Which Cadillac SRX Years to Avoid and Why? (Explained)
The Cadillac SRX comes with an RWD V8 with van-like spaciousness and greater fuel economy than an SUV. It’s almost like a Cadillac Escalade knockoff, but nicer.
It’s not a horrible car, even if the rear end is a touch odd. Yet there are a few bad production years on this brand name. What are they? Which years have which problems? Which are the good production years?
In this article, I have discussed all the issues with this crossover SUV. Read till the end to find out!
Cadillac SRX Years to Avoid (With Reasons)
This vehicle looks like an SUV to most people. It’s actually a crossover that confuses people. It’s a joy to use, and it delivers a powerful punch with a wide powerband. With AWD, it’s incredibly stable and scarcely spins at full throttle.
Nevertheless, there are some issues with a few model years. Here are the years to avoid on the Cadillac SRX:
2010 Cadillac SRX Problems:
The set of first-model-year car faults in 2010 is as chaotic as it gets. Mechanically, it’s fine; nevertheless, the other little faults will most likely tire you out. Sunroof leaks, chrome trim piece breaking off, AWD rear axle trouble, shift to park, and so on are all examples of this.
A normal low beam is used when driving at night. The likelihood of a failure with these outside lighting is particularly high. The water pump also malfunctions when the transmission is engaging.
Fishtailing while driving is a very well-known issue with this model. It happens due to suspension issues.
2011 Cadillac SRX Problems:
When the battery dies, you can’t even use the battery pack to get it to start. Bluetooth music is not available in this vehicle. It’s not uncommon for the 2011 SRX to have a sudden failure leading to non-functionality.
Both the driver’s and the passenger’s headlights are prone to moisture buildup, which eventually causes the lights to dim or dim altogether. Moisture seeps into the outside housing units, causing the lights to malfunction.
It is unlikely that the hatch will open smoothly on this one. Additionally, the bottom of the automobile frequently squeaks.
2012 Cadillac SRX Problems:
Starting troubles and harsh idle are two common complaints with the 2012 SRX. When you start the car, it may take a while for it to actually start.
The car will have a harsh at a complete stop, such as at a stop sign. No codes may appear on them, which would make things a lot worse.
The steering column adjustment is manual and not powered by an electric motor. These models also have dampness in the headlights. The sunroof drains leak, allowing water to seep into the cabin.
The liftgate power button is broken. There are instances where HID bulbs fail. Additionally, there are also chrome wheels that have cracks and are flaking.
2013 Cadillac SRX Problems:
There are multiple starting problems in addition to some ghost-possessed electrical problems. Let me explain that.
The heating system on the driver’s side of the car can run automatically. The automation seems to touch the liftgate too sometimes. If the liftgate is set to a lower level, it often opens to the highest setting automatically, regardless of the initial level.
Th HD radio reception is often interrupted. The problem can be solved by disabling HD search. But it can get reactivated automatically.
The GPS system and the rear camera frequently malfunction. In all driving modes, the automobile switches gingerly/stiffly from second to third gear.
2014 Cadillac SRX Problems:
This one is the model with the most transmission issues so far. Most problems show up in the ECO mode.
During acceleration, the car may stutter or jump between Eco and Normal modes. The vehicle will shift into and out of Eco with a harsh shift during driving at slower speeds.
Slowing down to roughly 25 mph, the vehicle will occasionally rocket forward. This too happens in the ECO mode.
2015 Cadillac SRX Problems:
A plethora of miscellaneous problems exist on the 2015 SRX due to the poor build quality. The brakes are very squeaky. A damaged strut mount is also frequent. It’s symptoms are clunking.
The fuel usage/ MPG is terrible, In the cooler weather of the midwest, the winter blend fuels reduce gas mileage significantly.
What Are The Worst Years of Cadillac SRX?
- Worst: 2010- It has a bunch of problems just waiting to strip the life out of you.
- Second Worst: 2012- The leaks and engine hard starts make it reach this list.
- Third Worst: 2011- Frequently damaging headlights is the worst on this model.
Most Common Problems of Cadillac SRX:
The Cadillac SRX years to avoid are more likely to have these common issues in the bad years. Some of the most prevalent issues are listed below.
1. Problematic Lights
The cars with “headlamps, halogen Tungsten, windshield wiper-activated with Twilight Sentinel, and night-time flash-to-pass” features are the worst. Halogens should never have been used in any Cadillac automobile. Every so often, the intensity shifts dramatically.
A problem with the wiring of the house. The driver’s side front and rear get power from the same fuse, and then share a connection to the body module. Faulty wiring can cause this lighting problem.
On the other hand, moisture build up due to leaky headlight compartments is common. After some time outside, the lighting components either corrode or cease to function properly. This is mainly owed due to oxidation.
2. Engine Problems
It is pretty common throughout the bad models. The check engine lights start flashing without a reason. At other times, without a warning, the engine stops.
It also stutters at idle often. The fuel pump buildup is way too much due to bad engine economy as well. Sudden reduced engine power may also be apparent due to a belt failure.
3. Suspension Problems
Repairing a steering wheel might cost a lot of money. There are some drawbacks to using magnetic steering. Sometimes the steering rattles when you hit a bump.
“Reduced Engine Power” message is issued by the engine computer when the magnetic ride control(MRC) is not functional. The symptom of that is the Stabilitrack not working.
Which Cadillac SRX Years are Safe to Buy?
I’ve listed all of the most popular Cadillac SRX models ever made. These models have been tried and tested and are available for purchase by anybody.
- 2017 Cadillac SRX
- 2009 Cadillac SRX
- 2008 Cadillac SRX
- 2005 Cadillac SRX
In comparison to the old and outdated SRX, the 2017 SRX Cadillac was a huge improvement. It’s a proud holder of the standard 3.6L non-turbo V6. It’s possible to get an XT5 in four different trims.
This one has a wonderful shifter too! And you know by now that the AWD is standard on the Premium models. It s not available on the Front-Wheel-Drive-only entry-level model.
The 3.6-liter V6 engine in a 2005 SRX is well-known for its higher fuel economy. The 2008 version is even better than its previous year. Furthermore, the SRX’s 6-cylinder engine is really quiet.
In addition, it has a massive glass sunroof. There are 3 year/36k mile warranties included with these model year cars as well.
The best years’ cars have a surprisingly low level of noise. They are quite comfortable and roomy, their seats are the best. The interior design is rather good too. And there are fewer or no repair concerns to speak of either.
FAQs.
Q. How much does it cost to repair Cadillac SRX lights?
Ans: $1,000-2,200.
Q. How many miles does a 2010 Cadillac SRX last?
Ans: 100,000 miles roughly.
Q. How many miles will a 2011 Cadillac SRX last?
Ans: 160,000 – 180,000 miles.
Conclusion
To conclude, Cadillac SRX are a bit expensive, above-average quality cars. But be careful to avoid the bad years listed in this article to get more value for your money. A good Cadillac SRX model year car will be a good investment!