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2012 Cadillac SRX

Introduction:

The 2012 Cadillac SRX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that offers a blend of style and performance. It comes with a choice of two engine options: a 3.0L V6 and a 3.6L V6, both paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0L V6 produces 268 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.6L V6 delivers 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The SRX is praised for its spacious interior, luxurious features, and impressive driving dynamics. However, like any vehicle, it has faced some specific issues that owners have reported.

Engine

3.0L V6

  • Valve Body Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body within the transmission can fail, resulting in erratic shifting, difficulty engaging gears, or complete transmission failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty valve body is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: A leak in the intake manifold gasket can cause a loss of coolant, leading to overheating issues and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail prematurely, leading to a loss of timing and potentially catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty timing chain tensioner is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Cooler Line Leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: A leak in the oil cooler line can cause a loss of oil pressure, leading to engine damage if left unattended.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty oil cooler line is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Shudder:
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter may develop a shudder during acceleration, especially at low speeds.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The TCM can malfunction, leading to erratic shifting, loss of gears, or complete transmission failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty TCM is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear:
    • Description/Symptoms: The front lower control arm bushings can wear out prematurely, causing excessive vibration, noise, and instability in handling.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear shock absorbers can fail, leading to poor suspension performance and excessive bouncing.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty shock absorbers is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Discharge:
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery can discharge prematurely when the vehicle is parked.
    • Solution: Identifying and fixing the source of the electrical drain is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headlight Bulb Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The headlight bulbs can fail prematurely, resulting in reduced visibility at night.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty bulbs is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Exterior Trim Peeling:
    • Description/Symptoms: The exterior trim, such as chrome accents or door handles, can peel or discolor over time.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected trim pieces is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Mirror Adjustment Motor Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The power mirror adjustment motor can fail, causing difficulty or inability to adjust the side mirrors.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty motor is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Center Console Lid Sticking:
    • Description/Symptoms: The center console lid can stick or become difficult to open.
    • Solution: Adjusting or replacing the latch mechanism is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Climate Control System Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may malfunction, resulting in inconsistent temperatures or lack of heating or cooling.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the affected components is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the specific issue
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2012 Cadillac SRX offers many positive attributes, it has faced some specific issues. The majority of the problems fall into the engine and transmission categories, with valve body failure, intake manifold gasket leaks, timing chain tensioner failure, and torque converter shudder being the most common. Other concerns include suspension bushing wear, electrical issues, and various exterior and interior component failures. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these potential issues and to factor them into their decision-making process.

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