2011 Cadillac Srx Problems

Severe Issues

Used CADILLAC SRX shoppers should review this model-year complaint and recall record before making an offer. Based on 446 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Headlight/Taillight Failures the most reported area.

20109 years2012

Before you buy

This 2011 Cadillac Srx has 446 NHTSA complaints β€” top issue: Headlight/Taillight Failures.

A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.

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446
Complaints
17
Crashes
1
Fires
21
Injuries
β€”
Fatalities
7
Recalls

2011 Cadillac Srx Fuel Economy

βœ“ EPA Official Data

EPA-rated fuel economy across 3 2011 Cadillac Srx trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.

17
MPG City
16–18 range
22
MPG Hwy
22–24 range
19
MPG Combined
18–20 range
468
g COβ‚‚/mile
Regular Gasoline
⚠️Costs $5,250 more than avg vehicle over 5 years

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 3 trims analysed.

2011 Cadillac Srx Safety Ratings

NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested β€” showing 2011 Cadillac SRX SUV AWD

Official crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.

Overall

Not Rated

16.4% rollover risk

Frontal Crash

Not Rated

Side Crash

Not Rated

Rollover

4/5

16.4% probability

βœ“Stability Control: Standardβ—‹Forward Collision Warning: Noβ—‹Lane Departure Warning: No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.

Quick Answer

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2011 Cadillac Srx has 446 owner complaints, 17 crash-related complaints, and 7 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Headlight/Taillight Failures. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.

2011 Cadillac Srx β€” key reliability facts
Make
Cadillac
Model
Srx
Model year
2011
NHTSA owner complaints
446
Crash-related complaints
17
Safety recall campaigns
7
Top reported component
Headlight/Taillight Failures
Reliability signal
Severe Issues
EPA MPG combined
19
EPA MPG city / highway
17 / 22
Fuel type
Regular Gasoline
NHTSA rollover rating
4/5 stars
Electronic stability control
Standard

Common problems

Most common 2011 Cadillac Srx problems

Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.

#1
198
complaints

Headlight/Taillight Failures

Crash-related:1
Injuries:1
#2
62
complaints

Suspension Failures

Crash-related:3
Injuries:2
#3
41
complaints

Brake System

Crash-related:1
Injuries:2

Complaint patterns center on Headlight/Taillight Failures, Suspension Failures, Brake System. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.

Buyer verdict

Should you buy a used 2011 Cadillac Srx?

This CADILLAC SRX year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection.

Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs.

May Suit

This year may suit buyers who prioritize complete maintenance records and pass a pre-purchase inspection.

May Want to Avoid

Buyers who want a lower-risk ownership profile may prefer comparing nearby model years before committing.

Pre-purchase

What to check before buying a used 2011 Cadillac Srx

Inspection Focus

  • Inspect the most frequently reported complaint components on this model year
  • Confirm recall repairs were completed and documented
  • Check for accident damage, title brands, and mileage inconsistencies on the exact VIN

Before You Close the Deal

  • Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
  • Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
  • Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
  • Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase

Check the exact car

Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.

Before buying a used 2011 Cadillac Srx, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.

AI verdict

What the complaint data suggests

Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology

The CADILLAC SRX has 446 NHTSA complaints and 7 recalls on record. 17 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Recall context: 7 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase.

Key Findings
  • 446 total complaints filed with NHTSA
  • 7 federal recall campaigns
  • 17 crash-related complaints on record
Top Concerns
  • Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
  • Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
  • Verify service records for frequently complained components
Data note: NHTSA complaints are consumer-submitted and do not confirm a manufacturing defect Complaint volume is influenced by sales volume β€” popular models naturally accumulate more complaints

Full breakdown

All 2011 Cadillac Srx complaints by category

Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2011 Cadillac Srx. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.

ComponentComplaintsCrashesFiresAvg MileageVolume
Headlight/Taillight Failures1981β€”β€”
Suspension Failures623β€”β€”
Brake System411β€”β€”
Electrical Faults40β€”β€”β€”
Transmission / Drivetrain361β€”β€”
Uncategorized Issues322β€”β€”
Engine Problems28β€”1β€”
Structural Problems262β€”β€”
Airbag Malfunctions1711β€”β€”
Visibility/Wiper15β€”β€”β€”
Wheel Issues13β€”β€”β€”
Steering Defects13β€”β€”β€”
Unintended Acceleration11β€”β€”β€”
Visibility7β€”β€”β€”
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)7β€”β€”β€”
Seat Belt Issues61β€”β€”
Fuel/Propulsion System5β€”β€”β€”
Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB4β€”β€”β€”
Hydraulic4β€”β€”β€”
Seat-Related Issues3β€”β€”β€”
Air2β€”β€”β€”
Traction Control System2β€”β€”β€”
Tire Issues2β€”β€”β€”
Fuel System2β€”β€”β€”
Gasoline2β€”β€”β€”
Electronic Stability Control1β€”β€”β€”
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility1β€”β€”β€”
Equipment1β€”β€”β€”
Door Lock Issues11β€”β€”

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.

In their words

Real owner complaints

Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2011 Cadillac Srx. Type a keyword (e.g. β€œtransmission”, β€œstalling”, β€œbrakes”) to filter.

Showing 400 most recent complaints of 446 total. View all on NHTSA

Uncategorized IssuesApr 16, 2026

I received a flyer that my Cadillac was included in the urgent Rear Toe Link Safety Recall, so I took it to the local Cadillac dealership in Ridgeland, MS. My 2011 Cadillac SRX had the same warnings on my dashboard that were included in the flyer that I received. The warning li…

Headlight/Taillight FailuresMar 26, 2026

The low beam headlights are useless for night driving. The operator is required to run high beam during any night time or low light operation. This creates a safety issue for both the operator and any incoming vehicles.

Suspension FailuresDec 26, 2025

Transmission cable and roll away not right gear

Headlight/Taillight FailuresNov 20, 2025

The headlight low beam illumination is extremely dangerous for driving at night. Very poor illumination distance and very poor overall lighting. Can barely even see pedestrians walking if on the side or crossing the road, VERY DANGEROUS!! Have to turn on high-beams when possible …

Electrical FaultsJun 2, 2025

There were recalls on this vehicle. I just purchased and trying to get assistance.

Headlight/Taillight FailuresApr 24, 2025

I own a 2011 Cadillac SRX and have experienced a serious issue with the headlights. Over time, the headlights became extremely dim, making it difficult and dangerous to drive at night. This was not due to the bulbs themselves, but rather an issue with the headlight housing or des…

Suspension FailuresApr 4, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear suspension. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with severely corroded suspension. The vehicle was not repa…

Brake SystemMar 3, 2025

I’m sending in this complaint which is a common problem with the Cadillac SRX. The ABS breaks go soft when activated. I have no breaks , the breaks go to the floor. This is so dangerous. Now I have to turn the car off and pump the breaks. This sometimes take a whole day to get th…

Brake SystemFeb 26, 2025

Just randomly if I have to brake the brakes go all the way to the floor. Sometimes have to pump the brakes to stop. Last couple of days when there’s rough road it feels like the brakes are on when accelerating and car begins to shake.

Headlight/Taillight FailuresFeb 25, 2025

The car is extremely unsafe. The headlights are dim no matter how many times they are replaced. I have to drive with high beams on.

Brake SystemJan 31, 2025

Put new brake pads on car still having same problem brakes work fine most of the time. Then every now and then brake pads goes to floor (squeezy)then next day back working fine this is going to cause a accident.

Brake SystemJan 14, 2025

This is the 3rd time this happens in the life of our Cadillac SRX great vehicle it’s been in the family for years although the brake pedal goes out or not responsive in an event of going over a high speed bump or some what deep pothole on the roadway at a speed about 35mph very d…

Suspension FailuresDec 20, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle was veering to the right and left unintendedly. The contact stated that the several unknown warning lights illuminated and remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it w…

Headlight/Taillight FailuresDec 11, 2024

After braking hard, skidding or going over a hard bump, brakes go to the floor and do not recover. This has ongoing since I purchased the car in 2012.

Transmission / DrivetrainDec 10, 2024

Unknown Transmission hesitation, causing vehicle to delay when pulling out in traffic. Vehicle also slips when driving at 2,000 rpm’s.

Suspension FailuresNov 22, 2024

Trying to get recall performed but keep being refused. McGuires Chevrolet of Newton,N.J. won't perform recall because I did not buy it from them. Had Cadillac schedule another dealer, Johnson Cadillac to perform recall and they called the day before appointment to cancel. Said th…

VisibilityOct 23, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 Cadillac SRX. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the panoramic sunroof fractured without impact. The fractured panoramic sunroof glass fell in on the contact. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or th…

Headlight/Taillight FailuresOct 2, 2024

The headlights dim and the cars can't be driven at night. It's a well documented issue.

Suspension FailuresAug 22, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 Cadillac SRX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V473000 (Suspension); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the rec…

Structural ProblemsAug 18, 2024

I opened the lift gate with the fob and went to put my groceries in the back and hydraulic lift gate started closing on me almost immediately. I had to physically force the hatch up! If it had been my wife it could have pinned her in and trapped her. This is a major issue it co…

Page 1 of 20

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2011 Cadillac Srx.

Safety recalls

2011 Cadillac Srx recalls

7 campaigns

NHTSA recall campaigns for the 2011 Cadillac Srx. 7 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.

Safety recall

SUSPENSION:REAR

#21V473000SUSPENSION:REAR24/06/2021
Safety recall

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST

#14V447000SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST23/07/2014
Safety recall

SUSPENSION:REAR

#14V571000SUSPENSION:REAR19/09/2014
Safety recall

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

#11V595000POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION20/12/2011
Safety recall

VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT

#11V149000VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENTApr 3, 2011
Safety recall

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

#11V308000AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOWMar 6, 2011
Safety recall

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY

#10V623000SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY15/12/2010

Across model years

Compare Cadillac Srx model years

Compare complaint and recall volume across years to see whether 2011 lands in a lower-risk or higher-risk part of the model timeline.

Research more

Keep researching before you buy

Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.

Questions

2011 Cadillac Srx buying FAQ

Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.

Is the 2011 Cadillac Srx reliable?β–Ύ

Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 446 owner complaints, 17 crash-related complaints, and 7 recall campaigns for this model year. This CADILLAC SRX year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.

What are the most common problems with the 2011 Cadillac Srx?β–Ύ

#1: Headlight/Taillight Failures (198 complaints). #2: Suspension Failures (62 complaints). #3: Brake System (41 complaints)

At what mileage do problems start on the 2011 Cadillac Srx?β–Ύ

Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.

How safe is the 2011 Cadillac Srx?β–Ύ

Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2011 Cadillac Srx, NHTSA complaints include 17 crash-related reports and 1 fire reports out of 446 total complaints. 21 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Does the 2011 Cadillac Srx have any recalls?β–Ύ

Yes. 7 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2011 Cadillac Srx. A major recall area is SUSPENSION:REAR. 7 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.

Should I buy a 2011 Cadillac Srx?β–Ύ

This CADILLAC SRX year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs. Pay extra attention to Headlight/Taillight Failures during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.

Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpectorAI.

Wider context: See the full Cadillac Srx reliability report with year-by-year comparison.

Owner Reliability Rating

Rate the 2011 Cadillac Srx based on your ownership experience.

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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.

Before you buy

Check the exact vehicle history before you buy

Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.