Transmission by Model — Quick Reference
Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade is only offered with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. Earlier generations used a 6-speed 6L80 automatic. The Escalade-V uses a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Cadillac CTS / CT5
For the 2016 model year, the 6-speed 6L45 automatic was replaced by the new 8-speed 8L45 automatic. The third-generation CTS-V includes a 6.2L supercharged V8 producing 640 hp paired with an 8-speed automatic, running 0–60 in 3.5 seconds.
A six-speed manual transmission came standard on all second-generation CTS models, with a six-speed Hydra-matic automatic offered as an option.
Cadillac CT4 / CT4-V Blackwing
When the CT4 is powered by its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, it uses an 8-speed automatic. The turbocharged 2.7-liter pairs with a 10-speed automatic. The top-of-the-line turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 comes with a standard six-speed manual, with a 10-speed automatic available as an option.
Cadillac DTS / DeVille
Used the heavy-duty 4T80E 4-speed automatic — a longitudinally mounted unit paired with the Northstar V8. If properly maintained, a Cadillac DTS 4T80E transmission can easily last 130,000 to 180,000 miles. Replacing it requires the engine, transmission, and front subframe to all be removed together — a major job.
Cadillac XTS
The Cadillac XTS uses the 6T70 or 6T75E 6-speed automatic transmission paired with a 3.6L V6. The twin-turbo V-Sport model pushes power well past 400 hp through the same unit.
Cadillac SRX
Used the 5L40E (early), 6L50, and 6T70/6T75 depending on year and engine — 5-speed through 6-speed automatics across its production life.
Cadillac XT5 / XT6
The Cadillac XT5 is outfitted with a nine-speed automatic transmission exclusively.
Transmission Code Reference by Era
| Transmission | Type | Used In |
|---|---|---|
| 4T80E | 4-speed automatic (FWD) | DeVille, DTS, STS, Eldorado |
| 5L40E | 5-speed automatic (RWD) | CTS Gen 1, SRX |
| 6L45 / 6L50 / 6L80 | 6-speed automatic | CTS, SRX, Escalade |
| 6T70 / 6T75E | 6-speed automatic (FWD/AWD) | XTS, SRX, ATS |
| 8L45 / 8L90 | 8-speed automatic | CTS Gen 3, CT4, CT5 |
| Aisin TL-80SN | 8-speed automatic | CTS V-Sport |
| 10-speed (10L90) | 10-speed automatic | Escalade, CT4, CT5 |
| Tremec T56 / TR6060 | 6-speed manual | CTS-V Gen 1 & 2 |
| Getrag / Aisin | 5 or 6-speed manual | CTS Gen 1 & 2 |
Common Cadillac Transmission Problems
4T80E (DeVille, DTS, STS): One of the most common 4T80E problems is ATF leaks and slipping — often caused by worn third clutch housing bushings, which allow excessive fluid buildup at the axle seal, causing both the leak and the slipping simultaneously. Shift solenoid failures are also frequently reported, causing the transmission to stick in a single gear.
6T70 / 6T75E (XTS, SRX): A known issue is the torque converter clutch solenoid sticking due to debris in the transmission. At the end of a coast-down as the vehicle approaches a stop, the stuck solenoid fails to release the torque converter clutch, keeping the engine connected to the driven wheels — pulling the engine below idle speed and potentially stalling it.
8-speed (CT6, CTS Gen 3): A common complaint with the 8-speed is torque converter shudder. A fluid change makes a dramatic improvement in drivability, and clearing the learning points tends to reset shift behavior for improvement.
Used vs. Remanufactured: Which to Buy
Buying a used Cadillac transmission from a salvage yard might seem economical, but with no way to verify the condition of internal components, you may be buying someone else's problems. A remanufactured unit corrects original factory design flaws, extending service life beyond the stock transmission.
Price ranges for replacement units:
- Used/salvage: $400–$1,200
- Rebuilt: $1,200–$2,500
- Remanufactured: $2,000–$3,500+
