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Cadillac XLR 1st Generation

2004–2009 · Y-body · convertible

The XLR launched for 2004 as Cadillac's flagship two-seat roadster, sharing the GM Y-body platform (hydroformed steel frame, composite body panels) with the Corvette of the same era. Power-folding retractable hardtop. The base XLR used the 4.6L LH2 Northstar DOHC V8 (320 hp). The XLR-V (2006-2009) used the 4.4L LC3 supercharged Northstar V8 (443 hp). Six-speed automatic in both. Built in Bowling Green, Kentucky alongside the Corvette. Production ended after the 2009 model year; total production was around 15,000 units.

Watch out: Owner reports of retractable-hardtop hydraulic and sensor failures (notoriously expensive to repair) are the defining long-term complaint. Northstar head-bolt thread issues seen on FWD Northstars are less common on this RWD application but not unheard of; supercharger snout wear has been reported on XLR-V cars.

What your XLR takes

The parts and fluids that fit this generation. Specs we publish are confirmed against two independent sources; the rest fill in as we verify them.

  • Wiper blades20" driver · 20" passenger✓ VerifiedView
  • Oil filterParts in catalogShop
  • Tire sizeNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Engine oilNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Engine air filterNot catalogued yetFind yours
  • Cabin air filterNot catalogued yetFind yours
  • Spark plugsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Headlight bulbsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • BatteryNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • CoolantNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Transmission fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Tire pressureNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Key fob batteryNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Power steering fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Differential fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Serpentine beltNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake padsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Wheel fitmentNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake rotorsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • ThermostatNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • A/C refrigerantNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Fuel filterNot catalogued yetFind yours soon

Full clubhouse — owner Garage Lineage, common problems, year-by-year notes, and product picks — is on the build list.

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