Owners have filed 45 complaints
about the 2004 Cadillac XLR with NHTSA between 2004 and 2026.
The largest single group is the body & structure.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 3 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 68
Against the median year of the Cadillac XLR. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 57
11.1% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 54
32% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
25.3%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
12.6%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
718.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1026.3%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
718.4%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
410.5%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
718.4%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2004 Cadillac XLR Convertible 2-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Feb 2004peak 4Jan 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2004 Cadillac XLR
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
PE19001Opened 1 Feb 2019Closed 12 Dec 2019STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Roof Skin Separation While Driving
On August 23rd, 2018 - the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a media inquiry pertaining to a motorist experiencing separation of the roof skin from their Cadillac XLR while driving.Based on the data in-hand at that time and a subsequent (December) consumer complaint, ODI opened PE19-001 on February 1, 2019 to evaluate the scope of this condition in the 2004 - 2005 XLR population.The subject vehicle model is a two-seat roadster equipped with an electrically powered retractable roof system. The outer roof skin is a Sheet Molded Composite (SMC) which is adhered to the magnesium alloy...
Recalls on the 2004 Cadillac XLR
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2006172316 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
On certain vehicles the bulb used for the Daytime Running Lights (DRL), turn signals, and parking lamps may burn out prematurely. Correction: Dealers will replace the socket and bulb in both lamps.
Recall 20050341,611 units in Canada
Other
Certain vehicles do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 124 - Accelerator Control Systems. The Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) accelerator pedal assembly may not return the engine to idle in three seconds or less at low ambient temperatures if either of the two throttle return springs is broken. Correction: Dealers will replace the ETC pedal assembly.
Recall 2004389290 units in Canada
Brakes
Certain 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 pipe. Also, on some 2005 vehicles, the crossover brake line to the right rear brake can come in contact with the rear differential case. In both cases, a half system brake failure could occur, resulting in increased stopping distances. Correction: Dealers will repair/reposition the rear brake lines.
Recall 20042061,411 units in Canada
Suspension
Certain vehicles were produced with lower control arm ball stud nut/washer assemblies with washers made of the wrong steel material. The washers may fracture and become loose or fall away from the vehicle, reducing clamp load. Separation of the control arm ball stud and steering knuckle, due to disengagement of the tapered attachment and retaining nut, is possible and may occur without prior indication to the vehicle operator. If the control arm separates from the knuckle, the affected corner of the vehicle will drop and the control arm would be forced downward, contacting the wheel. The affected wheel could tilt outward and create a dragging action that would tend to slow the vehicle and create a tendency for the vehicle to turn in the direction of the affected wheel. In extreme situations, the affected wheel assembly could separate from the vehicle. Separation of the wheel assembly would also sever that wheel's hydraulic brake hose and result in diminished braking performance of the vehicle, which could result in a crash. Correction: Dealers will install a new nut and washer, and if required, replace the ball stud and/or steering knuckle.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 110,000 milesDenver, COCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD EMIT AN ABNORMAL NOISE WHEN TURNED IN EITHER DIRECTION. ALSO, THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH WHEN THE STABILITY CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES FOR A TRAFFIC STOP AND THE BRAKES SEIZED, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO THE PASSENGER'S SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE ABS TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ALSO ILLUMINATED AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 05V046000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS HOWEVER, THE DEALER WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE OR REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. UPDATED 05/28/14 MA THE CONSUMER STATED THE AXEL WAS REPLACED AND REPAIRED. UPDATED 05/30/2014
NHTSA complaint #10574399 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesDenver, COCrash
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD EMIT AN ABNORMAL NOISE WHEN TURNED IN EITHER DIRECTION. ALSO, THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH WHEN THE STABILITY CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES FOR A TRAFFIC STOP AND THE BRAKES SEIZED, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO THE PASSENGER'S SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE ABS TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ALSO ILLUMINATED AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 05V046000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS HOWEVER, THE DEALER WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE OR REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. UPDATED 05/28/14 MA THE CONSUMER STATED THE AXEL WAS REPLACED AND REPAIRED. UPDATED 05/30/2014
NHTSA complaint #10574399 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesDenver, COCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD EMIT AN ABNORMAL NOISE WHEN TURNED IN EITHER DIRECTION. ALSO, THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH WHEN THE STABILITY CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES FOR A TRAFFIC STOP AND THE BRAKES SEIZED, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO THE PASSENGER'S SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE ABS TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ALSO ILLUMINATED AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 05V046000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS HOWEVER, THE DEALER WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE OR REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. UPDATED 05/28/14 MA THE CONSUMER STATED THE AXEL WAS REPLACED AND REPAIRED. UPDATED 05/30/2014
NHTSA complaint #10574399 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,500 milesPinole, CACrash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN TO APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO ENGAGE THE BRAKES, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. ON NOVEMBER 6, 2006, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO NINE PARKED VEHICLES. ALL OF THE VEHICLES WERE DAMAGED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND WAS IN THE REPAIR SHOP FROM NOVEMBER 6, 2006 TO FEBRUARY 23, 2007. THE CONTACT CALLED ONSTAR OVER 50 TIMES DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE DOOR LOCKS HAVE ALSO FAILED AND, ON ONE OCCASION, THE POLICE HAD TO LET HER OUT OF HER OWN VEHICLE. THE CONTACT IS DISABLED AND THE FAILURE IS CAUSING THE ONSTAR TO FAIL. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FAILURE IS RELATED TO THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THE CONTACT IS AWARE OF THE SAFETY RISK AND DOES NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE EVERY DAY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,500 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 11,000.
NHTSA complaint #10210589 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,500 milesPinole, CACrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN TO APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO ENGAGE THE BRAKES, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. ON NOVEMBER 6, 2006, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO NINE PARKED VEHICLES. ALL OF THE VEHICLES WERE DAMAGED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND WAS IN THE REPAIR SHOP FROM NOVEMBER 6, 2006 TO FEBRUARY 23, 2007. THE CONTACT CALLED ONSTAR OVER 50 TIMES DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE DOOR LOCKS HAVE ALSO FAILED AND, ON ONE OCCASION, THE POLICE HAD TO LET HER OUT OF HER OWN VEHICLE. THE CONTACT IS DISABLED AND THE FAILURE IS CAUSING THE ONSTAR TO FAIL. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FAILURE IS RELATED TO THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THE CONTACT IS AWARE OF THE SAFETY RISK AND DOES NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE EVERY DAY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,500 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 11,000.
NHTSA complaint #10210589 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 88,000 milesKey Largo, FL
STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, there was an abnormal sound like a shotgun being fired overhead. The contact pulled over and observed that the retractable fiberglass roof panel had detached from the frame of the vehicle. The contact stated that the headliner, cables, and pulleys used to retract the roof were exposed. The contact was unable to recover the panel. The contact called the dealer and the manufacturer and was informed that there were no recalls on the VIN for the failure. The contact was informed that the roof panel could be replaced out-of-pocket. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.
NHTSA complaint #11711077 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Victor, ID
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The roof panel that was only attached with adhesive has detached from the frame of the car. This has also caused the retractable convertible top to stop working. I have read about the roof of many of these cars flying off while driving down the road. It is only a matter of time before this poor defect causes serious injury and/ or significant property damage. I called cadillac customer service and they refused to offer any help. I recently spoke to a local body shop about getting it repaired and the estimate was upward of 1000 dollars
NHTSA complaint #11590209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Victor, ID
STRUCTURE:BODY
The roof panel that was only attached with adhesive has detached from the frame of the car. This has also caused the retractable convertible top to stop working. I have read about the roof of many of these cars flying off while driving down the road. It is only a matter of time before this poor defect causes serious injury and/ or significant property damage. I called cadillac customer service and they refused to offer any help. I recently spoke to a local body shop about getting it repaired and the estimate was upward of 1000 dollars
NHTSA complaint #11590209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Victor, ID
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The roof panel that was only attached with adhesive has detached from the frame of the car. This has also caused the retractable convertible top to stop working. I have read about the roof of many of these cars flying off while driving down the road. It is only a matter of time before this poor defect causes serious injury and/ or significant property damage. I called cadillac customer service and they refused to offer any help. I recently spoke to a local body shop about getting it repaired and the estimate was upward of 1000 dollars
NHTSA complaint #11590209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 113,420 milesClinton Township, MI
STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated while driving 65-70 MPH in the rain, the contact heard wind coming from the area where the front roof panel was connected to the windshield. The roof panel then detached and separated from the vehicle. The contact pulled into a service station to get out of the rain. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 113,420.
NHTSA complaint #11533527 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 113,420 milesClinton Township, MI
VISIBILITY
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated while driving 65-70 MPH in the rain, the contact heard wind coming from the area where the front roof panel was connected to the windshield. The roof panel then detached and separated from the vehicle. The contact pulled into a service station to get out of the rain. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 113,420.
NHTSA complaint #11533527 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wallingford, CT
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
The top roof panel separated while driving on the highway, and almost struck another vehicle causing it to swerve to miss it. The vehicle then proceeded to follow me as he though I was to blame. Once I got off the highway he got out of his car an violently started screaming at me for almost causing an accident.
NHTSA complaint #11480261 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 24,089 milesCrystal, MI
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated that fuel had begun to leak from the fuel pump without warning. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the failure and informed him that while the motor was running, the fuel would leak from the rear driver's side wheel; the leak would stop once the engine was shut off. The mechanic later discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 11E009000(Fuel System, Gasoline) which he linked to the failure. The dealer was notified and an appointment was made for a diagnostic. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 24,089.
NHTSA complaint #11479731 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesPlano, TX
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated there were strong fumes coming from the vehicle. The contact parked his vehicle in the garage and then leave it partially cracked due to the fumes. The contact changed the gas cap; however, the fumes continues. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer regarding the failure; however, it was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11477797 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesPlano, TX
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated there were strong fumes coming from the vehicle. The contact parked his vehicle in the garage and then leave it partially cracked due to the fumes. The contact changed the gas cap; however, the fumes continues. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer regarding the failure; however, it was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11477797 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesWillow Springs, MO
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, there was an abnormally loud whistling sound coming inside the vehicle. The contact looked up and noticed that the sunroof glass had detached from the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and retrieved the sunroof glass. The vehicle was then towed to an auto body shop to be inspected. The contact was informed that there was a defect in the glue used to secure the sunroof to the sunroof assembly. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
NHTSA complaint #11441992 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chesapeake VA. 23321, VA
STRUCTURE:BODY
My roof panel is separating from the roof frame of my 04 Cadillac XLR. If it come off it will cause property damage to another vehicle or death! It a GM defect that should be recall !!!! Thanks!
NHTSA complaint #11440408 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Phoenix, AZ
STRUCTURE:BODY
Was driving on interstate and top panel on convertible top flew off.
NHTSA complaint #11434620 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 53,200 milesHawthorne, FL
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I PURCHASED A 2004 XLR IN 2019 FROM AN AGENT IN FL. I IMMEDIATELY OR WITH-IN 200 MILES I BEGAN TO RECEIVE MESSAGES ON MY DASH! FIRST IT WAS TRACTION CONTROL THAT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND CAUSED THE CAR TO VET VIOLENTLY TO THE LEFT AS SOON AS I HIT 65 MILES AN HOUR. THEN THE CHECK GAS CAP FOLLOWED BY CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS CAME ON. MY CADILLAC DEALER WAS AT A LOSS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM WITH TRACTION CONTROL UNTIL THEY CONTACTED THE CORVETTE ENGINEERS IN BOWLING GREEN, WHICH TOOK A WEEK! THEY REPLACED THE GAS CAP AND THAT PROBLEM WENT AWAY ONLY TEMPORALLY! ON FURTHER INSPECTION THE TECH'S AT MY LOCAL CADDY DEALER DETERMINED BY A SMOKE TEST THAT THE CROSSOVER HOSE BETWEEN THE TANKS WAS LEAKING! THEY GAVE ME AN ESTIMATE OF CLOSE TO A $8000.00 REPAIR! THE CAR HAS LESS THAN 54,000 MI. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND I AM SEEING THIS PROBLEM OCCURRING IN THIS MODEL YEAR PERHAPS BECAUSE OF ENGINEERING CHANGES MADE TO CONFORM TO GOVERNMENT EMISSIONS STANDARD CONTROLS! I AM RESEARCHING ALTERNATIVES TO HAVING THE REPAIR DONE BY MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP AS THEY REALLY DON'T SEEM TO BE VERY CAPABLE. THE CAP HAS BEEN CHANGED TWICE AND THE SAME PROBLEMS REOCCUR!
NHTSA complaint #11309062 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 53,200 milesHawthorne, FL
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
I PURCHASED A 2004 XLR IN 2019 FROM AN AGENT IN FL. I IMMEDIATELY OR WITH-IN 200 MILES I BEGAN TO RECEIVE MESSAGES ON MY DASH! FIRST IT WAS TRACTION CONTROL THAT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND CAUSED THE CAR TO VET VIOLENTLY TO THE LEFT AS SOON AS I HIT 65 MILES AN HOUR. THEN THE CHECK GAS CAP FOLLOWED BY CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS CAME ON. MY CADILLAC DEALER WAS AT A LOSS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM WITH TRACTION CONTROL UNTIL THEY CONTACTED THE CORVETTE ENGINEERS IN BOWLING GREEN, WHICH TOOK A WEEK! THEY REPLACED THE GAS CAP AND THAT PROBLEM WENT AWAY ONLY TEMPORALLY! ON FURTHER INSPECTION THE TECH'S AT MY LOCAL CADDY DEALER DETERMINED BY A SMOKE TEST THAT THE CROSSOVER HOSE BETWEEN THE TANKS WAS LEAKING! THEY GAVE ME AN ESTIMATE OF CLOSE TO A $8000.00 REPAIR! THE CAR HAS LESS THAN 54,000 MI. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND I AM SEEING THIS PROBLEM OCCURRING IN THIS MODEL YEAR PERHAPS BECAUSE OF ENGINEERING CHANGES MADE TO CONFORM TO GOVERNMENT EMISSIONS STANDARD CONTROLS! I AM RESEARCHING ALTERNATIVES TO HAVING THE REPAIR DONE BY MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP AS THEY REALLY DON'T SEEM TO BE VERY CAPABLE. THE CAP HAS BEEN CHANGED TWICE AND THE SAME PROBLEMS REOCCUR!
NHTSA complaint #11309062 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 53,200 milesHawthorne, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I PURCHASED A 2004 XLR IN 2019 FROM AN AGENT IN FL. I IMMEDIATELY OR WITH-IN 200 MILES I BEGAN TO RECEIVE MESSAGES ON MY DASH! FIRST IT WAS TRACTION CONTROL THAT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND CAUSED THE CAR TO VET VIOLENTLY TO THE LEFT AS SOON AS I HIT 65 MILES AN HOUR. THEN THE CHECK GAS CAP FOLLOWED BY CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS CAME ON. MY CADILLAC DEALER WAS AT A LOSS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM WITH TRACTION CONTROL UNTIL THEY CONTACTED THE CORVETTE ENGINEERS IN BOWLING GREEN, WHICH TOOK A WEEK! THEY REPLACED THE GAS CAP AND THAT PROBLEM WENT AWAY ONLY TEMPORALLY! ON FURTHER INSPECTION THE TECH'S AT MY LOCAL CADDY DEALER DETERMINED BY A SMOKE TEST THAT THE CROSSOVER HOSE BETWEEN THE TANKS WAS LEAKING! THEY GAVE ME AN ESTIMATE OF CLOSE TO A $8000.00 REPAIR! THE CAR HAS LESS THAN 54,000 MI. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND I AM SEEING THIS PROBLEM OCCURRING IN THIS MODEL YEAR PERHAPS BECAUSE OF ENGINEERING CHANGES MADE TO CONFORM TO GOVERNMENT EMISSIONS STANDARD CONTROLS! I AM RESEARCHING ALTERNATIVES TO HAVING THE REPAIR DONE BY MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP AS THEY REALLY DON'T SEEM TO BE VERY CAPABLE. THE CAP HAS BEEN CHANGED TWICE AND THE SAME PROBLEMS REOCCUR!
NHTSA complaint #11309062 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,000 milesPalm Beach Gardens, FL
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING PULLED INTO THE GARAGE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS MELTED AND MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR THE CONTACT TO SEE CLEARLY. THE CONTACT CALLED SEVERAL DEALERS, INCLUDING WALLACE CADILLAC (772-286-3555, LOCATED AT 3555 SE FEDERAL HWY, STUART, FL 34997). THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THEY NO LONGER MADE THOSE TYPE OF HEADLIGHTS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED THE CONTACT WITH SEVERAL WEBSITES TO SEARCH FOR USED HEADLIGHTS. THE CONTACT FOUND A COMPANY IN CHICAGO THAT HAD THE HEADLIGHTS, BUT THE COST WAS TOO EXPENSIVE. THE CONTACT MADE AN OFFER THAT WAS NOT ACCEPTABLE TO THE SELLER. THE CONTACT CALLED SEVERAL OTHER COMPANIES, INCLUDING EBAY, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. THE CONTACT CALLED THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION AND THE STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND BOTH REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 42,000.
NHTSA complaint #11217732 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,000 milesPalm Beach Gardens, FL
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE INTERIOR DRL HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES MELTED AND CAUSED THE HEADLIGHTS TO ILLUMINATE DIMLY. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. WALLACE CADILLAC(3555 SE FEDERAL HWY, STUART, FL) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FRONT HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000.
NHTSA complaint #11206015 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 36,788 milesNewark, OH
STRUCTURE:BODY
WHEN DRIVING I NOTICED A SEVERE WHISTLING SOUND COMING FROM JUST ABOVE THE REAR VIEW MIRROR. UPON INSPECTING, I NOTICED THAT THE ROOF PANEL HAD A 8' SECTION THAT HAD SEPARATED. WHEN GOOGLED, I SAW SEVERAL PEOPLE HAD REPORTED THAT THEIR XLR'S HAD A ROOF PANEL SEPARATE WHILE DRIVING. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK IT TO A BODY SHOP AND THEY RE-GLUED THE PANEL BY INJECTING GLUE INTO THE SEPARATION. I HAVE NO IDEA IF THIS IS A RECOMMENDED SOLUTIONN BY GM.
NHTSA complaint #11176647 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 33,320 milesGroveland, FL
STRUCTURE:BODY
WHILE DRIVING ON THE FLORIDA TURNPIKE SUDDENLY THERE WAS A RUSH OF AIR COMING FROM THE REARVIEW MIRROR AREA. I STOPPED AT THE NEXT SERVICE PLAZA AND OBSERVED THE FRONT OF THE ROOF PANEL SEPARATING FROM THE FRAME. GM USED A ADHESIVE ON THESE XLR ROOFS THAT IS FAILING NOW. CORVETTE ROOFS PANELS WERE RECALLED FOR THIS ISSUE AND FAILED ADHESIVE, BUT GM HAS NOT RECALLED THE XLR YET. THEY OPENED A INVESTIGATION AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER OF 2018.
NHTSA complaint #11173362 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 50,000 milesSterling Heights, MI
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
CHECK GAS CAP, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. DEALER SAYS I NEED A NEW RT FUEL TANK BUT NONE ARE AVAILABLE. WHAT DO I DO NOW?
NHTSA complaint #11111395 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 41,800 milesNewark, OH
STRUCTURE:BODY
SEVERAL XLR OWNERS HAVE REPORTED THAT THEIR ROOF PANEL HAS SEPARATED AND FLOWN OFF THE CAR AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. MY TOP BEGAN EMITTING A WHISTLING NOISE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. WHEN INSPECTING IT, THE CENTER FRONT OF THE TOP HAS BEGUN TO SEPARATE. THESE TOPS WERE APPARENTLY ONLY GLUED AS THE ONLY SECUREMENT. NOT MECHANICAL METHODS WERE USED. WHILE MINE HAS NOT TOTALLY SEPARATED, I HAVE TAKEN IT TO A BODY SHOP TO GET IT RE-SECURED. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AND I AM THANKFUL I CAUGHT IT BEFORE CAUSING A SERIOUS ISSUE. IN THE PICTURE SHOWN, THERE SHOULD BE NO GAP BETWEEN THE FRONT SEAL AND THE TOP AT ALL. THE ATTACHED PICTURES SHOW THE TOP BEGINNING TO SEPARATE. FOR REFERENCE, I HAVE SHOWN A TOP THAT TOTALLY SEPARATED TO SHOW THE SERIOUSNESS OF THIS ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #10985013 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesRound Rock, TX
STRUCTURE:BODY
THE RETRACTABLE ROOF FLEW OFF WHILE THE CAR WAS MOVING. GM OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE WITH THIS AND DENIED ANY NEGLIGENCE. CASE #8-2866250293
NHTSA complaint #10970736 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70 milesGardena, CA
STRUCTURE:BODY
I DRIVING FREEWAY ABOUT 70MPH, BIG AIR NOISE THEN ROOF PANEL COME OFF & FRYING.
NHTSA complaint #10970383 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 86,845 milesHesperia, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I PURCHASED A PRE-OWNED 2004 XLR FROM THE DEALERSHIP THE CAR STORE IN RIVERSIDE. UPON STORING IT IN MY GARAGE, I FOUND THE NEXT MORNING AN OVERWHELMING GASOLINE SMELL. UPON TAKING IT TO MY LOCAL GM DEALER FOR INSPECTION, I WAS TOLD THAT THE ISSUE WAS NO LONGER COVERED BY EXTENDED PROTECTION BY CADILLAC AS IT ENDED AFTER A 10 YEAR PERIOD IN JANUARY OF 2014. THIS IS A KNOWN DEFECT WITH THE DESIGN OF THE FUEL TANK SYSTEM AND IS NOT A RECALL ITEM WHICH IS EXTRAORDINARILY DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE DEALT WITH AT NOT COST TO THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE SINCE IT IS A DESIGN FLAW AND NOT AT FAULT OF THE OWNER.
NHTSA complaint #10701012 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.