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Xlr Advice Needed

9K views 20 replies 4 participants last post by  Nofets 
#1 ·
Guys, this is a great site/forum. I've been reading posts on her for a number of months. I am now seeking advice from many of you experienced Xlr owners. I've been eyeing an 08' XLR that has been on sale via Autotrader at the Fidelity Motor Group or approx 2 plus months now. Online, this vehicle is exactly what I've been looking for. An 08' 27k miles selling for $43k plus still under warranty.. My concern is at the fact that this vehicle has been available for more than two months and no one has purchased it. That makes me think something not seen online is wrong with it. I also noticed, via its VIN that it has been sold from auction a few times. Is this typical? I live 600 miles from this vehicle and I would hate to venture out there when there may be obvious signs of trouble from afar.

What are your thoughts? Ideas? Suggestions?

Thanks all.
 
#2 ·
The price isn't unreasonable, but I'd try to get them to around 40k. Dealer Bluebook is 45k. A generally good rule of thumb is 1/2 the original sticker price at the four-year mark for a Cadillac. It may be an '08, but it was probably sold in early '07. I can give you an approximate build date if you supply the VIN.

Speaking of the VIN, run a full CARFAX check on it. Also take the VIN to your local GM dealer and ask them to print out a full service history too. Two months isn't long for a nice car to sit. There are still brand-new 09 XLRs out there! Mine sat for a year before I pounced on it -and that was after checking on it every month. And each month, the price would drop a little more, so it pays to be patient. There are lots of XLRs out there. This is a down economy and not everyone has 43k to drop on a roadster. This is a fun car --not an overly practical one.

If the Service History doesn't read like a Greek tragedy, have the seller send you fifty shots of the car if they don't have at least that many in their ad. Check for common interior issues like dents in the aluminum-clad console trim. They cost a small fortune. If they have one, ask them to run a Tech 2 scan and photograph the main screen that shows how many DTCs (fault codes) are appearing (if any.) You don't want to travel there and get any surprises.

The main thing is if in doubt, wait for another. It will surely appear.

In the meantime, read all the XLR posts here and check the other XLR sites as well. The more you know, the better off you'll be. You can download an '08 XLR owner's manual online too, just to help you get started.

CC
 
#4 · (Edited)
I scoped out the vehicle at the seller's website and it looks good. The ebony interior holds up a lot better than the cashmere which looks pretty dingy after a few years if it isn't thoroughly cleaned regularly. It looks like there are some minor dents in the center console forward of the armrest. From the door sticker shot, it's a Feb '08 build. The car is fairly unique color-wise -there were only 198 Alpine White base XLRs built that year. 08 introduced the "pillow" style steering wheel airbag along with a chrome grill and wheels for this edition. The Carfax info is fine, but the real data you need will come from a GM dealer's Service History. If it's good and they supply you with additional pictures, you can start negotiating price. Take a look at Autotrader.com to get an idea of what similar XLRs are selling for. When I bought mine, it was one of the three least expensive XLRs in the US, so I felt like I paid the right amount.

You're doing your research, which will ultimately pay off when you find the right car, sit in the driver's seat, and press the START button for the first time. I challenge you to wipe the ear-to-ear grin off your face! If you haven't test-driven an XLR, you might try driving one locally to ensure you like the view, seating position, etc. The XLR sits low, like a Vette and you can't see anything past the car ahead of you. They're hard for raised vehicles to see when you're alongside them, so it's a different (very defensive) driving experience.

Depending on it's service history, you have to consider how much these cars cost to reapir (and it ain't cheap!) This car may not have much of its original warranty left, (commences from the date of sale) so you might consider a GMPP or additional 2-year GM warranty. Most aftermarket warranties do not cover the top, so you have to read the fine print, disregard most of the words that come out of the salesman's mouth. I had one guy adamantly tell me their warranty was totally bumper-to-bumper. Until I showed him the top and most of the vehicle's electronics were not covered, which was buried in the fine print of the contract.

Good luck!

CC
 
#5 ·
Your information/advice is just priceless. I really appreciate your help!

I'm glad this particular vehicle seems to be a good one and one of less than 200! Last year, I went to a dealership and sat in one, pushed that button and I surely did have that grin from ear to ear. I was sold on what I wanted from that point on. I intended to test drive it at that time, but it then began to rain and I just did not want to have that much of a risk of test driving a vehicle in this crazy Atlanta traffic in the rain.

I saw an 05' at a dealership not too far from me, this weekend. I take it if I test drove that vehicle, the feel, view and seat positioning should be similar.
 
#6 ·
The base XLR's handling underwent very minor changes through the years. There was an upgrade to the suspension control system that the 08 will have, but that's about it. One of the first upgrades you might consider is installing a rear sway bar; why that wasn't included on the base XLRs is beyond me. The cost is relatively cheap, (less than $150) and you can install it yourself. It really tightens up the car when cornering, even at lower speeds.

The very outmoded navigation system is one of the few drawbacks to an otherwise stellar vehicle. Upgrading the infotainment system without a loss of functionality (steering wheel mounted controls/DSCC) is almost impossible.

CC
 
#7 ·
I finally got a reply from Cadillac on the Service History. What do you think?

05/16/2011
614756
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
B3420 - Folding Top Cylinder Replacement
27,655 MI

05/16/2011
614756
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
B5490 - Rear Compartment Lid Latch Striker Replacement
27,655 MI

05/10/2011
305341
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
B3446 - Module, Folding Top Controller - Replace
27,644 MI

05/10/2011
305341
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
N4800 - Body Control Module Replacement
27,644 MI

04/14/2011
304405
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
B1790 - Hoses, Nozzles Or Stops, Wiper Front - Repair Or Replace
25,786 MI

01/07/2011
210407
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
H2505 - Electronic Brake and Traction Control Module Replacement
25,260 MI

01/30/2010
286164
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
L1225 - Fuel Tank Fuel Pump Module Replacement - Left Side
4,884 MI

01/30/2010
286164
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
Full Debit - Reversal
L1225 - Fuel Tank Fuel Pump Module Replacement - Left Side
4,884 MI

01/30/2010
286164
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
L1225 - Fuel Tank Fuel Pump Module Replacement - Left Side
4,884 MI

01/18/2010
285605
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
R4482 - Remote Control Door Lock and Theft Deterrent Transmitter Replacement
4,581 MI

12/30/2009
284686
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
N9588 - Front Side Door Handle Switch - Repl (Both)
3,140 MI

12/30/2009
284686
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
N6632 - Vehicle Entertainment Wiring and/or Connector Repair or Replacement
3,140 MI

12/03/2009
283511
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
N2120 - Switch - Front Side Door Handle - Right - Replace
1,219 MI

12/03/2009
283511
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
R0956 - Driver or Passenger Seat Head Restraint Speaker Replacement
1,219 MI

03/20/2009
320364
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
N9999 - Electrical Controls - Labor Only - Detailed Comment Required
103 MI

02/29/2008
A01064
ZPDI----Pre-Delivery Inspection
Z7000 - Pre-Delivery Inspection - Base Time
 
#8 · (Edited)
I'd pass- especially if you plan to use this as a daily driver. RCDLR replaced. Both fuel pumps bad . . . Looks like the rear compartment flooded and eventually took out the Suspension and later, the Folding Top modules. Very common problem. --If the adjacent Folding Top Pump bites it down the road, you're out around $2500. Replacing the BCM isn't trivial. Hydraulic Cylinder, rear pull-down latch . . . too many top and electrical problems with this one. Not much (if any) warranty left -could be a PITA financially to keep running, --especially as parts are becoming harder to find. I can see why it was dumped. The former owner had had enough. If they were minor problems, that would be one thing. This has experienced too many major electrical issues in it's lifetime, causing a former owner to hate it. There will likely be more (problems and owners.)

Advise you keep searching. You will eventually find a better vehicle. IMHO it's not worth risking your piece of mind on this one. Let someone else fall in love with this high-maintenance super model. Patience has it's rewards. . .

CC
 
#12 ·
I currently have a 06-V, Black on Black..I have had the car for a year and I am thinking of selling. The car has 19K miles and also has a salvage title due to theft recovery and not accident related. There are no known issues with this car and the only part I have replaced is the starter. I bought the car off E-Bay and drove it from San Diego to Dallas. I have priced the car lower due to the title. I have had a few cars and this one checked out before I bought it. I just am thinking I want to go back to my old cars. This is just a toy for me at this time. 30K...title is free and clear. give me a e-mail if you are interesed in pictures, etc. larrystiner@gmail.com thanks
 
#14 ·
Hey friend. I have another one located in WI. D you mind giving the service records a once over?
View Details
Job Card Date Job Card Number Transaction Type Transaction Adjustment Labour Operation Odometer Reading
04/20/2011 G51631 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction Z2080 - ROADSIDE SERVICE (TOWING) 30,000 MI
04/20/2011 G51422 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction Z2080 - ROADSIDE SERVICE (TOWING) 27,000 MI
04/20/2011 01359 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction N0110 - Battery - One - Replace 30,343 MI
04/18/2011 G49893 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction Z2085 - ROADSIDE SERVICE (PREMIUM) 27,000 MI
03/17/2010 878776 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction Z2083 - ROADSIDE SERVICE (BATTERY/JUMP START) 22,448 MI
01/17/2008 230169 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction B3980 - Folding Top - Align Or Adjust 2,733 MI
11/13/2007 228945 ZSCT----Service Contracts M0042 - Maintenance Service - Oil and Filter Change 2,105 MI
11/13/2007 228945 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction R4490 - Remote Control Door Lock Transmitter Replacement 2,105 MI
10/15/2007 066358 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction Z6720 - CADILLAC-COST OF TECH. TO MAKE ROADSIDE SRVC CALLS 1,773 MI
10/15/2007 066358 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction N0110 - Battery - One - Replace 1,773 MI
10/12/2007 Q09140 ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction Z2085 - ROADSIDE SERVICE (PREMIUM) 1,200 MI
06/15/2007 A00103 ZPDI----Pre-Delivery Inspection Z7000 - Pre-Delivery Inspection - Base Time 0 MI
 
#15 ·
This one isn't bad. Obviously it had some battery charging issues. The XLR needs to be kept on life support with a Battery Tender when parked for extended periods -it draws power to the RCDLR (also replaced) 24/7 while waiting for a fob to enter into it's sphere of detection.

One top adjustment is minor. As long as the car scans free of defects, I would be comfortable with it.

CC
 
#17 ·
Hey Bud, so I'm located in the Atlanta Ga area and the above vehicle is located in Milwaukee. Fortunately, I have a very close friend that was able to setup a test drive for today. Again, the test drive was scheduled. So, my friend arrived to the dealership and the vehicle had to be jump started. The vehicle was housed in the showroom and as explained to my friend, the battery died. I know you have mentioned that before. I'm not sure if the above Service History's record of jump starts and the fact that the battery was dead today, means this maybe a bigger problem? She said the vehicle drive well, top performed well and everything else seemed good. Oh yeah, a scratch was above the driver's side rear wheel.

Car listed at $40488
34882 miles
 
#18 ·
A weak battery is like a gun that jams occasionally: Worthless. Obviously, it needs to be replaced. If someone relied on Cadillac Roadside Assistance to repeatedly bail them out with a jump start and didn't change the battery . . . You can't fix stupid, right?

What year is the car? $40k might be a bit much, depending on the year. Mine was 4 years old when I bought it for $32k. It had 39,000 miles on it.

How many times was the top cycled? Once is not enough . . .

As for the vehicle driving well, that depends a lot on the driver, road conditions etc. I wouldn't let anyone's experience convince me to part with $40k, but that's just the way I operate. "Trust but verify" works for me. If you want the car that bad, fly there and test it yourself. A couple of hundred bucks in airfare is worth it. At least you can pay your friend a visit. Some dealers will split the cost if you purchase the vehicle; this will be dependent on your negotiating skills.

Have the dealer scan it with a Tech 2 and report back. Any fault codes should be evaluated and dealt with. For $40k, the car should be pristine, regardless of the year. Except nothing less for your hard-earned money; -unless you got it as part of an inheiritance. And then, by all means, squander it!!!!

You should always download a driver's manual (available online) and test every single function/option on the vehicle during a test drive. Don't count on the saleman to have a clue about these cars -most don't. All they want is your cash and the car off the lot to make room for the next one.

Scratches can be fixed easily enough.

If in doubt, keep searching; there are plenty more out there.

CC
 
#20 ·
Hey buddy, I've been looking and looking for all of that time. I think I may have found the XLR I am ready to purchase. Do you mind taking a look at the vehicle report?

Applicable Warranties
Valid warranties are highlighted
Valid
Description
Start Date
Effective Odometer
End Date
End Odometer


Corrosion Limited Warranty
02/16/2008
10 MI
02/16/2014
Unlimited


Emission Select State Component Lty Wty
02/16/2008
10 MI
02/16/2015
70,010 MI


Emission Select Component Ltd Wty
02/16/2008
10 MI
02/16/2016
80,010 MI


Bumper to Bumper Limited Warranty
02/16/2008
10 MI
02/16/2012
50,010 MI


Emission Limited Warranty
02/16/2008
10 MI
02/16/2011
50,010 MI


Powertrain Limited Warranty
02/16/2008
10 MI
02/16/2013
100,010 MI




Service Contract
Policy Number: 817272297
Owner: WOOLARD JR
Description: CADILLAC XLR PREMIUM CARE
Deductible Amount: 0.00
Effective Date: 02/16/2008
Expiration Date: 02/16/2012
Effective Odometer: 10 MI
Expiration Odometer: 50000 MI
Daily Rental Limit: 0.00



Transaction History
View Details
Job Card Date
Job Card Number
Transaction Type
Transaction Adjustment
Labour Operation
Odometer Reading
02/28/2012
92340
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

B3980 - Folding Top Adjustment
39,026 MI
02/28/2012
92340
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
Add Credit
C7051 - Cover And/Or Pad, Front Seat Back Cushion - Left - R&R Or Replace
39,026 MI
02/28/2012
92340
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction
Full Debit - Reversal
C7051 - Cover And/Or Pad, Front Seat Back Cushion - Left - R&R Or Replace
39,026 MI
02/28/2012
92340
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

C7051 - Cover And/Or Pad, Front Seat Back Cushion - Left - R&R Or Replace
39,026 MI
02/28/2012
92340
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

C6841 - Blower, Seat Back Ventilation Heat/Cool - Front - Replace
39,026 MI
01/06/2012
235801
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

E2147 - Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement - Both Sides
38,939 MI
01/06/2012
235801
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

C2860 - Console Assembly - R&R Or Replace
38,939 MI
01/06/2012
235801
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

B1670 - Hood Strut Replacement
38,939 MI
11/22/2011
418258
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

Z8014 - ROADSIDE SERVICE (BATTERY/JUMP START)
38,726 MI
11/19/2011
K59621
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

Z2085 - ROADSIDE SERVICE (PREMIUM)
38,076 MI
11/18/2011
K58578
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

Z2083 - ROADSIDE SERVICE (BATTERY/JUMP START)
38,800 MI
07/11/2011
409734
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

J3480 - Pump And/Or Gasket, Coolant - Replace
35,414 MI
07/11/2011
409734
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

C6489 - Plate/Bezel, Front Power Seat Switch - Left - Replace
35,414 MI
07/11/2011
409734
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

C4683 - Carpet, Rear Compartment Floor Panel - Rear - R&R Or Replace
35,414 MI
07/11/2011
409734
ZSCT----Service Contracts

M0042 - Maintenance Service - Oil and Filter Change
35,414 MI
02/07/2011
399934
ZSCT----Service Contracts

M0044 - Maintenance Service - Passenger Compartment Air Filter
31,487 MI
02/07/2011
399934
ZSCT----Service Contracts

M0043 - Maintenance Service - Engine Air Filter
31,487 MI
02/07/2011
399934
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

R0883 - Radio Speaker Amplifier Replacement
31,487 MI
09/22/2010
391766
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

H0043 - Pads, Disc Brake - Rear - R&R Or Replace
28,323 MI
09/22/2010
391766
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

H0042 - Front Disc Brake Pads Replacement
28,323 MI
03/01/2010
376310
ZSCT----Service Contracts

M0042 - Maintenance Service - Oil and Filter Change
21,177 MI
08/06/2009
363025
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

N2233 - Folding Top Switch Replacement
15,518 MI
08/06/2009
363025
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

Z5001 - VIP FREIGHT/POSTAGE REIMBURESEMENT
15,518 MI
03/25/2009
353639
ZSCT----Service Contracts

M0042 - Maintenance Service - Oil and Filter Change
11,191 MI
03/25/2009
353639
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

Z7911 - 2-WAY SHUTTLE COURTESY TRANSPORTATION
11,191 MI
04/28/2008
329661
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

Z7901 - 1-DAY COURTESY TRANSPORTATION
1,869 MI
04/28/2008
329661
ZREG----Regular Vehicle Transaction

L1020 - Fuel Tank Filler Cap Replacement
1,869 MI
12/18/2007
A00720
ZPDI----Pre-Delivery Inspection

Z7000 - Pre-Delivery Inspection - Base Time
0 MI
 
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