Cadillac XTS Transmission Problems & Cost | 6T70 / 6T75E

Introduced for the 2013 model year, the Cadillac XTS is a modern interpretation of the old Cadillac DeVille/DTS. To that end, it’s a full-size front wheel drive luxury car that’s loaded with features, and looks like nothing else on the road. Gone is the venerable Northstar V8, but its 3.6L V6 makes just as much power. The twin turbos on the Cadillac XTS V-Sport model push power well past the 400-hp mark. These engines are a paired with either the 6T70 or 6T75E, which were mostly reliable. However, Cadillac XTS transmission problems do still occur. So let’s find out what you can do about them. 

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

Cadillac XTS Transmission Models

Cadillac XTS: 6T70 Transmission 
Cadillac XTS: 6T75E Transmission

Cadillac XTS Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate

Pricing varies by model. To be 100% sure on pricing, have your VIN# handy and use our Get An Estimate feature to look up your transmission by VIN#.

Replacement Cadillac XTS Transmission Prices:

What are the DTC codes related to Cadillac XTS transmission problems?

Cadillac XTS Transmission Recalls

None Found

Cadillac XTS Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

TSB 13120A – 2013 Cadillac XTS

Problem – The torque converter clutch solenoid can stick due to debris in the transmission. When the vehicle is at the end of a coast-down, as the vehicle is coming to a stop, a stuck solenoid will fail to release the torque converter clutch. This keeps the engine directly connected to the driven wheels. As the vehicle stops, the engine speed will be pulled down below normal idle speed and the engine may stall. The vehicle can be immediately restarted and driven. 
Solution – The valve control solenoid should be replaced, and the transmission control module will have to be reprogrammed in order to correct the problem.

Common Problems with the Cadillac XTS Transmission

Input/Output Speed Sensor Issues – Cadillac XTS 6T70E  

Problem – When repairing a failed input speed sensor or output speed sensor, steering system damage could occur.
Solution – To avoid damage to the clock springs, the splined steering knuckle must be prevented from falling out of the steering rack when dropping the subframe to access the valve body. 

Lack of Response
Leaking Fluid
Low Fluid
Burning Smell
Grinding or Shaking
Whining, Clunking or Humming
Refuses to Go Into Gear
Torque Converter Issues
Stalling
Valve Body Issues
Transmission Noisy in Neutral
Gears Slipping
No 3rd or 4th Gear
No 1st or 2nd Gear
No Reverse
Dragging Clutch
Trouble Codes / Check Engine Light

Can I drive with a transmission problem?

For the most part, Cadillac XTS transmission problems may or may not sideline the car. It all depends on the severity of the issue. However, continuing to drive the car when there’s something wrong with the transmission, can often create a more expensive problem.

How often does a Cadillac XTS transmission need to be replaced?

Proper maintenance is the easiest way to extend the life of a transmission. However, factory design flaws can lead to common failure points, which can obviously reduce the service life. On average, a Cadillac XTS transmission will usually last between 130,000–180,000 miles. A remanufactured transmission on the other hand, can last for considerably longer.

How are Cadillac XTS transmission issues diagnosed?

In order to figure out what’s causing your Cadillac XTS transmission problems, a mechanic will need to connect a scan tool, so they can retrieve all of the diagnostic trouble codes that are stored on the car’s computer. After that, a visual inspection and possibly a test drive will be needed to verify the source of the problem.

How is a Cadillac XTS transmission replaced?

Based on the GM Epsilon II platform, the Cadillac XTS is primarily a big FWD sedan. As such, the front subframe may have to be partially removed to gain access to the transmission. After installing the new transmission, the ECU / PCM will have to be reprogrammed / reflashed to accept the new transmission using the latest GM subscription.

Recommendations for Cadillac XTS transmission issues?

To save time and get back on the road faster, have your 17-digit truck VIN# handy and you can get an online quote for a reman Cadillac XTS transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Cadillac XTS Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Cadillac XTS Transmission

In order to save money and get back on the road fast, you might be tempted to go buy a used 6T70E / used 6T75E transmission from a junkyard. And sure, you will save a little bit of money. But that savings may be short lived, because there could be even bigger problems hiding in that used gearbox.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Cadillac XTS Transmission

Perhaps a more sound solution would be to purchase a rebuilt 6T70E / rebuilt 6T75E transmission. These have a lot of new Cadillac XTS transmission parts in them, and most come with a 1-2 year warranty. However, if the transmission is simply returned to a factory state, then all of the original failure points will just fail again. And that warranty may only be good at the shop that built it, which would essentially leave you without coverage if you travel.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Cadillac XTS Transmission

If you want to get the most miles out of your Cadillac XTS, you need to consider getting a remanufactured 6T70E / remanufactured 6T75E from a reputable supplier. Unlike a rebuilt transmission, a good remanufactured transmission will be modified to correct for the factory design flaws. This will make it last a lot longer than the stock transmission did. Plus, some reman transmissions are covered by a nationwide warranty, which will protect you from transmission repair bills, no matter where you drive.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

What Problem Does Your Cadillac XTS Have?

Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!