Owners filed 393 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the exterior lighting. It has been recalled 5 times.
Do not drive
NHTSA attached an advisory to a recall on this vehicle. Advisories apply to specific production runs — check your VIN with the manufacturer or at nhtsa.gov/recalls before driving it.
When it fails
06000060,000 milesMedian miles at failure
242 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 75,000–90,000 miles.
What fails
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Exterior Lighting
189
2
0
0
Electrical System
45
1
2
0
Power Train
22
3
0
0
Unknown or Other
20
0
0
0
Vehicle Speed Control
17
0
0
0
Suspension
15
2
0
3
Exterior Lighting › Headlights
14
0
0
0
Service Brakes
11
2
1
11
Engine
11
0
0
0
Visibility/Wiper
8
0
0
0
5 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Suspension › Rear21V473000Do not drive
Filed Jun 24, 2021380,498 vehiclesGeneral Motors, Llc
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2016 Cadillac SRX and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles. The rear suspension toe link adjuster may not have been tightened properly, which could result in a loose toe link.
Risk. A loose toe link can separate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Owners are advised to not drive their vehicle if they experience certain Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warnings or other issues, such as unusual steering behavior, while driving. Please see the Part 573 report for the full list of warnings. Dealers will replace the adjustable toe link with a non-adjustable one, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed August 6, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 25, 2021. Cadillac and Saab customers may direct questions to Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N212340980.
Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2010-2015 Cadillac SRX vehicles manufactured April 14, 2009, to September 1, 2014, and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles manufactured February 1, 2011, to September 13, 2011. On the affected vehicles, the jam nut in the rear suspension toe adjuster link may not be torqued to the proper specification. A loose toe adjuster link can cause the vehicle to sway or wander at highway speeds. A loose toe adjuster link may lead to thread damage and eventual failure. Failure of the toe adjuster link will cause an abrupt change in the vehicle's alignment.
Risk. Failure of the toe adjuster link could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the torque of the left and right rear toe link adjuster lock nuts, and replace the parts if there is evidence of damage or a loose link, free of charge. The The recall began November 11, 2014. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007. GM's number for this recall is 14457.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (tcm/Pcm/Tecm)14V212000
Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Cadillac SRX vehicles manufactured May 29, 2012, through June 26, 2013, and equipped with 3.6L engines. In the affected vehicles, in certain driving situations, there may be a three to four second lag in acceleration due to the transmission control module (TCM) programming.
Risk. A three to four second lag in acceleration may increase the risk of crash.
Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the transmission control module, free of charge. The recall began on June 3, 2014. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. General Motors' number for this recall is 14132.
Wheels › Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs13V202000
Filed May 16, 201318,871 vehiclesGeneral Motors Llc
Defect. General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Cadillac SRX vehicles, manufactured January 31, 2012, through March 18, 2013, and equipped with 18 inch wheels. On the affected vehicles, the wheel lug nuts may loosen.
Risk. If the lug nuts loosen, they may fall off or cause the wheel studs to fracture. Either condition would allow the wheel to separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will remove and reinstall the wheel nuts by performing a tire rotation, free of charge. The recall began on June 3, 2013. Owners may contact GM at 1-800-521-7300. GM's recall campaign number is 13116.
Electrical System › Software13V097000
Filed Mar 15, 201326,582 vehiclesGeneral Motors Llc
Defect. General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Buick LaCrosse vehicles, manufactured between April 25, 2012, through March 6, 2013, and model year 2013 Cadillac SRX vehicles, manufactured between May 29, 2012, through February 18, 2013 for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect." A software problem may cause the transmission to inadvertently shift to Sport mode removing any transmission-related engine braking effect.
Risk. If engine braking is unexpectedly removed, it may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the transmission control module free of charge. The recall began on April 3, 2013. Cadillac owners may call 1-866-982-2339. Buick owners may call 1-866-694-6546.
What owners reported
Newest filings
SuspensionCrash2 injured
Filed Jun 22, 2026CA
Valentine day a car side swiped me on the 91 freeway my car went out of control but I was able to get control of the vehicle driver side got banged up from the back bumper all the way to the driver side front fender.
Exterior Lighting
Filed May 22, 2026CA
The exterior lighting does not light up as warranted. It is impossible to see at night due to the lack of lighting from the headlights. The problem was confirmed with the dealership, however I was told to replace the bulbs which I had done. Replacing the bulbs did not fix the issue so I went back to the dealership and told them again. I was told I would have to replace the entire headlight unit in order for the exterior lights to work properly and that I would have to pay for it. It is extremely dangerous to myself and others if I’m driving at nite and I cannot see anything. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to the failure of the headlights.
Service Brakes
Filed Jan 24, 2026MO
I was driving and had to hard brake as to not hit a young driver who wasn't paying attention to his driving. The brake pedal went all the way to the floor. There were no warning lights on. I got the car checked out by our local mechanic AND a certified Cadillac dealer. We had a new master cylinder and O ring installed in October. Our mechanic found there is a special bulletin on 18 different vehicles with the same issue. And my Cadillac is on that list. I don't understand how this problem CAN'T be a total recall and just a special bulletin. My safety was totally at risk as the brake system was not working properly. Now with that being the Chevy/Cadillac dealership found that there is a problem with the ABS module. Which can not be found anywhere but a third party vendor. After paying almost $400 for the master cylinder and O ring the problem seemed to be fixed but now we have to pay ABS module. I know as the NHTSA can't refund any monies but GM should be held accountable for this issue and should pay for any repairs and parts to fix this dangerous issue. I have kept my receipts so that I can be reimbursed. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jan 20, 2026105,000 milesNC
The contact owns a 2013 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated that while driving at night, the headlights failed to properly illuminate the roadway, limiting the driver’s vision while driving. The contact stated that the passenger’s side headlight was inoperable, and the driver’s side headlight was very dim. Due to the failure, the contact was forced to use the high-beam headlights while driving at night. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, and the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the VIN related to the failure. The contact was provided with an estimate for the repair. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that there was a Class Action Lawsuit on similar vehicles for the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jan 11, 2026WI
My father gave me his 2013 Cadillac SRX and I have noticed the headlights have dimmed significantly over the past few months. I replaced the lamps, but the same issue still exists. I spoke with my local Cadillac dealership and they told me of the known issue with the headlights. I did some research and see there was a class action lawsuit against Cadillac, but it does not seem to apply to vehicles registered in Wisconsin. I will need to correct this problem as driving at night has now become very difficult. If you have history of this issue with other drivers, any insight or direction would be much appreciated. Thank you for your time. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Exterior Lighting
Filed Nov 5, 2025WI
Vehicle Headlamps fail to project adequate light to see the road. Several hundred dollars have been invested in attempting to fix this, resulting in zero noticeable help.
Steering
Filed Oct 26, 2025OK
While driving steering becomes unresponsive for a few seconds then returns to normal
Exterior Lighting
Filed Oct 13, 2025VA
Left front headlight is so dim I cannot drive my car in the dark. I have spent money replacing the bulbs, cleaning the lenses through professional shop(s) and still goes dim and unsafe. After researching this I see this is a ongoing problem with this vehicle. I am now having to spend over $1,000 to replace the entire headlight assembly and I don't even know how long that will last. From research from another person it looks like the assembly where the light get hot is chrome sprayed plastic. Cheap parts causing me so much money that should be reliable in my vehicle. I see GM reimbursement owners in Fl and CA for this issue for a few years. this is terrible as I am a working adult required to commute in the dark. Iw ant to be reimbursed for this unsafe headlight assembly and know the other is failing too.
Electrical System
Filed Aug 4, 2025IL
The contact owns a 2013 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated that there were web-like cracks that had developed inside the infotainment screen, causing difficulty in accessing various electrical functions needed to safely operate the vehicle. Due to the failure, the A/C unit, defroster, backup camera, and other functions were inaccessible on the screen. The contact stated that the repair was initially serviced under warranty; however, the failure returned, and the vehicle was no longer covered under warranty. The contact was recently provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but the contact was provided the same information as the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
Service Brakes
Filed Jul 11, 2025MI
Don’t no
Engine
Filed Jun 9, 2025OR
I am having transmission problems. My transmission accelerates late.
Service Brakes
Filed Apr 23, 2025FL
I am writing to formally raise a serious safety concern regarding my Cadillac SRX. For over a year, the ABS warning light has remained on in the vehicle. After taking it to an authorized dealership for diagnostics and repair, I was informed that the required part to resolve this issue is on backorder and is no longer being manufactured. This is highly concerning given that the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is a critical safety feature designed to prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, especially in emergencies. Driving without a functioning ABS increases the risk of accidents, making the vehicle unsafe to operate under normal driving conditions. I would like to address the following points: 1. Why is a critical safety-related part no longer being manufactured for a vehicle still in operation? 2. What is the manufacturer's plan for resolving safety concerns such as this, especially when replacement parts are unavailable? 3. Am I entitled to any form of compensation, replacement, or buyback under warranty or consumer protection laws? 4. What steps are being taken to ensure other affected Cadillac SRX owners are notified and protected? Given the severity of this issue, I have also filed a formal safety complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). I am also researching whether there is an open class action lawsuit or grounds for legal action due to the manufacturer's failure to support critical components of this vehicle. Page 1 Formal C
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Apr 17, 2025175,000 milesFL
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2013 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact notified the dealer where the vehicle was purchased; however, the dealer denied responsibility. A mobile mechanic was contacted and stopped by the residence and diagnosed the vehicle. However, no cause for the failure was found. Several mobile mechanics stopped by the residence and diagnosed the vehicle with an electrical system failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the mobile mechanic discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was purchased from a private dealer's sale. At the time of the purchase, the vehicle mileage was 64,729, it was discovered that the mileage was 175,000. The contact parked the vehicle, and the vehicle was no longer driven. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
Service Brakes
Filed Mar 27, 2025FL
I am reporting Ed Morse Cadillac Delray Beach, for improperly handling a manufacturer recall service, which resulted in a new safety issue on my 2013 Cadillac SRX. On February 22nd 2025 I brought my vehicle in for the Cadillac rear tow link separation recall. After the dealership performed the repair, my ABS system malfunctioned—an issue that never existed before. The dealership initially acknowledged the issue but later dismissed it and refused to acknowledge the issue. Worse, they encouraged me to leave and drive the vehicle despite the ABS warning light being on, showing no concern for my safety. This is a serious safety concern, as my braking system was directly affected following a manufacturer recall service. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this dealership’s recall handling process and reconsider their status as an authorized recall service provider to protect future customers from similar issues.
Power TrainCrash
Filed Mar 8, 2025OK
Two incidents of the same failure, although a few years apart. Vehicle placed in "Park" (foot on the brake, which is necessary in order to shift into P); when brake pedal released, vehicle suddenly revs and lurches forward. First time, in garage, and so minor damage except to items in garage; second time 3/7/2025, totaled this vehicle plus major damage to another vehicle.
Electrical System
Filed Feb 14, 2025CA
Rear Toe Link and . Lag in Acceleration was completed on 05/08/2014 but the problem persists also electrical failure seat gets stuck or engine wont turn on , blind spots makes sound when no vehicle around Engine has no power TCM transmission Control Module code comes and goes
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jan 18, 2025AZ
I purchased this vehicle on January 1, 2025. I drove it last night for the first time after dark. The headlights were so dim I could hardly see to drive. I had to use my brights except when a car was coming towards me, then I put them on dim and slowed way down. Leaving them on bright would have endangered other drivers and myself. I purchased the car with no warranty so now I either drive only during daylight hours or I pay out of pocket to have them fixed which I'm sure isn't cheap. I am going to go to the dealership that I purchased it from to see if they will help me at all, but since there was no warranty, I'm not expecting them to give me any assistance with this. When you look at the headlights during the daytime, which is when I bought the car there is no visible sign of an issue with them. No warning lamp has come on to let me know there is an issue and since I just purchased the car I don't know when they first appeared so dim. I noticed there are numerous complaints about this issue. Why isn't GM doing something about it.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Nov 18, 2024OH
2013 Cadillac SRX has ridiculous (pointing down) low beam headlight issues. Adaptive forward lighting makes this impossible to be driven at night on low beams, because visibility is so poor! You have to drive with high beams on. These are barely decent and are like having weak low beams. No one flashes to have me turn them off, which is telling of how lame the high beams point. Visibility at night is paramount and this issue is quite dangerous. They (GM) know that this is a problem and have been sued. It is time for you to do your job and make them do theirs for safety sake.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Nov 2, 2024CA
My transmission is sleepin and it only goes to second gear for like 20 min then it won’t move at all
Exterior Lighting
Filed Oct 20, 2024TX
Headlights not bright enough too dark to drive at night
NHTSA has issued a do-not-drive warning for a recall on this vehicle.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jun 24, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.