A Guide to Replacing Ignition Coils on the 2011-2019 Cadillac CTS
Diagnose and fix engine misfires by choosing the right ignition coil for your CTS.
- A flashing check engine light indicates a severe misfire; reduce speed to prevent catalytic converter damage.
- Replacing an ignition coil is an easy DIY job requiring only basic tools, saving significant labor costs.
- Always replace the spark plug for the corresponding cylinder when replacing an ignition coil.
- ACDelco and Delphi are OEM-level quality choices, providing the best reliability for your CTS.
Is Your Cadillac CTS Ignition Coil Failing?
A bad ignition coil is a common problem that can make your Cadillac feel rough and underpowered. When a coil fails, the spark plug for that cylinder doesn't get the electricity it needs to fire correctly. This is called a 'misfire,' and it's the main source of the symptoms you'll experience.
Key Symptoms of a Bad Coil
- Engine Stumbling or Shaking: The car may vibrate or shake, especially when idling at a stoplight. 🎬 Watch: See how a misfire causes shaking and StabiliTrak warnings. This is the most common sign of a misfire.
- Check Engine Light: A failing coil will almost always trigger the Check Engine Light. If the light is flashing, it signals a severe misfire that could damage your catalytic converter, and you should reduce speed and get the vehicle checked immediately.
- Loss of Power: Your CTS will feel sluggish and slow to accelerate because one or more cylinders aren't contributing power.
- Worse Gas Mileage: The engine burns more fuel to compensate for the lack of power from the misfiring cylinder.
- Trouble Starting: If multiple coils are weak or have failed, the engine may be difficult to start.
Ignition Switch vs. Ignition Coil
Many CTS models from 2011-2014 were part of a safety recall for the ignition switch, where the key could accidentally turn off the engine. This is a separate issue and is not related to the ignition coils discussed in this article.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When shopping for a new ignition coil, you'll find a wide range of brands and prices. For a vehicle like the Cadillac CTS, choosing a quality part is important for maintaining its smooth performance. The brands can be grouped into three main tiers.
Tier 1: OEM and Premium Brands
These brands either made the original part for Cadillac or have a long-standing reputation for quality that meets or exceeds OEM standards. They are the most reliable choice for a direct replacement.
- ACDelco: As GM's official parts brand, ACDelco is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Choosing ACDelco guarantees a perfect fit and original performance.
- Delphi: Delphi was the company that originally manufactured many parts for GM, including ignition coils. A Delphi coil is often identical to the ACDelco part, just in a different box, and can be a more affordable OEM-quality option.
- Bosch, NGK, Denso: These are world-renowned leaders in ignition systems. They are trusted premium aftermarket brands that offer exceptional quality and reliability.
Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket Brands
These brands offer a great balance of price and quality. They are dependable alternatives to the premium brands and are often the choice of professional repair shops.
- Standard Motor Products (SMP): A well-respected brand that has been making quality automotive parts for decades.
- Hitachi: Known for making reliable electronic components for many car manufacturers.
Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Options
These brands focus on affordability. While they can get your car running again, their lifespan and performance may not match that of the higher-tier brands. They can be a viable option if budget is the primary concern.
- DriveWire, True Tech, Spectra, URO Parts: These brands offer significant cost savings. Be aware that quality can vary, and they may not last as long as premium parts.
A Note on Performance Brands
Brands like Granatelli, Edelbrock, and Accel offer high-performance ignition coils. These are designed for modified engines and are not necessary for a standard daily-driven CTS. They often account for the highest prices you will see, especially when sold in a full set.
How Much Does an Ignition Coil Replacement Cost?
The cost depends on your CTS engine (4-cylinder, V6, or V8) and whether you do the work yourself. Replacing an ignition coil is a simple DIY job that can save you a significant amount in labor costs.
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Single Aftermarket Ignition Coil | $35 - $125 |
| Single OEM (ACDelco) Ignition Coil | $90 - $150 |
| Shop Labor (1 Coil) | $75 - $150 |
| DIY Total (1 Premium Coil) | $55 - $125 |
| Shop Total (1 Premium Coil) | $130 - $275 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all ignition coils at once?
This is a common debate. If one coil fails, the others are likely the same age and have been exposed to the same conditions. To avoid future breakdowns, many mechanics recommend replacing all coils at the same time, especially if your car has over 80,000 miles. However, if budget is a concern, replacing only the failed coil is acceptable.
Should I also replace my spark plugs?
Yes. The ignition coil is removed to access the spark plug, so it's the perfect time to replace it. A worn spark plug can put extra strain on a new ignition coil, causing it to fail prematurely. It is highly recommended to install new spark plugs when replacing coils.
How do I find out which coil is bad?
When the check engine light is on, a mechanic or an auto parts store can use an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble code. Codes like P0301, P0302, etc., indicate a misfire in a specific cylinder (P0301 is cylinder 1, P0302 is cylinder 2, and so on). This tells you exactly which coil to replace.
🎬 Watch: A mechanic's guide to diagnosing misfire codes and coils.Is this a difficult job to do myself?
No, this is one of the easier repairs you can do. The coils are located on top of the engine and are held in by a single 10mm bolt. The only tools needed are a socket wrench and an extension. The entire job for one coil can take as little as 15-20 minutes.
🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing coils and plugs on a V6.Are there any TSBs for ignition coils on my CTS?
While there are no widespread recalls for ignition coil failure, GM has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for some models. TSB PIP5038B for earlier 3.6L engines addresses misfires and potential coil damage from bad electrical grounds. Another TSB, PIP5194, notes that cold start misfires on some 2014-2015 models could be from old fuel rather than a bad coil.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12632479 12613057 12618542 12570616 UF569 D515C
All 2011-2019 Cadillac CTS models use a 'Coil-on-Plug' (COP) ignition system. The specific part number varies depending on the engine (2.0L Turbo, 3.0L V6, 3.6L V6, or 6.2L V8). Always verify the correct part for your specific engine before purchasing.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Cadillac CTS:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Cadillac CTS Ignition Coil Failing?
- Key Symptoms of a Bad Coil
- Ignition Switch vs. Ignition Coil
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Tier 1: OEM and Premium Brands
- Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket Brands
- Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Options
- A Note on Performance Brands
- How Much Does an Ignition Coil Replacement Cost?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off