2004 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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Common 2004 Cadillac Xlr problems
The 2004 Cadillac XLR has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to mechanical and electrical issues.
- Structure: Body: Roof and Pillars: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received two complaints related to the structure, body, roof, and pillars of the 2004 Cadillac XLR.
- Electrical/Battery: The Center for Auto Safety received a complaint in 2014 about electrical and battery issues with the 2004 Cadillac XLR. This suggests that electrical problems were a concern for some owners.
- Transmission: The Center for Auto Safety also received a complaint in 2011 about transmission problems with the 2004 Cadillac XLR. This issue may have affected the vehicle's performance and drivability.
- Steering: Linkages: A recall was issued in 2004 due to issues with the lower control arm ball stud nuts/washers made of the wrong material. This could lead to the control arm ball stud and steering knuckle separating, causing a potential safety hazard.
- Electrical System: A manufacturer communication was issued in 2004 regarding high-speed LAN diagnostics and remembering Ohm's law, indicating potential electrical system issues.
- Parts Availability: Owners have reported difficulties in finding parts for the 2004 Cadillac XLR, particularly for transmission and fuel system components. This can make routine maintenance and repairs more challenging and expensive.
- Mechanical and Electrical Systems: Mechanics have reported that routine maintenance and electrical systems are a nightmare to deal with, particularly for fuel system and transmission issues. The dual fuel tanks, interconnect tube, and electronic components can make diagnostics and repairs expensive and time-consuming.
In summary, the 2004 Cadillac XLR has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to mechanical and electrical issues. These issues can affect the safety, performance, and maintenance of the vehicle. Owners and mechanics have reported difficulties in finding parts and performing repairs, which can make owning and maintaining this vehicle challenging.
Why did the Cadillac XLR fail?
The Cadillac roadster was actually based on a Chevrolet Corvette, but lack of power and poor quality led to its ultimate failure.
Why was the Cadillac XLR discontinued?
What happened to the Cadillac XLR? Short answer: Like any number of specialty cars, it was discontinued after sales could no longer support continued production, but it had a good run of six years, 2003–2009.
Does the Cadillac XLR have a Northstar engine?
The XLR Platinum is equipped with a 320-horsepower (239 kW) 4.6L Northstar V-8 VVT. The XLR-V is powered with a 443-horsepower (330 kW) 4.4L Northstar V-8 supercharged engine.
Does the Cadillac XLR have a Corvette engine?
The XLR marked a significant divergence from the Corvette in terms of powertrain. The engine was a 4.6 liter 32-valve DOHC Northstar V8 rather than an LS V8. It produced 320 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Why did the Cadillac XLR fail?
The Cadillac roadster was actually based on a Chevrolet Corvette, but lack of power and poor quality led to its ultimate failure.
Why was the Cadillac XLR discontinued?
What happened to the Cadillac XLR? Short answer: Like any number of specialty cars, it was discontinued after sales could no longer support continued production, but it had a good run of six years, 2003–2009.
How many 2004 Cadillac XLR were made?
2004 Cadillac XLR Production Numbers
| Option Code | Paint Code | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Total Production: | 4,387 | |
| 41U | WA8555 | 1,311 |
| 86U | WA379E | 914 |
| 67U | WA994L | 816 |
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).
2004 Cadillac Xlr car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Cadillac Xlr problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Service brakes problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Cadillac Xlr vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Cadillac Xlr
The NHTSA has received 33 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Cadillac Xlr. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Cadillac Xlr vehicles.
2024-05-22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- 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
2023-07-20
STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
2022-08-19
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-18
- 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.
2022-08-17
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-12
- 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.
2022-08-05
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-15
- 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.
2021-11-29
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-11
- 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.
2021-11-14
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-23
- 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!
2021-09-28
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-24
- VIN: 1g6yv34a845
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Was driving on interstate and top panel on convertible top flew off.
2020-02-13
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-15
- VIN: 1G6YV34A345
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 2004 XLR IN 2019 FROM AN AGENT IN FL. I IMMEDIATELY OR WITH-IN 200 MILES I BEGAN TO RECEIVE MESSAGES ON MY DASH! FIRST IT WAS TRACTION CONTROL THAT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND CAUSED THE CAR TO VET VIOLENTLY TO THE LEFT AS SOON AS I HIT 65 MILES AN HOUR. THEN THE CHECK GAS CAP FOLLOWED BY CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS CAME ON. MY CADILLAC DEALER WAS AT A LOSS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM WITH TRACTION CONTROL UNTIL THEY CONTACTED THE CORVETTE ENGINEERS IN BOWLING GREEN, WHICH TOOK A WEEK! THEY REPLACED THE GAS CAP AND THAT PROBLEM WENT AWAY ONLY TEMPORALLY! ON FURTHER INSPECTION THE TECH'S AT MY LOCAL CADDY DEALER DETERMINED BY A SMOKE TEST THAT THE CROSSOVER HOSE BETWEEN THE TANKS WAS LEAKING! THEY GAVE ME AN ESTIMATE OF CLOSE TO A $8000.00 REPAIR! THE CAR HAS LESS THAN 54,000 MI. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND I AM SEEING THIS PROBLEM OCCURRING IN THIS MODEL YEAR PERHAPS BECAUSE OF ENGINEERING CHANGES MADE TO CONFORM TO GOVERNMENT EMISSIONS STANDARD CONTROLS! I AM RESEARCHING ALTERNATIVES TO HAVING THE REPAIR DONE BY MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP AS THEY REALLY DON'T SEEM TO BE VERY CAPABLE. THE CAP HAS BEEN CHANGED TWICE AND THE SAME PROBLEMS REOCCUR!
2019-06-04
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-01
- VIN: 1G6YV34A145
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING PULLED INTO THE GARAGE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS MELTED AND MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR THE CONTACT TO SEE CLEARLY. THE CONTACT CALLED SEVERAL DEALERS, INCLUDING WALLACE CADILLAC (772-286-3555, LOCATED AT 3555 SE FEDERAL HWY, STUART, FL 34997). THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THEY NO LONGER MADE THOSE TYPE OF HEADLIGHTS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED THE CONTACT WITH SEVERAL WEBSITES TO SEARCH FOR USED HEADLIGHTS. THE CONTACT FOUND A COMPANY IN CHICAGO THAT HAD THE HEADLIGHTS, BUT THE COST WAS TOO EXPENSIVE. THE CONTACT MADE AN OFFER THAT WAS NOT ACCEPTABLE TO THE SELLER. THE CONTACT CALLED SEVERAL OTHER COMPANIES, INCLUDING EBAY, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. THE CONTACT CALLED THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION AND THE STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND BOTH REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 42,000.
2019-05-07
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-01
- VIN: 1G6YV34A145
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE INTERIOR DRL HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES MELTED AND CAUSED THE HEADLIGHTS TO ILLUMINATE DIMLY. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. WALLACE CADILLAC(3555 SE FEDERAL HWY, STUART, FL) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FRONT HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000.
2019-02-12
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-15
- VIN: 1G6YV34A245
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING I NOTICED A SEVERE WHISTLING SOUND COMING FROM JUST ABOVE THE REAR VIEW MIRROR. UPON INSPECTING, I NOTICED THAT THE ROOF PANEL HAD A 8' SECTION THAT HAD SEPARATED. WHEN GOOGLED, I SAW SEVERAL PEOPLE HAD REPORTED THAT THEIR XLR'S HAD A ROOF PANEL SEPARATE WHILE DRIVING. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK IT TO A BODY SHOP AND THEY RE-GLUED THE PANEL BY INJECTING GLUE INTO THE SEPARATION. I HAVE NO IDEA IF THIS IS A RECOMMENDED SOLUTIONN BY GM.
2019-01-31
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-25
- VIN: 1G6YV34AX45
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE FLORIDA TURNPIKE SUDDENLY THERE WAS A RUSH OF AIR COMING FROM THE REARVIEW MIRROR AREA. I STOPPED AT THE NEXT SERVICE PLAZA AND OBSERVED THE FRONT OF THE ROOF PANEL SEPARATING FROM THE FRAME. GM USED A ADHESIVE ON THESE XLR ROOFS THAT IS FAILING NOW. CORVETTE ROOFS PANELS WERE RECALLED FOR THIS ISSUE AND FAILED ADHESIVE, BUT GM HAS NOT RECALLED THE XLR YET. THEY OPENED A INVESTIGATION AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER OF 2018.
2018-07-15
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-03
- VIN: 1G6YV34A845
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK GAS CAP, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. DEALER SAYS I NEED A NEW RT FUEL TANK BUT NONE ARE AVAILABLE. WHAT DO I DO NOW?
2017-05-11
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-08
- VIN: 1G6YV34A245
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SEVERAL XLR OWNERS HAVE REPORTED THAT THEIR ROOF PANEL HAS SEPARATED AND FLOWN OFF THE CAR AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. MY TOP BEGAN EMITTING A WHISTLING NOISE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. WHEN INSPECTING IT, THE CENTER FRONT OF THE TOP HAS BEGUN TO SEPARATE. THESE TOPS WERE APPARENTLY ONLY GLUED AS THE ONLY SECUREMENT. NOT MECHANICAL METHODS WERE USED. WHILE MINE HAS NOT TOTALLY SEPARATED, I HAVE TAKEN IT TO A BODY SHOP TO GET IT RE-SECURED. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AND I AM THANKFUL I CAUGHT IT BEFORE CAUSING A SERIOUS ISSUE. IN THE PICTURE SHOWN, THERE SHOULD BE NO GAP BETWEEN THE FRONT SEAL AND THE TOP AT ALL. THE ATTACHED PICTURES SHOW THE TOP BEGINNING TO SEPARATE. FOR REFERENCE, I HAVE SHOWN A TOP THAT TOTALLY SEPARATED TO SHOW THE SERIOUSNESS OF THIS ISSUE.
2017-04-05
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-15
- VIN: 1G6YV34A245
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE RETRACTABLE ROOF FLEW OFF WHILE THE CAR WAS MOVING. GM OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE WITH THIS AND DENIED ANY NEGLIGENCE. CASE #8-2866250293
2017-04-03
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-02
- VIN: 1G6YV34A445
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I DRIVING FREEWAY ABOUT 70MPH, BIG AIR NOISE THEN ROOF PANEL COME OFF & FRYING.
2015-03-23
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-16
- VIN: 1G6YV34A245
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I PURCHASED A PRE-OWNED 2004 XLR FROM THE DEALERSHIP THE CAR STORE IN RIVERSIDE. UPON STORING IT IN MY GARAGE, I FOUND THE NEXT MORNING AN OVERWHELMING GASOLINE SMELL. UPON TAKING IT TO MY LOCAL GM DEALER FOR INSPECTION, I WAS TOLD THAT THE ISSUE WAS NO LONGER COVERED BY EXTENDED PROTECTION BY CADILLAC AS IT ENDED AFTER A 10 YEAR PERIOD IN JANUARY OF 2014. THIS IS A KNOWN DEFECT WITH THE DESIGN OF THE FUEL TANK SYSTEM AND IS NOT A RECALL ITEM WHICH IS EXTRAORDINARILY DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE DEALT WITH AT NOT COST TO THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE SINCE IT IS A DESIGN FLAW AND NOT AT FAULT OF THE OWNER. *TR
2014-10-07
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-08
- VIN: 1G6YV34A745
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL SENDING UNIT KEEPS FAILING CAN'T TELL HOW MUCH FUEL IS IN TANK. HAD FIRST ONE REPLACED AT COST OF AROUND $2300.00 REPLACEMENT LASTED AROUND 18 MONTHS THEN IT FAILED . NEVER KNOW WHEN WHOLE UNIT WILL SHUT DOWN AND LEAVE ME VULNERABLE TO A REAR END OR STALL. *TR
2014-06-16
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-07
- VIN: 1G6YV34A445
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: MY 2004 CADILLAC XLR APPLIED THE FRONT LEFT BRAKE ONLY AND ILLUMINATED THE STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT CAUSING A BRIEF AND SEVERE SWERVE FOR ABOUT 1 SECOND. I PULLED OVER AND SHUT THE CAR OFF AND RESTARTED. EVERYTHING WAS FINE FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS WHEN IT DID IT AGAIN, LUCKILY NO ONE IN MY PATH OF TRAVEL. MOST RECENTLY IT DID IT AGAIN ABOUT ONE MONTH AGO , SAME WHEEL, SAME SPEED. I AM VERY MECHANICALLY INCLINED AND PERFORMED A THOROUGH INSPECTION AND I CANNOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG. I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE HAVING THIS VERY UNSAFE PROBLEM WITH A PRETTY EXPENSIVE CAR! MY CAR NOW HAS JUST ABOUT 18,500 MILES AND I'M WONDERING WHEN IT'LL HAPPEN AGAIN! I WANT TO DRIVE MY CAR AND ENJOY IT BUT, I'M NERVOUS AND I FIND MYSELF GRIPPING THE STEERING WHEEL TIGHTER EVERYTIME I DRIVE IT NOW. *TR
2014-05-12
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-01
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHT LENSES BECAME FROSTED AND CAUSED THE COLOR TO CHANGE. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE WHAT CAUSED THE LENSES TO CHANGE COLOR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 47,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 49,000.
2014-03-24
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 16YDE63A940
- Components: STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD EMIT AN ABNORMAL NOISE WHEN TURNED IN EITHER DIRECTION. ALSO, THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH WHEN THE STABILITY CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES FOR A TRAFFIC STOP AND THE BRAKES SEIZED, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO THE PASSENGER'S SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE ABS TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ALSO ILLUMINATED AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 05V046000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS HOWEVER, THE DEALER WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE OR REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. UPDATED 05/28/14 MA THE CONSUMER STATED THE AXEL WAS REPLACED AND REPAIRED. UPDATED 05/30/2014 *JS
2014-02-18
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-09
- VIN: 1G6YV34AX45
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT SMELLED A BURNING ODOR AROUND THE TURN SIGNAL AND INFORMED AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE SOCKET WAS MELTING AND THE PLASTIC HOUSING WAS WARPED. THE FAILURES WERE RELATED TO NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 06V263000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING; THE DAY TIME RUNNING LAMP/TURN SIGNAL AND PARKING LAMP BECAME INOPERATIVE. AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ALSO REPLACED THE SOCKETS INSIDE THE HEADLIGHTS FOR THE ENTIRE UNIT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120000 UPDATED 4/9/14 MA *TR
2013-12-31
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-30
- VIN: 1G6YV34A145
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PARKED IN A PARKING LOT & PLACED IT IN PARK. UPON RETURNING I STARTED THE CAR & PLACED IT IN DRIVE. I TOOK FOOT OFF BRAKE & CAR MOVED REARWARD. PUT CAR IN NEUTRAL & CAR MOVED REARWARD. I TRIED ALL GEARS INCLUDING PARK & CAR MOVED REARWARD, TURNED CAR OFF. CAR WOULD NOT RESTART BECAUSE IT WAS NOT IN PARK. BECAUSE CAR WAS NOT IN PARK ALL ELECTRICAL ACCESSORIES WOULD NOT TURN OFF & BATTERY WENT DEAD, DOORS OR WINDOWS WOULD NOT OPEN BECAUSE ALL ARE OPERATED ELECTRICALLY. FORTUNATELY THE BATTERY DIED ON ROUTE TO DEALERSHIP ON TOW TRUCK. THE SHIFT CABLE WAS FOUND TO BE BROKE. I LOOKED ON THE WEB SITE XLR NET & THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON PROBLEM AND APPEARS IN SEVERAL FORUMS. IF THERE HAD BEEN A CAR BEHIND ME I CERTAINLY WOULD HAVE HIT IT. ONE GUY ON THE FORUM PARKED HIS CAR PUT IN PARK & WHEN HE TURNED BACK THE CAR WAS ROLLING DOWN A HILL. SINCE THERE WAS LITTLE CHANGE IN XLR DESIGN OVER THE YEARS I WOULD SUSPECT ALL MODEL YEARS THROUGH 2009 ARE AFFECTED.A VERY UNSAFE CONDITION! THIS SHOULD NOT HAVE OCCURRED ON A LOW MILEAGE WELL MAINTAINED VEHICLE. *TR
2013-09-25
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-24
- VIN: 1G6YV34A545
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 8/24/11 - VEHICLE STUCK IN REVERSE. WOULD NOT GO INTO ANY OTHER GEAR. DEALER FOUND SHIFT CABLE BROKEN. - 09/19/13-PARKED WAITING ON A FAMILY MEMBER. HAD THE VECHILE IN PARK (SO I THOUGHT). WHEN I WAS READY TO LEAVE THE CAR WOULD NOT GO INTO ANY GEAR. DEALER FOUND SHIFT CABLE BROKE. *JS
2004 Cadillac Xlr recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2004 Cadillac Xlr.
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.
2006-07-19
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE DAYLIGHT RUNNING LIGHTS (DRL), TURN SIGNAL, AND PARKING LAMPS USE THE SAME BULB. THE BULB MAY BECOME DAMAGED FROM VIBRATION WITHIN A LOOSE FITTING SOCKET OR AIR ENTERING THE BULB DUE TO AN INADEQUATE SEAL. BOTH OF THESE CONDITIONS WILL CAUSE THE BULB TO BURN OUT PREMATURELY.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE DRIVER WOULD NOTICE THAT THE ARROW IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WOULD FLASH FASTER THAN NORMAL WHEN THE TURN SIGNAL IS ACTIVATED. THE LOSS OF THE DRL AND TURN SIGNALS COULD FAIL TO WARN OTHERS OF THE DRIVER'S PRESENCE OR INTENTIONS AND COULD LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SOCKET AND BULB IN BOTH LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339.
2005-02-09
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 124, 'ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEMS.' IF ONE OF THE TWO ACCELERATOR PEDAL RETURN SPRINGS FAILS AND THE TEMPERATURE IS -22 DEGREES F TO -40 DEGREES F, THE ENGINE MAY NOT RETURN TO IDLE WITHIN THREE SECONDS, AS REQUIRED.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, GREATER BRAKE PEDAL FORCE AND A LONGER DISTANCE MAY BE REQUIRED TO STOP THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY. THIS RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 8, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339 OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
2004-11-03
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH ONE OR BOTH REAR BRAKE HYDRAULIC LINES THAT CAN COME IN CONTACT WITH OR BE AFFECTED BY HEAT FROM THE LEFT ENGINE EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND THE LEFT EXHAUST PIPE. THE BRAKE FLUID COULD REACH ELEVATED TEMPERATURES AND BOIL.
- Consequence: IF THE BRAKE FLUID BOILS IN A REAR BRAKE LINE, THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE REAR BRAKE SYSTEM WOULD BE REDUCED WHICH COULD RESULT IN A BRAKE LINE LEAK AND LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID. IF ENOUGH FLUID LEAKS FROM THE REAR BRAKE SYSTEM SO THAT BRAKE PEDAL APPLICATION CAN NO LONGER BUILD PRESSURE TO THE REAR BRAKES. THE OPERATOR OF THE VEHICLE WILL EXPERIENCE LIMITED BRAKING WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL (1) INSPECT THE LEFT ENGINE EXHAUST MANIFOLD CLIP FOR PROPER ALIGNMENT AND PLACEMENT ON THE BODY-MOUNTED STUD. IF INCORRECT, THEY WILL REPOSITION THE CLIP ON THE BRAKE LINES AND REINSTALL THE CLIP ON THE STUD; (2) THE DEALER WILL VERIFY THAT BOTH REAR BRAKE LINES HAVE THE PROPER CLEARANCE TO THE LEFT EXHAUST PIPE. THEY WILL REPOSITION THE LINES BY BENDING AS NECESSARY; (3) DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE MACHINING TAB FROM THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING. ALSO, DEALERS ARE TO INSPECT THE BRAKE LINES FOR WEAR IN THESE RELATED AREAS AND REPAIR OR REPLACE IF THERE IS ANY SIGN OF WEAR-THROUGH ON THE NYLON OVERCOATING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 18, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2239 OR CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438.
2004-06-09
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:LINKAGES
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THIS CAMPAIGN, THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL STUD NUT/WASHER ASSEMBLIES WITH WASHERS WERE MADE OF THE WRONG MATERIAL. THE WASHERS MAY FRACTURE AND BECOME LOOSE OR FALL AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE, REDUCING CLAMP LOAD. SEPARATION OF THE CONTROL ARM BALL STUD AND STEERING KNUCKLE, DUE TO DISENGAGEMENT OF THE TAPERED ATTACHMENT AND RETAINING NUT, IS POSSIBLE.
- Consequence: IF THE CONTROL ARM SEPARATES FROM THE KNUCKLE, THE AFFECTED CORNER OF THE VEHICLE WILL DROP AND THE CONTROL ARM WOULD BE FORCED DOWNWARD, CONTACTING THE WHEEL. THE AFFECTED WHEEL COULD TILT OUTWARD AND CREATE A DRAGGING ACTION THAT WOULD TEND TO SLOW THE VEHICLE AND CREATE A TENDENCY FOR THE VEHICLE TO TURN IN THE DIRECTION OF THE AFFECTED WHEEL. IN EXTREME SITUATIONS, THE AFFECTED WHEEL ASSEMBLY COULD SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE. SEPARATION OF THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY WOULD ALSO SEVER THAT WHEEL;S HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSE AND RESULT IN DIMINISHED BRAKING PERFORMANCE OF THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BALL STUD JOINTS AND MEASURE THE TORQUE OF THE NUT FOR ALL FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS IN ALL MODELS AFFECTED AS WELL AS THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARMS ON THE XLR AND CORVETTE. IF THE TORQUE IS NOT AT SPECIFICATION, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BALL STUD, THE KNUCKLE, AND THE NUT. IF THE TORQUE IS AT SPECIFICATION, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE NUT/WASHER ASSEMBLY ONLY. THE RECALL WILL BEGIN ON AUGUST 25, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339 OR CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438.
Negative 2004 Cadillac Xlr car reviews
Positive 2004 Cadillac Xlr car reviews
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The car's performance is truly excellent and surpasses that of a Jaguar XK, despite its higher price point. While there have been some issues with the keyless remote and electronics, the car's reliability is still rated at a respectable 6. Additionally, the car's striking appearance is sure to turn heads wherever you go.
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I'm so glad to hear that you loved the car! It's great to know that it looked and felt amazing to you!
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Your car is truly a work of art! Last week, while driving down the Las Vegas Strip, a young man and his girlfriend were admiring the sights. As I drove by in my Xenon Blue XLR, the young man was so impressed that he left his girlfriend on the sidewalk to snap three photos of my car. The fit and finish of this car are truly excellent, the engine is powerful yet quiet, the handling is precise and lightning quick, and the ride is simply amazing. Your car is a true signal of Cadillac's proud past!
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This is the best roadster that I have ever driven.
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Awesome rocks are great! They're perfect, tight, super amazing, and the best car ever! You should buy two!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Cadillac Xlr problems:
Any big problems with the XLR | Cadillac Owners Forum
https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/any-big-problems-with-the-xlr.70035/
Mar 29, 2006 ... Faulty Delco batteries and/or parasitic discharging, a common problem on other Cadillacs too. Rear windows coming apart from their tops ...
2004 Cadillac XLR Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2004-cadillac-xlr/problems
Problem with your 2004 Cadillac XLR? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Cadillac XLR.
What year to pass on XLR | Cadillac Owners Forum
https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/what-year-to-pass-on-xlr.440921/
Jan 17, 2014 ... They're fine if the issues specific to those years are addressed, but 2006 had some nice changes: Adaptive headlights, relocated Remote Keyless ...
04 Cadillac XLR - Issues starting after HOURS of diagnostics! HELP ...
https://www.xlr-net.com/forums/threads/04-cadillac-xlr-issues-starting-after-hours-of-diagnostics-help.10409/
Feb 26, 2018 ... here is a picture of a stock exhaust system on a 2004 XLR, you can see the H pipe crossover. IMG_4820.jpg. Last edited: Feb 27, 2018.
2004 Cadillac XLR Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cadillac/xlr/2004/reliability/
No Detailed Data Available. Consumer Reports obtains its reliability data from a questionnaire that is sent to subscribers. In the questionnaire, we ask ...
Other years of Cadillac Xlr
Are you having problems with your 2004 Cadillac Xlr?
Cloyd Stamm 2024-09-15
Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with you. I recently bought a car this month and I have to say, I'm not entirely satisfied with my purchase. I feel like I may have overspent on it. I was thinking that maybe a Honda or Mitsubishi would have been a better option for me. What do you think?
Dell Bernier 2024-04-29
Hi there, I'm Frank! If you're in the market for a car that offers style, comfort, and luxury, then this might just be the one for you. It does come with a hefty price tag of $75,000, but it's definitely a car that will turn heads. However, in my personal experience, I've found that the engine is quite similar to my 1996 Mustang Cobra 4.6L 8cyl 5 speed, which I purchased for a lot less. So, in my opinion, the Cadillac symbol on the front grill is the main reason for the higher price tag. Thanks for listening!