The SRX is a mid-size luxury SUV produced for two generations. It was initially released with an optional V6 or Northstar V8. Later years saw the V8 replaced with a 2.8-liter V6 turbo. It was initially released with an optional third row before dropping the extra seating. In 2016, XT5 replaced the SRX.
The SRX is one of the most popular American-made luxury SUVs and has an excellent reputation for dependability and performance. However, there are some years of the vehicle that are best avoided. We ranked the best and worst years of the Cadillac SRX and listed the major points in the table below. After explaining our sources below, we give an in-depth audit of the good, the bad, and the ugly.
| Best Years | Why? | Worst Years | Why? |
| 2014-2016 | Excellent FIXD and Owner Reliability Scores, great safety ratings, low repair costs | 2008 | Low owner reliability score, a high number of DTCs |
| 2012-2013 | Great safety scores, low ownership costs, extremely reliable | 2004 | High number of recalls, low FIXD reliability score, high repair and maintenance costs |
| 2011 | Great Owner Reliability Score, fair market value for the number of miles | 2006 | High number of DTCs, low reliability score |
| 2010 | Large number of recalls and complaints, low-reliability scores, costly annual maintenance |
Cadillac SRX Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG, and Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Costs – Year by Year
Our sources for determining the best and worst years of the Cadillac SRX begin with the first graph below, the Cadillac SRX Reliability Score. Reliability is our analysis’s first and most important factor, and we have two scores to consider. FIXD Reliability Score is created from data provided by FIXD Scanners installed in numerous models of the Cadillac SRX. The Owner Reliability Score is based on answers from owner surveys.
The second graph is information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It effectively shows the safety rating for all years of the SRX and the average safety rating across the automotive industry. Next is the MPG of the Cadillac, created using data from fueleconomy.gov.
Our final visual representation is the market value of the Cadillac SRV derived from Kelley Blue Book (KBB). We graphed it with the average annual costs of repair and maintenance given to us by owners on their surveys.
We will review the graphs before diving into the best and worst years of the SRX. We will also include details about the most common and severe diagnostic trouble codes, which is helpful for someone already owning or looking to buy a used SRX. Lastly, we list the number of recalls plaguing each year with any significant information.
If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USA’s most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.
Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years
The Cadillac SRX’s best and worst years were ranked primarily based on reliability. We’ve devised two unique scores using our exclusive data, making it easy to compare. Both scores use the same scale: 1 is the lowest, 5 is the average, and 10 is the highest level.
The first score is the FIXD Reliability Score, represented by the green line on the graph. We calculated this score by tracking the number of check engine lights (CEL) reported by our app users and dividing it by the number of cars. We then weighted the score based on an average of 12,000 miles driven annually.
We will review DTCs in more detail for each year of the Cadillac SRX. You can find more information about the check engine lights reported to form the scores in our article about the most common DTCs in the Cadillac SRX.
The second score, the Owner Reliability Score (gray line), comes from surveys taken by Cadillac CTS owners. These surveys capture their firsthand experience and provide subjective opinions on reliability. We translated these responses into numerical scores. For more details on the question asked and our methodology for determining this score, please refer to the note about data and information section located at the bottom of this article.
Newer models of the SRX are more reliable than older versions, which is a common trend with most vehicles. Owner Reliability Score is higher than FIXD Reliability Score in all years except 2016, where they are equal.
A car’s reliability is often worse than an owner might want to believe. We hypothesize that owners of older models slowly become accepting of higher-than-average check engine lights being thrown because they have owned the car for a long time. They are either a frog in a pot of boiling water, not realizing the car is deteriorating slowly and getting worse. OR they simply haven’t compared the reliability of their older model to the often newer and more reliable models of today.
Loyalty to an older vehicle may also affect the Owner Reliability Scores. If a car has lasted 20 years, it would be immensely reliable in the owner’s eyes, even if it had to have repairs and triggered many CELs along the way.
Most first years of a new generation have lower reliability scores due to new enhancements causing new problems. Since it was only produced for two generations, the SRX escaped this curse. While introducing the second generation (2010) isn’t an impressive leap, its reliability does improve from the previous year.
Even though 2005, 2007, and 2009 are on our graph, we did not include them in our detailed analysis below. We don’t have enough data on these model years for an accurate comparison.
NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years
We pulled the Cadillac SRX’s average safety rating from the NHTSA and plotted it as a green line above. We also graphed the average safety rating of all vehicles that have adequate data with a gray line. While the Cadillac SRX isn’t known for safety, it still ranks higher than the average NHTSA rating for all vehicles in all years except 2008 and 2009.
The average safety rating of the SRX always stays above four out of five stars, four being the lowest in 2011. It boasts an impressive 4.6/5 rating from 2012-2016. Another mid-size SUV, the Nissan Murano, scored only 4.4/5 in 2015-2016.
Safety ratings can affect your insurance premiums; a higher score can help you get cheaper insurance. While 2004-2007 don’t have unimpressive scores (4.5), we recommend avoiding these years for their reliability issues. Sticking to the 2012-2016 model years is best if you’re shopping for a used SUV with good reliability and safety ratings.
If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours.
| What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In: |
| Ohio |
| North Carolina |
| Michigan |
| Georgia |
| Texas |
| New York |
| Illinois |
| Pennsylvania |
| California |
MPG – Over The Years
Fuel economy is never a strong point for an SUV, and the Cadillac SRX follows suit. The light green line represents the average miles per gallon and is consistent throughout both generations. The least efficient years (2004-2009) are all years we classified as the worst. The lowest point is 16 mpg, the highest from 2010-2016 when Cadillac introduced the 3.0-liter V6 and a 2.8-liter turbocharged V6.
In 2012, the SRX was produced with a 3.6-liter V6 flex-fuel engine to replace the turbo, and it averaged 14 mpg in 2012-2013, represented by the dark green line on the graph. 2014-2016 SRX was only offered with a 3.6-liter V6, also getting 19 mpg.
In comparison, the GMC Acadia gets 19 mpg from 2007-2015, while the Nissan Murano fairs better at 20 mpg between 2004-2014 and 24 mpg in 2015-2016.
Current Market Value of All Cadillac SRX Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each
Using our mileage data to acquire the average KBB market value, we graphed it with a green line above. We used a gray line to plot the average costs of repair and maintenance that we gleaned from survey responses.
Newer models of the SRX typically have higher values, which is expected in most cases. However, in 2005 and 2008, the value is lower than the previous year. This anomaly is due to higher mileage being reported in those years. 2005 only had one response, and the average that year is 175,000 miles, while the average for 2004 is only 150,000 miles. In 2008, the mileage is reported at an average of 165,000, 40,000 miles higher than in 2007 (125,000).
The average repair and maintenance cost is higher in most older models and stays consistent in the newer ones. The lowest reported cost is $583 (2013, 2014, 2016). The highest reported price is $1,250 in 2005, 2007, and 2009. Unfortunately, these years only received one survey response to this question and are left off our overall analysis. Still, their response affects the overall average of all years of the SRX: $792. The highest average yearly cost in a year that received adequate data is $1,111 in 2010.
When shopping for a used Cadillac SRX, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!
Important Features Timeline
2004: First year of SRX, new luxury SUV built on the CTS platform, introduced with either 3.6L or 4.6L engines and an optional third row
2005: Introduced the towing package, added more chrome accents
2006: Satellite radio is standard, power liftgate now available
2007: Updated interior, redesigned instrument panel and center console, sport package available
2008: A new three-spoke steering wheel
2009: No significant changes from the previous year
2010: First year of the second generation, a complete redesign, no longer offers the third row
2011: Rearview camera and keyless access features available in most trims
2012: 3.6-Liter V6 engine, Bluetooth standard
2013: Restyle fascias, new technology center called CUE with voice command
2014: Mid-generation facelift, Luxury collection gains 18-inch chrome wheels.
2015: 4G LTE connection and a standard Wi-Fi hotspot
2016: Apple Car Play available with CUE infotainment center, which is optional in higher trims
The Best Years of the Cadillac SRX
Delving into the Cadillac SRX’s performance over the years, we have ranked them from best to worst based on multiple factors, including the FIXD Reliability Score, Owner Reliability Score, safety ratings, and fuel economy. Additionally, we provide crucial insights into prevalent DTCs and important safety recall data.
2014-2016 Cadillac SRX
FIXD Reliability Score: 7-9/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9/10
KBB Value: $8,733-$9,414
Fuel Economy: 19 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $583-$607
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
The 2014-2016 Cadillac SRX received a mid-generation facelift with technological and trim level upgrades. It is only available with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 308 horsepower and 265 lb of torque. It is the best SRX due to its excellent reliability scores, safety ratings, and low annual repair and maintenance costs.
The FIXD Reliability Score starts at 7/10 in 2014 and gets better every year. 2015 scores 8/10, and 2016 receives an almost perfect 9/10. The Owner Reliability Score is 9/10 for all three years. These scores indicate a steady increase in engine reliability, while owners are more than happy with their perceived trustworthiness.
The NHTSA safety rating for the 2014-2016 Cadillac SRX is 4.6 out of 5 stars, which is better than the average across all cars during those years. The BMW X5, another mid-size luxury SUV focused on performance, scored 4.8/5 in 2015-2016.
Another reason these are the best years of the SRX is the low maintenance and repair cost. 2014 and 2016 cost $583 annually, while 2015 is only $24 higher at $607. The average is $792.
The most common DTCs for 2014 SRX are P0021 (Intake Camshaft Position Timing- Over-Advanced – Bank 2), P0014 (Exhaust Camshaft Timing- Over-Advanced Bank 1) and P0024 (Exhaust Camshaft Timing- Over-Advanced Bank 2). These codes have a variety of potential causes, including
- Engine oil is dirty
- Engine oil is too low
- Engine oil is incorrect viscosity
- Camshaft variable valve timing control solenoid failure
- Camshaft phaser is seized in the advanced position
- Continuous oil flow to Variable Camshaft Timing chamber
The central repairs could be an oil change ($20-$60), replacing the oil control valve or variable valve timing control solenoid ($300-$400), or replacing the engine ($3,000-$4,000). This is some of the only bad news for the 2014 SRX.
The first and third most common codes for the 2015 SRX are P0171 (Bank 1 has too much air or insufficient fuel) and P0174 (Bank 2 has too much air or insufficient fuel). These point to the Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor, which could cost $172-$309 to replace. P0174 is also the second most common code for the 2016 SRX. While the most common issue is likely a dirty MAF sensor, there are other potential causes and fixes, such as:
- Vacuum leak ($100-$200)
- Clean MAF ($100)
- Replace MAF ($300)
- Fuel Pump ($1,300-$1,700)
- Fuel pressure regulator ($200-$400)
- Exhaust repair ($100-$200 if welded to repair)
- Air fuel sensor or oxygen sensor ($200-$300)
The most common code in the 2016 Cadillac SRX is also the second most common in 2015, P0496 (EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition). The most common cause for P0496 is the EVAP Purge Volume Control Valve which costs $150-$200 to replace. The third most common DTC in 2016 is P0442 (Evaporative emission control system leak – Medium), also pointing to the EVAP Purge Volume Control Valve. However, it could be just a loose fuel cap, so make sure and tighten it after you pump your gas.
Another reason the 2014-2016 SRX are the best years is its low number of recalls. The 2014 SRX has two recalls, one investigation, and 345 complaints. 2015 SRX has three recalls, one investigation, and 380 complaints. The 2016 Cadillac SRX fares the best, with only one recall, no investigations, and 139 complaints. While the overall number of recalls is low, all three years share a severe recall that should be addressed immediately in your SRX if it hasn’t been. This recall is a toe link in the rear suspension loosening and potentially separating, potentially resulting in a serious crash.
2012-2013 Cadillac SRX
FIXD Reliability Score: 6/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8-9/10
KBB Value: $5,850-$7,626
Fuel Economy: 19 mpg (Flex Fuel models: 14 mpg)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $583-$727
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
2012-2013 are some of the best years of the Cadillac SRX due to great reliability and good safety ratings. It is a luxury SUV that falls between BMW’s performance and Lexus’s comfort. The 2012 SRX offered a flex-fuel 3.6-liter V6 to replace the 2.8-liter turbo that was discontinued the year before.
The FIXD Reliability Score is 6/10, meaning the number of engine-related check engine lights is minimal. The Owner Reliability Score in 2012 is 9/10, decreasing slightly to 8/10 in 2013. Owners were impressed with the easy-to-use entertainment center and the comfortable seats.
The safety rating for 2012-2013 is above the industry average and the highest achieved by any SRX. At 4.6 out of 5 stars, it is better than the 2012-2013 BMW X5, which scored 4/5. It also outscores the Nissan Murano, which got 4.2/5 in 2012 and 4/5 in 2013.
The yearly repair and maintenance costs are below average, at $727 in 2012 and $583 in 2013. The unfortunate news is that 89% and 91% of respective owners reported a repair costing over $500.
The most common DTC in 2012 and 2013 is P0496, which is most commonly fixed by replacing the EVAP Purge Volume Control Valve for $150-$200. Second place in 2012 is DTC P0014 (Exhaust Camshaft Timing- Over-Advanced Bank 1), which can hopefully be solved with an oil change ($20-$60). The third most common DTC is P0017 and is commonly the timing chain, which could cost $1,046-$1,615.
2013’s second-place DTC is P0171 (bank 1 has too much air or insufficient fuel), pointing to the MAF Sensor ($172-$309). Lastly, P0021 (Intake Camshaft Position Timing- Over-Advanced – Bank 2) is seen again, which points to potential engine or engine oil issues. The best-case scenario is solved with an oil change ($20-$60), while the worst-case scenario warrants a new engine ($3,000-$4,000).
The 2012 Cadillac SRX has only three recalls, one investigation, and 386 complaints. The 2013 SRX has five recalls, one investigation, and 362 complaints. These recalls include the rear suspension toe link that might loosen and separate. Recalls are repaired without charge by making an appointment with a Cadillac dealer.
2011 Cadillac SRX
FIXD Reliability Score: 4/10
Owner Reliability Score: 10/10
KBB Value: $5,602
Fuel Economy: 19 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,067
Safety Rating: 4/5
While the first year of the second generation started rocky, by 2011, the SRX was Cadillac’s best-selling model. It expanded the rearview camera and keyless access features to more trim levels.
The FIXD Reliability Score is slightly below average at 4/10 but still fares better than the worst years of the SUV. The Owner Reliability Score is a perfect 10/10, a significant reason we included the 2011 model year on this side of the list. With an average of 125,000 miles, 22% of owners believe their SRX will reach 200,000 miles.
This model year’s safety score is low, at only four out of five stars. This is the lowest for any SRX but equals the BMW X5, which scored 4/5 in 2011.
Repair costs are another major weak point for the 2011 Cadillac SRX, costing $1,067 annually. 82% of owners say they paid over $500 for a single repair in 2022.
Two of the top three most common DTCs for the 2011 Cadillac SRX are P0016 (The correlation of the camshaft and crankshaft positions on bank 1 is incorrect based on the intake camshaft position sensor) and P0017, most commonly solved with a new timing chain. A timing chain replacement costs anywhere from $1,046-$1,615. However, P0016 can also be related to other issues, such as:
- Engine oil and filter change ($20-$60)
- Camshaft position sensor: ($176-$227)
- Crankshaft position sensor: ($168-$224)
- Reluctor ring ($200-$600)
- Timing belt: ($309-$390)
Another common DTC in the 2011 SRX is P0420 (Catalyst system efficiency below threshold – Bank 1) which is usually caused by a bad catalytic converter. Replacing the catalytic converter costs $1,538-$2,041.
The 2011 Cadillac SRX has the most recalls of the best years. It has seven recalls, one investigation, and 406 complaints. These recalls include that dreaded toe link in the rear suspension but add one dealing with transmission shifting issues.
The Worst Years of the Cadillac SRX
Here are the Cadillac SRX models we suggest avoiding, ranked from the worst to the best. Our evaluation primarily relied on the FIXD Reliability Score and Owner Reliability Score, and we also factored in safety ratings, miles per gallon, market value, repair costs, common DTCs, and safety recalls.
2008 Cadillac SRX
FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10
Owner Reliability Score: 6/10
KBB Value: $3,381
Fuel Economy: 16 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $750
Safety Rating: 4.2/5
The 2008 Cadillac SRX is relatively unchanged from its 2007 predecessor, which received multiple interior upgrades. Cadillac upgraded the instrument cluster and center console for easier use and more space. A sport package was also introduced, with upgraded exterior styling and 20-inch chrome wheels. They paired the V8 engine with a six-speed transmission.
The 2008 SRX gets a dismal 1/10 FIXD Reliability Score, meaning it has excessive engine-related check engine lights. The Owner Reliability Score is also the lowest of any SRX, that we have adequate data, with a score of only 1 out of 10.
Safety ratings are lower than many other years of the SRX, making it an easy choice to recommend avoiding. At 4.2 out of 5 stars, the 2008 SRX is lower than the 2008 BMW X5 (4.6) and the 2008 GMC Acadia (4.6).
A bright spot for the 2008 SRX is the annual repair costs are slightly below average, costing only $750 annually. 83% of people reported a single $500+ expense.
The top two common DTCs for the 2008 SRX are P0171 and P0174. These codes are common amongst the SRX and usually require a new MAF sensor ($172-$309). The third most common DTC is P0008 (Engine Position System Performance Bank 1), a severe problem related to the timing chain. Unfortunately, a new timing chain costs $1,046-$1,615. Another potential fix is replacing the reluctor ring, a possible $200-$600 repair.
While the 2008 Cadillac SRX is the worst model of this vehicle, it isn’t because of the recalls. It has zero recalls, zero investigations, and only 46 complaints.
2004 Cadillac SRX
FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7/10
KBB Value: $2,121
Fuel Economy: 16 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,000
Safety Rating: 4.5/5
The first year of the SRX, Cadillac produced 2004 with an optional third row and a 3.6-liter V6 or 4.6-liter V8 engine. It was built on the CTS platform and created for luxury and performance.
The 2004 FIXD Reliability Score of only 1/10 indicates numerous engine-related DTCs. The Owner Reliability Score is above average at 7/10, proving that people believe this model year to be more reliable than our sensors indicate. However, with an average of 150,000 miles, 14% of owners believe the car will make it past 200,000.
The safety score is above average and is a pretty impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars. This rating is good news for anyone already owning a 2004 SRX, especially considering its main use as a family vehicle.
Annual maintenance and repair costs are a major reason to avoid this SRX. At an average of $1,000, it is over $200 more than the average. 100% of owners reported a repair of more than $500, and 100% of people agreed it was expensive to repair.
The most common DTC in the 2004 Cadillac SRX is P0174, the faulty MAF Sensor. Replacing the sensor in the SRX costs an average of $172-$309. Next is P0102 (Mass or Circuit Airflow (MAF) Circuit Low Voltage Input). While this could be just a dirty air filter ($50-$70), it also points to the faulty MAF Sensor ($172-$309). The final DTC in the top three is P0430 (Catalyst system efficiency below threshold – Bank 2). P0430 is another code usually leading to a catalytic converter replacement ($1,538-$2,041).
Tied with 2011 for the most recalls, the 2004 Cadillac SRX has seven. It also has two investigations and 215 complaints.
2006 Cadillac SRX
FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8/10
KBB Value: $3,296
Fuel Economy: 16 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $625
Safety Rating: 4.5/5
While the 2006 Cadillac SRX doesn’t bring about many changes from the previous two years, it does include satellite radio in all trims and introduces a power liftgate. It is still available in a V6 or V8 engine, offering 260 or 320 horsepower, respectively.
The FIXD Reliability Score is consistent with others we recommend avoiding, at 1/10, but Owner Reliability reaches an impressive 8/10. This indicates that people may not be aware of the reliability issues.
The safety score is a respectable 4.5/5, which is good news for insurance premiums if you already own this vehicle.
Repair costs are also a silver lining of the 2006 SRX, only costing $625 a year. This is comparable to the lowest average cost for all models. 83% of owners surveyed said they spent over $500 on a single repair in 2022.
The most common DTCs include P0420, the catalytic converter ($1,538-$2,041). The other two out of the top three codes are P0302 (Cylinder 2 misfire detected) and P0300 (Random, Multiple Misfire Detected). Replacing ignition coils ($51-$173) often solves the misfires. However, the problem could also require replacing spark plugs ($130-$505).
If you already own a 2006 Cadillac SRX, you’ll be glad to know it has only three recalls, one investigation, and 67 complaints, some of the lowest among all SRX models.
2010 Cadillac SRX
FIXD Reliability Score: 3/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7/10
KBB Value: $5,443
Fuel Economy: 19 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,111
Safety Rating: 4.5/5
The first year of the second generation, the 2010 Cadillac SRX ditches the optional third row and the V8 engine. It introduces a 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 and improves the luxurious feel with an improved interior and a sleek exterior. While it is the best of the worst Cadillac SRX, it still has a low FIXD Reliability Score and high ownership costs.
The FIXD Reliability Score is 3/10, a small increase from the consistent 1/10 in the first generation. The Owner Reliability Score is above average at 7/10.
The safety rating of the Cadillac SRX rarely has bad years, although there are years we don’t suggest avoiding with a better rating. The 2010 SRX got 4.5/5 stars, just below the 4.6 out of 5 stars scored by the 2008 BMW X5 and the 2008 GMC Acadia.
The extremely high repair costs are another blemish on the 2010 SRX, costing $1,111 yearly for maintenance and repairs. 80% of owners reported a $500+ repair, and 50% of those reported were engine-related.
The most common DTC for the 2010 SRX is P0017, which has generally led to a timing chain replacement ($1,046-$1,615) in other model years. The second most common code, P0420, is the infamous catalytic converter ($1,538-$2,041) that plagues almost every model on our worst-years list. Finally, P0496 makes another appearance. P0496 means “EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition,” the most common fix is the EVAP Purge Volume Control Valve ($150-$200). However, other possible repairs include a new EVAP line ($20-$100) or an EVAP Pressure Sensor ($280-$330).
The 2010 Cadillac SRX has the second most recalls of all SRX models, with six, and the most complaints, with 457. It also has one investigation.
FAQs
What years of the Cadillac SRX have engine and/or transmission problems?
The most significant engine issue in the Cadillac SRX came in the 2010 model year with the 2.8-liter V6 turbocharged engine. It was discontinued after only two years due to problems with anything other than high-octane fuel. This resulted in a safety recall that affected thousands of SRX models.
According to our data, 2004-2006 and 2009-2011 all have diagnostic trouble codes pointing to the catalytic converter. These same years have issues with the timing chain, leading us to believe there is an engine problem amongst those years.
What is considered high mileage for a Cadillac SRX?
High mileage for a Cadillac SRX is anything above 125,000 miles. The highest number of reported miles is 175,000 for the 2005 model, while the lowest is 96,429 for the 2014 SRX. The average across all years of the SRX is 134,804.
High mileage classification for an SRX depends on age and total miles driven. For instance, a three-year-old SRX with 72,000 miles would be considered high, given an average yearly mileage of 12,000. In contrast, a six-year-old SRX with 36,000 miles would not fall into the high mileage category.
It is essential to treat each SRX as a unique case, and we highly advise inspecting to assess how the mileage has impacted your specific SRX. Owners handle their vehicles differently, and factors like driving conditions and maintenance consistency can significantly influence a vehicle’s overall condition, regardless of the miles driven.
What other vehicles should I consider?
If you’re considering a used Cadillac SRX, you should also look at the BMW X5. It offers luxury, performance, and advanced features that rival the SRX’s appeal.
Alternatively, consider the Lincoln MKX as another option. Its elegant design, comfortable interior, and premium features make it a strong contender for your next luxury SUV.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is worth considering if you want a more rugged and adventurous choice. The Cherokee’s off-road capabilities and spacious interior make it a versatile and reliable option for your lifestyle.
On the other hand, if you prioritize practicality and reliability, the Toyota Highlander should be on your list. Known for its durability and family-friendly features, the Highlander is a solid choice in the midsize SUV segment.
For a more budget-friendly alternative, the Nissan Murano offers a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and a smooth driving experience, making it an attractive option among used SUVs.
Lastly, don’t overlook the GMC Acadia, which provides a well-rounded package of space, comfort, and modern technology, making it a compelling choice in the midsize SUV market.
What owners of the Cadillac SRX like to use their car for:
We asked owners of the Cadillac SRX, “What do you use your car for?” on a survey. The SRX is a mid-size luxury SUV, and 28% of owners reported their main use as luxurious driving. The highest recorded use is as a family vehicle, which is the answer of 42% of owners that were surveyed. Another 22% use their Cadillac for lots of driving, which rounds out the top three. 4% use it as an office on wheels, a surprising 3% for hauling/towing, and 1% for outdoor/off-road driving. 0% of owners reported using the SRX for sport/fast driving.
| Frequent Use Categories: | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | ***** |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | *** |
| Hauling/Towing | * |
| Office on Wheels | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * |
| Luxurious Driving | *** |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | * |
A Note About Data and Information Sources
This article has many details about Cadillac SRX reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.
- FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App.
The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing.
This is an objective score.
- Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Cadillac SRX owners who use FIXD.
The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Cadillac SRX.
This is a subjective score.
To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:
How reliable would you say your Cadillac SRX is?
a. Just point A to point B driving
b. A Daily Commuter
c. Good for a 100 mile road trip
d. Good for a 500 mile road trip
e. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem
From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:
a. = 2
b. = 4
c. = 6
d. = 8
e. = 10
Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is.
One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.
Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.
Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others.
It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars.
Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data.
We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.
- KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Cadillac SRX with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
- Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Cadillac SRX owners
- Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.
References
- Cadillac SRX model-specific information, edmunds.com (various dates). Retrieved July 18, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/
- Model-specific recall information as per the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. Retrieved July 18, 2023, from https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Cadillac SRX Generations, carbuzz.com. Retrieved July 18, 2023, from https://carbuzz.com/cars/cadillac/srx-generations
Keith Rollins is a copywriter and author that has been involved in the automotive industry for over 12 years. He has written for hotcars.com and is featured on Copywriting.org. When he’s not writing he’s spending time with his three kids, hiking, working on cars, or running. You can see his work at keithrrollins.com.
