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2004 Cadillac XLR

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2004 Cadillac XLR was a luxury roadster that combined Cadillac’s signature styling with a sporty driving experience. It was offered with a single engine option, the 4.6L Northstar V8, producing 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 5L40-E 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciated the XLR’s unique retractable hardtop, comfortable ride, and luxurious features. Some common complaints included the car’s complex electronics, occasional reliability issues, and relatively small trunk space when the top was down.

Engine

4.6L Northstar V8

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common around the valve cover gaskets and rear main seal as the car ages. You may notice oil spots on the driveway or a burning smell.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The Northstar engine is known for potential overheating problems. Common issues include leaks from the water pump, radiator, or coolant hoses.
    • Solution: Pressure test the cooling system to locate the leak and replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the part needing replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may experience rough idling, stalling, or difficulty starting. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to the camshaft position sensor may be present.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5L40-E 5-Speed Automatic

  • Rough Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or delayed shifts, or slip during acceleration. This can be caused by worn clutches or valve body issues.
    • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may help in some cases, but often a rebuild or replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for fluid flush, $2,000 - $4,000+ for rebuild or replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The XLR is equipped with Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) shocks. These shocks can fail over time, leading to a rough ride, clunking noises, or a “Service Ride Control” message on the dash. Leaking fluid is also a sign of failure.
    • Solution: Replace the failed MRC shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800+ per shock, plus labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Retractable Hardtop Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The retractable hardtop mechanism is complex and prone to issues. Problems can include the top not opening or closing completely, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. Sensor failures, hydraulic leaks, and motor problems are common causes.
    • Solution: Diagnostic scan to determine the issue, repair or replacement of faulty sensors, hydraulic components, or motors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity of the problem.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The XLR can experience battery drain issues, particularly if it sits for extended periods. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from various electronic components.
    • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw and repair the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Driver Information Center (DIC) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The DIC can experience display problems such as fading, pixelation, or complete failure.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the DIC module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation
    • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings, leading to condensation and reduced visibility.
    • Solution: Remove the headlight assembly and dry it out, reseal the lens. Replacement may be necessary if the condensation is severe or has damaged the bulbs or wiring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100 for resealing, $200 - $500+ for replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Radio/Navigation System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The factory radio or navigation system can experience issues such as display problems, volume control malfunctions, or inability to read CDs/DVDs.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the faulty unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Heater Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters can stop working, either intermittently or completely. This is often due to a break in the heating element or a faulty control module.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the heating element or control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Cadillac XLR, while stylish and luxurious, can present owners with several potential issues, particularly as the car ages. The most concerning issues relate to the complex retractable hardtop, potential cooling system problems with the Northstar V8, and the Magnetic Ride Control suspension. Electrical gremlins can also be a headache. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as a transmission rebuild or hardtop repair, can be quite costly. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with the XLR to identify any potential problems.

Cadillac, XLR
Cadillac XLR 2004
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