r/Cadillac • u/Shredda_chedda • 3d ago
2016-2019 CTS 2.0T vs 3.6
Could anyone please give me some first hand info on the reliability of the 2.0T and the 3.6 in the later model CTS’s? I got a chance to drive the 2.0T at a dealership near me and I liked it, there’s not many 3.6 available near me. Mostly worried about the reliability between the two, don’t want to buy a money pit!
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u/ELECTRICxWIZARDx 2d ago
I've got a '13 ATS, first year of the LTG 2.0T. I picked it up at 120k, and have put on 20k miles with nothing but routine service like fluids and filters so far. Keep in mind the 2.0T wants high octane 91+ fuel, which is about $0.80/gal more than 87 around me. The 3.6L can drink 87, but will prob do significantly worse mpgs for mostly in town driving. I get ~30mpg combined, and that's with the older 6 speed automatic, the 8's get even better mpgs.
On these Alpha chassis cars, you'll want to watch for the TCC shudder on the 8 speed automatics. The diff(s) are another potential big repair bill, make sure they're not leaking fluid or making gross noises. Apparently the vent hose valve likes to clog and can cause them to puke the fluid, run dry, and burn up. Neither of these will be engine-specific. But if it's an AWD version, it will generally be harder (read:more expensive) to do any major services compared to an RWD model.
Ask for the service records or a CarFax, those will tell the tale on how previous owners treated it.
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u/Bor845 3h ago
My 3.6 got a best of 32 mpg hwy before the mods.. it is also a smooth v6 imo. My only issue (I have an AWD) is the rear diff. I think I am about needing a 2nd one. I have 82K miles. I kept the old to get it rebuilt but have not had times to take it in.
I have had to replace the CUE screen as well. But other than that it has been a real fun car.
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u/melk8381 3d ago
Either one is fine. No matter which one you chose there will be ongoing maintenance if you want to keep it in good shape.