2019 Cadillac XTS

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2019 Cadillac XTS, organized by category and engine/transmission option where applicable.

The 2019 Cadillac XTS is a full-size luxury sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology. It offers two engine options: a 3.6L V6 producing 304 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6L Twin Turbo V6 producing 410 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (available on the V-Sport). Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the XTS’s quiet cabin, smooth ride, and generous rear-seat legroom. Some criticisms include the somewhat dated design (as it was the final year of production) and the lack of handling prowess compared to some European rivals.

Engine

3.6L V6 (LGX)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Owners may notice a burning oil smell or blue smoke from the exhaust in severe cases.
  • Solution: The solution can vary depending on the cause. Potential fixes include replacing the valve cover, replacing the PCV valve, or piston ring replacement. In severe cases, engine replacement might be considered, but is rare.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to timing chain performance (e.g., P0008, P0016, P0017). Rattling noise from the engine, especially at startup.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L Twin Turbo V6 (LF3)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, especially under acceleration. Whining or screeching noise from the engine bay. Check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty turbocharger(s). Inspecting and cleaning or replacing oil lines to the turbochargers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ (per turbocharger)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating. Visible coolant leaks near the turbochargers or coolant lines. Sweet smell of coolant.
  • Solution: Replacing leaking coolant hoses, turbocharger coolant lines, or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6T70)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear, or during downshifts.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM) might help. For more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially under light acceleration. Stall while at a stop.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) Shocks Leaking/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, bouncing or excessive body roll. Error messages related to suspension system on the dashboard. Visible fluid leaks from the shocks.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty MRC shock(s). These shocks are more expensive than standard shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per shock
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• CUE (Cadillac User Experience) Screen Delamination/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The CUE touchscreen delaminates (the coating separates), causing bubbles, cracks, and unresponsive touch inputs. Complete failure of the CUE screen is also possible.
  • Solution: Replacing the CUE screen or the entire CUE unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, preventing the car from starting. Jump-starting is required.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing parasitic draws (excessive current draw when the car is off). Common culprits include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight housing and drying out the moisture. Resealing the headlight housing to prevent future moisture intrusion. In some cases, replacing the entire headlight assembly may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck in the open or closed position, or fail to open or close at all. Noises or binding during operation.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heated/Cooled Seat Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Heated or cooled seats fail to function properly, or only work intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the heating/cooling element, control module, or related wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Cadillac XTS, while offering a comfortable and spacious ride, can experience a range of issues. Engine problems, particularly oil consumption and timing chain issues on the 3.6L V6 and turbocharger issues on the Twin Turbo V6, can be costly. Transmission problems such as harsh shifting can also occur. Electrical issues with the CUE system are a known concern. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars depending on the problem. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and carefully inspect the vehicle before purchasing.