2004 Cadillac XLR

Introduction:

The 2004 Cadillac XLR is a luxury roadster powered by a naturally aspirated Northstar V8 engine paired with a 5-speed Hydra-Matic 5L50-E automatic transmission. It delivers 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. While the XLR is praised for its elegant design, performance, and comfortable interior, it has also been plagued by a number of issues.

Engine:

Northstar 4.6L V8

• Head gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission:

5-speed Hydra-Matic 5L50-E

• Transmission slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerking or shuddering during gear changes, delayed engagement
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension:

• Strut failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid, knocking noises, reduced ride quality
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical:

• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies quickly after starting
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows won’t operate
  • Solution: Replace window motors or switches
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior:

• Leaking convertible top:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into cabin during rain or car wash
  • Solution: Replace seals or tops
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked tail lights:
  • Description/Symptoms: Tail lights are cracked or broken
  • Solution: Replace tail lights
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior:

• Climate control malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC system not blowing air, temperature regulation issues
  • Solution: Repair or replace climate control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard warping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard warping or cracking
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Cadillac XLR is a luxurious roadster with a powerful engine, but it has been plagued by a number of serious and costly issues. The most significant problems include head gasket and timing chain failures in the engine, transmission slipping, and convertible top leaks. These issues can be expensive to repair and can significantly impact the reliability and value of the vehicle.