The Cadillac ELR Changed A Ton Between 2014 and 2016 - Full Comparison

Join me and my new friend Tim break down the similariities and differences between the 2014 and 2016 Cadillac ELR... You decide which one is best for you. But, my clear choice was that I needed a 2016 because of the limited numbers made that year, combined with the significant not so subtle improvements. Watch this super long in-depth video and let us know which rig is the right one for you!
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[@KyleConner]

Tim was a great guest!

[@timwithington2929]

Thanks Kyle! it was so much fun!

[@DS-mz7dy]

I would have your friend with the 2014 hook up a scan tool (doesn't need to be an expensive one) and see what codes it pulls. If he can clear the codes he will probably be able to start charging the traction battery. The 12-volt can be an issue but the other issue is the first gen volt (which the ELR is underneath) needs to have the TSB 19-NA-242 applied. If he can already clear the codes and start charging then the TSB has already been applied. If he can't clear the codes he will need to have the dealer apply the TSB and clear the codes. If he gets the "service high voltage charging system" error again, he should be able to clear the codes going forward and start charging again. My dealer charged me 1 hour of service time.

[@julianrichards1585]

Dave, what you are feeling in Low is probably the clutch pack changing over, it's worth changing the transmision oil, if the oil is old you can get clunky changes.

[@vetteb96c]

Please do a follow up video about what was fixed on Tim’s car to get the charging to work.

[@TimeHomicide]

Its an easy fix. Just a software update. It's crazy Lyriqs have to same issue! Oh GM

[@meandmyEV]

Don't take offense but these ELRs are like a siren song to middle aged guys with gray hair, including myself. 🤣 I think they are just beautiful! I am so mad I didn't buy one when I had the chance. I still had some brown hair left at the time.

[@CLCIII]

They are still readily available at a fraction of the cost new. I'm looking for one myself. As Always, May God Bless you and yours! 😇

[@rp9674]

I was offended until you included yourself

[@meandmyEV]

@@CLCIII I have been thinking about it after watching these videos. I really wanted one when I bought my Volt but now that we also have a Bolt EUV to use as our family car, maybe it is time for me to upgrade.

[@meandmyEV]

@@rp9674 I feel like I could be playing golf with these guys. Dave should have him in more often.

[@rp9674]

​@@meandmyEVI'd be in for the beer drinking part of golf

[@kencahill4]

Try adding coolant to the battery coolant tank in the front. You have to bend the tab up a little around the cap. Then fill it up above the full line mark. And that may fix the charging problem. Then you need to clear the code with a code scanner. I did that to mine a year ago and it's been fine Ever since.

[@MegaRetr]

Dave’s a righteous dude))))

[@fonz323]

When I bought mine, brand new, in 2015, the MSRP was over 82k with the adaptive cruise ans Kona leather options. 10 years later it's been flawless, still looks and drives like the day I bought it. I paid 46k at the dealership, the federal government gave me $7500, my state DNR gave me $2000 and my electric company gave me $500 for a grand total of 10k off the already discounted price. So I paid 36k brand new for an 82k car. I still have the window sticker and sales paperwork if anyone doesn't believe me. I still smile when I look at it in the garage. Still a pleasure to drive.

[@CLCIII]

Tim, you did an amazing commentary and definitely helped me in knowing the difference between the 14 & 16. Thank you sir for your collaboration. As I listened to you expressing your appreciation for the Voltech power train, it was though I was listening to my own commentary. As Always, May God Bless you and yours! 😇

[@JefferyAlmoney]

The 2014 has a Radio "DVR" that was stopped in 2014. The 2016 also has Lane Keep Assist vs the 2014 Lane Departure Warning and there is a Wireless charging pad (you need to open the garage under the Infotainment display.)

[@THEVWAUDIELECTRICGUY]

Dave. UP Fix. Look them up to get your Navigation Head Fixed in Your ELR!!!

[@dconner9]

Will check it out

[@gmv0553]

There are several Cadillac ELRs for sale in Florida on FB marketplace.

[@Jeremygeo]

Cool car! Thanks for showcasing this very rare model.

[@dustyrasmussen9528]

Just purchased an 2014 ELR and absolutely love the car.

[@chriswestenskow5202]

Now that you are becoming a Cadillac Plug-in expert, you need to add a 2017/18 CT-6 PHEV to your comparison 🙂

[@sparkysho-ze7nm]

pHev. HELL NO

[@STRAIGHTP]

I have always thought the ELR was so sexy. The side view and the lines are gorgeous. But then i saw the price and moved on. Now that time has passed, its a great rare soon to be classic smart car to buy. If you can find one. Great review. I do wonder are you and Tim great friends now? haha

[@fenceman53]

“Auto Auction Rebuilds” KZbin channel had an ELR with same charging issues and took in to dealer for repair. Low coolant for battery cooling I think.

[@pauldavis4287]

I’m looking at a 2014, the 2016 is seems very similar in many ways but I do like the 2016 grill w modern Caddy badge. If I get one, I’d seriously consider getting a new grill and front/back badging.

[@bobolsen5146]

Great to see content on some content on phev's. Maybe your next one can be the CT6 PHEV. 2017-2018. Not the looker of the ELR but RWD and 4 doors.

[@TheHomeExpert5]

I have a 2014 that is perfect, no squeaks, no rattles. The no charging issue was easily fixed by a Cadillac dealer simply with a software update. I would like to know more about the performance chips that you guys mentioned and if they actually do anything. From my limited research, it seems that the 2014 is a more reliable package with fewer battery issues for some reason my 2014 with 55,000 Mi has a 41 mile electric range

[@melivey4196]

Dave’s a righteous dude.

[@vevenaneathna]

such a rare car, you basically have become the youtube expert opinion on the elr. i own a 2013 and 2014 volt now. paid 7k and 8k respectively. my 2013 started with around 28-32 miles of range but once i installed a 240v home plug it seemed to increase to about 38mi. I made a lot of modifications to my 2013, 200w of solar panels on the roof, and built a 12v 4kwh lifepo4 battery to replace the 13 year old AGM. it was about 15lbs lighter and magically fit in the exact same tray with some kinetic persuasion. getting about 45-52 miles per charge now, and it takes a couple extra hours on the 120v outlet at work. I was honestly baffled all my DIY shenanigans worked as I have no formal EE/electrical training. no bms on the lifepo4 battery, just an active balancer and a relay thermostat hooked up to a 15w 12v heating pad to avoid freezing the battery. 4kwh battery cost 350 bucks to build solar panels were about 70 mppt charge controller was 28 all the hardware and stuff was like 25-50$ if you count some tools i had to buy. i really should make a video about this as I think im one of the few people who was successful in this regard.

[@evangrimmett9327]

I've found the same thing with "low" on the transmission on our 2016 as well. It's fine in normal driving, but if doing any serious stop/go traffic, I flip it to "D".

[@sparkysho-ze7nm]

Ty for sharing GOOD GOOD STUFF

[@jlthom]

for the transmission/gear selector. the L/Low gear is for low speed maneuvering - like in heavy dirt/mud, trying to get unstuck in snow - wheels turn less but have higher torque to move. basically when low speed & higher torque is needed. regular daily driving should be done as normal in gear "D". the transmission in "L" felt clunky on both ELR's bc it was doing what its supposed to do - stay in the lowest gear. (shifting) gears to "L" does not change the driving "mode".

[@evangrimmett9327]

@@jlthom The Volt/ELR does not have different gears, it's a single-speed transmission. There is no "lowest" gear for it to stay in. In the Volt/ELR L is essentially for one pedal driving as it uses regen as soon as you lift of the throttle. Per the owner's manual: "This position reduces vehicle speed without using the brakes. You can use L (Low) on hills. It can help control vehicle speed going down steep mountain roads along with using the brakes off and on. You can use L (Low) on very steep hills, in deep snow, or in mud. The brake lamps may come on when the vehicle is in L (Low) and the accelerator is not pressed to indicate the vehicle is slowing down."

[@gmv0553]

I think in the second generation Volt, you can choose either electric or generator to power the vehicle if you want. And GM is bringing back their plug in hybrid! Tell your friend to check his 12 volt battery. Not enough voltage from the 12 volt battery is the number one reason why the vehicle will not charge. Several KZbin videos on the subject.

[@CLCIII]

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE give me any links to ANY info on GM bringing back a plug in hybrid. Thanks for your time, effort and consideration. As Always, May God Bless you and yours! 😇

[@daves1646]

Thanks for the look at the ELRs and the differences between 1st and later versions! Hope the repairs for your friend go well and the dealer will assist ASAP for diagnostics on the charging system. Over 100K miles so dealer may want to charge for labor….. Hopefully it will be covered by previous TSBs. A quick look on the net suggested a couple types of issues 1. Coolant system for charger not fully functioning - some folks say that coolant addition may help. Some with cooling system error had a bad sensor in charger cooling system. 2. Controller reprogramming under TSBs: From a description of diagnosis / fixes from a Redit Bulletin #21- NA-224 , ( OCT 12 2021 ) codes scanned , POAA6 , PODAA , P1FFF. FOUND UPDATE FOR BATTERY ENERGY CONTROL MODULE AND HYBRID POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE 2 AND REPROGRAMMED MODULE 2 WITH SPS ( 2810265 ) AND BATTERY ENERGY CONTROL MODULE WITH SPS ( 2810945 )

[@bsaxman2012]

Can't wait to see your review of the early 1900s Baker electric car!

[@shrichaudhary]

Dave will have to buy it first, LOL

[@graysonwagner1855]

I think the Maxwell would be a better buy.

[@rtcturnemup7028]

Looking at the front end of both, I see both 2010 Escalade and the newer 2015 Escalade. The 2014 elr favors the 2010 Escalade in my opinion

[@Lord_zeel]

I would LOVE to see another video comparing the ELR to the Volt directly. I just bought a Gen 2 Volt (2017), and as I understand it the 2016 ELR is still based on the same drivetrain as the Gen 1 Volt. It's interesting that while Chevy launched the Gen 2 Volts in 2016, that was the year that Cadillac semi-refreshed the ELR and sunset it. A Gen 2 ELR could have been a really cool and unique car, too bad they never made one. Btw, there is another way to charge the battery without plugging it in. Mountain mode only charges to like 30%, but you can also put it in "service mode" by popping the hood which will charge up the battery slowly while the engine idles.

[@TheHomeExpert5]

You need to take it to the dealer and get the software updated - this will solve the issue and there should be no charge.

[@chaseincats]

SERVICE HIGH VOLTAGE CHARGING SYSTEM: this is/will be an issue with every Voltec powered car. There was a flaw in the original HPCM2 and BECM powertrain modules' software. Take it to the dealer and they will install the updated software for those modules and you'll be good to go. If they tell you that you need a new battery its because they dont want to deal with hybrids. You absolutely do NOT have a hardware problem - this is a free/easy fix.

[@timwithington2929]

Thanks for the info. I did hear of an error to the software and was hoping it’s that. I’ll let everyone know in a follow up how I make out.

[@chaseincats]

@@timwithington2929 sounds good

[@mysdak]

I’d love to know what it cost to fix your car @timwithington2929

[@chaseincats]

@@mysdak it’s a free software update at the local Cadillac dealership

[@dennissabo1711]

DAVE!!!!! More people use their frunks than you think. Don't try to minimize things just because you don't have one.

[@outofspecdave1554]

Fair point Thx for your input

[@chaseincats]

Volt engine comes on more often because it has a slightly smaller battery (depending on the year) but the real reason is the ELR has a smaller battery holdover buffer than the volt to compensate for its heavier weight over the volt. The volt's driver usable battery percentage is something like 80% at full charge and 30% at empty. I believe the ELR gives the driver 90% max charge and 20% empty.

[@ellertgeorgsson6910]

Im considering buying a 2014 one but even tho I have the seat in the loswest setting while I drive it my head kinda almost hits the ceiling making it a bit uncomfortable. Im 6’3. Is there any way to lower the seat more or is this not a problem you have encountered?

[@chrisnelson3470]

Great series on the ELR. Did you have to pay a subscription fee to get the app to work for the 2016?

[@HarveyPina]

Hey Dave, I have a 14 ELR, I was in search of a 16 sport, with all the extras the 14 has to offer, but was very hard to find. In my search I found that in order to cut cost of the 16 ELR and also give it updates, they made everything that was standard on the 14 ELR as options for the 16 such as adaptive cruise, adaptive headlights, blind spot monitoring etc. it would be a good comparison to see what the owner of the 14 ELR window sticker shows as standard and what your 16 has as standard and as options. Long story short, I wanted all the options with the added sport package of the 16 but could not find one. I wonder if your 16 is fully loaded as the 14 came?

[@fernandoefrenperez82]

Greetings. I would like make you three questions.You think is a good buy ELR?,are manzanares expensive?,you think the repairs are expensive?.Thanks a lot .I wish you good health,good luck and succes

[@jeromehebert3184]

that is one good looking car imo maybe cadillac should bring it back possible as a full electric option

[@rp9674]

They should have made a Bolt ELR. The wheels look huge IRL, makes it look current. I think dealer reset the check engine warning.

[@firemanbob1994]

Great video! Dave! I’m in Estero, FL…. I would love to “collab” with you. I’m considering getting an EV as a delivery vehicle (1500 miles per week) for my biz…. I’m considering a 2018 or 2019 Tesla Model S for a few reasons The room, the range, the lower cost of entry, unlimited miles on the battery, and powertrain warranty until the 8-year mark. FPL has unlimited (off-peak) night and weekend charging on their installed equipment for $38 a month… I need your thoughts on making sure I pick out a Model S that will do it for me. If I can remove gas and monthly oil change bills for $38 a month I think it’s a smart move for me. Let’s get coffee in SWFL!!!

[@sparkysho-ze7nm]

CLASSY CLASSY CLASSY !!!!!!

[@meandmyEV]

I know you know this from being an EV driver but winter will kill your range so it is reasonable for a car that is rated for 39 miles to only get 30 even when it is not super cold out. My Volt gets 50+ miles in the summer but more like 36 in the winter even when it is not too cold. The engine kicking on thing could be just because of cold weather. My Volt will kick on the engine when the temperature gets below 35 even if I am fully charged. Any other time I am in Normal mode, it will never turn on the gas engine and I have even reached "engine maintenance mode" a few times which means the car runs the engine for a few minutes because it has not been used in a few weeks. I am not sure if the same is true for the ELR. It is possible that you are just driving it on the coldest days but it might also just be tuned to come on for more power. I know a lot of plug in hybrids work that way.

[@shrichaudhary]

I have not seen any content that Kyle produced with the model X so far. What is he doing with it?

[@KyleConner]

We’ve been busy filming everything else!

[@enoughofthis]

He trying to break it first, so he csn show Tesla has issues.

[@KyleConner]

@@enoughofthislol. Tesla does have issues! But also they do a lot right. To assume I’m trying to break something is wild. People really have no life

[@nevco8774]

There is a video with new all weather tires installed on Tesla Model X Plaid driven by Kyle.

[@audio_tron]

@@KyleConner perhaps you taking the ELR and Volt for a spin is in the cards?

[@browngreen933]

My friend bought a 2016 ELR. The battery only has a 28 mile range. Does that mean the battery is failing?

[@outofspecdave1554]

That's about right; normal degradation. May be higher in the warmer weather though

[@dulceacosta2557]

would installing a performance chip void the warranty?

[@BensEcoAdvntr]

Please update once Tim figures out what was wrong with his car

[@edgar1la62]

Check the coolant level it may only need some.that usually causes the high voltage system Alert to come on

[@sparkysho-ze7nm]

Tire pressure coolant level Wiper blades ✔️ 2024 Elr maintenance complete 👍👍🏆

[@mikejs2672]

The grey spec review*hair

[@dancinglizard6034]

i want one

[@jeffmellow]

The 'clunkiness' is from your driving style. In 'L' you have to coast using your right foot depressed to match your coasting speed.

[@dandaigle4546]

good video

[@jeffmellow]

If your engine is kicking on before 0 miles on the estimated electric range, and it is not cold, you need to have your drive battery checked.

[@bextar6365]

The white looks so much better.

[@MGSmainthemeBACK]

The ELR aesthetic is way superior to the liriq, optiq, celestiq.. I miss the cadillac design lenguaje from the 1st half of the 2010's

[@Alex-j1f6d]

Yep, that's MINI for you.

[@browngreen933]

About those squeaks. Just get under there with an oil can and oil those links, bushings, etc. The squeaks will go away.

[@mikerock8177]

Price was just way too high that was a doom of that they put out like 40 grand they would have sold a ton

[@timlucky1]

The Power Max Tuner will do nothing for actual performance to the road as it is just for the gas engine. The gas engine could be an LS and it would not help that car go any faster as I understand it there is no lack in the ability for the current gas engine to create electricity.

[@ojobee]

If not for tesla, every descent EV would be priced above 100k.

[@TimeHomicide]

The engine never powers the car. It can't it's a generator. It powers the ELECTRIC motor which ways propells the car.

[@allendavid4139]

Buying a car with check engine light on surely risky

[@djplonghead5403]

The 2014 looks nicer up front.

[@patrickgardner484]

Yea it definitely won’t make it anywhere close to 100k miles right

[@DTMBUILT]

It would. I see 1.4s go there a lot , albeit not the best motor. It’ll make at least 150k

[@mongo64071]

If you want a luxury hybrid, just buy a Lexus. Forget gm orphaned crap.

[@ArnoldWinters]

My wife drove a Lexus 400H for 16 years and the only problem she had was an ABS brake issue. Other than that, it was a great car. The ELR is not considered a classic car as Dave makes it. I wonder why did he pay more than $95K for a model X? He does’ t crow about the X in his videos.

[@user-oo3uj5ku9r]

Your battery is toast man in the 2014. The Volt forums are littered with these issues. Only a matter a time before the ‘15 Volt fries then the ‘16 ELR.

[@JoshuaIS1]

Lol OK

[@johnross6314]

“Way ahead of time”. Emotionally where If I have affinity for Cadillac, could lie to myself and say that..FACTS: Tesla Model S was in full production. More for less. Plus supercharger network, and local ease of charging at home. Tesla is the “amazing” value, not this platform. Sorry to say.

[@mattf3761]

-Neither of them are the right car. Aren't there like a cumulative 900 of them in the world -one of the only ugly Cadillacs

[@Poopheadlibbutt]

Ugly? Looks is all this car has