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Cadillac Xlr Problems

The Cadillac XLR was a luxury roadster based on the Corvette platform, produced from 2004 to 2009. With 214 complaints and no fatalities, the XLR combined Corvette performance with Cadillac luxury appointments. The retractable hardtop was an engineering showcase, though it became a reliability concern. The supercharged XLR-V variant offered genuine performance, but all versions suffered from complexity-related issues.

214
Total Complaints
6
Total Recalls
6
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2007 2008 2009

Common Problem Categories

Structure 52
Fuel System, Gasoline 16
Exterior Lighting 16
Electrical System 16
Power Train 14

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2009 2 1 0 0 Good
2008 12 1 6 0 Good
2007 4 1 0 0 Good
2006 30 1 0 4 Average
2005 78 1 0 0 Below Average
2004 88 1 10 0 Below Average

Cadillac Xlr Years to Avoid

The 2004 model year shows the highest complaint concentration, with retractable roof malfunctions, electrical problems, and transmission concerns leading the list. First-year models were particularly troubled, and finding a 2004 XLR without issues is rare. The 2005 model year also shows elevated complaint rates.

Best Cadillac Xlr Years

The 2009 model year, as the final production year, represents the most refined XLR. GM addressed most electrical and roof mechanism issues, and 2009 models benefit from accumulated improvements. Low production numbers make these relatively rare. The 2008 model year also performs well for those seeking XLR ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions