Cadillac SRX vs Ford Explorer
For 2005–2016 models, the Ford Explorer has 58.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 62.7 for the Cadillac SRX. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2016), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Cadillac SRX
62.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Ford Explorer
- Complaints
- 2,982
- Sold
- 475,778
- Recall campaigns
- 15
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2010. Fewest: 2006–2009. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 64,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 68,000 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 71,500 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 59,759 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 21,000 mi
Ford Explorer
58.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Cadillac SRX
- Complaints
- 11,407
- Sold
- 1,958,650
- Recall campaigns
- 25
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016. Fewest: 2005, 2007 and 2009. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Cadillac SRX or the Ford Explorer?
For 2005–2016 models, the Ford Explorer has 58.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Cadillac SRX has 62.7, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Cadillac SRX?
The most-reported problem on the Cadillac SRX is wiring harness, grounds and connectors, typically around 64,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
Which Cadillac SRX and Ford Explorer years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Cadillac SRX: 2010; Ford Explorer: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.