Cadillac XTS Radar Sensor Failures Need Budget Fix

Had a similar sensor failure issue with my 2016 Cadillac CTS. The collision avoidance system stopped working completely and multiple electronic issues appeared on the dashboard. The root cause turned out to be dirt and road debris accumulation on the radar sensor behind the front grille. This blocked proper sensor function and triggered system failures. While it initially seemed like a major electronic issue, the fix was straightforward but required specific steps: 1. Professional cleaning of the radar sensor unit 2. Recalibration of the entire system 3. Software update for the sensor module 4. Radar calibration to restore proper alignment The repair required specialized diagnostic equipment for proper sensor calibration. Regular mechanics often lack these tools, which is why dealer service becomes necessary for these automotive sensors. This wasnt a serious mechanical problem, but the calibration process is precise and cant be skipped. If you see multiple sensor errors, get it checked promptly. Driving with malfunctioning collision avoidance systems removes an important safety feature. Sometimes what appears as total system failure can be resolved through proper cleaning and calibration.

Thanks for sharing those details about the radar sensor fix. Sounds very similar to what I experienced. Did you remember roughly what the total repair cost came to at the dealer? And has everything stayed working properly with the adaptive cruise and collision avoidance systems since the repair? My XTS is still giving me intermittent sensor failure warnings and I want to gauge if the fix is worth the investment or if other issues might pop up later.

Just wanted to update you, took my CTS to a certified mechanic last week and the radar sensor issue was completely fixed. The total cost was only 45€ since it turned out to be dirt blocking the sensor, just as suspected. No expensive parts replacement needed. All the collision avoidance systems and adaptive cruise control have been working flawlessly since the cleaning and recalibration. The electronic issue warnings have completely disappeared from the dashboard. The key was finding a shop with the right diagnostic equipment to perform proper radar calibration after cleaning. For intermittent sensor failures like you described, its definitely worth getting checked out. Often these automotive sensors just need professional cleaning and recalibration rather than replacement. Waiting too long with sensor malfunction warnings could lead to more expensive repairs down the road. Consider this a preventive maintenance task, keeping those sensors clean helps maintain crucial safety systems. Based on my experience, investing in proper diagnosis now could save you from costlier repairs later.

I finally decided to take my XTS to a certified mechanic after reading about your experience. The shop found similar issues with dirt buildup on the radar sensor and performed a complete cleaning and calibration service. Total cost came to 380€ which included diagnostic testing, professional cleaning, and full radar calibration of all safety systems. The collision avoidance system started working immediately after the service. Three weeks later, all sensor functions remain stable with no error messages on the dashboard. The adaptive cruise control works perfectly again too. The mechanic mentioned these sensor malfunctions are common on older models and regular maintenance helps prevent system failures. Really glad I got this fixed instead of continuing to drive with compromised safety systems. The peace of mind was worth the investment, especially knowing the sensors just needed proper servicing rather than full replacement. Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction with the diagnosis.