2018 Cadillac Xts

The CUE infotainment touchscreen is the most commonly reported issue on the XTS. The screen layers delaminate from heat exposure, creating bubbles, cloudy areas, and dead zones where touch inputs do not register. The XTS is particularly susceptible because its CUE screen is exposed to direct sunlight through the windshield. Climate, audio, and navigation controls all route through this screen, making the failure especially disruptive.

Replace the CUE touchscreen display module. Aftermarket screens with improved UV-resistant adhesive are available for $200-$400 and take approximately 30 minutes to install. OEM dealer replacement costs significantly more. Consider installing a screen protector and using a windshield sunshade to extend the life of the replacement screen.

The air conditioning compressor fails prematurely, resulting in warm air from the vents. When the compressor fails internally, metal debris contaminates the entire A/C system, requiring replacement of the condenser, receiver/drier, and sometimes the expansion valve. Owners in warm climates report A/C failures as early as 50,000 miles.

Replace the A/C compressor, receiver/drier, and expansion valve. If the compressor has shed metal debris, the condenser must also be replaced and all lines must be flushed to prevent contamination of the new compressor. Evacuate and recharge the system with the correct amount of R-134a. Use a quality aftermarket compressor for cost savings.

XTS models equipped with Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) experience premature front strut and rear shock failures. The MRC units leak magnetorheological fluid from the seals, degrading ride quality and handling. Non-MRC models also experience premature strut wear. Owners notice increased body roll, bouncing over bumps, clunking, and a warning message indicating MRC system fault.

Replace the failed MRC struts or shocks with OEM or aftermarket MRC-compatible units. Aftermarket options from Arnott and other suppliers cost less than OEM GM units. Some owners elect to convert to conventional passive struts and shocks, which are less expensive and more durable, though this disables the MRC adaptive ride feature.

The 3.6L V6 engine develops oil leaks from the front timing cover gasket and valve cover gaskets. The leaks are often slow seeps that worsen over time, leaving oil stains on the driveway and causing a burning oil smell when oil drips onto the exhaust. The timing cover leak is more difficult and expensive to repair due to the labor involved in accessing the front of the engine.

Replace the valve cover gaskets for external leaks at the valve covers. For timing cover leaks, the front of the engine must be partially disassembled to replace the timing cover gasket and reseal the cover. Some mechanics use a thread-sealant repair on minor timing cover leaks as a less invasive alternative. Inspect the oil pan gasket at the same time.

The TCM mounted on the transmission housing is exposed to heat and vibration that causes premature failure. Symptoms include erratic shifting, harsh engagement, transmission fault codes, limp mode (locked in a single gear), and a 'Service Transmission' warning on the dash. The TCM is an external module bolted to the transmission and is separate from the PCM.

Replace the TCM and have it programmed to the vehicle by the dealer using GM diagnostic equipment. The new TCM must be calibrated to the specific transmission and VIN. After replacement, a transmission fluid level check and adaptive learn drive cycle should be performed to optimize shift quality.

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.

A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.

GM will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the vehicle's brake system, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18279.