Last updated: 2026-10-10
2023 Cadillac XT5 Reliability Report
The 2023 Cadillac XT5 has good reliability, but owners report power train shudder and a few cases of sudden loss of drive.
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
Final year of the first generation, with four recalls and power train shudder as the main complaint, versus three recalls for 2024.
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?
Good reliability is the verdict on this final first-generation year. Against other 2023 SUVs it sits close to average, and among the XT5's scored model years it lands in the middle of eight. The 2024 rates about the same, so neither year has a clear edge. It also earns 5 of 5 stars in federal crash testing.
Only 13 owner complaints are on file, but the worst ones involve the power train. Some drivers describe a sudden loss of drive at highway speed, with revs climbing and no acceleration. One front axle pulled out of the transmission within the first few hundred miles. Others feel shudder or vibration at certain speeds, and a transmission fluid change did not cure one case. Two owners saw the backup camera go dark within the first 300 miles. Federal records list four recalls: electrical system, equipment, and two for the power train.
Ask the seller for proof that all four recalls were completed. Request transmission service records, and test drive at several speeds to feel for shudder. Check that the backup camera works in daylight.
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: Shudder and vibration are the most common reports (4 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Most of these reports are about how hard the backup camera is to see (3 complaints)
Compare 2023 Cadillac XT5 With
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability: 70/100
2023 Lexus RX
Reliability: 85/100
2023 Volvo XC90
Reliability: 70/100
2023 Acura MDX
Reliability: 79/100
2023 BMW X5
Reliability: 65/100
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: 11.3
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
Power train problems lead owner complaints about the 2023 Cadillac XT5, and 4 recalls were issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.
- 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.
Drive at varied city and highway speeds and feel for shudder or jerking, especially on the shift between gears 3 and 4.
Ask for records of torque converter, transmission fluid, or transmission software work done for vibration complaints.
Check service history for front axle or drive shaft repairs linked to a loss of drive.
Cruise lightly on a level road and feel for vibration when the engine switches from 6 to 4 cylinders.
Coast down a long hill and watch whether engine revs stick between 3,000 and 4,000.
Back out of a dark garage into bright sun and time how long the camera image stays dark.
Check that the backup camera grid lines are clearly visible in daylight and at night.
Inspect the sunroof glass for cracks and ask whether it has ever been replaced.
2023 Cadillac XT5 Common Problems by Component
13 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
4 complaintsShudder and vibration are the most common reports. Drivers feel jerking at certain speeds or a vibrating floorboard, and one shop traced a shudder between gears 3 and 4 to the torque converter. A transmission fluid change did not cure the problem in another case. More serious reports describe a sudden loss of drive at highway speed. The engine revs climb, but the car does not accelerate, and a front axle pulls out of the transmission within the first few hundred miles. Another car lost all power in traffic, with no lights or flashers, and stayed stuck in park until towed.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsMost of these reports are about how hard the backup camera is to see. The grid lines are too faint to see, and there is no contrast adjustment. After the car leaves a dark garage, the camera stays in night mode for 15 to 20 seconds, and the image is unreadable in bright sun. Some drivers find the picture too dark even at night, and dealers offer no fix. In a separate report, the front half of a closed sunroof shattered while driving. That puts occupants and following traffic at risk, and the repair went through an insurance claim.
ENGINE
2 complaintsThe whole car shakes and vibrates while driving. Reports describe shaking at any speed along with a loud engine noise, a burnt rubber smell, and a jerky ride. On downhills, revs can stick between 3,000 and 4,000. A transmission software update and repeat dealer visits have not solved it, and dealers sometimes cannot reproduce the problem. A separate vibration shows up when the engine switches from 6 to 4 cylinders, and a dealer has confirmed it. An engine oil leak repair also appears in the history.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsThe backup camera screen goes dark or fully black, sometimes in full daylight, and then recovers on its own. The failures come and go, and even when the camera works, the image can be too dim to read. Both reports came at very low mileage, within the first 300 miles. Dealers either said the system works as designed or found no cause, and neither car was repaired. A dark screen while reversing makes it easier to back into people or objects.
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.
Best & Worst Cadillac XT5 Years
Best Cadillac XT5 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreCadillac XT5 Years to Avoid
No Cadillac XT5 years are statistical outliers in our data.
Scores stay between 71 and 81 across 8 scored model years.
Cadillac XT5 Reliability Score Trend
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?
Does the 2023 Cadillac XT5 have transmission problems?
Does the 2023 Cadillac XT5 have backup camera problems?
Is the 2023 Cadillac XT5 better than the 2024?
Don’t buy a 2023 Cadillac XT5 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2023 Cadillac XT5
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2023 Cadillac XT5 does best on how many systems draw complaints (79/100) and worst on repair costs (70/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.
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