Cadillac Escalade ESV Complaints

242 consumer complaints on file.

#11706007December 18, 2025
ENGINE
Since April 2025, my 2021 escalade has been losing oil quickly. No leak externally has been found. The recent recall found "no engine problems" and placed new thicker oil, but the leak continues with us losing significant amounts of oil every 500 miles. This engine remains defective, losing oil internally, and is putting 600,000 drivers+ at risk for engine failure or loss of propulsion. The recall has not solved the issue at all and the protocol to declare an engine OK and change the oil is insufficient.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11701164November 24, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local service center for routine maintenance and after an oil change was performed, the vehicle was started but immediately shut off and failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact related the failure to the recall. The failure mileage was 96,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11700416November 19, 2025
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was displayed on the instrument panel with an abnormal whining sound coming from the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The battery was replaced; however, the check engine warning light illuminated the following day. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle started to jerk abnormally while depressing the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle shut off in the middle of the highway. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed back to the dealer, where it remained unrepaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11699920November 17, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
At approximately 6:45pm on Friday November 14, 2025, while driving among tractor trailers in the passing lane at highway speed on westbound RT 30 near mile marker 191 (Lancaster, PA), my 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV Sport Platinum experienced a complete loss of propulsion. This catastrophic and sudden engine shutdown came with no warning lights, no symptoms prior to a complete loss of power. The vehicle had previously been inspected as part of the recall service by Fred Beans Cadillac in Doylestown months prior and customer was informed it had passed the recall inspection and was given the recommended corrective action - (new oil [0W40], oil filler cap and new oil filter). Customer had ABSOLUTELY NO REASON TO SUSPECT this engine had issues, because it "passed" GM's recall... This vehicle's unexpected & compete loss of power gravely endangered the lives of the vehicle's four occupants who were absolutely terrified during this experience ! I put the vehicle's hazard lights on and guided it to a stop on the right shoulder of RT 30 at the mile marker 191 Westbound. I contacted my insurance provider's roadside assistance for a flatbed tow off the highway. Vehicle was eventually flatbed to Kelly Cadillac for engine diagnosis. [will give much more details in subsequent communications as the characters here are limited] We are awaiting Cadillac dealer's diagnosis of the cause of this catastrophic engine failure with complete loss of propulsion at highway speed (after the recall was performed and vehicle was cleared). I have added photos of the confirmation from the insurance company's dispatch of a flatbed to my location on RT 30 as well as a screenshot of us on the right shoulder of RT 30. I have attached text messages received from GM of the engine issue that were received AFTER the vehicle was stopped on the shoulder of highway. My family - and others on the highway that evening - could have been gravely injured or even killed by this Cadillac's complete malfunction !
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11699380November 14, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
In March 2025, my 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV experienced a sudden engine failure. The engine began running rough, the check engine light turned on, and the vehicle became unsafe to drive. The Cadillac dealer diagnosed the engine with #8 exhaust push rod bent and metal debris in the engine oil. This matches the defect described in GM Recall N252494000 (connecting rod/crankshaft internal engine defect). I paid $10,000 out of pocket for a full engine replacement at Crestview Cadillac before GM mailed the recall notice. I submitted a reimbursement package to GM’s Recall Reimbursement Center by USPS certified mail. USPS Tracking Number: XXX Delivered on 07/17/2025 at 11:02 AM in Detroit, MI 48226 (“Left with Individual”). GM has refused to reimburse me and will not provide a written explanation. Two other Escalade owners with the same engine and similar failures have already received reimbursement from GM. I believe GM is not complying with the recall reimbursement requirements.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11696120October 28, 2025
ENGINE
The connecting rod and crankshaft failed while driving on the interstate causing loss of power.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11695412October 24, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 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 while driving 50 MPH on the freeway, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the part was not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11692159October 8, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the vehicle started to lose power with several unknown warning lights on the instrument panel. Despite the failure, the contact was able to coast the vehicle to an independent mechanic with heavy white smoke coming from the vehicle. The mechanic inspected the vehicle and diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The vehicle was towed to a dealer who confirmed the engine failure. The contact was notified of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and was given the same information as the dealer. The contact was then referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 35,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11688781September 22, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to report an ongoing safety issue regarding my 2022 Cadillac Escalade related to an engine recall. On September 19, 2025, I took my vehicle to the dealership for inspection, but they chose to pass the recall inspection despite the fact that the engine continues to experience serious issues. The problems include: •Engine propulsion failure and loss of acceleration at highway speeds, creating a hazardous situation. •Rumbling noise from the engine when releasing the accelerator pedal. •Erratic RPM fluctuations, with the engine surging significantly up and down. •Frequent engine misfires, which increase the risk of stalling. •On several occasions, the accelerator dropped speed on the freeway unexpectedly, endangering me, my passengers, and others on the road. These symptoms are ongoing and pose a serious safety hazard. I believe the inspection should not have been passed, as the engine clearly remains defective. I strongly urge that the engine be replaced to address these issues. Please advise on the next steps, as I am concerned for my safety and the safety of my passengers. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11687877September 17, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Car died in the middle of road. You pump the gas, nothing. This happened twice. Once at about 30000 miles and then at 60000 miles. The dealer had to replace a module or electrical box for fuel pump.
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
#11685884September 9, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My vehicle has a recall and I took it to the dealer on the 28th of June and this is the date that I still do not have my vehicle. I have a report at Cadillac to replace the engine. The dealer sends all the information to GM Cadillac to authorize the engine replacement since it has metal inside due to the recall and the vehicle is off, it does not start, nobody tells me anything. I am renting another vehicle paying for two vehicles. My situation is very difficult. Cadillac only talks and talks and nothing from Cadillac. It has been 72 days waiting, losing money. Cadillac has not offered me anything, for move nothing
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11685692September 8, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I purchased a 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum on 9/5/25. I asked the dealership if there were any recalls and they told me if there were any they were taken care of. It has not been taken care of, it is against CA and federal law to sell a car with an active recall that hasn’t been repaired. I would like to file a formal complaint against Mercedes Benz of Walnut Creek Ca. I do not have time to deal with this recall and I want them to take this vehicle back immediately. I do not want to risk the lives of my family or others on the road with an E87 Engine Propulsion Failure on our crowded highways here in the Bay Area.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11684587September 2, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 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 dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11684499September 2, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving with the cruise control activated, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. 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 was fearful of driving the vehicle with the unrepaired recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,500.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11684037August 30, 2025
ENGINE
My 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV experienced a complete engine failure at approximately 83,000 miles. I purchased it used at around 23,552 miles. Despite having been properly maintained, the engine failed and GM denied powertrain warranty coverage, stating the warranty had expired. I was forced to pay $7,300 out-of-pocket for a full engine replacement. This was an extremely dangerous mechanical failure, which could have led to serious harm if it occurred at high speed. I am aware of similar engine complaints in other GM vehicles and am requesting that NHTSA investigate this safety-related issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682917August 25, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The VIN was included, but the vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 57,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682109August 21, 2025
ENGINE
I own a 2022 Cadillac Escalade that is subject to NHTSA ID Number: 25V274000 / GM Recall N252494003 for a potential connecting rod/crankshaft defect in the 6.2L L87 engine. I have contacted my authorized Cadillac dealership (Cadillac Pensacola), Pensacola, Florida Five times by phone (dates:1 July 2025 - 15 August 2025) requesting an appointment for the recall inspection and repair. The dealership has failed to schedule an appointment or return my calls. This defect poses a serious safety risk due to possible sudden engine failure and loss of motive power while driving. GM’s recall remedy involves inspecting the engine and, if necessary, replacing it. The delay in repair scheduling is preventing me from having the federally mandated safety remedy performed. I am concerned that GM and its dealer network are failing to provide a timely remedy as required by the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. I request NHTSA to investigate this delay and require GM to ensure an immediate repair or alternate remedy (loaner, buyback, or replacement).
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11681970August 20, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
While driving there was a loud noise and car started shaking and continued making clunking sounds. Had to pull over. Vehicle is not drivable. Had it towed to the dealership, they are saying the ther is an issue with a rod and engine is blown and needs a new engine. They are describing the same exact issue that this motor is on recall for other vehicles with the same motor and same year, but for some reason the manufacturer won't put ours on the recall list.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

← Back to Cadillac Escalade ESV