Last updated: 2026-07-26

2020 Cadillac XT6
RELIABILITY SCORE: 72/100 (GOOD)

2020 Cadillac XT6 Reliability Report

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 36 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

4

Complaints

36

Complaint Rate

2.8per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$783

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,000

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity78/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs60/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact71/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity84/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
  • POWER TRAIN (7)
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION (6)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Redesign Year

2020 is the first model year of the First generation (U26).

  • First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
  • Redesigned for the 2020 model year.
  • 1st generation XT6 (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 2020 pricing and recall counts against 2021+ before deciding.

2020: First generation (U26) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

Should You Buy the 2020 Cadillac XT6?

At 72/100, the 2020 Cadillac XT6 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.

Owners log 36 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 (8). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2021 Cadillac XT6, which scored 1 points higher.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
  • +5-star NHTSA crash rating

Cons

  • Moderate recall count
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (8 complaints)
  • POWER TRAIN issues reported (7 complaints)

Compare 2020 Cadillac XT6 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 4 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
  • POWER TRAIN (7)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

4

recalls on record

A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2020 Cadillac XT6. 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

2.8

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 20.2

LowAvgHigh
Low

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.

2020 Cadillac XT6 Recall Details

4 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Cadillac XT6. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

20V4460002020-07-30

AIR BAGS

General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT5 and XT6, Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500 and Traverse and GMC Acadia and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The diffuser component of the Roof-Rail Air Bag (RRAB) inflator may not have been properly crimped to the inflator and could separate from the inflator during air bag deployment.

Consequence

If the diffuser separates from the inflator during deployment, RRAB performance may be degraded, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect RRAB modules, free of charge. The recall began September 3, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is N202305380.

22V7090002022-09-22

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.

20V6680002020-10-29

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.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2020 Cadillac XT6? Check its history first

Every 2020 Cadillac XT6 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2020 Cadillac XT6 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 16.4%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (None)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Cadillac XT6Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$783

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

20 MPG

Running cost: $3,200/yr

Fuel + repair

17–18 city / 24–25 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 2020 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
XT6 AWD 3.6L 6-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S9)172420$3,000
XT6 FWD 3.6L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S9)182520$3,000

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Cadillac XT6.

  • Test infotainment system for backup camera functionality

  • Check for transmission shudder at low RPMs

  • Verify fuel gauge accuracy during startup

  • Inspect for water leaks in rear window and cabin

  • Check for moldy smell from air conditioning vents

  • Confirm all electrical components are functioning, especially after battery replacement

  • Ensure steering assist functions correctly and no warning lights are present

2020 Cadillac XT6 Common Problems by Component

36 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

8
7
6
4
7
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)POWER TRAIN (7)BACK OVER PREVENTION (6)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)TIRES (1)ENGINE (1)STRUCTURE (1)Other (7)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

8 complaints

Owners report multiple electrical issues with the 2020 Cadillac XT6, particularly with the body control module, backup cameras, and fuel gauge. Complaints frequently mention the body control module needing replacement, sometimes immediately after purchase. Backup cameras intermittently fail, displaying a warning symbol, and are linked to a service bulletin suggesting a cable replacement. Fuel gauges also malfunction intermittently, not showing fuel levels accurately, which requires dealership intervention but often without error codes. These issues occur across a range of mileages, from as low as 400 miles to over 30,000 miles. Safety implications include potential driving risks due to unreliable fuel readings and non-functional cameras, which could affect vehicle operation in critical situations.

8 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

7 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Cadillac XT6 frequently report transmission-related issues, with symptoms such as transmission jerking, shuddering at low RPMs, and intermittent shifting problems. These issues are noted at various mileage ranges, with some complaints occurring as early as 60,740 miles. Additionally, several owners mention a "Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care" message and check engine light illumination, which sometimes coincide with power loss or engine shutdowns. Safety implications include potential vehicle control challenges due to reduced steering assist and transmission performance issues, but no crashes or fires are reported. Buyers should be aware of these patterns and consider the potential need for repairs, especially as some problems persist even after multiple dealership visits.

7 complaints total

BACK OVER PREVENTION

6 complaints

Owners report two primary issues with the 2020 Cadillac XT6 in the back over prevention category: problems with the rearview camera and unexpected braking while reversing. Complaints frequently mention the rearview camera failing intermittently, displaying a black screen with warning symbols, and often malfunctioning in cooler temperatures. This issue is noted at varying mileages, with one report at 16,572 miles. Additionally, some owners describe sudden, strong braking while reversing, particularly on downward slopes, without prior warning. These issues raise safety concerns due to the vehicle's blind spots and the potential for unexpected braking, which could lead to accidents.

6 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

4 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Cadillac XT6 report issues primarily related to the rearview camera and cooling system. Multiple complaints mention the backup camera intermittently failing to activate when the vehicle is in reverse, with some owners noting that the problem persists even after repairs, such as camera replacement. This issue is described as a potential safety hazard by owners. Additionally, a notable problem involves the engine coolant thermostat opening at incorrect temperatures, leading to the check engine light illuminating and a reduction in steering assistance, although this issue is not officially recognized for all vehicles. Another owner reports a persistent moldy smell from the air conditioning system, believed to originate from the condenser. These complaints do not specify mileage ranges, but they highlight concerns that may be relevant for potential buyers considering this model.

4 complaints total
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint
2026-06-19

Vehicle stalled while driving on a busy road creating a very dangerous situation. Could not put it in neutral to push it out of the road; it was partially in the road for over an hour. Had to have it towed to replace the fuel pump and fuel pump control unit. Found two recalls after the incident and was told by Cadillac that my VIN was excluded. 1. Fuel Pump Assembly Recall (N202314760 / NHTSA Campaign 20V639) Fuel Pump Power Control Module Recall (N252516900) Out of pocket expense was $1173.97

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint
2025-09-20

While driving approximately 15 MPH I noticed a scraping sound and shimmy in the back. I took the car to Capital Cadillac for diagnostic. They found that the tires were separated. I bought the car brand new in 2020 and it has about 21k miles on it. 265/45 R 21 104 V

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint
2025-07-14

The Radiator is not functioning, confirmed by a mechanic at a dealership. An engine light did appear to notify me of the problem, however the car has been kept in great condition without accident or cause for the radiator to stop functioning in such a young vehicle.

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint
2025-06-11

Way back rear window leaks in car wash or heavy rain.

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint
2024-07-15

There is a known problem, which Cadillac refuses to recall, regarding a steering assist reduced warning. The warning light disables the air conditioning system and steering assist. When the light comes on, reduced power to the steering system occurs. I took the vehicle in to be serviced, but the service light was off, and Cadillac refused to fix it; intentionally trying to run the timer out on the 5year/70,000 powertrain warranty. It's a known issue, all over the internet. In fact, they recalled several models due to the same problem. "19V-086 / N182182760 Recall Summary If the steering assistance is not available, extra effort would be required to steer the vehicle, and this would increase risk of a crash. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, and 2017 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles." I've reset the light several times, and it usually stays off for several days before returning. This sounds like a software problem, but Cadillac has not taken any steps to fix the issue. It is dangerous for any reduction in steering, especially during winter or at highway speed. It's also dangerous to disable air conditioning, as during the summer, the temperature can reach above 140 F inside a vehicle. If a driver were to have a medical event in a parking lot, or fall asleep with the vehicle on while simply waiting for somebody -- while assuming the air conditioner would keep them cool and comfortable -- within 10 minutes the temperature could reach 130+ degrees, and into the 150s in California or Las Vegas. Software should never reduce steering assist, or disable the air conditioner automatically. I would like a recall to be issued regarding this problem. I don't know if they have designed the system to fail right at the warranty or just after, but it certainly appears that way. Please look into the matter. Cadillac has refused to repair under warranty. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint
2023-06-02

The contact owns a 2020 Cadillac XT6. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the instrument panel went black. The vehicle was restarted, and the instrument panel lights illuminated but the vehicle began shaking from the driver's side. The check oil warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that she felt heat coming from where her feet were located under the dashboard. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined the driver's speaker was inoperable due to unknown electrical fault and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. On another occasion, while driving 10 MPH, the contact observed a dripping noise coming from underneath the vehicle. The check oil warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the oil needed to be changed. Additionally, while driving at 60 MPH she observed condensation on the outside of the windshield. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,753.

When Do 2020 Cadillac XT6 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

400–30,000 milesElectrical system failures
60,000–70,000 milesTransmission shudder
16,000–30,000 milesBackup camera failures

Best & Worst Cadillac XT6 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Cadillac XT6 Years to Buy

The best Cadillac XT6 year is 2026 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (74/100) and 2024 (73/100).

Cadillac XT6 Years to Avoid

No Cadillac XT6 years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Cadillac XT6 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

Cadillac XT6 Reliability Score Trend

Cadillac XT6 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 73/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Cadillac XT6 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
202072/100Good
202173/100Good
202272/100Good
202373/100Good
202473/100Good
202574/100Good
202676/100Good

Cadillac XT6 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202676/100+2Good00
202574/100+1Good18
202473/1000Good214
202373/100+1Good213
202272/100-1Good314
202173/100+1Good218
2020(selected)72/100Good436

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 Cadillac XT6 reliable?
The 2020 Cadillac XT6 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 72/100. It is reasonably reliable with 4 recalls and 36 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Cadillac XT6?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 Cadillac XT6 include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints), POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), BACK OVER PREVENTION (6 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints), FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2020 Cadillac XT6 have?
The 2020 Cadillac XT6 has 4 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2020 Cadillac XT6 expensive to maintain?
The 2020 Cadillac XT6 has estimated annual repair costs of $783/year. With a reliability score of 72/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2020 Cadillac XT6 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.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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 XT6.

No spam. Only data updates for this model.

See incorrect data? Report an issue