Cadillac
DTS
Cadillac
STS
Cadillac DTS vs Cadillac STS: 2007 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Cadillac STS comes out ahead of the Cadillac DTS on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
DTS
Overall
Sentiment is predominantly positive, with a strong consensus that the final-generation DTS (2006-2011) is a highly comfortable, reliable, and undervalued luxury cruiser. Owner feedback consistently praises the exceptionally smooth ride, spacious interior, and powerful yet refined performance of the revised Northstar V8 engine. The vehicle is widely regarded as offering a compelling value proposition on the used market, providing luxury features and comfort at a low purchase price.
Best version to buy
2006-2011 model years (post-head-bolt revision). Higher trim levels (Luxury III, Platinum) are noted for desirable features like Magnetic Ride Control, massaging seats, and a center console shifter.
Known issues
- ⚠Cooling system failures (water pump, pulley, crossover pipe gaskets): Can lead to overheating; water pump pulley seizure is a known, preventable failure point. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Cramped engine bay / expensive repairs: Routine repairs are labor-intensive due to tightly packaged engine, leading to high shop costs. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Suspension component wear: Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) struts are noted to leak and fail, with replacements being very costly; conventional suspension components also wear but are more affordable. Frequency: recurrent.
STS
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain. Long-term owners of the second-generation (2005-2011) rear-wheel-drive STS express strong affection for its driving dynamics, describing it as a "thrill to drive," with precise, "rifle-like" steering, excellent handling for its size, and strong acceleration, particularly from the V8 models. The vehicle is praised for its comfortable, supportive seats, powerful Bose stereo systems, and its underlying character as a "4-door Camaro." However, significant and very frequent criticism is directed at the reliability and maintenance costs of key components, especially concerning the Northstar V8 engine's reputation for oil leaks (valve covers, oil pan, half-case) and the high cost of repairs.
Best version to buy
The 2008 model year is recurrently cited as a "golden year" for the second-generation STS, representing a point where many early issues were reportedly addressed. For performance, the STS-V with its supercharged Northstar V8 (469 hp) is highlighted as a potent, rare, and undervalued performance sedan.
Known issues
- ⚠Northstar V8 engine oil leaks: very frequent leaks from valve covers, oil pan, and less commonly the half-case seal. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Driveline component failures: worn motor mounts, differential bushings, and driveshaft carrier bearings (especially on AWD models) causing clunks, shudders, and shifting harshness. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠V6 (3.6L LLT/LFX) timing chain issues: related to excessive oil consumption from a flawed PCV system; can lead to chain stretch and failure if oil is not monitored and topped up frequently. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Cadillac STS is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Cadillac DTS, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Cadillac DTS is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Cadillac DTS or the Cadillac STS?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Cadillac DTS and the Cadillac STS. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Cadillac DTS or the Cadillac STS?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Cadillac DTS or the Cadillac STS?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Cadillac DTS or the Cadillac STS?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Cadillac DTS than the Cadillac STS. See the known issues comparison above.