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2016 Cadillac ELR Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary concern for the 2016 Cadillac ELR is the airbag system, specifically failures related to the passenger presence module. Parts for this system are reportedly unavailable, posing a significant safety risk.
  • With 0 recalls, the ELR avoided major safety campaigns, but this does not negate the reported issues with its airbags.
  • A high TSB count of 624 suggests a complex electronic architecture prone to various issues requiring dealer attention.
  • The vehicle's EPA fuel economy ratings are 0 MPG combined, indicating it operates solely on electric power or has no fuel economy data available in this dataset.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Cadillac ELR

The 2016 Cadillac ELR, a luxury extended-range electric vehicle, offers a unique proposition for the used market. However, its below-average reliability verdict, driven by critical safety system concerns and a substantial number of TSBs, warrants careful consideration. While it boasts a striking design, potential buyers should be aware of the significant ownership risks associated with its complex electronics and parts availability.

Critical Failure Risk

The primary reported issue involves the airbag system, specifically the passenger presence module. A 'Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Module' (U0170 code) can illuminate the airbag malfunction light. A critical concern is the reported unavailability of replacement parts, potentially leaving this safety system inoperable.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

2
Air Bags2
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

4.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a distinctive, luxury electric vehicle with a focus on design.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing long-term, trouble-free ownership and low maintenance costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Cadillac ELR Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Cadillac ELR.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
4
Body Style
Coupe

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Synthetic) (Parts: Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Suspension Components

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Cadillac ELR reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Cadillac ELR is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 2.

How practical is the 2016 Cadillac ELR for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is mainly limited by limited door access, and limited seating. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Cadillac ELR?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Cadillac ELR is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Cadillac ELR?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Synthetic) (Parts: Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (Passenger Presence Module) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $3,000+).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Cadillac ELR?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2016 Cadillac ELR?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Cadillac ELR, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2016 Cadillac ELR?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Cadillac ELR, body style is coupe.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2016 Cadillac ELR?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (2 reports, 100% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Cadillac ELR?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Chevrolet Volt and 2016 BMW i3.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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