Equipment Problems of Cadillac Escalade - part 1

The onstar module has failed and this seems to be an ongoing issue with a lot of gm’s. My car was recently in to fix the major gm engine recall and after that my onstar stopped working. I called and they said it’s not a connectivity issue it’s a part issue. So it will have to be taken to the dealership. I pay money to have onstar and unlimited wifi. There should be a recall for this.

See all problems of the 2022 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

I am the owner of a 2017 Cadillac Escalade affected by special coverage adjustment 17016 (program id n162058750). The issue involves the chrome trim on the steering wheel separating, creating a sharp edge that poses a safety hazard to the driver. I contacted Cadillac to request a repair under this special coverage program. My vehicle developed this defect while still under the mileage limit of the program, well before exceeding 120,000 miles. However, Cadillac has refused to provide any repair or assistance, stating that the coverage has expired today. I understand that this is not a legally mandated recall, but the defect is clearly safety-related, with potential to cause cuts or injury while driving. I have documented my communications with Cadillac, including my requests for a goodwill repair exception due to the safety risk, but they have declined to help. As a consumer, I feel unprotected and at risk. I am submitting this report to NHTSA to request that the agency review this safety concern and ensure that Cadillac addresses it appropriately. I seek guidance on what actions can be taken when a manufacturer refuses to remediate a known safety issue that manifested during the coverage period. I am concerned not only for myself but for other owners who may encounter the same hazard. I respectfully ask that NHTSA consider this complaint seriously and advise on how this safety defect can be resolved.

See all problems of the 2017 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

Purchased 2016 Cadillac Escalade in April 2022 - VIN [xxx] . License plate [xxx] . Car has had electrical shortage issues in the navigation screen ever since purchasing. The navigation screen flickers, switches between apps simultaneously and isn’t responsive to finger touch as advertised. I have taken the car to the dealership 4 times within the 90 day dealership warranty. Those dates were April 25, 2022; may 26, 2022; September 3, 2022; and September 24, 2022. However, the problem hasn’t been resolved. This has also caused the car ignition start up to start slowly. The battery has been checked and is fully charged and working properly. The ignition, alternator and transmission are all working properly in good condition. I believe the dealership sold me a “lemon” vehicle. The initial carfax report didn’t disclose any mechanical or electrical issues. I paid a $6000 downpayment and have paid $15,999. 98 so far. My monthly car payment is $999. 98. This car isn’t safe to drive and I am seeking a financial settlement of $20,000 and for the dealership to take back the car without a negative ding on my credit report and no voluntary repossession listed on my credit report. [xxx] my car completely shut down and no longer would start. I had a brand new battery installed a few days prior. Called aaa 4x’s and they couldn’t jump start my car. They tested the alternator, starter, and transmission and there were no failed sensors. I didn’t have any warning lights. I had my car towed to my mechanic and he verified nothing was wrong with transmission, starter and alternator. I noticed there was a strong burn smell and something popped underneath the car causing the car to no longer start or turn on. I ended having to voluntary surrender the car back to capital one auto finance (account [xxx] ) on Monday [xxx] because the car no longer is operable. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2016 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

My vehicle comes to an abrupt stop while driving or when I’m pulling off at an intersection. This has happened on 4 different occasions in which I’ve injured my knee due to the vehicle stopping at random while I’m driving or pulling off. I’ve stated this to Cadillac of memphis and to landers GMC. The first time I happened I hit my knee by the control panel on the driver side. I’m in a brace because my patellar tendon are inflamed and as well my hoffas fat pad due to the impact. Cadillac of memphis stated it was something that went out and needed to be replaced. They replaced the battery and another part. That did not correct the issue. It happened again after that repair. The third time it happened I was told it was because the transmission was about to go out. Landers replaced the transmission. The advisor stated it should fix the problem. This was about a month ago. Today on 08/08/2025 it happened again and I also hit my knee injuring it even more than more. I’m still in a brace and now have to re-evaluated to see if the abrupt stop caused more injury. This is dangerous because my entire body jerks and cars are coming up behind me in the road and I can get into an serious accident. I need something done about this.

See all problems of the 2021 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

My wife and I purchased this vehicle in 2023 with 33,xxx miles on it and since we’ve had it, the vehicle has locked itself with the key fob inside 3 different times, we’re going on the third suspension replacement with normal driving that is ruining alignment and tires, we’ve had multiple issues with the computer system resetting itself and not acting appropriately, key fob not working, seat heaters in the back turning themselves on, and glove box randomly opening. Yesterday, my wife tried to start the car and everything on the dash just started flashing, the vehicle attempted to turn over and made terrible knocking noises in the engine compartment. The final straw for us was on July 13th when my wife placed our then 7 month old son in the car after church with the remote start feature working, placed his diaper bag in the vehicle with keys inside the bag, and as she walked around to the driver door, the vehicle locked itself and shut off in 103*f heat. My son began screaming and the vehicle would not unlock. My wife was forced to punch the window out, lacerating her hand open, and even after peeling the window out, the vehicle still would not unlock even manually. I had to leave my fire station to meet her at the hospital where she received stitches. Cadillac sent out an inspector on 8/17/25 and we still have not heard anything back. I have filed with the bbb auto line as well. There was never any warning lights or messages, other than repeated “service suspension system” warnings, which has been replaced twice in 20,xxx miles and now needs to be replaced again.

See all problems of the 2019 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

**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.

See all problems of the 2024 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

My 2021 Cadillac Escalade has an open recall with no remedy available. It has been over 3 months with no repair solution from Cadillac. This has left me unable to use the vehicle for its intended purpose, including loss of rental income through turo. Cadillac has not provided alternate transportation or compensation.

While driving my 2021 Cadillac Escalade to utah, the engine completely locked up and failed without warning. The vehicle had to be towed to a gm-authorized dealership. Upon inspection, the dealership confirmed the failure was directly related to an active safety recall on the vehicle. Prior to the failure, there were no check engine lights or no other warning lamps, messages, or symptoms. The failure occurred suddenly and without additional notice. The dealership stated the needed part is currently on national backorder and that the vehicle cannot be repaired or safely driven until the part arrives. It has now been over four months since the vehicle was brought in, and there is still no estimated repair date from gm. This has left me without a functioning vehicle due to a known safety defect. The vehicle remains inoperable at the dealership.

While driving on a major highway and traveling at 80 mph or so, the vehicle flashed a warning light saying “press start again. ” I noticed the gas pedal was no longer responding and the rpm gauge dropped to zero. The vehicle shifted itself into neutral and I was forced to steer the truck to a shoulder and scraped the underside of the front ground effect trim. The vehicle then shifted into park and would not start. When a tow operator arrived, the vehicle could not be shifted into neutral to be towed and the electric parking brake kept activating by itself while trying to load and unload the vehicle from the flatbed. The vehicle is now completely immobile and I’m waiting for information from the dealership.

I was driving on the new jersey parkway when my car just shut down in the middle of the road. The dealer believes it’s the engine- how can this happen to a car 2 years old?.

My [xxx] was sleeping in the parked car. My wife was also in the car with her. Engine and ac were on. The key was inside. Doors and trunk were unlocked. I got outside the car and got my older kid. The doors opened as usual. Then my wife stepped outside the car to get something from the trunk, and she closed her door as well to avoid heat coming in. The vehicle immediately auto locked the doors with the key inside it. So my little one got locked inside. The doors or the trunk did not open again. There was no cell reception, so no way to get roadside help or call 911. The car was parked under direct sun in hot weather. It then shut off the engine (and ac) as well. To avoid heat stroke, we broke into the car to save the child. Obviously damaged the vehicle in the process. The problem of doors/trunk locking with the key inside happened a second time the next day. This time engine was off. I was already inside. My door was open. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? locks, remote how was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? risk of child death from heat stroke has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? not yet taken to a dealer has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? no were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? none information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2023 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

Twice in the last 6 months the vehicle doors have locked at random while the key was inside the vehicle. Both times, my children were trapped in the vehicle exposed to potential heat issues. Fortunately, in both cases the doors were able to be opened through another door that was still open one time and by hitting the unlock button through a slightly rolled down window. Breaking the glass was the next option. This is a serious safety defect that is putting young children and pets at risk for heat injury or death. There are no indications as to why this started, no warnings displayed, and seems to occur at random. Disabling autolock features does not resolve the issue meaning some glitch or equipment failure is causing the doors to lock despite all autolock features turned off.

Power train:automatic transmission:control module:software. Consequence rear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.

It been twice that I have experienced lifters issues and damage caused to engine because of these. First time I fixed it in a NY mechanic shop because dealer workflow and expecting dates (all lifters, crankshaft, and seals were replaced new), less than 1 year later again the lifters failed (2) but this time ruined my engine. Went to local gm dealership and asked at service department if they could fix it complementary due to all reported lifters issues from gm as we all can see online and rejected my offer. So far vehicle is still not fixed and it’s been 5 months in shop looking ways to see if engine could be solved but have to replaced. Also on the Escalade 2018 the seats (middle seat row and 3rd are really being noisy, I purchased vehicle 3 years ago with about 80k miles but these seats are not fully locked in the bottom and metal with metal makes sounds on bumps and bricks streets. When purchased I used to take vehicle to dealer but actually it continues with issues and I just lost confidence and pricing and turnaround were not convenient. Unfortunately, the 2018 Escalade is the worst vehicle decision I have made in my life. When told service manager that I couldn’t believe how a 2018 vehicle was failing engine and again, he told me he has seen 2024 so it shouldn’t be surprising. More to say but will keep simple.

See all problems of the 2018 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

Vehicle will make noise as if gears are slipping, when going up the slop or on load. Potentially can stall or burnout gear and cause major accident. Cadillac should replace the vehicle.

See all problems of the 2015 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

My 2015 Cadillac Escalade suffered complete engine failure caused by a known design defect involving the active fuel management (afm) lifters and camshaft. This issue is documented in gm technical service bulletins (TSB #15-06-01-002e and pip5606c), which acknowledge lifter collapse, misfires, and internal engine damage in 2014–2020 Escalade and similar models. Gm-certified dealerships repeatedly misdiagnosed the issue as minor (e. G. Spark plugs, oil), allowing the underlying defect to worsen. I am uploading invoices from Cadillac of cerritos (who misdiagnosed the problem), my trusted local repair shop, and Cadillac of torrance, who ultimately diagnosed the failed lifters and camshaft, but had originally referred us to cerritos because they could not take us at the time. The misdiagnoses delayed necessary repair, resulting in catastrophic engine failure and a repair quote exceeding $10,000. Gm only offered $2000 towards a new car despite clear evidence of a widespread design defect. I believe this is not an isolated case. Many owners have filed similar complaints with NHTSA, and class action lawsuits (e. G. Mason v. Gm) are pending for this exact issue. Despite this, gm has not issued a recall. This defect creates serious safety risks, including stalling, loss of power, and engine failure while driving. My family was placed in danger by a vehicle gm and its certified dealers knew was vulnerable. I urge NHTSA to investigate this engine defect further and require gm to take full accountability.

My starter caught on fire trying to start my car.

I don’t know all I stopped driving it because it is not shifting right and I can’t ark it for some reason . I have to leave it in reverse and then turn off and put rocks so it does not move. Not safe, one day I drive 30 minutes later it is this way.

See all problems of the 2004 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

I have 2017 Escalade esv, that has exactly same issue that the "global safety field investigations dcs5461" describes, such as, transmission oil temperature sensor malfunction, rough and loud shifts, hesitated acceleration. There were a numerous event that hesitation (not catching the gear) almost caused accidents. Check engine was on and it is at dealership at the date of 15th. (it did not ended up with an accident. Just scared because I drive this vehicle with my 3 young kids. ) my car may, may not have engine and trans built in the 2016, I was wondering if there are vehicles out there that has same problems, that are also similar year, maybe it could be more potential safety concerns on the road. This dcs5461 investigation also noted as "urgent - distribute immediately" so making sure getting all affected vehicle correctly may save some lives. This is my first concern reporting here. If it is a wrong place, please forgive me and kindly let me know where this issue should be addressed at. The link is below. [xxx] I look forward to hearing back from you soon. Thank you for your hard work to make american road safer every day! best, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I had taken my car in while it was under warranty for my motor the car wouldn’t move at all or start. They said it was a cylinder so they replaced the one cylinder and didn’t check any others. Just recently in January 2025 I took it back to the dealer for the same issues and they told me I need a whole new motor. Now the car is out of warranty. They charged me close to $1000 just to diagnose the car and tell me I need a they charge me close to $1000 just to diagnose the car and tell me I need a new motor. Apparently the other side of the motor they didn’t check had failed. Also my running boards were taken to the dealer for not working properly and they didn’t fix them while under warranty and now it’s still doing the same thing. Now my air condition isn’t blowing cold air I have taken it to the dealer. They claim I have different kind of freon, but I never replaced the freon. It’s original to the car when it was purchased. They are charging me $1100 just to diagnose the vehicle.

I was driving home from getting groceries when all of a sudden the vehicle starts to make a loud noise from the engine (no warning lamps/lights or any messages popped up. ) I proceeded to go home and call my husband and ask for his help with the problem. I recorded a video of the car and sent it to him, and he said that it sounded like the engine is knocking and told me to shut the car off and call the dealership to further discuss the situation with them. After calling the dealership they towed my car to get it diagnosed. It has been a month or so now since leaving my car with them and they still cannot diagnose the issue.

- engine seized at highway speeds - vehicle had lose of power while in the middle of the highway. Fortunately I was able to coast to the side of the road without impact. - the vehicle components went through inspection by the Cadillac dealer it was delivered to. - there were no messages or other symptoms that alerted me prior to the problem occured.

Oil pump car shuts off while idling.

See all problems of the 2008 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally address the serious issues surrounding my 2021 Cadillac Escalade, VIN [xxx] [xxx] , which have been exacerbated by misleading communications and inaction from lindsay Cadillac in alexandria, va. This situation has led to significant inconvenience and financial strain. On September 4, 2024, the vehicle was delivered to your dealership due to water leakage causing mold damage between the “b” and “c” pillars. Upon arrival, we were erroneously informed that the warranty had expired. It was not until September 15, 2024, after correcting this with service consultant donna wozniak, that it was acknowledged the warranty is valid through 2025. Despite clear signs of warranty-covered issues, the explanations provided by staff, suggesting the damage could be from towing or previous beach trips, are not only implausible but appear to be intentional diversions. The vehicle has never been used to tow nor has it been submerged in water, making these justifications unacceptable. The lack of immediate remediation upon the vehicle’s drop-off led to severe mold growth, a situation mr. Sergio desdunes has used to unjustly refuse warranty coverage, instead advising me to seek unwarranted insurance claims. Moreover, a recent disclosure by my insurance company highlighted a NHTSA service bulletin [xxx] ), initially recognized by ms. Wozniak but subsequently dismissed by mr. Desdunes. This deceptive handling suggests an attempt to avoid responsibility for the known defect. This culmination of neglect by lindsay Cadillac in alexandria dealership, notably the misuse of the mold condition as a reason to deny warranty obligations, underscores a grave lapse in service integrity and accountability. This conduct is unacceptable and compels me to seek further actions to resolve these issues effectively. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Driving carefully out of [xxx] here in walker minnesota using the newly opened east side of the parking lot exit and 50 feet later as I accelerated the heavy full size spare tire fell from under the rear of the truck and my 2002 Cadillac ext left the ground as the tire bounced back up against the truck!!! if we had been going faster and in a different area we may have been killed! it's a terrible design to store a full size and very heavy spare tire. Thanks information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2002 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

When I am driving the car shutters a lot especially during acceleration. When I stop no shutters but when I begin to go shutters. I have been to the pepboys where I get my car fixed all the time and they can’t find the problem. I spent lots of money on the suspension system already and still the same shutters. Will gm find and fix the defect or they can just give me a brand new car.

On [xxx] my 2023 Cadillac Escalade super cruise VIN: [xxx] with approximately 9600 miles failed to operate in a safe manner and has malfunctioned. The vehicle has been well maintained and follows all manufacturer specifications. It is a lemon. The engine seized while operating on the highway. The vehicle lost speed, there was a crashing boom sound, followed by extreme shaking as grinded to a halt. It was extremely challenging for the driver to maintain control. The dealership confirmed the engine will not turn over, they removed the oil filter and examined the oil sample from it. The sample showed signs of metal, a clear indication of an internal failure. The procedure now is to order a new engine, radiator, oil cooler lines and all one time use components of the fuel injection rails all seals, gaskets and bolts required by general motors. In addition, the emergency braking system did not engage. The onstar system emailed me the night before a clean bill of health with their diagnostic app. There were also no check engine lights prior to using the vehicle. Our use of the vehicle has been impaired, the market value has dropped, and there are obvious safety concerns in placing my family in this vehicle. My research online indicates this is a known issue, however no safety recall has been issued. Police arrived on scene to assist in tow. Police station was boxford, MA. A report has yet to be completed. I look forward to your prompt response and resolution to this matter. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

On multiple occasions I have felt rattling/shaking/rumbling within the vehicle engine area. It began within the first 3 months of having the vehicle in my possession (we purchased the vehicle in January 2024). I also had an occasion sometime around March or April of 2024 where I was accelerating after a red light and the vehicle was lagging. I pressed on the gas harder but it wouldn't get up to speed like it normally does--rpms were going up, up, up, but the speed of the car did not match. There was another red light right so I braked to stop and upon that light turning green everything was back to normal. I reported this to my service provider when I went in for my first oil change, the dealer was unable to duplicate the issues and I was told the car was inspected and appeared to be ok. I have since experienced the same rattling/shaking/rumbling on several occasions.

The vehicle has an “auto hold” option, when enabled if you come to a complete stop you can take your foot off the brake and it will stay stopped. Most vehicles have this offering, and when enabled, stays on by default. Cadillac’s version needs to be enabled every time the car starts, as well as if you put it in park, plus potential other situations. They claim this is a safety “feature” when in fact it is a safety hazard. The point being, if it’s on by default and you forget about it, worst case you take your foot off the brake and need to hit the gas to move forward. With theirs, your worst case (which happens often unfortunately) is that you think it’s still enabled when it actually has disengaged, then you take your foot off the brake at a stop sign or stop light, and instead of staying stopped you roll into the car in front of you. This is a serious hazard that needs to be fixed but Cadillac doesn’t seem interested in addressing it. Hopefully you have more success.

The trunk closes on its own at all times. I was vacuuming on the back door area behind the driver’s side and the trunk closed and opened twice. Then I was vacuuming my trunk space and the trunk closed twice automatically once hitting me in the head and doesn’t have a sensor that senses a body or something or someone there. This is a very dangerous flaw and needs to be corrected before someone is killed by this!!!.

The power step / running boards do not operate as intended, especially on the driver's side. They are not deploying or retracting as they should, possibly leading to personal injury, ie. Spain ankles, injury to the knees, legs and or backs of individuals, who assume the power step has deployed before entering or exiting the vehicle. I am seeking a recall be established concerning this matter, and a class action suit against general motors be developed immediately. I have had my vehicle inspected, at a dealership, as many owners have, with nothing being found. Only to leave in disgust, and have to live with this daily issue. Something needs to be done about this problem, these are some very expensive vehicles, and owners like myself should not have to deal with this persist issue.

Unknown.

See all problems of the 2007 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

The rear park gridlines are not getting activated. Dealer mentioned that there is a bug in an infotainment system but its been open from last 6-9 months and not resolved. This really affecting my parking ability. This should be a safety concern and should be resolved ASAP.

N/a.

See all problems of the 2009 Cadillac Escalade 🔎.

4-12-2023 my 8-year-old daughter and I were driving a 2022 Cadillac Escalade esv and were hit by an out-of-control Ford f150 at a speed of 60 miles. The airbag on the car was almost completely driven, and the insurance company told us the total loss. Fortunately, we were all only affected by it. Minor injuries but none of the car's doors were damaged at the time of the accident. My daughter couldn't open and unlock her doors by herself. I couldn't let my daughter climb into the cab and get out of the car with me from the cab. Then the police came and asked me. Can you open the door to make sure there is no one else inside? that's when I found out that the car can't be opened from the outside even if the door is unlocked when the power is off. I think it's because the Escalade is not a mechanical door handle. They had to be broken. The car window was opened from the inside, and I was thinking that if I passed out in the collision that day and the car caught fire again, it would not be a simple matter even if someone passed by and wanted to save me. Their engineers went to verify the experience and ideas I encountered, which may save many lives. Of course, the Escalade is my dream car, and I will buy it again it save me and my daughter.