Last updated: 2026-04-20
2021 Cadillac XT5 Reliability Report
The 2021 Cadillac XT5 scores 73/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 24 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
3
Complaints
24
Complaint Rate
8.5per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$807
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,850–$3,300
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
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3)
- STEERING (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is 1 year after the 2020 update refresh.
- Year 5 in the First generation (2016) (2017–2023).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 1st generation XT5 (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2017: First generation (2016) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2021: This Model Year
2021 is 1 year after the 2020 update refresh.
Should You Buy the 2021 Cadillac XT5?
At 73/100, the 2021 Cadillac XT5 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 is 1 year after the 2020 update refresh.
Owners log 24 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 electrical system (6). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2023 Cadillac XT5, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2020 Cadillac XT5 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (5 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (4 complaints)
Compare 2021 Cadillac XT5 With
2021 Lexus RX
Reliability: 86/100
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability: 65/100
2021 BMW X5
Reliability: 57/100
2021 Volvo XC90
Reliability: 72/100
2021 Audi Q5
Reliability: 66/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2021 Cadillac XT5. 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
8.5
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 17.5
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Cadillac XT5 Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Cadillac XT5. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
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.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Cadillac XT5, XT6, and GMC Acadia vehicles equipped with the optional Surround Vision feature. The rearview camera coaxial cable connectors may have been crimped improperly, causing the rearview camera to fail or function intermittently.
Consequence
An inoperative rearview camera can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the coaxial cables, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 18, 2023. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222378380.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac XT5, XT6, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The fuel supply lines may be improperly attached and seated.
Consequence
Improperly attached and seated fuel supply lines may loosen or separate, causing a fuel leak and increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace fuel supply lines as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212335590.
Buying a used 2021 Cadillac XT5? Check its history first
Every 2021 Cadillac XT5 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
2021 Cadillac XT5 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.9%
Safety Technologies
Cadillac XT5Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$807
Repair Frequency
0.6
unscheduled repair visits per year
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
21–24 MPG
Running cost: $3,650–$4,100/yr
Fuel + repair
18–22 city / 23–29 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XT5 AWD 3.6L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 18 | 26 | 21 | $2,850 |
| XT5 FWD 3.6L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 19 | 26 | 21 | $2,850 |
| XT5 FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 22 | 29 | 24 | $2,900 |
| XT5 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 21 | 27 | 23 | $3,000 |
| XT5 Hearse AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 20 | 23 | 21 | $3,300 |
| XT5 Hearse FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 20 | 23 | 21 | $3,300 |
| XT5 Limo AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 20 | 23 | 21 | $3,300 |
| XT5 Limo FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 20 | 23 | 21 | $3,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Cadillac XT5.
Inspect fuel pump control module for signs of failure
Test power steering for sudden loss of assistance
Verify infotainment system responsiveness and functionality
Check back over prevention camera for intermittent failures
Inspect sunroof and windshield for cracks or unexpected breakage
Test brakes for unusual resistance or surging
2021 Cadillac XT5 Common Problems by Component
24 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Cadillac XT5 report multiple issues related to the electrical system, with frequent mention of sudden shutdowns and unresponsive infotainment screens. Symptoms include the vehicle unexpectedly immobilizing itself with emergency brakes engaged, and the infotainment system going black, affecting HVAC, GPS, and safety features like Lane Keep Assist. Complaints also note a lack of audio alerts, such as seatbelt chimes, persisting for extended periods without resolution. Mileage at the time of these issues varies, with some reports occurring around 34,000 miles and others at higher mileages. Safety implications are evident, with one report involving a crash where electrical safety features failed to operate post-collision.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Cadillac XT5 report a range of issues that include braking problems, exhaust system failures, sunroof breakage, and camera malfunctions. One owner describes intermittent braking issues where the vehicle feels like it is pushing against the brakes, requiring firm pedal pressure to stop, which led to a near collision. Another owner reports a muffler failure due to internal breakage, attributed to vibrations, which was not covered under warranty. A separate complaint involves the sunroof shattering unexpectedly on a hot day, with no external debris found. Additionally, there is a report of the rearview camera malfunctioning, displaying a blank screen when reversing. These issues vary in severity and occurrence, with some posing potential safety concerns such as the braking problem leading to a near collision.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Cadillac XT5 frequently report failures of the fuel pump control module. These failures occur without warning, leading to situations where the vehicle either shuts down while driving or fails to start when parked. Typical symptoms include a complete loss of power and difficulty steering, with some owners noting the inability to put the vehicle in neutral easily. The issues are reported at mileage as low as 15,063 and again around 34,612 miles. Safety implications are significant, as one owner describes being stranded in the middle of a six-lane highway, indicating potential risks in high-traffic situations. Additionally, another owner reports a separate issue of significant lag when pressing the gas pedal, with the vehicle feeling underpowered compared to its stated horsepower.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Cadillac XT5 frequently report issues with the power steering system, specifically noting sudden loss of power steering while driving. The typical symptoms described include the steering becoming almost impossible to maneuver, posing a significant challenge especially for drivers who may not have the physical strength to control the vehicle without power assistance. Complaints do not specify exact mileage ranges, but they highlight the unexpected nature of the failure, often occurring without prior warning. The safety implications are notable, as the loss of steering control could lead to dangerous situations, particularly at high speeds or on curvy roads. Potential buyers should be aware that while some vehicles have received software updates to address this issue, not all affected vehicles are currently included in existing recalls.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsOwners report intermittent failures with the back over prevention system in the 2021 Cadillac XT5, with issues primarily involving the camera not operating as needed. Complaints frequently mention that there are no warning lights when the camera fails, and the issue occurs around 10,000 miles. In another similar model, the back over prevention sensor activates without obstacles present, and the warning light illuminates, but the issue cannot be consistently duplicated by dealers. These problems occur around 32,000 miles. While no safety incidents like crashes or loss of control are reported, the unpredictable nature of these failures may impact the reliability of the vehicle's safety features.
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Cadillac XT5 report two distinct visibility-related issues. One complaint describes a windshield crack caused by a rock while driving at 30 MPH, with the issue occurring at approximately 60,000 miles. Another complaint involves the sunroof glass exploding without impact while driving at 70 MPH, with the mileage noted at about 22,000. Although these incidents involve different components, both result in compromised visibility. There are no reports of injuries or crashes associated with these failures, but the sudden nature of the sunroof incident could pose potential safety risks.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2021 Cadillac XT4. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic signal, the signal turned green; however, when the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle hesitated before responding as needed. The contact stated that the vehicle lunged into motion. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent at first but became a recurring failure. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the cam shaft and transmission needed to be rebuilt. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety restraint warning light came on. Took to dealership. They had for 3 days claimed it was repaired. Light came back on 2 days later. Dealership has now had my vehicle 10 days, stating I need a new side drivers airbag. They do not know when it will arrive. I have seen other complaints in this model for faulty airbag sensors/units.
When Do 2021 Cadillac XT5 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Cadillac XT5 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Cadillac XT5 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Cadillac XT5 year is 2026 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2019 (78/100) and 2018 (77/100).
Cadillac XT5 Years to Avoid
No Cadillac XT5 years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Cadillac XT5 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Cadillac XT5 Reliability Score Trend
Cadillac XT5 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 75/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 81/100 | Excellent |
Cadillac XT5 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Cadillac XT5 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Cadillac XT5?
How many recalls does the 2021 Cadillac XT5 have?
Is the 2021 Cadillac XT5 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Cadillac XT5 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 XT5.
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