This page covers 3 recalls, 117 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2017 Cadillac XT5.
21–22 mpg combined
10.7–11.2 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 draws its heaviest complaint volume around the powertrain and engine, with steering showing up as a third notable area. On the powertrain side, owners report transmission warning messages appearing, sometimes escalating quickly from a general service alert to warnings about an inability to shift, along with alarm chimes at startup or while driving, even when the vehicle seems to be shifting normally. Engine complaints include thermostat failures, which multiple owners describe as a recurring and well-documented issue on this vehicle. A handful of owners also report catalytic converter weld cracks, with at least one describing it as a repeat failure, causing loud exhaust noise and fumes entering the cabin. Steering complaints round out the top three reported systems, though the specific symptoms vary across that group. The thermostat and transmission warning patterns appear most consistently across multiple reports.
117
Total Complaints
6
Crash-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 has 3 recalls, the most serious being a brake fluid leak from the front calipers that can reduce stopping power and extend braking distances, raising the risk of a crash.
The front caliper piston seals on certain vehicles may be torn or misaligned, allowing hydraulic fluid to escape. As fluid level drops, the brake pedal can feel soft or require more travel to slow the vehicle, and stopping distances can grow noticeably longer. The third recall is a compliance matter involving the front seat material, which did not meet Canadian flammability testing requirements under a specific test condition. When the seat is tested fully assembled with all its layers in place, it passes all requirements, and the filing notes this does not affect vehicle safety in practice.
At a glance
What can fail
Front seat material in some vehicles may not meet Canadian flammability standards when tested as individual components, though fully assembled seats meet all requirements.
What the fix does
Manufacturing has been updated to ensure all new vehicles have seat-vent mats that fully comply with flammability regulations.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front brake caliper piston seal may tear or misalign, allowing brake fluid to leak from the brake system.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the front brake calipers and replace the caliper assemblies if needed, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front brake calipers may have a damaged seal that allows brake fluid to leak out. This reduces braking power and increases stopping distance.
What the fix does
The dealer inspects the calipers for the affected date codes and checks for fluid leaks. Affected calipers are replaced, and brake pads are replaced if leaking is found.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
