2004 Cadillac SRX

Introduction

The 2004 Cadillac SRX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The standard engine was a 3.6L V6 with 255 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. An optional 4.6L V8 engine was available, producing 320 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The SRX was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engines. However, it was also criticized for its poor fuel economy and some reliability issues.

Engine

3.6L V6

• Timing chain failure: The timing chain can stretch or break, causing the engine to lose power or fail. Symptoms: rattling noise from the engine, loss of power, engine failure. Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. Symptoms: rough idle, loss of power, check engine light. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Oil leaks: The SRX is known to develop oil leaks from various components, including the valve covers and oil pan. Symptoms: oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level. Solution: Repair or replace the leaking components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+

4.6L V8

• No known engine issues

Transmission

5-speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip or hesitate when shifting gears. Symptoms: delayed or rough gear changes, loss of power. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Transmission fluid leaks: The transmission may develop fluid leaks from various components, including the pan gasket and seals. Symptoms: low transmission fluid level, transmission slipping or hesitation. Solution: Repair or replace the leaking components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

6-speed Automatic

• No known transmission issues

Suspension

• Strut mount failure: The strut mounts can fail, causing the struts to make noise and the vehicle to handle poorly. Symptoms: clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, poor handling. Solution: Replace the strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Battery drain: The SRX is known to have problems with battery drain, which can lead to a dead battery. Symptoms: battery going dead after short periods of time, difficulty starting the vehicle. Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
• Faulty alternator: The alternator may fail, preventing the battery from charging. Symptoms: dim headlights, electrical system malfunctions, battery going dead. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Headlight switch failure: The headlight switch may fail, causing the headlights to not work. Symptoms: headlights not working, intermittent headlight operation. Solution: Replace the headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Door handle failure: The door handles can break or become loose, making it difficult to open the doors. Symptoms: broken or loose door handle, difficulty opening the door. Solution: Replace the door handle. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Dashboard rattle: The dashboard may rattle or squeak over bumps. Symptoms: annoying rattling or squeaking noise from the dashboard. Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the noise (may require disassembling the dashboard). Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• HVAC system failure: The HVAC system may fail, causing the air conditioning or heater to not work. Symptoms: no air flow from the vents, cold or hot air not blowing. Solution: Diagnose and repair the failed component (may require replacing the blower motor, compressor, or other components). Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Seat lumbar support failure: The seat lumbar support may fail, causing discomfort when driving. Symptoms: lack of lumbar support, pain or discomfort in the lower back. Solution: Replace the seat lumbar support mechanism. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary

The 2004 Cadillac SRX has a number of potential reliability issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. The severity of the issues can vary, and some issues may be more common on certain engine and transmission options. It is important to note that not all SRXs will experience all of these issues, and the cost of repairs can vary depending on the severity of the problem and the location of the repair.