Cadillac Srx problems
The Cadillac SRX is a mid-size luxury SUV and compact luxury crossover SUV (CUV) manufactured and marketed by Cadillac over two generations: the first generation as a five-door, three-row, seven-passenger CUV (2003–2009), and the second generation as a five-door, two-row, five-passenger CUV (2010–2016) – the latter becoming Cadillac's best selling model in the United States.
First generation (2004)
Engine options included the 255 hp (190 kW) High-Feature V6 and the 4.6 L 320 hp (239 kW) Northstar V8. It was based on the GM Sigma platform and came with a five or six-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive and MagneRide were available. As a Sigma platform vehicle, the first generation SRX had a longitudinally mounted front engine, longitudinal transmission mounted behind the engine, and a rear drive differential. The AWD option was implemented with a transfer case mounted to the rear of the transmission, with a propeller shaft forward to a front differential to power the front wheels.
An all-leather interior and curtain side airbags were standard in both models. Heated front seats and wood interior trim were standard in the V8 and available as options in the V6. DVD, sunroof, navigation system, and a power foldable third-row seat were all available options. However the third row was no longer available for the 2010 model year on the SRX.
The base price was US$38,880 for the V6 and US$45,880 for the V8 version.
The SRX won Car and Driver's Five Best Trucks "luxury SUV" award for 2004, 2005 and 2006 and was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2004.
The first generation SRX never had the V Series performance model available.
The first generation SRX was available through the 2009 model year.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found the 2005-08 SRX worst in its class for driver fatalities with a death rate of 63 compared to its class average of 23.
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Cadillac Srx model years
Common Cadillac Srx problems
The Cadillac SRX is a midsize luxury crossover SUV produced by General Motors from 2004 to 2016. Despite its popularity, the SRX has faced several common problems that have affected its reliability and overall ownership experience.
One of the most common issues with the Cadillac SRX is the loose toe link, which has led to a recall of SRXs made between 2010 and 2016. A loose toe link can cause the vehicle to lose control and potentially lead to accidents. This issue can be dangerous, especially if not addressed promptly.
Another prevalent problem with the Cadillac SRX is water in the lights, particularly in the 2010 model year. This issue is often caused by a clogged sunroof drain, which can cause water to leak into the headlights and tail lights, leading to electrical problems and reduced visibility. The average cost to fix this issue is around $1,600, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 80,000 miles.
The 2004 and 2010 to 2015 Cadillac SRX models have also been criticized for their sunroof malfunctioning, steering wheel position sensor failure, and CUE (Cadillac User Experience) system issues. These problems can lead to inconvenience, safety concerns, and additional repair costs.
Moreover, the Cadillac SRX has faced engine problems, including timing chain stretch and check engine light issues. The timing chain stretch can cause significant engine damage if not addressed promptly, while the check engine light can be triggered by various issues, including loose or worn gas caps and camshaft position sensor problems.
The Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system, which is the entertainment and information system in the SRX, has also been criticized for its buggy performance, including tablet lag, unresponsive buttons, and system crashes.
Lastly, the SRX has faced issues with headlight condensation, broken liftgate, and faulty front turn signals and DRL bulbs. These problems can lead to reduced visibility, inconvenience, and additional repair costs.
In summary, the Cadillac SRX has faced several common problems, including loose toe links, water in the lights, sunroof malfunctioning, steering wheel position sensor failure, engine problems, CUE system issues, headlight condensation, broken liftgate, and faulty front turn signals and DRL bulbs. These issues have affected the reliability and overall ownership experience of the SRX, and potential buyers should be aware of these problems before making a purchase decision.
Is the Cadillac SRX reliable?
Is the Cadillac SRX Reliable? The Cadillac SRX has an average reliability score. RepairPal has given the SRX a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, placing it in 7th place out of 14 luxury SUVs tested. The SRX doesn't break down as fast as other models, which keeps ownership costs average.
Are Cadillac SRX expensive to fix?
The average annual maintenance cost for a Cadillac SRX is $703, which is a little lower than the Cadillac average. Examples of repairs and their estimated costs include: AC compressor replacement: $842 – $902. Fuel pump replacement: $1,667 – $1,813.
What goes wrong in a Cadillac SRX?
And return to neutral while they were driving. In addition the reverse gear was completely inoperable.
What are the most common problems with the 2015 Cadillac SRX?
Top Cadillac SRX Problems
- Failure of Front Turn Signal and DRL Bulbs. ...
- Steering Wheel Position Sensor May Fail. ...
- Sunroof May Not Work. ...
- Check Engine Light Due to Loose or Worn Gas Cap. ...
- Rear Axle Pinion Seal May Leak. ...
- The Check Engine Light With Code: P0011, P0014, P0021, P0024, P0341, P0346, P0336, and/or P0391.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Cadillac Srx years
We have researched Cadillac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Cadillac Srx cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Cadillac Srx model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Cadillac Srx model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Cadillac Srx years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Cadillac Srx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Cadillac Srx , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Exterior lighting problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Cadillac Srx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Srx model years
A total of 156 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Srx model years
There were a total of 27 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Srx model years
There were a total of 168 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Srx model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3123 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Cadillac Srx . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Cadillac Srx vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Cadillac Srx 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 3GYFNDEY9AS
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the front of the vehicle. Additionally, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 40 MPH. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Cadillac Srx 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 3GYFNBEY7BS
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the panoramic sunroof fractured without impact. The fractured panoramic sunroof glass fell in on the contact. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,741.
Cadillac Srx 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 3GYFNCE35DS
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Headlights not bright enough too dark to drive at night
Cadillac Srx 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 3GYFNAE36CS
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The headlights are very dim It is like driving your vehicle with a flashlight as the lighting. When you turn on bright lights you can see good but your then endangering drivers going the opposite directions It is very dangerous. If you reserch this issue on the internet it is a well lnown problem. How can people drive their cars like this. I did inquire with GM and they said they did at one time reimburse owners to get headlights replaced but that offer expired Well there are people out there driving these Dangerous cars that were not notified of this. I would invite anyone to drive one of these cars and see how bad it is. It is very urgent that someone look at this problem I have seen where there have been recalls over 10 years old . I am trying to get across how DANGEROUS this cars lights are. Please someone look into this Sincerely Sue Lanford Lance Lanford I dont know if NHTSA can or would get the media to film the lighing on these vehicles.
Cadillac Srx 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 3GYFNBE36CS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: To whom it may concern, I am writing this as a complaint on the rear toe link separation recall that was performed on our 2012 Cadillac SRX. We installed new tires on our SRX in August 2022 (Michelin Defender 235/55 R20) with a mileage of 108,452 just due to this being our sons car and wanted him to be safe on the road. In December of 2022 we had the recall performed at Lakeside Chevrolet in Rockwall Texas and the mileage was 110,893. Since the recall, we have been through 2 sets of tires on the back of this vehicle in less than 2 years with the outer edge of the tires being worn down to the cords. The car has 119,051 on it now. I am very angry as we tried to have the alignment performed and were told that these links that were installed can not be adjusted and will cost me another $650 to replace and another $130 for the alignment. The vehicle did not have any issues until we had the recall performed. We are now out $1404 for tires and $130 for an alignment that can’t be performed unless the links are replaced with adjustable units. My total to get this taken care of is over $2200 which was created by your recall parts. I would like to have someone reply to this email to let me know what can be done to take care of this situation.
Cadillac Srx 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 3GYFNEE35FS
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed at night, the headlights were dim. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who replaced both headlight bulbs; however, the failure recurred. The contact related the failure to the headlight weather seals eroding prematurely, allowing moisture to enter the headlight housing. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Cadillac Srx 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 3GYFNGE37DS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle experienced a three to four seconds lag in acceleration. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V212000 (Power Train). The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 178,000.
Cadillac Srx 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: 3GYFNAEYXBS
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights dim and the cars can't be driven at night. It's a well documented issue.
Cadillac Srx 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 3GYFNEE38ES
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the headlights were extremely dim, making it difficult to see while driving at night. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer nor an independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case opened. The failure mileage was 16,000.
Cadillac Srx 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 3GYFNBE38ES
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The low beams on my 2014 Cadillac SRX are useless at night and dangerous. They are not bright enough to illuminate the road. The car cannot be driven at night unless using the high beams. The problem, as I understand it, is that the coating within the headlight assembly degrades over time due to heat. Hundreds of Cadillac owners have complained of this safety issue to Cadillac and the NHTSA, yet no recall has been issued, and dealerships charge $1800+ labor to fix a well-known defect that makes their cars unsafe.
Cadillac Srx 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-11
- VIN: 3GYFNBE30GS
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Purchased a 2016 Cadillac SRX a few years ago as a used car. Noticed that the headlights were extremely dim. Brought it to a Cadillac dealership and asked them to investigate it. They mentioned that they had thought there was a recall at some point regarding the lights for these cars, but it may have expired. I checked with General Motors, and they did not find a recall for these headlights for the specific vehicle make/model. The dealership told me that I could have the lights replaced, but it would cost around $200 per light. Driving this vehicle at night poses a risk and a safety hazard for me as the driver, as I cannot see the road as well as I should be able to. I often have to drive with my bright lights on to see properly. This is a real concern of mine and wanted to ask if there is anything that your organization can do to assist me with the issue. Thank you.
Cadillac Srx 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 3GYFNBE32ES
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated that while attempting to drive, the vehicle failed to move. The contact noticed there was no transmission fluid in the reservoir. The contact added transmission fluid, but the vehicle was still inoperable. There were unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the transmission needed to be replaced. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 123,000.
Cadillac Srx 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
- VIN: 3GYFNBE34FS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Faulty sky light drainage design directs water directly into the rear under deck compartment where the company located electric lift gate equipment the water shorts out the entire electric system. The total loss of power occurring at highway speed could be deadly.
Cadillac Srx 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 3GYFNEE36FS
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The low beam lights are so dim you can not see 5 feet in front of you. It’s a danger to me on the road with the low beams on and to other drivers if I have my high beams on.
Cadillac Srx 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
- VIN: 3GYFNAEY8BS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Cadillac SRX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V473000 (Suspension); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Latest 5 recalls Cadillac Srx
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 41 recalls for different components of the Cadillac Srx.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Cadillac Srx 2013
- Report Received Date: 2021-06-24
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2016 Cadillac SRX and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles. The rear suspension toe link adjuster may not have been tightened properly, which could result in a loose toe link.
- Consequence: A loose toe link can separate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicle if they experience certain Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warnings or other issues, such as unusual steering behavior, while driving. Please see the Part 573 report for the full list of warnings. Dealers will replace the adjustable toe link with a non-adjustable one, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed August 6, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 25, 2021. Cadillac and Saab customers may direct questions to Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N212340980.
- Model: Cadillac Srx 2015
- Report Received Date: 2021-06-24
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2016 Cadillac SRX and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles. The rear suspension toe link adjuster may not have been tightened properly, which could result in a loose toe link.
- Consequence: A loose toe link can separate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicle if they experience certain Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warnings or other issues, such as unusual steering behavior, while driving. Please see the Part 573 report for the full list of warnings. Dealers will replace the adjustable toe link with a non-adjustable one, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed August 6, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 25, 2021. Cadillac and Saab customers may direct questions to Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N212340980.
- Model: Cadillac Srx 2014
- Report Received Date: 2021-06-24
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2016 Cadillac SRX and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles. The rear suspension toe link adjuster may not have been tightened properly, which could result in a loose toe link.
- Consequence: A loose toe link can separate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicle if they experience certain Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warnings or other issues, such as unusual steering behavior, while driving. Please see the Part 573 report for the full list of warnings. Dealers will replace the adjustable toe link with a non-adjustable one, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed August 6, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 25, 2021. Cadillac and Saab customers may direct questions to Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N212340980.
- Model: Cadillac Srx 2016
- Report Received Date: 2021-06-24
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2016 Cadillac SRX and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles. The rear suspension toe link adjuster may not have been tightened properly, which could result in a loose toe link.
- Consequence: A loose toe link can separate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicle if they experience certain Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warnings or other issues, such as unusual steering behavior, while driving. Please see the Part 573 report for the full list of warnings. Dealers will replace the adjustable toe link with a non-adjustable one, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed August 6, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 25, 2021. Cadillac and Saab customers may direct questions to Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N212340980.
- Model: Cadillac Srx 2010
- Report Received Date: 2021-06-24
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2016 Cadillac SRX and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles. The rear suspension toe link adjuster may not have been tightened properly, which could result in a loose toe link.
- Consequence: A loose toe link can separate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicle if they experience certain Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warnings or other issues, such as unusual steering behavior, while driving. Please see the Part 573 report for the full list of warnings. Dealers will replace the adjustable toe link with a non-adjustable one, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed August 6, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 25, 2021. Cadillac and Saab customers may direct questions to Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N212340980.
Latest negative Cadillac Srx car reviews
Latest positive Cadillac Srx car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
The 2008 Cadillac SRX was built on the CTS chassis, which means it's the size of an SUV with the handling of a sedan. The power is great and the comfort is exceptional. There is a huge amount of creature comfort in that car. Road and wind noise are minimal. As long as you maintain the car, it will run smoothly. It's a good solid buy.
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Vehicle year: 2007
You made a great choice with your new '07 SRX! It's such a nice ride. I love that you ordered the 5.1 surround sound and DVD player. The ride is so smooth and quiet, and it has plenty of power. I've noticed that the 6-speed automatic transmission is even better on gas than my '06 XLR with the same 320 horses and five-speed automatic.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it almost 3 years ago and it's been fully loaded with a V8 and sport package. I've never had any problems or recalls, just regular oil changes. I really wish all cars could be this reliable and hassle-free!
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Vehicle year: 2010
So far, I have driven 5600 miles and I am happy to report that the car's performance has been excellent. The power is more than sufficient for my needs, and it moves along nicely despite its weight. The ride quality is also good for an SUV/crossover. While the city mileage is not the greatest at 15.5 mpg, I have been able to achieve an impressive 28 mpg on each of my three long trips by keeping my speed under 70 mph. I did experience a minor issue with the chrome molding on the driver's mirror, but the Cadillac dealer replaced it free of charge. Overall, I absolutely love this car and it never fails to turn heads!
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Vehicle year: 2004
I absolutely love the sound of the Northstar growl during acceleration and its excellent handling. I also find that the Sky Roof is a real hit with kids, and I must admit, I love it too!
Are you having problems with your Cadillac Srx?
Jerod Dare 2025-01-09
Vehicle year: 2005
The repairs on this car are phenomenal! Although, I must admit, I have never spent so much money in such a short amount of time. I have owned cars for over 40 years now.
Myles Auer 2025-01-08
Vehicle year: 2005
You have put more money into this vehicle than any other vehicle you have ever owned! It's frustrating to deal with constant and costly repairs, especially when you mainly use it for your daily commute. It's understandable that you wouldn't want to purchase a Cadillac again. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Gage Daugherty 2025-01-06
Vehicle year: 2005
After reading all the other reviews, I understand that there have been issues with these cars. Recently, while driving my car, the check engine light came on and the car started jerking. I took it to the shop and found out that it was over 5 quarts low on oil. I was surprised to learn that there was no light to indicate low oil level in a Cadillac. It would be great if something could be done to address this issue. If only I had known about this before purchasing the car, I would have reconsidered. I cannot recommend this car to anyone.
Kaleigh Berge 2025-01-04
Vehicle year: 2012
The Navigation system in my 2012 SRX has been giving me incorrect directions, even after the Cadillac dealer ordered a new Nav disk. Despite my attempts to resolve the issue, Cadillac customer service has only responded with 'we're working on it'. I have found that my handheld Garmin is more reliable in getting me to my destination than the Cadillac Nav system. Even when my dealer attempted to drive another 2012 SRX with Nav to my address, that vehicle also made wrong turns. Based on my experience, I would advise against purchasing this option. I hope that Cadillac will address and resolve this issue soon. In the meantime, I recommend exercising caution if you are considering this option, or perhaps considering other alternatives.
Gino Moen 2025-01-04
Vehicle year: 2010
Hi there! I've been driving my Cadillac SRX for almost 2 years now and I have to say, I was initially drawn to its sleek and sexy design both inside and out. However, I have had a few issues with it and it has been in and out of the shop over 10 times for various reasons. Despite this, I have to say that the car has been a reliable mode of transportation for me. One thing that I have found to be a bit of a challenge is the visibility, which has caused me some trouble on the road. Additionally, the car is a bit smaller than some of its competitors, which can make it a bit of a tight squeeze for my family of four. Overall, I have enjoyed my time with the SRX, but I am looking forward to exploring other options when it comes time to trade it in. Thanks for listening!