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2013 Cadillac SRX

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2013 Cadillac SRX is a luxury crossover SUV known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and available technology. It came with two engine options: a 3.6L V6 producing 308 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.8L Turbocharged V6, which was available on the Performance and Premium trim levels. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the SRX for its upscale interior, quiet cabin, and distinctive exterior styling. Common dislikes included its smaller cargo space compared to some competitors and its sometimes frustrating CUE infotainment system. This response will focus on the 3.6L V6 engine and the 6-speed automatic transmission, which was available for all engine options.

Engine

3.6L V6

  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine may exhibit a rattling noise upon startup, particularly after sitting for a while. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft position or timing. Can lead to reduced engine performance and potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, guides, and potentially camshaft sprockets. Oil change to remove any debris.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Extended cranking, rough idle, hesitation or stalling, and possible fuel leak. The check engine light may illuminate with codes related to fuel pressure.
    • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump. Inspection of the fuel rail and injectors for damage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine oil level decreases more rapidly than expected between oil changes. May notice blue smoke from the exhaust pipe. Can lead to engine damage if oil level is not monitored and maintained.
    • Solution: Replacement of valve cover or gaskets, or piston rings if the root cause is a severe internal issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Hydramatic 6T70)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission experiences harsh or erratic shifts, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. May also feel like the transmission is slipping during acceleration.
    • Solution: Transmission tune-up or replacement depending on the issue
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+ depending on the solution
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. May also experience stalling.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Inspection of the transmission fluid for contamination and flushing of the transmission cooler.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, particularly over bumps. May hear clunking noises from the rear suspension.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Front Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, particularly over bumps. May hear clunking noises from the front suspension.
    • Solution: Replacement of the front strut assembly. Alignment after replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • CUE Infotainment System Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, freezes, or glitches. System may reboot unexpectedly.
    • Solution: Software update or replacement of the CUE module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle battery drains overnight or within a few days of non-use. Difficulty starting the vehicle.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain. This may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing a wiring issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop functioning.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the window switch or window motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on the cause
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Liftgate Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power liftgate fails to open or close properly. May hear clicking noises but the liftgate doesn’t move.
    • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate motor, struts, or latch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly. May make excessive noise or get stuck.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or cables.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Cadillac SRX, while offering a luxurious experience, does have some common issues to be aware of. The engine and transmission can experience problems such as timing chain issues, high-pressure fuel pump failure, and harsh shifting or slipping. These issues can range from moderately to significantly expensive to repair. Electrical problems with the CUE system and battery drain can also be frustrating. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and inspect the vehicle carefully before purchasing or having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a trusted mechanic.

Cadillac, SRX
Cadillac SRX 2013
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