Summary
The Cadillac XT5 has 12 recalls spanning the 2017-2025 model years, with the most serious being a transmission defect on 2022-2023 models where an incorrect sun gear can cause the front half-shaft to disengage, resulting in sudden loss of drive power or the vehicle rolling away when placed in park.
A separate but related driveshaft issue on 2023 models involves the right-front half-shaft assembly being improperly connected to the transmission, which can also cause loss of drive power or rollaway in park. On 2024 models, the driver's front airbag cushion can tear during deployment and fail to inflate properly, reducing crash protection. Those same 2024 vehicles have a software issue where the instrument panel may not light up indicators for turn signals, hazard lights, or high beams, leaving the driver unaware those systems are active. The instrument panel indicator problem extends further to 2023-2025 models as well.
On 2021 models, fuel supply lines may not be properly seated and can loosen or separate, creating a fuel leak and raising the risk of fire. The 2020 model year has two issues: a fuel pump jet nozzle that can become blocked and starve the engine of fuel, causing a stall without warning, and a rearview camera that can fail or display intermittently on vehicles equipped with the optional Surround Vision feature, reducing rear visibility while backing. That rearview camera cable issue also carries over into 2021 models with the same optional system.
Going back to the original model year, 2017 vehicles built during a narrow window in spring 2016 have front brake calipers with a torn or misaligned piston seal that can leak brake fluid, reducing braking performance. A compliance-related seat fabric flammability testing issue also exists on 2017 models, though the manufacturer notes it does not affect actual vehicle safety.
