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The AF50-8 transmission in the Cadillac XT5, a model which was first introduced in 2017 as an 8-speed transmission in the compact SUV, is known for its advanced technology and sophistication. However, it has been plagued by a number of complaints reported to the NHTSA. These complaints included issues such as harsh or rough shifting during acceleration and deceleration right after purchase. One owner even had to replace the electronic transmission after just 1,800 miles of driving. Some drivers also reported hearing loud "banging" noises and experiencing a sudden "lurching" backward motion of at least 3 feet when shifting into reverse, occurring at around 8,300 miles. General Motors (GM) eventually issued a recall for 2017-2018 models, citing a need for software reprogramming of the Transmission Control Module (TCM). The recall specifically addressed concerns related to downhill driving conditions that could cause the transmission to remain stuck in a gear or delay shifting when engine speed is already high.
The transmission has remained stuck in low gear on two separate occasions.
While I was driving my XT5, it suddenly switched to M mode. This caused my speed to drop to under 10 miles per hour. I had to pull over, switch the gear to park, and then back to drive in order to resume driving normally.
In 2018, my XT5 occasionally shifts gears unexpectedly when I come to a stop at traffic lights or stop signs. Just today, it got stuck in Park while I was in a drive-thru at a restaurant. It didn't move at all, so I had to turn the engine off and then restart it to get going again.
In 2021, a Cadillac XT5 with 1574 miles needed a replacement transmission.
The latest 8-speed automatic transmission was first introduced in the 2017 Cadillac XT5. This cutting-edge transmission, known as the AF50-8 and manufactured in Asia, boasts advanced lightweight construction and sophisticated electronics. However, despite its innovative design, some owners have raised concerns about issues like abrupt gear shifts and strange noises.
The gear shifter is not lighting up and is unable to engage into any gear.
I purchased a pre-owned 2020 Cadillac XT5 premier luxury model with a nine-speed transmission. It had 36,000 miles on it, and I noticed that when accelerating from a stop, the vehicle would shake or jerk in lower gears. I couldn't check the transmission fluid level. At 47,000 miles, I decided to have a transmission fluid exchange done, and that fixed the issue completely.
The transmission on the XT5 Cadillac failed in just one year.