2008 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 2008 Cadillac Xlr problems
The 2008 Cadillac XLR has been reported to have several common problems by its owners, including issues with the top mechanism, electrical problems, and problems with the engine and transmission.
One of the most common issues with the 2008 Cadillac XLR is the top mechanism getting stuck with the trunk lid up already several times. This issue has been reported by multiple owners, including a user who reported that the top has gotten stuck with the trunk lid up already three times in just three weeks of ownership. This issue can be frustrating and may require a visit to the dealership for repair.
Another common problem with the 2008 Cadillac XLR is electrical issues. One user reported that the car would not start after sitting overnight due to a "no fob's found" error message. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a dead battery or a problem with the key fob.
In addition to the top mechanism and electrical issues, the 2008 Cadillac XLR has also been reported to have problems with the engine and transmission. One user reported that the car had a leaky radiator and a bad supercharger air pump that started making groaning noises. These issues can be costly to repair and may require a visit to the dealership.
Finally, the 2008 Cadillac XLR has also been reported to have problems with the interior build and materials quality. One user reported that the interior build and materials quality do not reflect the price of the car, and that the car is not as sporty as its Corvette underpinnings would suggest. This issue can be disappointing for owners who expect a high level of quality and performance from a luxury car like the XLR.
In summary, the 2008 Cadillac XLR has several common problems that have been reported by owners, including issues with the top mechanism, electrical problems, problems with the engine and transmission, and issues with the interior build and materials quality. These issues can be frustrating and may require costly repairs.
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.
What engine is in the Cadillac XLR?
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.
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).
2008 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:
- Power train problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Electrical system problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Cadillac Xlr vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2008 Cadillac Xlr complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Cadillac Xlr.
POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-24
- VIN: 1G6YV36AX85
- Components: POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN CAR IS STATIONARY IN OUR GARAGE, THE GASOLINE VAPORS ARE WAY TOO STRONG! LITERALLY CAN KNOCK YOU OVER AS YOU OPEN THE DOOR BETWEEN THE HOUSE AND CLOSED-UP GARAGE. DOESN'T SEEM TO MATTER IF IT'S RECENTLY BEEN FILLED WITH GASOLINE OR IF IT'S DEPLETED SOME. *TOOK OUR CAR TO THE LOCAL CADILLAC DEALER FOR THE WORST RAW GAS SMELL EVER WITHIN OUR GARAGE, WHERE WE PARK THIS 'NEW BLACK BEAUTY'. THEY'VE DONE ALL SORTS OF TESTS, BUT HAVE FOUND NO LEAKS, ETC. :-( THIS SEEMS LIKE A REALLY DANGEROUS SITUATION WHEN OUR ATTACHED GARAGE FILLS UP WITH GASOLINE VAPORS!!! (HAVE ONLY OWNED THIS CAR FOR APPROXIMATELY 5 WEEKS!) **HOWEVER, THEY DID FIND A FRAYED AND BROKEN SHIFT CABLE! NONE AVAILABLE, AS ALL ARE BACK-ORDERED! TRYING TO LOCATE ONE SOMEWHERE IN THE COUNTRY! ANYWAY, AFTER REVIEWING ALL OF THE MANY COMPLAINTS AND PROBLEMS LISTED ON VARIOUS WEBSITES AND THE OTHER XLR FORUMS, AND DETERMINING THAT WE ARE DEFINITELY NOT ALONE IN THIS REALLY EXPENSIVE SHIFT CABLE FIX, WE BELIEVE THERE'S A DEFINITE MANUFACTURING PROBLEM/DEFECT WITH THIS FAULTY PART!! HOW DO WE ALL GET GM TO PAY FOR THESE EXPENSIVE FAULTY PARTS?? SOME FOLKS HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THEIR SHIFT CABLES MORE THAN ONCE, SO THAT SHOULD TELL GM THAT THEY DESIGNED A FAULTY PIECE... WE ARE INFORMING THE GOVERNMENT WATCHDOG! THANKS AND WE'LL AWAIT ANY RESPONSE ABOUT THE GASOLINE SMELL, AND THE FAULTY SHIFT CABLES. ($500+ ALONE)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-01
- VIN: 1G6YV36A785
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A PORTION OF THE BRAKE LIGHTS WOULD NO LONGER ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIR. THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE PART WAS NO LONGER BEING MANUFACTURED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NO LONGER BEING MANUFACTURED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-29
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6YV36A885
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: TRAVELING 65MPH ON A FREEWAY, MY CADILLAC XLR SUDDENLY WAS UNCONTROLLABLE; IT THEN STARTED TO SPIN; WAS HIT B A SEMI AND CONTINUED TO SPIN. I HAVE HAD ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR FROM DAY ONE. THE MORNING BEFORE THE ACCIDENT THE READ OUT SAID WAIT FOR STABILITRAK. I KNOW THERE WAS A MALFUNCTION THAT CAUSED THE CAR TO BECOME UNSTABLE. I HAVE SEEN MENTION OF THIS FOR THE XLR ON THE INTERNET. WHEN I GOT TO A GARAGE AND GOT OUT, THE CAR LOCKED ME OUT WITH THE KEY IN THE CAR SO I AM SURE OF AN ELECTRICAL ISSUE. *TR
2008 Cadillac Xlr recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2008 Cadillac Xlr.
- 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.
Negative 2008 Cadillac Xlr car reviews
Positive 2008 Cadillac Xlr car reviews
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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.
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I previously owned an SL-320, then picked up an 07 XLR while in Florida this winter. I absolutely love it and think it is drop-dead gorgeous. On my way back, I averaged an impressive 27 mpg while cruising at 75 mph on 95. I have noticed a random clunk in the transmission when moving in slow traffic at about 18 mph. Has anyone else experienced this? It only happens during very slow stop-and-go situations. Overall, I find this car to be even more luxurious than my 97 SL. I would greatly appreciate any input regarding the transmission. Best regards, Ron.
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This is actually my second Cadillac, the first being a 2005 CTS. I must say, the XLR is a really sporty and attractive car that always turns heads. However, I have noticed that there is a lack of knowledge when it comes to repairs and maintenance, and the computer-driven systems tend to malfunction quite often. Additionally, the FM radio reception system is not as strong as I would like it to be, and some of the interior items such as visors, visor mirrors, and storage compartments between seats are built cheaply. Despite these minor issues, the car is an absolute joy to ride. By the way, just a friendly reminder to watch out for the cops as they seem to be attracted to expensive-looking cars and may not take kindly to loud music and top-down driving.
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The XLR is a fantastic car to cruise around in and turn heads of all ages. We love driving it and seeing people's reactions. We've even made new friends all up and down the east coast from people coming up to us when we're parked. The car sounds like a hot rod and definitely delivers on performance. While cabin storage is limited, it has all the luxury features you could ask for.
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This is the finest car you have ever owned. The styling and performance are equal to the Mercedes-Benz SL500 but about $25,000 dollars less. It should be recognized by more auto writers as a superb vehicle.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Cadillac Xlr problems:
2008 XLR-V Problems | Cadillac XLR Forum
Apr 5, 2010 ... 2008 XLR-V Problems · 1) the top has gotten stuck with the trunk lid up already 3 times. · 2) Would not start after sitting overnight "no fob's ...
Common Cadillac XLR Problems: Troubleshooting and Solutions
Feb 7, 2023 ... I changed the starter in my 2008 Cadillac Xlr it still won't start normally, what could be the problem? It will work - Answered by a ...
Concidering buying a XLR | Cadillac Owners Forum
Jan 8, 2020 ... I have recently found a very nice 2008 XLR ... There also seems to be problems ... Can the forum give me their opinions on the reliability the XLR.
Big problem!!! | Cadillac XLR Forum
Jul 27, 2012 ... I have had 2, a 2004 XLR and currently a 2008 XLR ... common leakage area on the rear decklid seals on the XLR. ... Cadillac XLR General Discussion ...
Any big problems with the XLR | Cadillac Owners Forum
Mar 29, 2006 ... Faulty Delco batteries and/or parasitic discharging, a common problem on other Cadillacs too. Rear windows coming apart from their tops ...
Other years of Cadillac Xlr
Are you having problems with your 2008 Cadillac Xlr?
Alex Dicki 2025-01-13
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.
Sheldon Mayert 2024-07-04
After conducting extensive research and reading numerous reviews, I would like to share some important information with you. Please be aware that replacement body parts, bumpers, light assemblies, and trim parts are not available for this car, neither in the USA nor abroad, not even in the after-market. This makes insurance extremely expensive and difficult to obtain. However, this car offers great performance, handles well, and is comfortable to ride in, although it has poor mileage. If you are a car collector with plenty of disposable income, this might be a good car for you. Just be cautious and avoid accidents!