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The 2014 Cadillac XTS is everything a big luxury sedan should be, and it is the second model of the Cadillac XTS’s first-generation car.
This model is incredibly luxurious, and it comes with a spacious cabin and a roomy trunk.
Some say a man’s car reflects his personality – and I would agree because if you own this model, it speaks volumes of your high-class personality and exquisite taste in luxury and comfort.
If you’re particular about safety, technology, and comfort – but not necessarily performance, the 2014 Cadillac XTS is an excellent choice.
I would add that this model is one of the world’s most advanced, high-tech sedans.
Despite being the overachiever of the 2014 Cadillac XTS, owners have filed several complaints.
Today, we will unveil the most common problems with this model.
When you know what the problems are, you will be able to save time, money, and even your life and others.
Common Problems
The CUE Screens
One of the most common problems owners have complained about is the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) screens.
Owners complain that the CUE screens delaminate, crack and become unresponsive. It makes the infotainment touch screen challenging to use.
The CUE comes with multiple layers. It has a protective film, sensing electronics, and a glass substrate susceptible to delamination or pulling apart.
It causes the screen’s surface to have bubbles, dead spots, and spider cracks.
This problem results from poor interlayer bonding on the screen during manufacturing.
As the gap between layers widens, the sensing electronics lose their effectiveness, and the touch screen becomes inconsistent and unresponsive.
It could become frustrating, mainly since HVAC, radio, and other controls are accessed through the interface.
What To Do
This problem is very common to the 2014 Cadillac XTS and easy to fix. You only need to perform a hard reset.
Like a phone or computer software, when your CUE interface becomes unresponsive or glitches, it needs to be rebooted.
Try this procedure if you are experiencing this problem with your car:
- Turn on the ignition but keep the engine off.
- Open the CUE faceplate to have a clear view of the storage area behind it.
- Turn off the vehicle with the faceplate up.
- Open the driver’s side door and wait 30-60 seconds.
- Close the door and start the vehicle.
- Lower the faceplate and try to use the touch screen again.
If the problem persists, you should:
- File a complaint on carcomplaints.com
- Visit a certified GM dealer.
- Notify the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) about the condition of your car.
- Report a safety concern to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Electrical problems
Another common complaint from 2014 Cadillac XTS users is that the vehicle sometimes loses power at random.
This problem makes your vehicle unreliable and unsafe to drive. It could hinder performance, reduce fuel efficiency or even cause a car fire.
This problem is attributed to drained batteries or unsolved electrical issues.
Most Cadillacs have complex electrical components, and once there is an issue, it will affect most of the car’s operation.
Some signs to look out for that indicate you need to check your electrical systems include:
- Burning Smells – If you smell burning rubber or melted plastic, there is an electrical short somewhere.
- Dim Or Flickering Lights – Once your vehicle’s lights start to dim or flicker, it may be a forewarning with the battery or electrical system.
- Failing or Unresponsive Electronics – If your GPS or your vehicle’s radio stops working or becomes inconsistent, there could be a wiring issue or a blown fuse.
- Unresponsive Engine – Something is wrong if you turn the key, but the engine doesn’t respond or click.
- Check Engine Light – If the check engine light comes on, your vehicle has a sensor problem.
What To Do
If your 2014 Cadillac XTS has an electrical problem, I recommend taking the vehicle to a qualified auto mechanic.
They are better equipped to diagnose even the most complex electrical problems.
If the problem persists, you should:
- File a complaint on carcomplaints.com
- Visit a certified GM dealer.
- Notify the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) about the condition of your car.
- Report a safety concern to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Brake Problems
It is another common complaint from 2014 Cadillac XTS owners. Owners often complain of recurring brake problems.
When a vehicle starts to develop frequent brake problems, it is no longer safe for the owner to drive the vehicle.
Some of the causes of recurring brake problems are faulty brake boosters and auto braking system failures.
Some signs to look out for that indicate that you could have brake problems include:
Brake Light Indicator
If the brake light indicator appears on your dashboard, it indicates that your Cadillac needs maintenance or a potential problem is brewing.
Check your vehicle’s owner manual for assistance if you are experiencing this problem.
Noises or Grinding From Your Brakes
When you start to hear squeaking or squealing noises from your brakes, you should start to pay attention to the condition of your vehicle.
New noises from the brake are not always indicators of a potential problem.
Sometimes, an object may be lodged in your brake, but you need to check your brake pad when these noises become frequent. It may be time to replace it.
Shaking or Vibration When You Apply The Brakes
When applying the brakes, you need to change your brake rotors or smoothen them if you notice any wobbling or vibration from the steering wheel. It is usual for the rotor surface to wear down or become uneven over time.
Leaking Brake Fluid
If your brake fluid starts to leak, you won’t be able to stop safely. You should check your brake’s fluid often to prevent a brake failure.
Burning Smells
If you notice a sharp chemical odor when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of overheated brakes.
You need to stop the car and allow the brakes to cool; otherwise, you risk brake failure. Ensure that the parking brake is off.
If there is smoke coming from the wheels, a malfunctioning brake caliper may be locked in place.
If you notice any of these signs, it may be unsafe to continue driving without immediate repairs.
What To Do
If your 2014 Cadillac XTS has a brake problem, I recommend taking the vehicle to a qualified auto mechanic.
If the problem persists, you should:
- File a complaint on carcomplaints.com
- Visit a certified GM dealer.
- Notify the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) about the condition of your car.
- Report a safety concern to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Transmission Problems
It is another common complaint from 2014 Cadillac XTS owners. They complain about shaking and shuddering when driving.
Others say that the vehicle makes grinding noises or shudders when they change the gears.
Several complaints reveal that the transmissions installed in some Cadillac XTs vehicles fail outright or experience improper shifting, stranding the owner.
Some signs to look out for that indicate that your vehicle could have transmission problems include:
Difficulties Switching Gears
If your Cadillac refuses to or struggles to switch gears, there’s probably an issue with your transmission system.
If you apply the wrong transmission fluid type, your vehicle could refuse to switch gears.
Slipping Gears
I would be scared and alarmed if my gears impulsively slipped in and out of place while driving. It is hazardous to drive with a slipping transmission.
It could result in a car crash and, ultimately, loss of life. It is easy to know when your transmission has slipped.
You will notice the engine revving during a gear change. It will feel like you are driving over ice, with no apparent traction on the road.
Some other signs of slipping gears are delayed acceleration, strange noises, and an uncomfortable response when you attempt to shift gears.
Weird Noises When In Neutral
If your gear is neutral and your vehicle is making weird noises, this could signify transmission problems.
There are two solutions; either you need to change the transmission fluid, which would be flushed and replaced by a professional, or your car requires a complete replacement or further service by a professional auto mechanic.
What To Do
If your 2014 Cadillac XTS has a transmission problem, I recommend troubleshooting. When troubleshooting, double-check your fluid levels.
It may be a mechanical problem if you discover that it is not a case of low fluid levels after the troubleshoot.
I will advise you to take the vehicle to a qualified auto mechanic. If the problem persists, you should:
- File a complaint on carcomplaints.com
- Visit a certified GM dealer.
- Notify the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) about the condition of your car.
- Report a safety concern to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
What We Like About This Model
The 2014 Cadillac XTS comes with a lot of excellent features. Some of the features we like about this model are:
- Spacious Interior. It delivers what you would expect from a 17-foot-long luxury sedan. The Cadillac 2014 XTS has one of the giant trunks, a compelling full-size luxury sedan.
- Impressive High-Tech Features. This model comes with a futuristic dashboard.
- New Twin-turbo V6. The 2014 Cadillac XTS’s hood brings excellent speed. There is also the optional turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 which transforms the driving experience.
Conclusion
Despite the cold takes, I must say that the 2014 Cadillac XTS is a very spacious and pretty sedan. Most owners will agree that it is an excellent ride in terms of handling.
The handling is very good for a big sedan, and the acceleration of the twin-turbo V6 is impressive even when carrying a car full of passengers.
It also has good gas mileage. The full panoramic sunroof is excellent for enjoying the sun during the day and the beautiful stars in the sky at night.
If you’re looking for a sedan that offers comfort and technology as much as performance, the 2014 Cadillac XTS is the car for you, no questions asked.
With comprehensive experience in writing exceptional quality articles and blogs about cars and related stuff, Daniel is one of the finest bloggers and a hardcore car lover we have. He is an ASE certified technician with an across-the-board experience of 10 years in the industry. He could not help tinkering with anything he got his hands on from a young age, which led to his remarkable career in the automotive repair industry.
When he is not under any hood, you can find him on the water or in the woods to pursue his passion for hunting and fishing. He has been writing for multiple sectors and is a regular contributor to several publications.
He currently owns a Nissan 300ZX TT and a Pearl Yellow but plans to upgrade it to 550 HP. His favorites include the Koenigsegg CCX and Lamborghini Diablo 6.0 VT, but for him, the Ferrari 360 Spider is one of the sexiest cars that exists to date.
Being an avid world traveler, he has spent most of his time analyzing the automotive markets, latest technology, and local favorites to enhance his knowledge base. He is currently living in North Caroline, where it’s all about food and coffee and, of course, cars.
