2004 Cadillac XLR structure problems
11 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the structure on the 2004 Cadillac XLR — 32% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, there was an abnormal sound like a shotgun being fired overhead. The contact pulled over and observed that the retractable fiberglass roof panel had detached from the frame of the vehicle. The contact…”
filed Jan 15, 2026
“The roof panel that was only attached with adhesive has detached from the frame of the car. This has also caused the retractable convertible top to stop working. I have read about the roof of many of these cars flying off while driving down the road. It is only a matter of time before this poor…”
filed May 22, 2024
“The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated while driving 65-70 MPH in the rain, the contact heard wind coming from the area where the front roof panel was connected to the windshield. The roof panel then detached and separated from the vehicle. The contact pulled into a service station to get out of the…”
filed Jul 20, 2023
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Other reported problem areas on the 2004 Cadillac XLR
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.