The Cadillac Lyriq, Cadillac’s first all-electric luxury SUV, marks a pivotal moment in the brand's history. Launched in 2022, this sleek electric vehicle (EV) showcases Cadillac's push toward sustainable luxury, combining a futuristic design with cutting-edge technology and impressive performance. However, as with any new model, the Lyriq comes with its own set of growing pains. While it's still a relatively new vehicle, owners and potential buyers should be aware of some common problems, maintenance considerations, and the total cost of ownership. This article will provide an in-depth look at the common issues owners have reported, what to look for when buying one, the cost of ownership, and alternative electric vehicles that might better suit your needs.
Common Problems of the CADILLAC Lyriq (2022-Present)
1. Software and Infotainment System Issues
As with many modern EVs, the Cadillac Lyriq is heavily reliant on software for everything from infotainment to vehicle control systems. Unfortunately, some owners have reported infotainment glitches, such as slow system response, connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and occasionally unresponsive touchscreens. Given the heavy reliance on digital interfaces in the Lyriq, these issues can significantly impact the user experience.
Common Software Issues:
- System freezes and slowdowns: The infotainment screen can freeze or take longer than expected to load menus or media content.
- Connectivity problems: Some users have had difficulty connecting their smartphones via Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, leading to dropped connections or slow syncing.
- Map Navigation glitches: Users have experienced delays in GPS navigation or inaccurate route guidance, which can be frustrating for drivers relying on real-time navigation.
What to Look For:
- Test the infotainment system: During a test drive, spend some time interacting with the infotainment system. Check for delays or unresponsiveness when navigating through menus, apps, or maps.
- Check connectivity: Ensure that your smartphone can connect seamlessly to the vehicle’s infotainment system through both Bluetooth and wired connections (Apple CarPlay or Android Auto).
- Stay up-to-date: Since software updates are common, ensure the Lyriq’s software has been updated to the latest version before finalizing your purchase.
2. Charging and Battery Concerns
As with many electric vehicles, the charging process is a key component of the ownership experience, and some Cadillac Lyriq owners have reported issues related to charging times or battery performance. The Lyriq offers a range of around 300 miles per full charge, which is competitive within its class, but certain charging-related issues have been noted.
Common Charging Issues:
- Slow charging: Some owners have reported that charging times can vary dramatically, with some home chargers not providing the fast charging speeds advertised.
- Charging port malfunctions: There have been reports of issues with the charging port, where the vehicle doesn’t recognize the charger or fails to initiate charging properly.
- Battery health concerns: A few early adopters have noticed a decrease in battery performance after several months of ownership, leading to a reduced driving range per charge. However, these reports have been sporadic and may improve with future updates.
What to Look For:
- Test charging: If possible, test the vehicle with a home charger or public fast-charging station. Ensure that the car charges at the expected speed and that the charging port locks in securely.
- Battery range: Monitor the real-world driving range during your test drive, ensuring it aligns closely with the manufacturer’s estimates of 300 miles on a full charge.
- Battery warranty: Check the vehicle’s warranty, which covers the battery for at least 8 years or 100,000 miles, to ensure peace of mind regarding long-term battery health.
3. Driving and Performance Issues
Despite being a high-performance electric vehicle, some Cadillac Lyriq owners have encountered issues related to driving dynamics, including concerns with suspension performance and road noise.
Suspension and Handling Issues:
- Damping and ride comfort: Some owners have reported that the Lyriq's suspension, while generally smooth, can feel overly stiff at times, particularly on rough or uneven road surfaces.
- Body roll and handling: Though the Lyriq offers a solid driving experience, some reviewers have noted that the SUV can exhibit more body roll than expected when cornering, especially at higher speeds.
Road Noise and Tire Wear:
- Excessive road noise: A few owners have found that the Lyriq tends to amplify road noise at highway speeds, which can detract from the otherwise serene driving experience typical of electric vehicles.
- Tire wear: Some early reports suggest that the Lyriq's tires may wear faster than anticipated, possibly due to its heavy weight and high torque delivery. This can lead to increased tire replacement costs earlier in the vehicle's life.
What to Look For:
- Test ride quality: Pay attention to the ride comfort and suspension during a test drive, especially over rough or uneven surfaces. Ensure that the ride is comfortable and that the car doesn’t feel too stiff or jarring.
- Handling assessment: During a test drive, take some sharp turns to assess how the car handles. Notice any noticeable body roll or a lack of responsiveness in the steering.
- Road noise: Drive the Lyriq on highways and listen for excessive road noise. The quiet electric drivetrain should make it easier to identify if road noise is too intrusive.
4. Door Handle and Locking Mechanism Problems
One of the more unusual but persistent issues reported by some Lyriq owners has been with the door handles and locking mechanisms. The Lyriq features electronic touch-sensitive door handles, which can be more prone to malfunctioning compared to traditional handles. Some owners have experienced issues with the touch sensors not responding, requiring them to press the handles multiple times or, in some cases, manually unlock the door.
Common Problems:
- Unresponsive door handles: The touch-sensitive handles may not register touch correctly, requiring multiple attempts to open the door.
- Key fob issues: Some owners have reported that the key fob sometimes struggles to unlock the doors, particularly in cold weather, which may be linked to issues with the vehicle’s proximity sensors.
What to Look For:
- Test door handles: During your test drive, ensure the door handles open smoothly with a single touch. Check that all four doors respond similarly and that the proximity sensors are working as expected.
- Key fob operation: Test the key fob from various distances to ensure it can lock/unlock the doors without delay.
5. Interior Quality Concerns
While the Cadillac Lyriq boasts a modern, luxurious interior, some owners have reported that certain materials may not meet the premium expectations set by the brand. Specifically, issues with fit and finish, such as loose panels or misaligned trim pieces, have been noted by a few buyers.
Common Interior Problems:
- Loose or misaligned panels: Some owners have noticed that trim pieces or interior panels may not be fitted securely, causing rattling noises or a less-than-ideal fit and finish.
- Quality of materials: While the overall interior design is sleek and modern, a few critics have pointed out that certain materials, like the synthetic leather used in the cabin, feel less luxurious compared to traditional leather interiors found in high-end vehicles.
What to Look For:
- Inspect interior fit: During a test drive, check the interior panels for any signs of misalignment or rattling. Ensure all trim pieces are secure and fit snugly.
- Material quality: Pay attention to the tactile feel of the materials, particularly the dashboard and seats, to ensure they meet your expectations for a luxury vehicle.
What to Look for When Buying a CADILLAC Lyriq (2022-Present)
Buying a used or new Cadillac Lyriq involves making sure the vehicle is in optimal condition. Here are key aspects to check:
- Verify Software Updates: Ensure the car’s infotainment system is up-to-date with the latest software updates. Many of the issues reported by owners regarding the system have been addressed through over-the-air updates, so an outdated system could still be problematic.
- Battery Health: Given the importance of the EV battery, confirm that the vehicle’s battery health is in good condition, especially if you are buying a used model. Check if the car’s range is consistent with its advertised 300-mile capability.
- Warranty: The Lyriq comes with an impressive 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, but you should ensure that the car’s other warranty aspects are intact. Some early-model issues could still be covered.
- Service History: If buying used, ask for the vehicle’s service history to ensure any potential issues, especially those with software and charging, have been resolved by previous owners.
How Expensive is It to Own a CADILLAC Lyriq?
The Cadillac Lyriq, as a luxury electric vehicle, comes with a price tag to match its advanced technology and design. However, compared to traditional luxury SUVs, its ownership costs are more predictable and affordable in some key areas:
- Fuel Costs: As an electric vehicle, the Lyriq has low running costs. Depending on local electricity rates, charging the Lyriq can cost significantly less than fueling a gas-powered luxury SUV.
- Maintenance Costs: Being an EV, the Lyriq generally requires less maintenance than a traditional vehicle. No oil changes or exhaust system repairs are needed. However, more specialized EV maintenance, such as battery health checks, can incur higher costs.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the Lyriq are likely to be higher than for non-luxury electric vehicles, as it's still a high-end model. However, costs are generally lower than for similarly-priced gasoline-powered luxury vehicles.
Better Alternatives to the CADILLAC Lyriq (2022-Present)
If the Cadillac Lyriq doesn’t fully meet your needs, consider these alternatives that provide similar features with less risk of the reported issues:
- Tesla Model Y (2020-Present): Known for its reliability, superb software, and exceptional driving range, the Model Y is one of the top contenders in the luxury EV segment.
- Rivian R1S (2022-Present): A rugged, all-electric luxury SUV that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts while still offering luxury features and performance.
- BMW iX (2022-Present): A well-rounded luxury EV with a strong focus on performance, comfort, and technology, backed by BMW’s excellent reputation for quality.
- Audi e-Tron (2019-Present): A solid, luxurious alternative with a high-quality interior and exceptional driving dynamics, making it a strong contender for those seeking a refined EV.
- Mercedes-Benz EQB (2022-Present): A family-friendly electric SUV that balances luxury with practicality, offering solid range and interior quality.
Conclusion
The Cadillac Lyriq (2022-Present) offers a glimpse into the future of luxury electric vehicles, combining cutting-edge design, innovative technology, and impressive performance. However, as a new model, it does have some teething problems, particularly with software and charging issues, along with minor quality concerns. If you’re in the market for an electric luxury SUV, it’s crucial to weigh these potential issues against the car’s overall appeal and advanced features.
For those who want a more refined, tested EV experience, alternatives like the Tesla Model Y or BMW iX may provide a better balance of reliability and performance. However, if you’re drawn to the Lyriq’s bold design and Cadillac’s luxury credentials, it remains a strong contender in the electric vehicle market.