Last updated: 2026-07-25

2019 Cadillac XT4 Reliability Report
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 scores 70/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 20 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
3
Complaints
20
Complaint Rate
6.3per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
N/A
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (6)
- ENGINE (4)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (4)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is the first model year of the First generation (XT4).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- Refreshed in 2024.
- 1st generation XT4 (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2019 pricing and recall counts against 2020+ before deciding.
2019: First generation (XT4) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2019 Cadillac XT4?
At 70/100, the 2019 Cadillac XT4 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Owners log 20 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (6). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 Cadillac XT4, which scored 2 points lower.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- +Only 20 complaints reported
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (6 complaints)
- −ENGINE: Oil leaks and timing chain tensioner problems (4 complaints)
Compare 2019 Cadillac XT4 With

2019 BMW X1
Reliability: 72/100

2019 Audi Q3
Reliability: 72/100

2019 Lexus NX
Reliability: 77/100

2019 Volvo XC40
Reliability: 60/100

2019 Acura RDX
Reliability: 66/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (6)
- ENGINE (4)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2019 Cadillac XT4. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
6.3
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 21.2
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Cadillac XT4 Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Cadillac XT4. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Cadillac XT4 vehicles equipped with the optional Surround Vision feature. The video processing module (VPM) may lose communication with the rearview camera, causing a loss of the rearview camera image.
Consequence
Failure of the rearview camera image to display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the VPM software or replace the VPM, as necessary, free of charge. An interim owner notification letter informing owners of the safety defect was mailed January 17, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 3, 2023. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222373320. .
SEAT BELTS
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.
Consequence
An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212333380.
POWER TRAIN
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
Consequence
Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
Buying a used 2019 Cadillac XT4? Check its history first
Every 2019 Cadillac XT4 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Cadillac XT4 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.7%
Safety Technologies
Cadillac XT4Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Cadillac XT4.
Inspect for oil leaks around the camshaft carrier and intake manifold
Check timing chain tensioner for noise at cold start
Test daytime running lights for dimming or failure
Verify transmission operation for shuddering or bucking during acceleration
Check for any engine check lights or overheating warnings
Ensure throttle and accelerator pedal response is smooth and not jerky
2019 Cadillac XT4 Common Problems by Component
20 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
6 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Cadillac XT4 frequently report issues related to the powertrain, with common symptoms including check engine lights, loss of engine power, and transmission problems. Complaints often mention engine overheating, reduced engine power, and transmission failures, with some owners experiencing these issues shortly after warranty expiration or around 31,000 miles. Multiple reports describe vehicles not starting, requiring towing, or experiencing severe jerking during acceleration, potentially indicating throttle or transmission defects. Safety implications include concerns about stalling in traffic and the potential for rear-end collisions due to jerky acceleration. These patterns suggest that prospective buyers should be aware of potential powertrain issues, especially with vehicles approaching or exceeding 30,000 miles.
ENGINE
4 complaintsOwners report several engine-related issues with the 2019 Cadillac XT4, primarily involving oil leaks and timing chain tensioner problems. Complaints frequently mention oil leaks from the camshaft oil seal and camshaft carrier, often identified during routine service without prior symptoms, at mileages ranging from 22,000 to 51,534. Another issue involves the timing chain tensioner failing around 17,000 miles, with symptoms including noise at cold start until oil pressure builds. Multiple owners describe costly repairs, with some noting the need for repeated attempts to resolve oil leak issues. There are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control related to these engine problems. This information may be useful for prospective buyers considering the potential for early engine repairs.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
4 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Cadillac XT4 frequently report issues with the daytime running lights (DRLs), particularly noting failures in the passenger side unit. Symptoms include dim or completely inoperable DRLs, with some attributing the problem to overheating and inadequate thermal management, such as the absence of a heatsink thermal compound. Complaints often mention the issue arising around 75,000 to 89,750 miles. Safety implications are noted, as reduced visibility and non-functioning turn signals may increase the risk of accidents. Buyers considering this model should be aware of potential costs for diagnosing and replacing the DRL units.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Cadillac XT4 report issues with camshaft carrier leaks and brake failures. One owner describes a camshaft carrier leak discovered during a routine inspection, which they note is reportedly common among Cadillac vehicles, with repair costs estimated at $4,000. Another complaint involves a brake failure that resulted in a crash, where the driver was unable to stop the vehicle despite pressing the brakes fully, leading to the car ending up in a ditch. The brake failure incident indicates a significant safety concern due to the loss of control. These reports suggest potential costly repairs and safety risks that prospective buyers should consider.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaintMy water pump failed do to a cover that fell off during driving on a rainy day and water got inside the chip board and fried my water pump and car engine reduced speed all suddenly almost got hit on the back by another vehicle do to speed reduced and stalled do to engine overheating
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintHAD A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT OCCUR AFTER A DEALER WARRANTY INSTALLED ENGINE. THE DTC CODE WAS "PO496". THIS TURNED OUT TO BE A PARGE PUMP FAILURE. VEHICLE IS 4 YEARS AND 9 MONTHS OLD, MILAGE AT 34285. DEALER SAYING THAT PART IS NOT COVERED ANY LONGER UNDER WARRANTIES OF ANY TYPE. THE REPAIR COST ME $671.89. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY EARLY FAILURE OF AN EMMISIONS CONTROL COMPONENT.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint2019 CADILLAC XT-4 [XXX] MILEAGE IN FIRST SERVICE ATTEMPT 27500 4/28/2023 BROUGHT THE XT-4 IN FOR SERVICE IN WILLIAMSBURG VIRGINIA AND FOR AN OIL DRIP PROBLEM. OIL LEAKING DOWN THE SIDE OF THE MOTOR FACING THE PASSENGER SIDE. DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUOS GASKETS AND ENGINE COVERS AND RETURNED THE VEHICLE ALONG WITH THE SERVICE AND STATE INSPECTION WORK. REPAIRS MADE UNDER POWERTRAIN WARRANTY. ENGINE CONTINUED TO LEAK AND WAS BROUGHT BACK INTO THE DEALERSHIP 05/02/2023. DEALER SAID THAT THE OIL PAN WAS CRACKED AND THEY REPLACED IT UNDER POWERTRAIN WARRANTY. ENGINE CONTINUES TO LEAK, AND WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ON 05/08/2023 FOR MORE REPAIRS ALONG WITH A FAILED BATTERY. ENGINE IS STILL BEING WORKED ON AS OF 05/12/2023. DEALER SAYING THAT ENGINE HAS A LEAKING HEAD GASKET AND THAT GM IS STARTING TO REALIZE THAT THEY HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THIS ENGINE. REPAIR REQUIRES SPECIALIZED TOOLING FOR INSTALLING THE HEAD GASKET. STARTING TO RUN INTO 10 DAYS NOW WITH THE LOSS OF USE OF THE XT-4. OIL LEAK IS AFFECTING THE ENGINE PERFORMANCE STALLING AND CHUGGING AND MAY BE MAKING ITS WAY INTO THE PASSENGER FRONT RIGHT BRAKING SYSTEM. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
SUSPENSION (1 complaints)
SUSPENSION
1 complaintA WEEK AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE THERE IS A SQUEAKING NOISE COMING FROM THE LEFT DRIVER SIDE. DRIVING OVER SPEED BUMPS MAKING LEFT TURNS THE SQUEAKING IS PRESENT. TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING OR HEAR ANY SQUEAKING. I ASKED THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT TO TAKE A RIDE WITH ME AND HE HEARD THE SQUEAKING NOISE. TODAY THE NOISE IS STILL PRESENT NOW THERE'S THE SQUEAKING AND FIBRATION COMING FROM THE DRIVER SIDE. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT PUT A TICKET IN TO GM TO SEE IF ANYONE ELSE HAD THE ISSUE. THIS IS A BRAND NEW CAR PURCHASED WITH 11 MILES. IT APPEARS TO BE THE SUSPENSION.
When Do 2019 Cadillac XT4 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Cadillac XT4 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Cadillac XT4 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Cadillac XT4 year is 2026 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (75/100) and 2025 (72/100).
Cadillac XT4 Years to Avoid
No Cadillac XT4 years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Cadillac XT4 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Cadillac XT4 Reliability Score Trend
Cadillac XT4 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 72/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 76/100 | Good |
Cadillac XT4 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Cadillac XT4 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Cadillac XT4?
How many recalls does the 2019 Cadillac XT4 have?
Is the 2019 Cadillac XT4 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Cadillac XT4 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Cadillac XT4.
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