2021 Cadillac XT5 Problems: 9 Known Issues

On the 2017-2025 Cadillac XT5, the XT5 V6 models use the GM 3.6L V6 (LGX) which has improved timing chains over earlier versions but is not immune to timing chain stretch at higher mileage. The LGX is better than the earlier LFX but still uses three timing chains with plastic guides. Issues typically appear later (100,000-150,000 miles) compared to earlier 3.6L variants. The 2020+ XT5 2.0T models use a different engine (LSY) and are not affected by this issue.

On the 2020-2025 Cadillac XT5 2.0L turbo I4 (LSY), gM 21-NA-240, revised January 2025, addresses oil leaks on LSY-equipped vehicles including the XT5. An improper amount of sealant at the cam carrier can be a cause. Oil from this area can appear to originate at the camshaft carrier, front cover, lower oil pan or timing-chain upper cover. The bulletin does not establish the source of every leak and does not cover the LGX V6.

On the 2021 Cadillac XT5, gM recalled 2021 Cadillac XT5 and XT6 and GMC Acadia vehicles on which the fuel supply line may not have been fully seated and locked at the quick-connect fitting during assembly. An unseated line can loosen or separate under fuel system pressure and vibration, spraying gasoline in the engine bay or under the vehicle, creating a fire hazard and a potential stall from loss of fuel pressure.

On the 2017-2022 Cadillac XT5, gM bulletin 21-NA-183 covers 2017-2022 XT5 (up to a 2022 VIN breakpoint) along with related GM crossovers. Customers may report intermittently inoperative door locks, instrument-panel lamps illuminating, immobilizer concerns, or unwanted horn or hazard-flasher operation, and technicians may find BCM codes B3125, B3130, B3135, B3979 or B3980 along with various U codes. GM attributes the condition to possible water intrusion to the Body Control Module from the HVAC drain hose leaking at its connection to the HVAC module.

On the 2017-2025 Cadillac XT5, the Cadillac XT5 uses an 8-speed (2017-2019) or 9-speed (2020+) automatic transmission. The 8-speed shares the torque converter shudder issue with other GM 8-speed vehicles. The 9-speed (GM 9T50/9T65) can have harsh shifts, delayed engagement, and shift hunting. Both transmissions have been subject to multiple software calibration updates from GM. The 9-speed is particularly sensitive to fluid condition and requires proper Dexron HP fluid.

On the 2020-2021 Cadillac XT5, gM PIP5608F covers 2020-2021 XT5 vehicles with 9-speed transmissions RPO M3G or M3W when torque-converter clutch shudder occurs on re-apply after a shift at 40 mph or below. GM identifies possible excessive assembly lubricant in the fluid and requires confirmation with TCC slip data or the scan-tool command test.

On the 2020-2021 Cadillac XT5, on 2020-2021 XT5, XT6 and GMC Acadia models optioned with Surround Vision, the coaxial cable connector feeding the rear camera may be improperly crimped. The connection degrades and the rearview image goes black, freezes, or fails to appear when reverse is selected. Separately, non-recall XT5 owners across 2020-2023 report the backup camera taking 15-20 seconds to switch out of night mode and grid lines being nearly invisible in bright sun - a display-calibration complaint distinct from the crimp defect.

On the 2017-2025 Cadillac XT5, the front brake rotors warp prematurely, causing steering wheel vibration and brake pedal pulsation during moderate to hard braking. The issue is attributed to the heavy vehicle weight combined with rotors that are borderline in thickness for the application. Aggressive braking or mountain driving accelerates warping.

On the 2017-2025 Cadillac XT5, the power liftgate struts lose their charge and fail to hold the liftgate open, causing it to slowly close or fall. The motorized struts can also operate erratically, stopping mid-travel or failing to open fully. In cold weather, the struts may not have enough force to lift the gate at all.