a professional to check for potential issues, such as a sensor malfunction. If the issue is minor, it might be worth fixing, but otherwise, some people may choose to live with it if it's only occasional.