The Cadillac Lyriq is GM's first dedicated electric luxury SUV on the Ultium platform.

Cadillac Lyriq (note: commonly misspelled as "Lyric" in some owner posts) Problems and Complaints Report (Model Years 2021–2026)

The Cadillac Lyriq is GM's first dedicated electric luxury SUV on the Ultium platform. Consumer deliveries began in limited numbers for the 2023 model year, with broader availability starting in 2024. There are essentially no retail-owner complaints or production issues reported for 2021–2022 models, as those were pre-production or prototype vehicles.

Data for 2023–2026 model years shows a pattern of electrical, software, charging, and build-quality issues that are typical of early first-generation EVs but have drawn notable attention due to the vehicle's premium positioning. As of mid-2026, the 2023–2025 Lyriq models have accumulated approximately 139 NHTSA complaints, with the most frequent categories being safety systems (e.g., forward collision avoidance, driver assists), electrical systems, and brakes.

Consumer Reports rates the 2024 and 2025 Lyriq as less reliable than average for their model years, citing significant trouble spots in in-car electronics, EV battery/charging systems, electrical accessories, and noises/leaks. Owner forums (Reddit, CadillacForums) and review sites show mixed experiences: some owners report flawless ownership after software updates, while others describe repeated dealer visits, stranding incidents, or lemon-law buybacks.

Major Categories of Reported Problems

1. Software, Infotainment, and Display Issues (Most Common)

• Instrument cluster or center display going blank/black while driving, freezing, rebooting, or showing glitches (e.g., green screens, lag, unresponsive touch inputs).
• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto dropouts, phone pairing failures, and app unreliability.
• Driver-assistance features (adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, Super Cruise) becoming unavailable or malfunctioning without warning. These issues have led to safety concerns because critical information (speedometer, warnings, camera feeds) can disappear. Many are addressed via over-the-air (OTA) updates, but not always completely.

2. Electrical and Battery System Failures

• Frequent 12V battery drain/failure, which can “brick” the vehicle (no start, no charge, no controls), often requiring towing.
• High-voltage (HV) battery faults, sudden power loss while driving, or charging system malfunctions.
• Control-module communication errors and battery management system (BMS) problems. A 2026 class-action lawsuit alleges these defects make vehicles inoperable without warning; plaintiffs claim GM knew via warranty data and complaints but failed to disclose them. Some owners received buyback offers, but delays have been reported.

3. Charging Problems

• Home Level 2 charging sessions stopping prematurely, scheduled charging ignoring settings, or inconsistent power delivery.
• DC fast-charging curve quirks, port/cable errors, or failed sessions at public stations.
• Some early reports of overheating or complete charger port failures.

4. Braking, Safety, and Driver-Assist Malfunctions

• Unexpected ABS activation causing loss of braking pressure (especially below ~25 mph).
• False collision warnings or automatic braking with no obstacle.
• Rearview/backup camera failures or blank screens.

5. Build Quality, Noise, and Fit/Finish Issues

• Rattles and squeaks (rear hatch, interior trim, sunroof, doors) that are especially noticeable in the quiet EV cabin.
• Wind noise, creaking plastics, door alignment problems, and premature wear on interior materials.

Real-world range is often 20–30% below EPA estimates in cold weather, highway speeds, or with heavy climate use—common for EVs but frequently cited as disappointing.

Recalls (as of May 2026)

The Lyriq has been subject to multiple safety recalls (at least 9–12 depending on model year and equipment), primarily software-related but also involving hardware/assembly defects. Key examples include:

• Blank driver display (2023–2024 models; ~41,000 vehicles) — Instrument cluster goes blank while driving, losing speedometer and warnings (May 2025 recall; software update).
• Unexpected ABS/brake pressure loss (2023–2024 AWD; ~21,000–24,000 vehicles) — Software fault (August 2024 recall; OTA or dealer update).
• Rear drive unit motor wires (2024 models) — Insufficient insulation causing power loss (May 2024 recall; rear drive unit replacement).
• Stabilizer bar bracket bolts (2023–2025) — Improperly tightened; risk of damage to HV cables or battery coolant lines (April 2025 recall; inspection/tightening).
• High-voltage battery bolts (2025 models) — Missing or loose, fire risk in a crash (July 2025 recall).
• Rearview camera (certain 2024 models) — Screen turns gray/no image (February 2026 recall; software update).
• Other recalls cover rear seat-belt brackets (weld defect), pedestrian warning sounds, owner's manual inaccuracies, and equipment issues.

Check your VIN for open recalls at NHTSA.gov or Cadillac's owner portal. Most fixes are free (software OTA or dealer service).

Owner Sentiment and Context

• Positive notes from many owners include the quiet ride, responsive dual-motor performance, and luxury feel once software gremlins are resolved.
• Negative experiences often involve multiple shop visits (some cars in service for weeks/months early on) and frustration with first-gen EV teething issues on the Ultium platform.
• 2025–2026 models benefit from accumulated fixes via OTA updates, but new issues (e.g., battery bolt recalls) continue to appear.

Sources for Further Reading

• NHTSA recalls & complaints: Search by model year at nhtsa.gov/vehicle (example for 2024: nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2024/CADILLAC/LYRIQ).
• Consumer Reports reliability data (subscription may be required).
• Owner forums: Reddit r/CadillacLyriq and CadillacForums.com threads on issues.
• Lawsuit coverage: Autoblog article (April 2026).

Bottom line: The Lyriq has faced credible, well-documented early reliability challenges typical of a new EV platform—especially software/electrical gremlins and some assembly-related recalls. Many issues are fixable under warranty or OTA, but prospective buyers should verify recall status, test drive thoroughly, and consider extended warranty coverage. Always check a specific VIN for open campaigns before purchase. Data is current as of May 2026; new TSBs or recalls may emerge.