Cadillac Escalade ESV Complaints (2024)

22 consumer complaints on file.

#11762937September 8, 2026
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
On August 17, 2026, at approximately 96,685 miles, my 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine lost motive power while I was driving on Highway 101 in California. The vehicle stalled, I pulled over, and I was unable to restart it. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The dealer diagnosed a seized engine that would not rotate, with metal contamination in the oil system and internal engine damage caused by a failed bearing. During teardown, the dealer specifically documented that the rod bearing failed and caused the engine seizure. This vehicle had previously received the GM L87 engine recall remedy on August 11, 2025, at approximately 47,987 miles. The dealer documented that the required PicoScope test passed and that the vehicle was operating normally at that time. The engine failure occurred approximately 48,698 miles after the recall remedy. GM subsequently replaced the engine under warranty. I am reporting this as a safety-related loss-of-motive-power event because the engine failed while the vehicle was traveling on a major highway and could not be restarted. I request that NHTSA consider this incident in connection with Recall 25V-274 and Recall Query RQ26001 and evaluate whether the recall remedy adequately identifies L87 engines that remain at risk of subsequent failure.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11760521August 29, 2026
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, UNKNOWN OR OTHER, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
The Forward Collision Warning system will shut off while driving and an error message will appear. Also, the entire dashboard and radio goes blank and restarts while driving. Also, the backup camera often does not work, instead of an image the screen will flash purple then go black without any image at all. We have brought the car in multiple times for repair, the dealer has had the car for well over a month and it is still not repaired.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11748650July 6, 2026
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I own a 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV equipped with GM's 6.2L L87 V8 engine. The recall remedy for GM Safety Recall N252494000 (NHTSA Campaign No. 25V-274) was completed on April 17, 2026, at approximately 48,905 miles. Only approximately 2,347 miles later, on June 15, 2026, at approximately 51,252 miles, the engine experienced a severe malfunction while I was driving with passengers. Without warning, the engine began running extremely rough with severe vibration and shaking. The Check Engine Light began flashing, and Service StabiliTrak and Service Traction Control warnings appeared. A few minutes after I stopped the engine, it would not restart. I found no measurable engine oil on the dipstick. When the engine was started again, a large amount of blue smoke was emitted from the exhaust, while the engine continued running extremely rough. GM's official MyCadillac application displayed critical warnings for the Engine & Transmission System, Emissions System, Transmission System, and Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System. GM ultimately determined that the engine required complete replacement under warranty. Despite completion of GM Safety Recall N252494000 (NHTSA Campaign No. 25V-274), the engine required complete replacement only approximately 2,347 miles later. The replacement engine remains on backorder. I understand that NHTSA has opened Recall Query RQ26001 regarding post-remedy L87 engine failures. Because my vehicle experienced a post-remedy engine failure only approximately 2,347 miles after completion of the recall repair, I respectfully request that this complaint be included as part of Recall Query RQ26001. I have preserved photographs, videos, diagnostic screenshots, and repair records.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11745105June 18, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE and ENGINE COOLING). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 20,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729131April 4, 2026
ENGINE
I had the recall performed on my ESV in December, but driving home from [XXX] my dash indicated that I needed to push start. I did and it slowly died. I had it towed to Andrews Cadillac where it was purchased and I learned that my engine locked up. It is being completely replaced with 41,000 miles. Thankfully it was under warranty but apparently this is an ongoing issue with GM and the 6.2 liter engines. I won’t have my car for weeks while I await a new engine. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11727002March 25, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the 6.2-liter gasoline engine was on a national back order. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11715124February 2, 2026
WHEELS
There was a vibration in the rear then the wheel flew across the 4 lane hwy. Wheel completely detached from the SUV.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710566January 13, 2026
ENGINE
Lifter failure. Camshaft damage and failure. Those were replaced. Within two weeks later: Complete engine failure. Seized while driving on interstate in traffic. Was stranded on Interstate near DFW airport. Required complete engine replacement. There was no warning before it seized.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11708883January 5, 2026
ENGINE
I was driving on the highway with the cruise control set at 70 mph. I heard a loud knocking/grinding noise that sounded like an old 1970s car with a blown engine. Turns out it was my Cadillac Escalade. I pulled off the highway and the grinding noise was very pronounced and worsened if you pushed the gas. I was 1 mile away from a Cadillac dealer (by God's good grace!) and managed to drive there. I have been told it is a catastrophic engine failure and the car has been in the shop 40 days waiting for an engine. GM/Cadillac cannot give me any estimate of when an engine will be available.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11687141September 14, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
**Exhaust Emissions System Issues** I have visited the dealership four times for the same problem that was fixed. Unfortunately, the system broke again within three days of each visit. This repeated issue has resulted in a significant amount of wasted time and effort.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11686718September 11, 2025
ENGINE
The vehicle suddenly broke down on the road putting my life at risk, resulting into having it towed. Since then the engine light keeps coming on consistently after repairs. It has been consistent visit to the shop without a permanent solution. It has been in the shop for a month and is still in the shop. They’ve been unable to find the problem until they informed me a new engine will be needed. I’ve attached invoices for consistent visit to the shop for the same problem involving the engine and the engine light always on. I have more documents available but I’m unable to upload due to the size but can be presented on request.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678998August 7, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES
Got warning message on dashboard “Brake System Failure”. Brought car to Dealer and they replaced defective master brake cylinder.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678977August 7, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
On August 5, while driving on I-79 at 78 mph, our Escalade suddenly and completely shut off. The entire system failed — no power, no control — while our three children were in the car. This is the second GM vehicle we’ve owned to do this. Our previous Yukon Denali also shut off twice at highway speeds before we got rid of it out of fear for our safety. We reached out about the Escalade recall and were assured two months ago that our vehicle was not affected. Clearly, that assurance was wrong — and we’re now reliving the exact same terrifying situation with yet another GM vehicle. My kids are traumatized and refuse to get back in the car. Frankly, I don’t blame them.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11675026July 21, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11673088July 12, 2025
WHEELS, ENGINE, SERVICE BRAKES
Dear NHTSA, My name is [XXX] , and I am the owner of a 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV, VIN [XXX] . I am submitting this complaint because Cadillac and their dealership have failed to address serious safety recalls on my vehicle, despite repeated attempts on my part to get them resolved. ⸻ ⚠️ Recalls Involved: 1.NHTSA Recall 25V274000 / GM N252494000 – Engine defect that may cause engine failure or power loss, leading to potential crashes. 2.NHTSA Recall 24V674000 / GM N242447990 – Brake fluid warning light software may fail, increasing the risk of brake issues. ⸻ ❗ Why This Is Critical: I operate a professional black car service, transporting VIP clients and executives. These unresolved safety recalls put my customers, myself, and others at risk. Despite contacting the Cadillac dealership multiple times, they have refused to take action or provide a timeline for the necessary repairs. I believe this is a serious failure in protecting driver and passenger safety. ⸻ 🚗 Vehicle & Contact Information: •Year/Model: 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV •VIN [XXX] 6 •Mileage: [Insert current mileage here] •Name [XXX] •Location: [City, State] •Email [XXX] •Phone: [Insert phone number] •Profession: VIP Driver – Black Car Service ⸻ 📩 Requested Action: I respectfully request that NHTSA take steps to ensure GM and their dealership fulfill their recall obligations for my vehicle in a timely and safe manner. Thank you for your time and help with this urgent matter. Sincerel [XXX] [XXX] om INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11661945May 19, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that there were metal shavings found in the oil. The contact owned a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV and expected the same failure. The contact stated that the engine seized, and there were metal shavings found in the engine. The vehicle was not repaired and was traded for the new 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 19,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11655717April 20, 2025
ENGINE
I was driving 65 miles per hour on the high way suddenly engine shutdown Leaving me without power I managed to get to the shoulder but I was parked on at very and area I almost was rear ending for the incoming traffic she to be afternoon a Conner spot end out call if 911 lucky for me state troopers arrived and parked behind me until the town at truck arrived this was a very live treated situation
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11654338April 13, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
My 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV with 19440 miles on it experienced what I can only assume is a catastrophic engine failure today. On 4/13/2025 while driving around 65MPH on a major highway the vehicle lost all power and turned off. At first I didnt notice the issue until a sound began to go off asking me to turn the engine back on. The vehicle had shut off and forced a neutral shift. This happened in between changing lanes and if I was not a very aware driver this would have caused a major accident. I was able to navigate the vehicle to a turning lane where it came to a complete stop and would not turn back on. The vehicle had to sit on the side of the road for over an hour waiting on a tow truck to get it to the dealer. With the vehicle having no power and not re-starting I was stranded partially in a turn lane on the side of a major highway. Although my family was in the car with me I am glad it happened with me there and not my wife and 4 children only. This sudden engine failure seems to be a known issue and needs to be addressed ASAP to prevent major auto accidents.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649938March 22, 2025
ENGINE
We have brought the car to Cadillac on multiple occasions with no understanding of why or resolution of the problem. On multiple occasions the engine feels like it cannot engage into gear, jumps forward and shuts off. This can happen from either being at a full stop and trying to accelerate or driving like normal. It takes 2 or 3 attempts to turn the engine back on. It is difficult to reproduce and happens randomly.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649885March 22, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES
2024 Escalade ESV sport 4WD was not included in eBCM recall issued in September 2024. Recall 24V-674 My vehicle was manufactured between August 2022 and July 2024. It was ordered and purchased in March 2024. The manufacturer failed to notify me by mail. upon checking recalls on NHTSA and Cadillac’s recall websites, it appears General Motors failed to include my car in the recall altogether. Evidently, on 10/15/2024, my car wasn’t braking properly, the dashboard lights for ABS, Brake, engine, and traction control were on, and the 6 months old car had to be towed as it wasn’t drivable due to failure to brake. The dealership informed me the eBCM was the issue and required repairs. It is very concerning my car wasn’t included in this safety recall. I drive my 3 young children daily and I would’ve never driven the car had I known a recall was issued a month prior. For separate reasons, I am currently in a legal dispute with General Motors and the dealership. It took me a lot of research to realize exactly what happened to my car on 10/15/2024. I hope the NHTSA addresses this serious concern promptly.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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