2017 Cadillac Xt5 Safety Report

2017 Cadillac XT5: Good crash ratings, but persistent powertrain, steering, and brake complaints raise reliability concerns.

117Complaints
1Recalls
★★★★☆Safety Rating
55/100Reliability Score
6Crash Reports
2Injuries
Most reported components: Unknown Or Other (19)Power Train (10)Service Brakes (8)Engine (7)Steering (6)Electrical System (5)Wheels (5)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (3)Power Train,Electrical System (2)Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness (2)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Cadillac Xt5

The 2017 Cadillac XT5 presents a mixed safety picture. While its NHTSA crash test ratings are generally good, with an overall 4-star rating, including 5 stars for side impact and 4 stars for frontal and rollover, the vehicle has accumulated 117 complaints. A significant concern is the single recall issued for the service brakes, specifically related to caliper issues that could lead to reduced braking performance and an increased risk of a crash. This recall affected vehicles manufactured between April 16, 2016, and May 9, 2016. Analysis of the complaint data reveals several recurring patterns. 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' is the top complaint category with 19 reports, suggesting a variety of less common or hard-to-categorize issues. However, more specific patterns emerge with 'POWER TRAIN' (10 complaints) and 'SERVICE BRAKES' (8 complaints) being prominent. Several complaints detail transmission 'shuttering' or 'kicking' issues, and 'service transmission' warnings, indicating potential durability concerns with the powertrain. The 'SERVICE BRAKES' complaints, while fewer than powertrain, align with the recall's focus on braking system integrity. Beyond the top categories, 'ENGINE' (7 complaints) and 'STEERING' (6 complaints) also show notable patterns. Specifically, numerous complaints describe issues with the thermostat leading to 'Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care' messages, check engine lights, and HVAC problems, suggesting a systemic design flaw. Catalytic converter failures, often involving weld cracks and exhaust entering the cabin, are also reported. Despite the generally good crash test performance, the volume and nature of complaints, particularly those related to critical systems like the powertrain, steering, and brakes, suggest that owners may encounter significant reliability and safety-related issues outside of direct crash scenarios. The 6 reported crashes and 2 injuries, while not high, underscore that some of these issues can have real-world safety consequences.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Cadillac Xt5 receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2017 Cadillac Xt5

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Cadillac Xt5:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Thermostat Failure Leading To 'Steering Assist Reduced' Message
Thermostat malfunctions cause 'Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care' warnings, check engine lights (P0128), and affect HVAC/defrost, potentially reducing visibility and steering control. Many complaints indicate this is a known issue.		 Medium Common unknown miles
Transmission Shifting Issues/Failure
Owners report transmission 'kicking,' 'shuttering,' 'shattering,' and 'service transmission' warnings, sometimes leading to inability to shift or requiring full replacement, often just outside warranty.		 High Common 70000-unknown miles
Catalytic Converter Weld Cracks
Cracks at the catalytic converter mounting flange weld cause loud exhaust noise, exhaust odor in the cabin, and potential emission system failure, with some owners reporting multiple failures.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Brake Caliper Fluid Leak (Recall 16v395000)
A recall addresses potential brake fluid leaks from the front brake calipers due to insufficient sealing, which can reduce braking performance and increase crash risk. Affects early production models.		 High Rare new miles
Loss Of Power Steering Assist
Vehicle can suddenly lose power steering functionality while driving, requiring manual effort to steer, often linked to the power assist steering module or thermostat issues.		 High Occasional unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Cadillac Xt5:

Unknown Or Other 16% of complaints

A variety of miscellaneous issues not fitting specific categories, including dashboard damage, tire pressure sensor malfunctions, and general vehicle stopping/locking up.

Power Train 8% of complaints

Frequent complaints about transmission 'shuttering,' 'kicking,' 'service transmission' warnings, and complete transmission failures.

Service Brakes 6% of complaints

Issues related to braking performance, including a recall for caliper fluid leaks and general brake system concerns.

Engine 6% of complaints

Common problems include thermostat failures leading to check engine lights and related system malfunctions, as well as catalytic converter issues.

Steering 5% of complaints

Reports of reduced or complete loss of power steering assist, often linked to thermostat problems or steering module failures.

Electrical System 4% of complaints

Various electrical glitches, including issues with HVAC control, warning lights, and vehicle systems shutting down unexpectedly.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Cadillac Xt5

Is the 2017 Cadillac XT5 safe?

The 2017 Cadillac XT5 received strong NHTSA crash test ratings, with an overall 4-star rating, including 5 stars for side impact. However, it has 117 owner complaints, including 6 crashes and 2 injuries. A significant safety concern is a recall for brake caliper fluid leaks. Owners also frequently report issues with the powertrain (10 complaints), steering (6 complaints, often linked to thermostat failures), and engine (7 complaints), which could impact vehicle control and reliability.

What are common problems with the 2017 Cadillac XT5?

The most reported issues for the 2017 Cadillac XT5 include 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (19 complaints), followed by POWER TRAIN (10 complaints) such as transmission shuttering and failures, SERVICE BRAKES (8 complaints) including a recall for caliper leaks, ENGINE (7 complaints) often related to thermostat failures and catalytic converters, and STEERING (6 complaints) with reports of reduced or lost power assist.

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Cadillac XT5?

Yes, the 2017 Cadillac XT5 has one recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 16V395000) concerning the SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER. This recall addresses a potential brake fluid leak from the front brake calipers due to insufficient sealing, which could reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash. This specifically affects vehicles manufactured between April 16, 2016, to May 9, 2016.

How does the 2017 Cadillac XT5 perform in crash tests?

The 2017 Cadillac XT5 performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an overall 4-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash protection, 5 stars for side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2017 Cadillac XT5?

When considering a used 2017 Cadillac XT5, pay close attention to the transmission for any signs of 'shuttering' or delayed shifting, and check for 'service transmission' warnings. Investigate if the brake recall has been addressed. Also, be aware of potential thermostat issues that can manifest as 'Steering Assist Reduced' messages or HVAC problems, and listen for unusual exhaust noises that could indicate catalytic converter issues.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2017 Cadillac XT5 has solid crash test ratings, its 117 NHTSA complaints, particularly concerning powertrain, steering, and brake issues, suggest potential long-term reliability challenges. Thoroughly inspect service records for recall completion and common problem fixes before purchasing.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Cadillac Xt5

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Cadillac Xt5. The data includes 117 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Cadillac Xt5 an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.