2005 Cadillac XLR
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
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Structure
Campaigns on file for 2005
Opened by NHTSA
45% of complaints
Complaints per year
2005: 31 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2004 | 34 |
| 2005 | 31 |
| 2006 | 9 |
| 2007 | 2 |
| 2008 | 3 |
| 2009 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Structure
45% · 14 reportsMost 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 reportsExterior lighting
10% · 3 reportsMost 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 reportsShow 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 reportsSafety timeline
3 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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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…
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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.
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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…
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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.