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jonasfeuer3

Cadillac CTS Door Lock System Complete Failure Fix

I have an issue with my 2002 Cadillac CTS (165577 km, gasoline) where the central locking system has completely stopped working. Neither manual key nor remote locking functions are responding, and there is an error code stored. Had a previous bad experience with mechanics overcharging for similar issues. Has anyone dealt with central locking failure on these models? What was the actual problem and repair cost in your case? Looking for advice before heading to a shop.

7 comment(s)

karl_frank1

Having dealt with a similar central locking system failure on my 2005 Cadillac STS, I can share my repair experience. The security system completely stopped responding, affecting both remote locking and manual key operation. The diagnostic revealed the main locking mechanism control module had deteriorated wiring connections, specifically where the main harness connects to the module. The issue was more serious than expected because water had entered through a damaged door seal, causing corrosion in the central locking connections. The repair required replacing the control module and rewiring the main harness connection points. The car alarm system was also affected and needed recalibration after the repair. A qualified technician needed several hours to complete the work, including: Testing the entire central locking circuit, Replacing corroded wiring sections, Installing new control module, Recoding the security system, Testing all door lock functions This type of repair requires specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise with automotive electrical systems. While the repair was significant, it was essential to restore proper functionality to the central locking system and prevent potential security risks. Worth noting that many Cadillac CTS models from that era developed similar issues around the 150000-180000 km mark due to the module location being prone to moisture damage.

jonasfeuer3 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed explanation of the central locking repair. My key fob also stopped working completely, no door locks responding at all. Turned out the issue was actually in the fuse box, where a corroded fuse had taken out the entire locking circuit. When I mentioned remote locking issues, the mechanic immediately checked the fuses before diving into more complex diagnostics. Did you end up having any other electrical gremlins pop up after getting it fixed? My door locks have been working fine since the repair, but I am curious about the long-term reliability. Can you share what you paid for the complete fix?

karl_frank1

I am relieved to share that since my repair visit, the security system has been working flawlessly. The key fob and all door locks function perfectly after fixing what turned out to be a fairly simple cable connection problem, not the more complex module issue we initially suspected. The total repair cost came to 95€, which included diagnostic testing and fixing the faulty wiring connection. This was much less expensive than the complete control module replacement I mentioned in my earlier post. Unlike your fuse box issue, my remote locking problem stemmed from a loose connection in the main wiring harness. The technician was able to repair and secure the connection without needing to replace any major components of the locking mechanism. After 8 months, I have not experienced any additional electrical problems with the central locking system or car locks in general. The repair has proven to be reliable and durable, with all doors responding correctly to both manual and remote locking commands.

jonasfeuer3 (Author)

Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences. I finally got my car fixed last week. After reading about your cases, I was better prepared when talking to the mechanic. The issue turned out to be moisture damage in the keyless entry system. Water had seeped through a worn door seal, affecting the wiring connected to the door locks. The mechanic first checked the fuse box and tested the key fob battery, then traced the problem to corroded wiring. Total repair included: Replacing damaged wiring, Installing new door seals, Testing the car alarm system, Reprogramming the key fob The final bill was 280€, which seemed fair given the work involved. The central locking now works perfectly with both the key and remote. The mechanic also applied a protective coating to prevent future moisture issues. Much better outcome than my previous repair experiences. Good to know about checking the fuse box first, could save others some diagnostic time and money.

MartinG

Quotation:

@karl_frank1 wrote on

Having dealt with a similar central locking system failure on my 2005 Cadillac STS, I can share my repair experience. The security system completely stopped responding, affecting both remote locking and manual key operation. The diagnostic revealed the main locking mechanism control module had deteriorated wiring connections, specifically where the main harness connects to the module. The issue was more serious than expected because water had entered through a damaged door seal, causing corrosion in the central locking connections. The repair required replacing the control module and rewiring the main harness connection points. The car alarm system was also affected and needed recalibration after the repair. A qualified technician needed several hours to complete the work, including: Testing the entire central locking circuit, Replacing corroded wiring sections, Installing new control module, Recoding the security system, Testing all door lock functions This type of repair requires specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise with automotive electrical systems. While the repair was significant, it was essential to restore proper functionality to the central locking system and prevent potential security risks. Worth noting that many Cadillac CTS models from that era developed similar issues around the 150000-180000 km mark due to the module location being prone to moisture damage.

Hey, where's the unit? In the driver's door?

(Translated from Czech)

CarlyMechanic

Quotation:

@MartinG wrote on

Hey, where's the unit? In the driver's door?

The central locking control unit is typically located within the driver's door or near the fuse box, depending on the vehicle model. For your Cadillac CTS, it's often found in the driver's door. If you're experiencing issues, start by checking for any visible signs of moisture or corrosion around the door seals and wiring connections. Let me know if you need further assistance or have any other questions!

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