Used Cadillac XT5: Inspection checklist
Pick the model year you are going to see. Each sheet lists the checks for the problems owners reported on that year, in the order you would do them at the car. Owners filed 162 complaints across these 7 years; the 2018 drew the most.
Choose a model year
2025
Few owner complaints
2 complaints1 recallOpen checklist
2024
Fewest complaintsMost reported: transmission
10 complaints3 recallsOpen checklist
2023
Most reported: transmission
13 complaints4 recallsOpen checklist
2021
Most reported: electrical
24 complaints3 recallsOpen checklist
2020
Most reported: steering
19 complaints5 recallsOpen checklist
2019
Most reported: steering
31 complaints0 recallsOpen checklist
2018
Most complaintsMost reported: transmission
63 complaints0 recallsOpen checklist
Problems that follow the XT5 from year to year
Each of these is a top-three complaint area in at least two model years. Darker cells mean more complaints that year. Whatever year you are looking at, give these extra time.
| Area | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steering | 10 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 26 | |||
| Transmission | 10 | 5 | 4 | 6 | 25 | |||
| Electrical | 9 | 3 | 5 | 17 | ||||
| Engine | 7 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 13 |
XT5 generations and updates
First years of a new generation and mid-cycle updates are marked. Each year links to its checklist.
Second generation
2024–2024
First generation
2017–2023
2020 update: New trim levels based on Cadillac's 'Y' strategy; Minor exterior design changes; Introduction of a new base engine; Updates to the cabin interface and features
Mileages where XT5 problems start
From owner reports for each model year, lowest mileage first. Compare these with the odometer of the car you are seeing.
Every XT5 recall to confirm
13 recalls cover the XT5years on this site. Open a campaign number for NHTSA's full notice. 2 campaigns span more than one model year.
