2005 Cadillac XLR

○ Not enough data
2005 Cadillac XLR
RENDERED 2026-11-01T13:56:19.983Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Complaints
31
Recalls
3

Campaigns on file for 2005

Investigations
1

Opened by NHTSA

Top problem
Structure

45% of complaints

Complaints per year

2004: 34 complaints 2004 2005: 31 complaints 2005 31 2006: 9 complaints 2006 2007: 2 complaints 2007 2008: 3 complaints 2008 2009: 1 complaint 2009
2004: 34 complaints 2004 2005: 31 complaints 2005 31 2006: 9 complaints 2006 2007: 2 complaints 2007 2008: 3 complaints 2008 2009: 1 complaint 2009
2004: 34 complaints 2004 2005: 31 complaints 2005 31 2006: 9 complaints 2006 2007: 2 complaints 2007 2008: 3 complaints 2008 2009: 1 complaint 2009

2005: 31 complaints

View as data table
YearComplaints
200434
200531
20069
20072
20083
20091

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Structure

45% · 14 reports

Most commonly citing body and roof and pillars.

Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owns a 2005 Cadillac XLR. While driving 35 MPH, the roof panel detached from the vehicle without warning.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-06-13

Roof panel is separating from top, failure of the glue used to hold the top panel on panel may fly off at any speed

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-02-23

Fuel system, gasoline

10% · 3 reports

Exterior lighting

10% · 3 reports

Most commonly citing turn signal.

Show complaint excerpts

Drl, turn signal parking lamp failure. Recall reported to dealer by me in July 2006. I was told, after some discuss, that the parts would be ordered and I will be notified. Today, September 6, 2006, for the third time the above described failed.

NHTSA ODI report, 2006-09-06

Service brakes

6% · 2 reports
Show complaint excerpts

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.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-03-13

Also filed under Forward collision avoidance

While driving my 2005 Cadillac XLR on the interstate highway at approximately 70 MPH, dry highway my car dipped to the left with instantaneous stabilitrack active flash. Then a few seconds later dipped left again and pulled severally to the left.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-06-13

Fuel/propulsion system

6% · 2 reports

Safety timeline

3 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

  1. R
    2005-01-18Service brakes, hydraulic04V525000 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…

    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…

  2. R
    2006-07-31Exterior lighting06V263000 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…

    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.

  3. R
    2011-02-22Fuel system, gasoline11E009000 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…

    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…

  4. I
    2019-02-01Preliminary evaluationClosed 2019-12-12 Roof Skin Separation While Driving

Buy-smart checklist

2005 Cadillac XLR — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Structure: 14 reports on file for this year.
  • Fuel system, gasoline: 3 reports on file for this year.
  • Exterior lighting: 3 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

  • Recall 04V525000 · Service brakes, hydraulic
  • Recall 06V263000 · Exterior lighting
  • Recall 11E009000 · Fuel system, gasoline

FAQ

Is the 2005 Cadillac XLR reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2005 Cadillac XLR?
The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 45% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2005 Cadillac XLR have?
3 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.