7 Best & Worst Cadillac XTS Years (Complaints, Recalls, Stats)

The Cadillac XTS has experienced various changes throughout the years, with some models exceeding expectations while others fell short.

In this article, we will explore the best and worst years for the Cadillac XTS, providing valuable insight to potential buyers and enthusiasts alike.

The Best Year for Cadillac XTS

The 2019 Cadillac XTS stands out as the best year for this luxury large car model.

One of the primary reasons why the 2019 XTS is considered the best year is due to its upgraded features and improvements compared to earlier years.

The vehicle offered a smooth ride and an impressive combination of performance, comfort, and style that met the expectations of luxury car enthusiasts.

Key attributes of the 2019 Cadillac XTS included:

• a spacious and comfortable cabin,
• featuring high-quality materials
• and advanced technology features.

The infotainment system was user-friendly, and passengers enjoyed ample space, adding to the overall appeal of this model year.

The 2nd Best Year for Cadillac XTS

The 2017 Cadillac XTS stands out as the second-best model year for this luxury sedan.

This year marked significant improvements in terms of:

• features,
• reliability,
• and overall driving experience.

One of the notable enhancements of the 2017 XTS was its V-Sport Premium Luxury trim level. This model came equipped with a 3.6L Turbo V6 Gas engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission, providing an impressive balance of power and fuel efficiency.

Additionally, the 2017 XTS received high marks for its interior design and comfort.

Consumers appreciated the plush, spacious seating, as well as the user-friendly infotainment system.

The integration of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and forward collision alert, contributed to the model’s appeal and increased the overall sense of security for drivers and passengers alike.

In comparison to other model years, the 2017 Cadillac XTS managed to strike a balance between performance and luxury, without sacrificing reliability.

Its exceptional features and enhanced driving experience make it an ideal choice for those seeking a quality ride and a touch of sophistication.

Other Good Years for Cadillac XTS

These years offer respectable performance and features, contributing to the overall reputation of the model.

The following is a list of additional good years for the Cadillac XTS:

• 2016: The 2016 Cadillac XTS V-Sport Premium featured a 3.6L Turbo V6 Gas engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive as standard. With improved handling and a strong focus on luxury and comfort, the 2016 model was well-received by buyers and critics alike.
• 2017: The 2017 Cadillac XTS V-Sport Premium Luxury continued to build on previous features, offering the same engine and transmission as the 2016 model. Additionally, various technological and safety enhancements were implemented, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a sophisticated and safe luxury vehicle.
• 2019: The 2019 model year saw the inclusion of several available active safety systems, increasing the overall safety of the vehicle. Buyers also had the option of a performance-oriented V-Sport version, providing an extra level of excitement and driving dynamics for those seeking a sportier experience.

Other good years for the Cadillac XTS remain highly sought after for their balance of performance, luxury, and safety features.

Each of these model years has contributed to the enduring appeal of the XTS, earning its place as a reliable and sophisticated choice within the luxury vehicle market.

The Worst Year for Cadillac XTS

Among the various years of the Cadillac XTS production, the 2013 model stands out as the most troublesome.

According to car owners’ complaints and several reports, the 2013 Cadillac XTS experienced a higher number of issues compared to other model years.

One of the main concerns with the 2013 XTS was the quality and performance of its electrical system, which was reported to cause several inconveniences for drivers.

While this issue was not catastrophic, it did create frustration for some owners.

Despite these shortcomings, it is essential to recognize that the 2013 Cadillac XTS was not without merit.

Many owners enjoyed the vehicle’s styling, performance, and features.

Additionally, not all units suffered from these issues, and some drivers had positive experiences with their 2013 XTS models. While this year may have had some notable setbacks compared to its counterparts, it still had valuable qualities as a luxury sedan.

Other Bad Years for Cadillac XTS

While the 2013 Cadillac XTS model year tends to have the most overall complaints, there are some other years that also faced some challenges, albeit to a lesser extent.

Below are a few additional Cadillac XTS years that experienced issues:

• 2017 Cadillac XTS: This model year saw some changes and updates, but it also had a few drawbacks. Primarily, the infotainment system was reported to be slow and unresponsive at times, causing some user frustration.
• 2015 Cadillac XTS: Some drivers reported excessive tire wear and occasional issues with the electronic parking brake. While these concerns were not as widespread as those found in other years, they still deserve mention.
• 2014 Cadillac XTS: There were a few reports of steering issues in the 2014 XTS model, where the power steering would occasionally stop working temporarily. While this issue wasn’t as common, it deserves attention due to its potential impact on driving safety.

It is worth noting that these issues do not represent the experience of all Cadillac XTS owners from these model years, but rather those who encountered specific problems.

In many cases, XTS drivers enjoyed their vehicles and experienced minimal issues, if any.

However, these additional years are highlighted to provide greater context for potential buyers.

Years with the Most Recalls

The Cadillac XTS has experienced recalls in various model years. These recalls have ranged from minor software updates to more significant concerns related to safety or the performance of the vehicle.

According to the search results, the 2013 Cadillac XTS has the most overall complaints.

This is supported by CarComplaints.com, which rates 2013 as the worst model year due to factors such as repair cost and average mileage when problems occur.

Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides recall data that can be used to identify the worst years for Cadillac XTS recalls.

The following table presents the years with the most recalls for the Cadillac XTS:

As displayed in the table, the 2013 model had the highest number of recalls, followed by the 2014 and 2015 models.

Check also Cadillacs with the most recalls.

It is important to note that the number of recalls may not directly correlate with the severity of issues in a specific model year. However, it can serve as an indication of potential concerns that may require attention.

Common Cadillac XTS Problems to Look for

The Cadillac XTS has experienced some common problems across multiple model years, with certain issues being more prominent in particular years.

Here are a few issues to be aware of when considering purchasing an XTS:

• Cue System Screen Delamination: This issue has been reported in the 2013 XTS model, with an average cost to fix of $1,500 and occurring at around 59,000 miles.
• Shocks Cracked: The 2015 XTS has had reported problems with cracked shocks, leading to an average repair cost of $1,600.

Furthermore, there have been reported complaints about the 2019, 2018, and 2017 Cadillac XTS models.

While specific issues vary, staying informed about common defects can help potential buyers make more educated decisions on which model year to choose.

Go back to select best and worst year for every Cadillac model.

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.