Buy Cadillac DTS Suspension Struts

A Cadillac DTS suspension strut (also called a strut assembly, shock absorber, damper, or MacPherson strut) is the front Òshock + springÓ unit that helps the car ride smoothly and turn safely. It controls bounce, keeps the tire on the road, and supports the car's weight. Learn what a strut does in simple terms here: shock absorber basics and MacPherson strut overview. (Wikipedia)

On the DTS (model years 2006-2011), struts are in the front. The rear uses shocks, because the rear suspension is a multi-link design. Cadillac lists MacPherson struts up front and multilink in back for 2006, and that basic layout carries through the run. See specs: 2006 DTS specs.

The DTS was sold from 2006 to 2011. Trims varied by year (examples: Luxury I/II/III, Performance, later Premium/Platinum). The 2006 Performance trim included Magnetic Ride Control (MagneRide) dampers as part of its performance suspension. Source: the original 2006 Cadillac DTS spec sheet. (xr793.com)

Some DTS versions use conventional (passive) struts, while higher trims offered Magnetic Ride Control (GM's adaptive dampers that change stiffness using magnetized fluid). Learn what MagneRide is here: MagneRide explanation and Cadillac's overview of Magnetic Ride Control. (Wikipedia, cadillac.com)

Good struts help your DTS brake shorter, corner flatter, and ride smoother. Worn struts can cause cupped tires, nose-diving when braking, extra body roll, clunks, and a bouncy feel. (These are normal signs for any car's shocks/struts.)

Before buying, check your car's RPO codes to match the right parts. On GM cars, the Service Parts Identification (SPID) label lists codes like FE1 (soft ride), FE3 (sport), and F55 (MagneRide). The SPID label is often in the glovebox or trunk/spare-tire cover. Code definitions: RPO code list (PDF) and background on GM RPO codes. (rparts-sites.s3.amazonaws.com, Wikipedia)

* Front only: DTS struts are front assemblies; the rear uses shocks (standard or MagneRide on some trims).
* Replace in pairs: Do both fronts together to keep the car balanced.
* Alignment needed: Always get a four-wheel alignment after strut work.
* Transfer hardware: Reuse or replace the mount/bearing, spring seat, and dust boot as needed.
* Torque at ride height: Tighten control-arm bushings with the car's weight on the wheels to avoid bushing twist (a general best practice).

The DTS rides on GM's large front-drive G-platform (shared with the Buick Lucerne). That explains why some suspension pieces look similar across those models, though part numbers and options (FE1/FE3/F55) still matter for fit. Read more: Cadillac DTS and a period note on Lucerne sharing the G-platform with DTS from MotorWeek. (, MotorWeek)

Cadillac's own 2006 spec sheet shows ÒSuspension: four-wheel independent, Performance, includes Magnetic Ride ControlÓ for the Performance trim. Browse the one-page equipment grid here: 2006 DTS spec sheet (PDF). For the technical layout (MacPherson front / multilink rear), see the spec summary: Velocity Journal. (xr793.com, velocityjournal.com)

If your DTS shows ÒSERVICE SUSPENSION SYSTEMÓ or ÒSERVICE LEVELING SYSTEMÓ on the Driver Information Center, the owner's manual explains what to do next (diagnosis and when to get service). You can read the manual online: 2011 DTS Owner Manual (PDF) and 2006 DTS Owner Manual (PDF). (DealerProcess)

* Official specs & brochures: Search the GM Heritage Center for DTS vehicle information kits: GM Heritage Archive - Vehicle Information Kits.
* Owner's manuals: Cadillac's Manuals & Guides page: Cadillac manuals & guides.
* Recalls & bulletins: Check the NHTSA site by VIN or model: NHTSA recall lookup.
* Factory service info: GM's official Service Information (Si) is available by short subscription at ACDelco TDS: ACDelco TDS. (General Motors, cadillac.com, NHTSA, acdelcotds.com)

* Front suspension: MacPherson strut
* Rear suspension: Multilink (with shocks; MagneRide shocks on certain trims)
* Model years: 2006-2011
References: 2006 specs, DTS overview, MagneRide tech. (velocityjournal.com, Wikipedia)

1. Match the RPOs (FE1/FE3/F55). This avoids warning lights and fit problems. Use your SPID/RPO label and cross-check codes: RPO code list (PDF).
2. Front vs. rear: Order front struts for the front. Order rear shocks for the rear (standard or MagneRide).
3. Hardware matters: New mounts/bearings, bump stops, and spring isolators reduce noise later.
4. Alignment: Plan one after installation.

* Support the steering knuckle when the strut is out so you don't strain the brake hose or axle.
* Mark camber bolt positions before removal to help the alignment tech.
* If you're transferring the spring, use a quality spring compressor and follow the manual's safety steps. For detailed procedures, the official source is GM Service Information (Si) via ACDelco TDS.

For a Cadillac DTS, front = struts, rear = shocks. Match parts to your RPO codes (FE1/FE3/F55), plan an alignment, and use the owner's manual and GM Service Information for the exact steps and specs. If you see warning messages, follow the manual's advice and scan the system. Helpful links all in one place: 2006 DTS brochure, DTS overview, MagneRide tech, Cadillac manuals, NHTSA recall lookup, ACDelco TDS. (xr793.com, Wikipedia, cadillac.com, NHTSA, acdelcotds.com)