Cadillac XT5 Years To Avoid & Years To Buy [Detailed Guide]

cadillac xt5 years to avoid

The Cadillac XT5, introduced in 2017, is a midsize crossover SUV that is an excellent option for drivers as it offers versatile style, performance, and comfort in a row. While specific models of XT5 are popular among drivers, some model years received negative reviews for their recurring issues. 

Knowing about the best and worst model years and the advantages and disadvantages of these years is essential to understand for a person planning to purchase a used Cadillac XT5. This will ensure that he can make an informed decision about investing in the right place.

However, in today’s guide, we’ll comprehensively look at the Cadillac XT5 years to avoid, why you should avoid these models, their problems and reliability issues, and the best Cadillac XT5 years you can consider buying.

Cadillac XT5: Overview

Cadillac XT5 was first introduced as a replacement for Cadillac SRX in 2017. It comes to the market with a vision to modernize Cadillac vehicles that can compete with the other luxury SUVs like BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Lexus RX. It gained popularity among SUV seekers for its luxury interior design, sleek exterior, and various modern technological features.

Some features of XT5, like comfortability and enough cargo space, make it an excellent choice for families and adventure seekers. Like other vehicles, some of the specific models of XT5 have more recurring issues and reliability problems than others. Understanding these problems could help buyers to make a better ownership experience.

Cadillac XT5 Years To Avoid

The Cadillac XT5 has received a large number of positive feedback and reviews for its luxury, durability, and performance. Still, some of its model years have specific issues that hurt its reputation. However, the Cadillac XT5 years to avoid are:

  1. 2017 Cadillac XT5
  2. 2018 Cadillac XT5

These two models have had highly reported customer problems over the latecomer model years. In the below sections, we’ll discuss the common issues reported in these models, why you should avoid these specific year models, and why these XT5 models are considered less reliable than others.

2017 Cadillac XT5: The Worst Year

The model year 2017 Cadillac XT5 belongs to the first-generation vehicles, considered the worst year for several concerning issues. Here are some of its common problems: 

  • Transmission issues: Many owners of the 2017 model year complained about the rough shifting when accelerating, especially when driving at low speed. This could cause a poor driving experience that an owner would not tolerate in a luxury SUV.
  • Electronic problems: The drivers have many complaints about electronic malfunctions such as freezing and crashes of the infotainment system. Many drivers have also experienced issues with the vehicle’s navigation system and Bluetooth features.
  • Brake performance: The brake performance issues are the 3rd main concern for the 2017 model owners. Some drivers have reported that the brakes feel “Spongy” or unresponsive, leading to safety issues. In some instances, a brake pedal position sensor malfunction could be the reason for that problem.

Why Should You Avoid To Buy The 2017 XT5?

2017 was the debut year for the Cadillac XT5 as it was launcehed in 2017. This model replaces the outgoing SRX model with several appealing features and a stylish design. But with time it has discovered several teething problems that decreased its desire among buyers. However, here are some reasons for avoiding the 2017 Cadillac XT5:

  • Transmission problems (Hard shifting, transmission hesitation, or delayed)
  • Electrical system glitches (Navigation system problems, infotainment system, and Instrument cluster malfunctions)
  • Brake system issues (Soft or unresponsive brakes, premature brake wear)
  • Low-quality Interior and cabin Noise
  • A higher number of recalls and customer complaints
  • High maintenance costs

2018 Cadillac XT5

After 2017, 2018 is in the 2nd position in the list of Cadillac XT5 years to avoid. It was introduced with more improvements and changes, but specific problems still needed to be solved. However, some of the most common issues reported by the drivers include:

  • Transmission Issues persist: The Cadillac has addressed the problems with the transmission in the 2017 model, but still, many drivers mentioned the transmission issues. They have mentioned the difficulties they have faced such as rough and delayed shifting when accelerating, and these cause a frustrating driving experience.
  • Electrical system issues: In the 2018 Cadillac XT5, the electrical problems continued, particularly with the vehicle’s infotainment system. These problems impact the user experience, including unresponsive touchscreens, glitches, and freezes.
  • Suspension problems: Although it’s not widespread, a few owners show concerns about a “clunky” or “noisy” suspension that can impact the ride comfortability.  

Why Should You Avoid To Buy The 2018 XT5?

The 2018 XT5 has fewer registered complaints than the 2017 XT5, but specific issues like transmission and electronic problems persist in the 2018 model year, making the 2018 model less reliable. However, for an SUV seeker who wants a trouble-free driving experience, it might be better to avoid this model and consider another one.

Best Cadillac XT5 Years To Buy

Some Cadillac XT5 years stand out as the best to buy, offering outstanding performance, reliability, and features. Here are the two most reliable and satisfying models that have fever complaints by drivers:

  1. 2020 Cadillac XT5
  2. 2021 Cadillac XT5

2020 Cadillac XT5

2020 cadillac xt5

The 2020 model year was introduced with interior, exterior, and technical components improvements. More advanced-tech features became standard in this model, and a new 9-speed automatic transmission replaced the troublesome 8-speed. However, this model can be an excellent option for any used Cadillac XT5 seeker.

Why Is The 2020 Model A Good Choice?

This model comes to the auto market with a refreshed design and improved infotainment system that’s appealing most in the consumer’s eyes. The manufacturers added a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine as an option alongside the existing V6.

Therefore, these advancements make this model the right choice compared to other model years.

2021 Cadillac XT5 And Newer Models

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 is another refined and well-rounded luxury SUV to consider after 2020. This model year offers comfort, performance, and modern tech functions at the same price. The 2021 model year also stands out in reliable choices as it offers impressive features such as pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.

Moreover, the newer models after 2021 can be a better section as they have the most advanced technological and safety features. 

Why Is The 2021 Model A Good Choice?

Compared to the earlier models, these specific models have more benefits, fewer recurring issues, and fever complaints and recall from buyers. The 2021 year provides enhanced driving quality as it continuously improves different systems.

The 2021 model year offers more optimal features and trims that allow owners to adjust their SUVs according to their preferences. All these facilities make this model a suitable choice.

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Cadillac XT5 model Years With Reported Issues Percentage

Cadillac XT5 Model YearCommon ProblemsIssues (%)
2017Transmission issues, brake problems, electronic malfunctions25%
2018Transmission issues, infotainment glitches, suspension noise20%
2019Minor electronic issues, occasional transmission complaints12%
2020Infotainment updates needed, improved ride quality8%
2021Minimal issues reported, high reliability5%

Understanding which Cadillac XT5 year is best and which is worst is crucial for a person planning to purchase a used model of Cadillac XT5. This will help him to make an infrared decision for a better ownership experience. Our discussion about the Cadillac XT5 years to avoid and the best Cadillac XT5 years helps to make a good selection, investing in the right vehicle.

However, it’s always best to consult a professional before making any decision as he can advise you on the right according to your budget. You can contact us for any other specific info or queries; we’re always here to help. Happy car hunting!

Martin Lee is an ASE-certified mechanic and contributing author at SincereMechanic. He uses his expertise to create captivating articles that align with our content strategy. Using his deep automobile knowledge, he does in-depth research, puts expertise into articles, and makes them very informative. That information ensures our readers receive many valuable insights about the Vehicles.