The 2004 Cadillac XLR is a luxury roadster, marking Cadillac's entry into the high-end convertible market. Produced from 2004 to 2009, it shared a platform with the Corvette. Key trims included the standard XLR and later, the XLR-V. The XLR stood out with its distinctive styling, power retractable hardtop, and advanced technology for the time. Original pricing ranged from $75,000, depending on options, making it a premium offering.
The Good
The 2004 Cadillac XLR offered a blend of performance and luxury. Its Northstar V8 engine provided adequate power, while the retractable hardtop offered open-air enjoyment. The XLR's unique styling appealed to emotional buyers, while its comfortable interior and available features like heated seats and navigation catered to practical needs. While not exceptionally reliable, it offered a distinctive Cadillac experience.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2004 Cadillac XLR include issues with the retractable hardtop mechanism, which can be expensive to repair. The Northstar V8 engine is known for potential oil consumption and head gasket issues. Electrical glitches and problems with the entertainment system are also reported. It's crucial to inspect these components thoroughly before purchasing.
2004 Cadillac XLR: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 4.6L Northstar V8
- Horsepower: 320 hp @ 6400 rpm
- Fuel Economy: 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 5.9 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable (not designed for towing)
- Trim-Level Features:
- Standard XLR:
- Power retractable hardtop
- Leather upholstery
- Heated seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Bose premium sound system
- Navigation system
- Keyless entry and start
- Magnetic Ride Control
- Optional Features/Packages:
- Chrome wheels
- Wood trim interior accents
- Upgraded leather options
- Standard XLR:
- Detailed Feature Breakdown: The 2004 Cadillac XLR came generously equipped. Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and stability control. Interior amenities included power windows, power locks, power mirrors, and cruise control. The infotainment system featured a color display screen, CD player, and satellite radio. The driver's seat had power adjustments and memory settings. The exterior was defined by its angular styling, xenon headlights, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Magnetic Ride Control system adjusted the suspension damping in real-time, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The power-folding hardtop added to the car’s versatility, allowing for open-air driving when desired.
2004 Cadillac XLR Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Cadillac |
| Model | XLR |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2-Door Convertible |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | BOWLING GREEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1654.25 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 128.02 cm |
| Overall Length | 451.36 cm |
| Overall Width | 183.64 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 268.48 cm |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.6-L V-8 DOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 4.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $75,385 USD |
| Invoice Price | $69,731 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $815 USD |
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What Problems Does the 2004 Cadillac XLR Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2004 Cadillac XLR often revolve around the retractable hardtop mechanism. Issues range from slow operation to complete failure, which can be costly to repair due to the complexity of the system. The Northstar V8 engine is also a source of concern, with reports of excessive oil consumption and potential head gasket failures, particularly in earlier production years. Electrical glitches are another common complaint, including problems with the infotainment system, sensors, and power accessories. The Magnetic Ride Control suspension, while providing excellent handling, can also be prone to failure over time, requiring expensive replacements. Recalls for the 2004 XLR have addressed issues such as potential fuel leaks and problems with the airbag system. Long-term reliability concerns stem primarily from the complexity of the car's systems and the aging components, making regular maintenance crucial. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended to identify any potential problems before they escalate.
How long will the 2004 Cadillac XLR last?
The 2004 Cadillac XLR, given proper maintenance, can provide 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 15-20 years of service. However, long-term durability is heavily influenced by maintenance habits. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to premature failure of the retractable hardtop, engine, and suspension components. The Northstar engine's potential for oil consumption and head gasket issues remains a long-term concern. The car's complex electrical system can also develop glitches over time. Proper care, including timely oil changes, fluid checks, and addressing minor issues promptly, is essential for maximizing the lifespan of the XLR.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Cadillac XLR boasted a range of advanced tech features for its time. It included a Bose premium sound system, a navigation system with a color display, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Driver-assistance features were limited but included traction control and stability control. Safety features comprised anti-lock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and side airbags. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a head-up display. The Magnetic Ride Control system enhanced handling and ride comfort. While the XLR offered a decent array of tech features, it lacked some of the more advanced driver-assistance technologies found in later vehicles. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA were not particularly impressive, with a four-star rating for frontal driver impact and a five-star rating for side impact. The IIHS did not conduct crash tests on the XLR. The infotainment system, while functional, is dated by modern standards. The navigation system's map data may be outdated and difficult to update. The sound system, however, remains a strong point. The XLR's technology package was competitive for its era but pales in comparison to modern vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Raven
onyx
Sand Beige
Interior Colors
Light Cashmere
Shale
Slate
2004 Cadillac XLR Prices and Market Value
The 2004 Cadillac XLR had a starting price of around $75,000 when new. Current used market prices typically range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The XLR has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, complexity, and maintenance costs. Factors affecting resale value include the condition of the retractable hardtop, the engine's health, and the overall cosmetic appearance of the car. Models with lower mileage and comprehensive maintenance records command higher prices. The XLR's unique styling and Cadillac brand cachet contribute to its appeal among enthusiasts, but its potential maintenance issues limit its resale value.
2004 Cadillac XLR Cost of Ownership
The 2004 Cadillac XLR is generally considered costly to own. Insurance rates are moderate, but fuel costs can be high due to the V8 engine's fuel consumption. Maintenance and repair costs are the most significant factors, particularly regarding the retractable hardtop and Northstar engine. Parts can be expensive, and specialized labor may be required. Long-term ownership requires diligent maintenance to prevent costly repairs. While not the most economical choice, the XLR can be a rewarding car for those willing to invest in its upkeep.
2004 Cadillac XLR Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
68.14 liters
City Mileage
7.23 km/l
Highway Mileage
10.63 km/l
2004 Cadillac XLR Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Cadillac XLR Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2004-11-03
Recall no.
04v525000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger Vehicles Were Produced With ONE or Both Rear Brake Hydraulic Lines That CAN Come IN Contact With or BE Affected BY Heat From THE Left Engine Exhaust Manifold and THE Left Exhaust Pipe. THE Brake Fluid Could Reach Elevated Temperatures and Boil.
Consequence
IF THE Brake Fluid Boils IN A Rear Brake Line, THE Effectiveness OF THE Rear Brake System Would BE Reduced Which Could Result IN A Brake Line Leak and Loss OF Brake Fluid. IF Enough Fluid Leaks From THE Rear Brake System SO That Brake Pedal Application CAN NO Longer Build Pressure TO THE Rear Brakes. THE Operator OF THE Vehicle Will Experience Limited Braking Which Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will (1) Inspect THE Left Engine Exhaust Manifold Clip FOR Proper Alignment and Placement ON THE Body-Mounted Stud. IF Incorrect, They Will Reposition THE Clip ON THE Brake Lines and Reinstall THE Clip ON THE Stud; (2) THE Dealer Will Verify That Both Rear Brake Lines Have THE Proper Clearance TO THE Left Exhaust Pipe. They Will Reposition THE Lines BY Bending AS Necessary; (3) Dealers Will Remove THE Machining TAB From THE Rear Differential Housing. Also, Dealers ARE TO Inspect THE Brake Lines FOR Wear IN These Related Areas and Repair or Replace IF There IS ANY Sign OF Wear-Through ON THE Nylon Overcoating. THE Recall Began ON January 18, 2005. Owners Should Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2239 or Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438.
Notes
General Motors Recall NO. 04086.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering:linkages
Recall date
2004-06-09
Recall no.
04v273000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Involved IN This Campaign, THE Lower Control ARM Ball Stud Nut/Washer Assemblies With Washers Were Made OF THE Wrong Material. THE Washers MAY Fracture and Become Loose or Fall Away From THE Vehicle, Reducing Clamp Load. Separation OF THE Control ARM Ball Stud and Steering Knuckle, DUE TO Disengagement OF THE Tapered Attachment and Retaining Nut, IS Possible.
Consequence
IF THE Control ARM Separates From THE Knuckle, THE Affected Corner OF THE Vehicle Will Drop and THE Control ARM Would BE Forced Downward, Contacting THE Wheel. THE Affected Wheel Could Tilt Outward and Create A Dragging Action That Would Tend TO Slow THE Vehicle and Create A Tendency FOR THE Vehicle TO Turn IN THE Direction OF THE Affected Wheel. IN Extreme Situations, THE Affected Wheel Assembly Could Separate From THE Vehicle. Separation OF THE Wheel Assembly Would Also Sever That Wheel;s Hydraulic Brake Hose and Result IN Diminished Braking Performance OF THE Vehicle, Which Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Ball Stud Joints and Measure THE Torque OF THE NUT FOR All Front Lower Control Arms IN All Models Affected AS Well AS THE Rear Lower Control Arms ON THE XLR and Corvette. IF THE Torque IS NOT AT Specification, THE Dealers Will Replace THE Ball Stud, THE Knuckle, and THE Nut. IF THE Torque IS AT Specification, THE Dealers Will Replace THE Nut/Washer Assembly Only. THE Recall Will Begin ON August 25, 2004. Owners Should Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339 or Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 04043. Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
Recall date
2006-07-19
Recall no.
06v263000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, THE Daylight Running Lights (Drl), Turn Signal, and Parking Lamps USE THE Same Bulb. THE Bulb MAY Become Damaged From Vibration Within A Loose Fitting Socket or AIR Entering THE Bulb DUE TO AN Inadequate Seal. Both OF These Conditions Will Cause THE Bulb TO Burn OUT Prematurely.
Consequence
IF This Were TO Occur, THE Driver Would Notice That THE Arrow IN THE Instrument Panel Would Flash Faster Than Normal When THE Turn Signal IS Activated. THE Loss OF THE DRL and Turn Signals Could Fail TO Warn Others OF THE Driver's Presence or Intentions and Could Lead TO A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Socket and Bulb IN Both Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 31, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339.
Notes
General Motors Recall NO. 06013.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date
2005-02-09
Recall no.
05v046000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 124, 'accelerator Control Systems.' IF ONE OF THE Two Accelerator Pedal Return Springs Fails and THE Temperature IS -22 Degrees F TO -40 Degrees F, THE Engine MAY NOT Return TO Idle Within Three Seconds, AS Required.
Consequence
IF This Were TO Occur, Greater Brake Pedal Force and A Longer Distance MAY BE Required TO Stop THE Vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Accelerator Pedal Assembly. This Recall Began ON March 8, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339 or Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 05018.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2011-02-28
Recall no.
11e009000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
TI Automotive IS Recalling Certain Fuel Pumps, Part Numbers Tu456 and Tu303, Sold Under Various Brand Names AS Aftermarket and Replacement Equipment FOR THE Motor Vehicles Listed Above. THE Defective Fuel Pump MAY Seize, Stopping THE Fuel Flow TO THE Engine Creating A Stalling Condition.
Consequence
A Vehicle Crash Could Occur Should THE Engine Stall While IN Use.
Remedy
TI Automotive Will Notify Owners OF Record and Will Replace ANY Defective Fuel Pump With A NEW or Reworked Fuel Pump Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON February 22, 2011. Owners MAY Contact TI Automotive AT 1-866-867-3759 or LOG ON TO Www.recallresponse.com.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket and Replacement Fuel Pumps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
2004 Cadillac XLR Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2004 Cadillac XLR Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Cadillac XLR is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Convertible with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Cadillac XLR Compare to Other Convertible?
The 2004 Cadillac XLR competed with luxury roadsters like the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and the BMW Z4. In terms of performance, the SL-Class offered more powerful engine options. The Z4 provided sportier handling. Regarding features, the XLR held its own, offering a comparable level of luxury and technology for its time. However, in terms of reliability, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and BMW Z4 generally outperformed the XLR, with fewer reported issues. Price-wise, the XLR was positioned similarly to its rivals when new, but it has depreciated more significantly. Alternatives to the 2004 Cadillac XLR include the Mercedes-Benz SL500, offering a more refined driving experience and greater reliability, albeit at a higher price point in the used market. The BMW Z4 provides a sportier and more engaging driving experience. If reliability and lower running costs are priorities, the Lexus SC430 is a better alternative, offering similar luxury with Toyota's renowned reliability. The XLR offers a unique blend of American styling and luxury, but its potential maintenance issues should be considered carefully when compared to its rivals.
Ranks #205 Convertible
| 1 | 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2015 Lexus IS | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2009 Honda S2000 | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF | (4.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 BMW 8 Series | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2021 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Audi S5 Sportback | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ferrari F8 Spider | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster | (4.0★) |
| 11 | 2021 Jeep Compass | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2019 Buick Cascada | (0.0★) |
| 205 | 2004 Cadillac XLR | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Cadillac XLR a Good Convertible?
The 2004 Cadillac XLR is ideal for buyers who appreciate its distinctive styling and are willing to accept potentially higher maintenance costs. It's worth buying *used* if you can find a well-maintained example with comprehensive service records. Prioritize models with lower mileage and evidence of meticulous care. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential. This car isn't for those seeking ultimate reliability or low running costs. However, if you desire a unique American luxury roadster and are prepared for the potential maintenance challenges, the 2004 Cadillac XLR can be a rewarding ownership experience. Avoid examples with known issues or a lack of maintenance history.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.