Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Electrical system issues, structural problems, and brake problems. No recall has been issued for this vehicle.
Certain car brands carry a level of prestige and Cadillac is likely one of them. Though many Cadillacs are excellent and reliable vehicles, some of them come out of the factory containing defects.
When consumers purchase these defective vehicles, their safety and driving experience can be substantially impacted to the point where they may not even want the vehicle anymore. In such a case, the lemon law can assist you in being compensated.
This article will discuss the common problems reported by owners of the 2018 Cadillac XT5 as well as how you can use the lemon law to be compensated for your defective vehicle.
Common 2018 Cadillac XT5 Problems
- Electrical System Issues: Windows opening randomly, infotainment system issues, auto start/stop issues, A/C issues
- Structural Problems: Cracking seats, seats too low, rattling sounds, squeaking dashboard
- Brake Problems: Brake pads wearing quickly, harsh braking noises
2018 Cadillac XT5 Electrical System Issues
Electrical issues are fairly common in modern vehicles because there are lots of electrical systems in them and therefore more that can go wrong. In the case of the 2018 Cadillac XT5, consumers reported their windows randomly being opened, problems with the infotainment system, auto start/stop issues, and A/C issues.
Consumers reported finding their car with its windows down despite leaving it with them closed and having difficulty with the touchscreen working properly. Additionally, the auto start/stop feature was jarring to some, and the A/C in the rear of the vehicle apparently could not be turned off.
2018 Cadillac XT5 Structural Problems
Most commonly reported for the Cadillac XT5 were miscellaneous structural issues that impact the general feel of the vehicle. These include the seats being uncomfortable or loose, the material of the seats breaking down, rattling sounds throughout the vehicle, and a squeaky dashboard. Many of these structural issues would not be enough for a lemon law claim because they do not have significant impacts on the value, use, or safety of the vehicle, but a structural issue that did would potentially be able to render the vehicle a lemon.
Complaints from XT5 Owners
“The drivers seat is terribly uncomfortable and the cushioning around the edges is in adequate and thin causing you to feel the seat mechanics. If you have sciatica or back issues this isn’t the car for you. The ride is bumpy and not at all the Cadillac ride of the past. The auto start stop is very rough and you can’t turn it off. The overall ride is terrible unless you are on a very smooth road. I am so disappointed in the lack of quality and thought by Cadillac engineers. Then add a very disappearing experience with Arrowhead Cadillac, corporate Cadillac headquarters and Berkshire Hathaway and I can honestly say I’ll never buy a GM product again.”
“Great looking car, but several things are disappointing! AC is marginal at best in Arizona the ventilated seats help but overall not very good. Eight speed transmission is jerky and doesn’t seem to want to let go of low gears in low speed traffic. Rear camera backup diagram works intermittently.”
“Lacks storage area. The Small space under the console is not easy to reach. No heated seats… a bottle of water doesn’t fit in door cubby I just don’t feel safe in the vehicle. No fog lamps. High beams are not bright. . Temperature can’t be adjusted for back seat passengers. Air conditioner doesn’t shut off for back seat passengers.”
The Lemon Law Path to Resolution
If your 2018 Cadillac XT5 is exhibiting repeat repairs during the manufacturer’s original warranty, you may be eligible to initiate the lemon law process for compensation.
This process begins when you discover a defect in your vehicle and take it to an authorized manufacturer dealer for repairs. Vehicles are considered lemons if a defect has been subject to a reasonable number of repair attempts, typically two to four. It is crucial to document these repair attempts thoroughly to build evidence for your claim.
Once the vehicle has undergone the required number of repair attempts, it is considered a lemon. As the owner, you are entitled to either a refund or a replacement vehicle of similar make and model. In California, if the vehicle is deemed a lemon, the manufacturer will offer either a refund or a replacement vehicle.
If the manufacturer does not do the right thing and offer a repurchase or replacement vehicle, the consumer can file a lemon law claim in court against the manufacturer. Hiring an experienced lemon law attorney is essential, as they can provide the best chance of success. If you prevail, your attorney’s fees will be covered under California law, so the lawsuit incurs no personal cost.
Upon a successful claim, you will receive either a refund or a replacement vehicle. A refund includes the reimbursement of all monies spent towards the purchase or lease of the vehicle.
Alternatively, a replacement involves receiving a similar make and model vehicle, often a current-year car. In both cases, the manufacturer deducts a usage fee, which is a mileage-based fee representing the time you drove the vehicle without lemon problems. With the replacement option, the consumer will be responsible for any difference in pice.
Choose the Lemon Law Experts as Your Advocates
As a consumer bringing a lemon law claim, you should be careful to select the best advocate for you and your claim. The Lemon Law Experts are very likely your best choice for legal counsel, and we would love to assist you in bringing your claim! Like any other legal process, a lemon law claim can be complex and even overwhelming to deal with: allow our expertise to guide you and help you arrive at the best potential destination.
Lemon law claims can be time sensitive, so don’t wait! Contact us today by calling (877) 885-5366 or by filling out a form online on our website!