There are no safety recalls for the 2016 Cadillac ELR, but owners have filed 4 complaints with NHTSA.
2016 Cadillac ELR problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Air Bags | 5 | |
| Seats | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger — 1
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2016 Cadillac ELR complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Air Bags · reported Mar 25, 2026
The passenger occupancy sensor has failed on my 2016 ELR after 14k miles. The part is no longer available (23504893). I've inquired with General Motors and they said they could not help me. This seems to be a 1year only part used only on the Cadillac ELR. I believe this is an integral part of the Air Bag safety system in my vehicle and that the passenger seat is no longer safe for passengers.
Air Bags · reported Dec 23, 2025
Initial repair of the vehicle was initiated on 9/12/25 due to a dashboard warning message indicating an air bag system fault. The Cadillac dealership was unable to complete the repair during the initial service visit. The vehicle was returned to the dealership in October 2025 and has remained there since that time. The dealership has confirmed that the Air Bag Front Passenger Sensor Kit (Part #23504893) failed following repair of the driver side air bag module. As a result of this failure, the passenger side air bag sensor does not function as designed. This condition creates a significant…
Air Bags · reported Sep 3, 2025
Vehicle is producing a "Service Airbag" warning message and red airbag light on the instrument cluster at each start. The problem code 'U0170' is found which correlates to 'Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Module'. The dealer advised that the part is discontinued and no longer available. The needed Part Number is: 23504892 which is a single year, single model only part. I checked with numerous aftermarket sources as well as salvage yards for an alternative to the GM part, but no luck. It appears the part does not exist in the marketplace. The dealership, and Cadillac Customer…
Air Bags · reported Dec 29, 2024
An 'amber' airbag malfunction light has illuminated on the instrument panel. The airbag light has since turned 'red'. It is 'red' to this date. The manufacturers guide advises to take the vehicle to the dealer. The authorized Cadillac dealer in our town troubleshot the problem to code 'U0170', 'Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Module'. The dealer advised that the part is no longer available. The needed Part Number is: 23504893. I checked with numerous aftermarket sources for an alternative to the GM part, but no luck. It appears the part does not exist in the marketplace. The…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2016 Cadillac ELR have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2016 Cadillac ELR as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2016 Cadillac ELR?
Owners report air bags problems most often (5 reports), followed by seats (1).
Are Cadillac recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Cadillac dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.