Last updated: 2026-04-20

2023 Cadillac XT5 Reliability Report
The 2023 Cadillac XT5 scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 13 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
4
Complaints
13
Complaint Rate
4.8per 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
- POWER TRAIN (4)
- ENGINE (2)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2016).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 3 years after the last refresh (2020).
- 1st generation XT5 (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2017: First generation (2016) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2016).
Should You Buy the 2023 Cadillac XT5?
At 72/100, the 2023 Cadillac XT5 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2016).
Owners log 13 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 (4). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2024 Cadillac XT5, which scored the same. See also the 2021 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
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (4 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (3 complaints)
Compare 2023 Cadillac XT5 With

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability: 70/100

2023 Lexus RX
Reliability: 85/100

2023 Acura MDX
Reliability: 79/100

2023 BMW X5
Reliability: 65/100

2023 Volvo XC90
Reliability: 70/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (4)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2023 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
4.8
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 12.1
Safety Incidents
0
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.
2023 Cadillac XT5 Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Cadillac XT5. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Cadillac XT5 and 2024-2025 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The instrument panel may not illuminate when the hazard warning lights, high beams, or turn signals are activated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 101, "Controls and Displays" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Assoc. Equipment."
Consequence
Without the illuminated reminder, the driver could fail to turn off the lights when no longer needed. Hazard warning lights, high beams, or turn signals that remain activated unintentionally can confuse other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the instrument panel software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Cadillac's customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N242447940.
POWER TRAIN
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Cadillac XT6, GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Blazer, Traverse, and 2022-2023 Cadillac XT5 vehicles. The transmission may have been built with an incorrect sun gear, which can result in the driver-side half-shaft disengaging from the transmission.
Consequence
A half-shaft disengaging from the transmission can result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the sun gears, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2023. The remedy is expected to become available August 31, 2023. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GMC's number for this recall is N222389310.
POWER TRAIN
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Cadillac XT5 and GMC Acadia vehicles. The right-front half-shaft assemblies may be improperly connected to the transmission, causing them to separate.
Consequence
Separation between the half-shaft and transmission can result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the right-front half-shaft assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 17, 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 N222393410.
Buying a used 2023 Cadillac XT5? Check its history first
Every 2023 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
2023 Cadillac XT5 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.1%
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 2023 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 | 25 | 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 2023 Cadillac XT5.
Inspect for power train shudder between gears 3 & 4
Check for engine vibrations when switching from 6 to 4 cylinders
Test backup camera for visibility and transition speed
Verify if the front axle is securely connected to the transmission
Ensure steering wheel does not seize during operation
Check for any burnt rubber smell from the engine
2023 Cadillac XT5 Common Problems by Component
13 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
4 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Cadillac XT5 frequently report issues related to the power train, with symptoms including shuddering or vibrating, particularly between gears 3 and 4, and complete loss of power while driving. These problems are noted at various mileage intervals, with some occurring as early as 147 miles. Multiple complaints describe instances where the vehicle becomes unresponsive to throttle input, sometimes accompanied by a grinding noise, and in some cases, the left front axle disconnects from the transmission. Safety implications are significant, as these issues can lead to sudden loss of power and control, posing a risk during driving. Buyers should be aware of these recurring problems, especially in vehicles built between September and October 2022, which may be subject to specific technical bulletins regarding transmission and axle replacements.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2023 Cadillac XT5's rear camera system, specifically noting faint backup camera grid lines and slow transitions from night to day mode. These issues are described as safety concerns, as they impair visibility when reversing, particularly in low-light conditions or when transitioning from a garage to daylight. Complaints highlight that the rear camera's image can be unreadable, especially when wearing sunglasses, and the transition delay can last 15-20 seconds. Additionally, there is a report of the front half of the sunroof exploding while driving, posing a safety risk from falling glass. The vehicle mileage mentioned in these complaints ranges from 19,800 miles to being only a month old, indicating issues can arise relatively early in ownership.
ENGINE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Cadillac XT5 report issues related to engine performance, with symptoms including vehicle shaking and loud engine noises regardless of speed, as well as a burnt rubber smell. One owner notes that the engine's RPMs increase and become stuck when driving downhill, while another mentions vibrations occurring when the engine shifts from 6 to 4 cylinders. These issues are reported at mileage around 30,859. While no crashes, fires, or loss of control are reported, one owner expresses concern for potential safety risks. Buyers considering a used model may find these symptoms relevant, especially if the vehicle has undergone multiple service visits without resolution.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Cadillac XT5 report issues with the backup camera, specifically noting that the camera screen can turn dark or display a black screen while reversing. Complaints frequently mention that this issue is intermittent, with the screen sometimes correcting itself without intervention. Additionally, when the camera functions, the image may appear dim, making it difficult to see. These issues are reported at low mileage, around 15 to 300 miles. No crashes or safety incidents are mentioned, but the visibility problems could affect the driver's ability to safely maneuver the vehicle in reverse.
STEERING (1 complaints)
STEERING
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 Cadillac XT5. The contact stated that on two occasions while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the steering wheel seized, and the vehicle veered to the side of the road. Additionally, the gear shifter malfunctioned and the light to indicate that the vehicle was parked, was inoperable. The ABS, Check engine, powertrain malfunction, and brake warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that unknown part needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,000. The contact stated after being in the shop for three months the first time and completely gutted (after only having the vehicle for 10 days) it was returned to her. The manufacturer and dealer refused to issue a buyback for the vehicle.
LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)
LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 Cadillac XT5. The contact stated that upon purchase of the vehicle, she was informed that the full camera system had yet to be installed and that the part would become available in the 4th quarter of 2022. The contact also stated that while driving at various spends, the lane departure warning feature activated with no other vehicles nearby. The contact also stated that the back-up camera failed to operate as needed with an unknown alert message on the infotainment screen. The dealer was notified of the failure and referred her to a local dealer for assistance with the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 800.
When Do 2023 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 2023 Cadillac XT5 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Cadillac XT5?
How many recalls does the 2023 Cadillac XT5 have?
Is the 2023 Cadillac XT5 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2023 Cadillac XT5 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
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.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More Cadillac Models
Browse More 2023 Vehicles

2023 Lexus RX
Score: 85/100

2023 Nissan Altima
Score: 84/100

2023 Toyota Crown
Score: 84/100

2023 Lexus IS
Score: 83/100

2023 Toyota 4RUNNER
Score: 82/100

2023 Acura RDX
Score: 82/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue

