Mechanically everything is identical for the most part (but one of the other guys may chime in with a specific part that is slightly different). Any change between 2011 and 2012 can probably be brought in with a reflash of the TCU configuration. There were definitely no "game changers" across any of the years that I am aware of - unless you consider things like RainSense wipers to be a game changer. And for some it WAS a consideration - RainSense wipers is one of the reasons I bought a new 2012 back in 2012 instead of a 2011 off the lot at a reduced price. There are a few other differences like color options and such.

There's a thread out here somewhere the details ALL of the variances across model years - if you can track that down or someone can post a link to it, you'll have what you need to look at used examples across the spectrum. It'll show you what changes were made year-to-year. The thread on this forum is way better than any GM site information as it would include subtle items that GM/Cadillac isn't likely to mention in a model year comparison chart. Such things as the fact that some models designated for export to extremely hot climates like the middle east came from the factory with a pump, radiator, and cooling system for the rear differential, while models bound for the US got nothing. This diff cooler setup alone can be a $1200-$1500 option depending on what you specify. These are available from vendors on this forum, too. But - and this is JUST for the sake of example - you were looking at buying a car from a forum member who got his car overseas and imported it here to the US...you would want to be aware of little things like this.

There ARE a few small things worth mentioning - like models built after around Feb or early March of 2014 got a revised supercharger design that includes the now infamous solid isolator coupling. Ask anyone who's been on this forum for a while and they will tell you that the solid isolator IS a game changer in some strange way. In and of itself it's not going to revolutionize what you think of the car or how it performs, but the saga and story behind it is interesting to say the least LOL! Then there's the usual list of gotchas you need to be aware of - the list is small but worth knowing. Things like the rear diff groan/whine, the isolator coupling, the "Rocking Chair Recaros", and of course, the Wheel Click.

 

They are not mechanically the same and run a different OS in the tcm so the tuning is not identical between them. The pump in the 2012 is upgraded and the torque convertor strategy is different.

With that said, if you are planning on modding it responsibly either will work perfectly. Once you get higher in the power levels, there are some things that will require a good tuner for the 2012 and newer to figure out that are more complicated than the 2011 and earlier cars to get tuned.

Summary - I wouldn't make a buying decision based on it.

 

Since you seem to know about the trans changes, I am looking a purchasing a 2012 trans to install in my 2009. I think the internals are a little stronger. I was planning on using my valve body and tcm from the 09. Any thoughts on this?

 

Thanks guys. This helps me out. I am pretty excited to make the change.

 

Good luck in your search. I'm looking to move from a manual C5 Z06 with only about 385 to the wheels to an automatic 2011 or 2012 V. It's funny how common of a move this is.

 

That is the only way it will work. One of the local cars here did it and it seems to be working fine. He originally tried to use the 2012 tcm/valve body and program the OS with a MDI and it wouldn't communicate. Oddly enough, if you go to the dealer to buy a trans, they will only sell you a trans for your model year.

 

Btw - if u want to sell the 2012 valve body / tcm I may be interested.

 

Unfortunately, no. I have learned all this the hard way. I have gone through 2 transmissions due to these nuances. The pump upgrade may have been there earlier since I know the 2009 trans did not have it so the cutoff for the upgrade could have been 2010. I know for certain the 2012 has the upgraded pump and that the OS's are different. When I have time, I will upload the TCC tables. In the earlier models, they were set to a constant number vs in 2012 they varied with TPS and desired torque.

 

I actually like to hear stuff like this. It's good to know that even though the basic car is unchanged that there ARE some continuous improvements happening. I wish there was a more comprehensive and detailed listing of even these tiny changes. Forums like this one are acutely interested...

 

Not sure what you mean by "manual mode" but the paddle shifters on the steering wheel are worthless (as they come stock). The delay is terrible. I never try to manually shift the paddles or the gearshift as the delay aggravates me too much.
However, if you just plan to move the shifter sideways into sport, that works great.
I prefer the automatic, but I still suggest you drive the auto before you buy it.

 

Just an FYI The 2009 and 2010 cars have no OEM installed BU Camera so unless you don't care about it or just plan on installing one you might not be perfectly happy with an 09-10.