Cadillac Xlr problems
The Cadillac XLR is a front-engine, rear-drive, two passenger roadster manufactured and marketed by Cadillac from 2003 to 2009 across a single generation — and noted for its power retractable hardtop, Bulgari designed interior instruments, head-up display, adaptive suspension, rear-mounted transmission and near 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution. As Cadillac's flagship model, the XLR was introduced at the 2003 North American International Auto Show and began production for the 2004 model year — foreshadowed by the 1999 Evoq concept.
The Cadillac XLR, although sometimes perceived as a badge-engineered variant of the Chevrolet Corvette – also manufactured at GM's Bowling Green assembly, and with the XLR sharing its GM Y platform, hydroformed perimeter frame and composite bodywork construction technology with the Corvette — each car has unique engines, exterior body panels, and their own interiors, suspension settings; and importantly, the XLR featured a power retractable hardtop. And the XLR arrived a year ahead of its platform sharing C6 Corvette sibling.
The XLR was the first production Cadillac with radar-based adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the first to offer both heated and cooled seats.
The XLR was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award for 2004.
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Cadillac Xlr model years
Common Cadillac Xlr problems
The Cadillac XLR is a luxury sports car that has been praised for its sleek design and powerful performance. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its issues. Here are some common problems with the Cadillac XLR based on complaints from owners:
- Top Mechanism Issues: The Cadillac XLR's retractable hardtop is one of its most distinctive features, but it can also be a source of frustration for owners. Some have reported issues with the top getting stuck or not closing properly. One owner reported that the top had gotten stuck with the trunk lid up already three times in just three weeks of ownership.
- Expensive Repairs: Many owners of the Cadillac XLR have reported that repairs can be expensive, especially when it comes to parts that are unique to the car. For example, one owner reported that the "UN-obtainium" headlights for their XLR were selling for $3500 on eBay at the time, and that replacing the front brakes and rotors was one of the few repairs they were prepared for.
- Roof Panel Delamination and Leaks: Another common issue with the Cadillac XLR is roof panel delamination and leaks. One owner reported that the panel de-lamination and the leaking front lock cylinder were major issues that required significant repairs.
Overall, while the Cadillac XLR is a luxurious and powerful car, it is not without its issues. Owners have reported problems with coolant leaks, electrical issues, top mechanism problems, expensive repairs, and roof panel delamination and leaks. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to budget accordingly for potential repairs.
Are Cadillac XLR expensive to maintain?
The average annual repair cost for a Cadillac is $783, which means it has average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Cadillac reliability include an average of 0.4 visits to a repair shop per year and a 17% probability of a repair being severe.
Why did the Cadillac XLR fail?
Reality Bites. The Cadillac XLR had a few kinks in its armor. It may have looked better than the C6 Corvette from some angles, but it was a bigger car with a less potent engine, so it was slower than the Corvette.
Does the Cadillac XLR have a Corvette engine?
The XLR was built on the same GM Y Platform as the Chevrolet Corvette, and it even came out of the same factory in Kentucky. But, and this is a big "but," Cadillac opted not to install an LS engine under the hood of their new roadster. Instead, the XLR was going to use GM's most technically complex engine.
Is the Cadillac XLR fast?
The XLR-V could accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.6 seconds according to Car and Driver's tests. The magazine also timed it at 11.3 seconds to 100 mph (160 km/h) and recorded a 13.0 second quarter mile at 110 mph (180 km/h). Its top speed was electronically limited to 155 mph (249 km/h).
Percentage distribution of complaints by Cadillac Xlr years
We have researched Cadillac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Cadillac Xlr cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Cadillac Xlr model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Cadillac Xlr model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Cadillac Xlr years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Cadillac Xlr car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Cadillac Xlr , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Cadillac Xlr vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Xlr model years
A total of 3 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 Xlr model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 79 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Cadillac Xlr . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Cadillac Xlr vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-22
- VIN: 1G6YV34A245
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The roof panel that was only attached with adhesive has detached from the frame of the car. This has also caused the retractable convertible top to stop working. I have read about the roof of many of these cars flying off while driving down the road. It is only a matter of time before this poor defect causes serious injury and/ or significant property damage. I called cadillac customer service and they refused to offer any help. I recently spoke to a local body shop about getting it repaired and the estimate was upward of 1000 dollars
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-13
- VIN: 1G6YV34A255
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Brake were dragging I came to a stop .Checked the parking brake. Then after releasing the parking brake. The car wouldn't move until I pushed the traction control button. Drove 1/2 mile stopped and again the brakes were locked up. Call [XXX] Thanx INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-20
- VIN: 1G6YV34AX45
- Components: STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated while driving 65-70 MPH in the rain, the contact heard wind coming from the area where the front roof panel was connected to the windshield. The roof panel then detached and separated from the vehicle. The contact pulled into a service station to get out of the rain. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 113,420.
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-18
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-18
- VIN: 1G6YV34A155
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Driving home and the roof came off. Didn't realize what had happened thought the seal was broken
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-03
- VIN: 1G6YV34A255
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Will Cadillac do a recall on roof coming off as driving? Cost me $759.00 for the roof and $550.00 for the Vera the Cadillac dealer to install the roof And NO RECALL ON A $120,000.00 DOLLAR CAR I'M MAD AS HELL
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-14
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-28
- VIN: 1G6YV34A255
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: My 2005 Cadillac XLR Was Being Towed To Vera Cadillac Dealership And The Roof Flew Off The Car [XXX] Why Was This Not A Recall ? Thank You [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-24
- VIN: 1G6YV34A255
- Components: STRUCTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I broke down with a bad shifter cable so I called a tow truck 4 hr later he gets to the car, he puts on the tow truck and takes off for the Vera Cadillac dealer. AND THE ROOF BLUE OFF CAME OFF THE CAR AND BROKE And Cadillac knew they had the problem but NEVER RECALLED THEM NOW WHAT DO I DO ?
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-18
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-19
- VIN: 1g6yv34a045
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The top roof panel separated while driving on the highway, and almost struck another vehicle causing it to swerve to miss it. The vehicle then proceeded to follow me as he though I was to blame. Once I got off the highway he got out of his car an violently started screaming at me for almost causing an accident.
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-17
- VIN: 1g6yv34a745
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated that fuel had begun to leak from the fuel pump without warning. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the failure and informed him that while the motor was running, the fuel would leak from the rear driver's side wheel; the leak would stop once the engine was shut off. The mechanic later discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 11E009000(Fuel System, Gasoline) which he linked to the failure. The dealer was notified and an appointment was made for a diagnostic. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 24,089.
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-05
- VIN: 1G6YV34A745
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated there were strong fumes coming from the vehicle. The contact parked his vehicle in the garage and then leave it partially cracked due to the fumes. The contact changed the gas cap; however, the fumes continues. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer regarding the failure; however, it was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-29
- VIN: 1G6YV34A845
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, there was an abnormally loud whistling sound coming inside the vehicle. The contact looked up and noticed that the sunroof glass had detached from the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and retrieved the sunroof glass. The vehicle was then towed to an auto body shop to be inspected. The contact was informed that there was a defect in the glue used to secure the sunroof to the sunroof assembly. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-23
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-14
- VIN: 1G6YV34A745
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: My roof panel is separating from the roof frame of my 04 Cadillac XLR. If it come off it will cause property damage to another vehicle or death! It a GM defect that should be recall !!!! Thanks!
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-28
- VIN: 1g6yv34a845
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Was driving on interstate and top panel on convertible top flew off.
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-09
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-10
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE SUNROOF DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CAPITAL CADILLAC (2210 COBB PKWY SE, SMYRNA, GA 30080) BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
Cadillac Xlr 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-08
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-08
- VIN: 1G6YX36D265
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DRIVING AT 45MPH THEN THE CAR SURGED TO THE LEFT. I GOT CONTROL THEN IN SERVICE STABLE TRACTION WARNING AND TRACTION CONTROL OFF LIGHT APPEARED
Latest 5 recalls Cadillac Xlr
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the Cadillac Xlr.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2008
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2006
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2007
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2009
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
Latest negative Cadillac Xlr car reviews
Latest positive Cadillac Xlr car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
Heads turn. You'll love the design, the look, the handling and all the gadgets. With the top up, it drives quietly.
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Vehicle year: 2004
My overall experience with this car has been positive. Although, I have had some problems with the top operation, it is still a lot of fun to drive and turns a lot of heads when on the road.
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Vehicle year: 2007
What a fantastic looking car! The new XLR is truly a step above my previous five Jags. The interior is beautifully appointed with burled Ash wood trim, color-coordinated leather, and a suede headliner. It runs like a dream and the adaptive cruise control means you can take your foot off the pedals. I absolutely adore the way the hard-top folds into the trunk like a piece of origami. The color is also lovely, a subtle purple, and the automatic locking doors on both sides are a great feature. The heads-up driving feature is just fabulous! This car truly has it all!
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Vehicle year: 2006
I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your limited production and new design car! It's amazing that you've been able to drive 16,000 miles without any issues, even with the complicated electronics and top. It sounds like you made a great choice in choosing this car over a Vette - not only do you get great handling and performance, but you also get added comfort. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! I noticed that you've owned many new Cadillacs, and have been dreaming of owning an XLR since it first hit the market in 2004. It sounds like you have a bit of a love/hate relationship with your XLR, but I'm glad to hear that love is still winning out despite some issues with the car.
Are you having problems with your Cadillac Xlr?
Marcel Casper 2025-01-22
Vehicle year: 2009
This car is a close second to the Corvette, but unfortunately, after owning it for a year, I have spent more on repair costs than any car I've ever owned. It has been a bit of a lemon. Almost every two weeks, I was spending $800 on something to have it fixed. The extended warranty was worthless. I had to replace both window regulators, which cost $800 each, and then the transmission cable broke, which cost $400. As a single woman, the repair costs have been overwhelming, and I am struggling to keep up with the bills. However, I truly love driving this car with the top down and up.
Grayce Jenkins 2025-01-19
Vehicle year: 2007
This car is a close second to the Corvette, but unfortunately, after owning it for a year, I have spent more on repair costs than any car I've ever owned. It has been a bit of a lemon. Almost every two weeks, I was spending $800 on something to have it fixed. The extended warranty was worthless. I had to replace both window regulators, which cost $800 each, and then the transmission cable broke, which cost $400. As a single woman, the repair costs have been overwhelming, and I am struggling to keep up with the bills. However, I truly love driving this car with the top down and up.
Kieran Kuhic 2025-01-15
Vehicle year: 2006
The 2005 Cadillac XLR has impressive performance, with only a slight understeer at 130 mph. The ground effects do a great job of keeping the chassis stable on the road. The slap stick / shifter is pretty cool, especially with the HUD system and the cruise control. Speaking of which, the XLR's cruise control system is amazing - it matches the speed of the slower car ahead of you until either you switch lanes or the slower car speeds up, then your set speed on the cruise control returns to your set speed. How cool is that! The only downside is that with the top down, there is very little room in the trunk - no place for those golf clubs to go with the roof down. I have noticed that there are a lot of folding top repairs already and misaligned rear quarter glass misfits. Also, aftermarket wheels seem to mess up the ride. Overall, the 2005 Cadillac XLR is a great car with some minor drawbacks.
Alex Dicki 2025-01-13
Vehicle year: 2008
I recently purchased one of these cars after searching for it since November 2007. Despite reading all the reviews, I decided to buy it anyway. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with it in the two weeks since I bought it. It has already spent six days in the shop for heated/cooled seats and the horn. Tomorrow, I am taking it back to have the fog lights and high beam flash fixed. If you are considering buying one of these cars, make sure to only buy certified and get the vehicle's records. These cars require a lot of maintenance and while they may look good, they are not built like a 75k car. If you have the budget, I would recommend buying a Benz instead. Although it may cost more, you will actually get to drive it instead of constantly having to rent cars. While certification provides a warranty, it doesn't necessarily mean that the car was thoroughly checked. In my case, the above-mentioned issues were not working even after the car was delivered certified. Lastly, I don't feel sorry for GM or its employees. They need to do their job properly.
Orlo Sawayn 2025-01-12
Vehicle year: 2006
I have owned 9 Cadillacs over the past 14 years and have been extremely satisfied with each one. However, in February 2004, I received my dream car, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a nightmare. The car had several issues, such as lights that did not work, defective window switches, and difficulty starting. The XLR had to be towed on a flatbed twice back to the dealership. One of the fuel tanks had to be replaced, and the 'check fuel cap' message continuously appeared on the driver's information center. The car also had less than 13 MPG on open road and highway driving, engine misfiring, and leaked 1/2 - 1 pint of oil every time it was shut off. Additionally, there were various other electrical problems, and the navigation system only worked about 1/3 of the time. Unfortunately, the car spent 40 days in the shop.