Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (209 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2016
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided, with a clear distinction between owners who have experienced significant reliability problems and those who have not.
8 problems reported (3 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentNumerous electrical/electronic component failures
Includes dead touchscreen/digitizer, failed tail lights (multiple instances), faulty windshield wiper motor, failed windshield washer pump, seat motor/haptic feedback failures, and turn signal audio failure.
- Very frequentHigh-voltage battery degradation/failure
Slow degradation reducing range; complete cell failure requiring major repair or replacement, particularly in older/higher-mileage examples.
- Very frequentParts scarcity/discontinuation
Many body panels, lighting units, and model-specific components (e.g., wiring harnesses) are discontinued by GM and extremely difficult to find from salvage, making collision repair and some maintenance a major challenge.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentIntermittent propulsion system errors
Engine "not available" messages, "reduced propulsion" warnings, and related error codes that often require manual clearing; suspected cause is poor electrical connections.
- RecurrentInfotainment system failure
Complete screen failure requiring replacement, noted as a common issue on Cadillacs of this era.
- RecurrentCV axle/boot failure
Torn CV boots and axle replacement needed.
- IsolatedCooling system issues
Water pump leaks; cabin A/C condensate leaking into footwell (not just a clogged drain).
- IsolatedTransmission bearing failure
Noted as a known issue.
The version owners recommend
The 2016 model year is consistently noted as the superior version. Improvements over earlier years include better performance, a newer infotainment system with Apple CarPlay (and updatable to Android Auto), and the availability of a Sport package with upgraded brakes. The newer production date is also associated with less battery age-related degradation. The 2014 model year is the base of comparison, with its lower power output and older technology.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Chevrolet Volt (Gen 1 and Gen 2), Nissan Leaf, Tesla Model S and Lexus CT200h.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided, with a clear distinction between owners who have experienced significant reliability problems and those who have not. Positive feedback centers on the vehicle's distinctive and attractive coupe design, which receives frequent compliments, its comfortable and spacious front seating with easy entry/exit due to the two-door layout, and the proven Voltec plug-in hybrid powertrain offering efficient all-electric daily driving. Owners who have had trouble-free experiences praise its reliability, low operating costs (especially with access to free public charging), and the exclusivity of owning a rare vehicle. However, a very frequent and severe criticism involves numerous, persistent electrical and component failures that render the car an unreliable "nuisance" for many. These issues, coupled with extreme difficulty in sourcing discontinued parts, create a high ownership burden. The vehicle's original MSRP of approximately $75,000 is universally criticized as exorbitant for what is perceived as a luxury-trimmed Chevrolet Volt, severely damaging its value proposition when new.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned almost exclusively against and in relation to the Chevrolet Volt. Universally understood as a more luxurious, two-door coupe version of the first-generation Volt powertrain, sharing its battery pack and core Voltec software. The consensus is that the Volt is the clear practical winner, offering more passenger and cargo space, better pricing (new and used), and generally easier dealer service. The ELR is seen as a niche choice for buyers prioritizing distinctive styling, front-seat comfort, and exclusivity over utility and cost-effectiveness. Compared to full EVs like the Nissan Leaf, the ELR's small all-electric range (~30-33 miles real-world) is noted as a drawback, requiring frequent plug-ins for maximum electric use. The original MSRP placed it in competition with vehicles like the Tesla Model S, a comparison that overwhelmingly favored the Tesla in contemporary buyer evaluations.
Recommended configurations
Premium fuel (91+ octane) is strongly recommended despite the engine accepting regular 87 octane; using regular fuel is reported to drastically reduce fuel economy, making it more expensive overall. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the high-voltage battery health is considered essential. For owners, developing the ability to perform DIY repairs or having access to a highly skilled and willing independent mechanic is strongly advised due to high dealer repair costs and part scarcity. Purchasing an extended warranty is suggested if available.
General recommendations
Only recommended for technically inclined enthusiasts or DIY mechanics who appreciate its unique design and are prepared to troubleshoot and repair frequent electronic gremlins and source rare parts. Suitable for drivers who primarily travel alone or with one passenger, as rear seat and cargo utility is limited. A compelling value only on the used market at a significant discount from its original MSRP; paying anywhere near the original $75,000 price is considered a severe mistake. Not recommended for owners reliant on dealerships for all repairs due to high costs and part discontinuation issues. Prospective buyers must verify the availability of critical parts (e.g., model-specific wiring harnesses, body panels) and have a comprehensive plan for battery repair or replacement, as failure is expected on aging examples. Test drives should include a full battery cycle and engine operation to check for propulsion errors.
Remarks
Owner experience is heavily bifurcated: a subset reports near-flawless reliability over long periods and high mileage, while another significant subset reports a constant stream of failures. This suggests potential build quality inconsistencies or varying sensitivity to the car's complex electrical systems. The vehicle's fundamental powertrain (engine, transmission, hybrid system) is generally considered reliable, with most severe criticisms aimed at Cadillac-specific electronics, trim, and body components. The car's viability is almost entirely dependent on the owner's ability to manage repairs independently. The 2016 model's software and hardware updates appear to address some infotainment concerns, but core reliability trends persist. Analysis based on approximately 40 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 4 | 0 | air bags |
| 2014 | 17 | 2 | unknown or other |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices2 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2014 · electronic stability control (esc)campaign 14V144000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014 Cadillac ELR vehicles not equipped with adaptive cruise control and manufactured September 26, 2013, through February 14, 2014, and equipped without adaptive cruise control. In these vehicles, the electronic stability control (ESC) system software may inhibit certain ESC diagnostics, preventing the system from alerting the driver that the ESC system is partially or fully disabled. As such, these vehicles fail to conform with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
2014 · seatscampaign 14V446000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Buick Encore and Cadillac ATS; 2014 Cadillac CTS, ELR, Chevrolet Caprice and SS vehicles; and 2014-2015 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Trucks. Due to an incomplete weld on the seat hook bracket assembly, the front seats in the affected vehicles may not stay secured in place during a high load condition such as a crash.
Specifications
1.4 Hybrid
Plug-in hybrid · 86 hp · FWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2014–2016