2021 Cadillac Escalade Esv

Routine

Owners filed 74 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 10 times.

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Most common 2021 Cadillac Escalade Esv problems

55 of the 74 complaints (74%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine48
000
Electrical System9
102
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine7
000
Power Train · transmission6
000
Seat Belts2
000
Unknown or Other1
001
Steering1
100

10 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical25V274000
Filed Apr 24, 2025597,571 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.

Risk. Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N252494000.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Fluid/Lubricant › Valves/Valve Body24V797000
Filed Oct 24, 2024463,295 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with diesel engines. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock-up.

Risk. Rear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge. GM will provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2024. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N242454440.

Exterior Lighting › Lighting Control Module › Software22V827000
Filed Nov 3, 2022338,735 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk. Daytime Running Lights that do not deactivate as intended may cause a glare, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will provide an over-the-air (OTA) update for the Body Control Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 15, 2022. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222382220.

Seat Belts › Critical Fasteners22V617000
Filed Aug 11, 2022484,155 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (M) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with third-row seats. The rivet that retains the buckle to the mounting bracket in the left or right side third-row seat belt buckle assembly may have been improperly formed.

Risk. A seat belt with a deformed rivet may not properly restrain an occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect the rivet head formation on both the left and right side third-row seat belt buckle assemblies and replace seat belt buckle assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed September 28, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 1, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222372380.

Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft22V036000
Filed Jan 27, 20221,789 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, and Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles. The rear wheel driveshaft assemblies may have internal components that were not heat-treated properly, possibly resulting in driveshaft failure.

Risk. Driveshaft failure can cause a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the left and/or right rear driveshaft assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 14, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212351030.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump › Control/Drive Module21V739000
Filed Sep 23, 202114,939 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The fuel pump power control module may cause the fuel pump to fail or operate intermittently, which can interrupt fuel flow to the engine, and cause an unexpected engine stall.

Risk. An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the fuel pump power control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 14, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212332040.

Steering › Steering Control Module21V455000
Filed Jun 17, 202126,847 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. A software issue may cause a loss of power steering assist at startup or while driving.

Risk. Increased steering effort, particularly at lower speeds, increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. The power steering module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 13, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212333900.

Air Bags › Srs Malfunction Warning Lamp/Light21V421000
Filed Jun 10, 2021285,622 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles. The communications gateway module incorrectly processes a loss of communication with the sensing diagnostic module (SDM), causing the air bag malfunction indicator light to inconsistently illuminate.

Risk. The air bag malfunction indicator light may fail to warn the driver of a problem with the air bag, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. The communications gateway module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212338110.

Seat Belts › Rear/Other21V190000
Filed Mar 18, 202194,641 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Suburban, and Tahoe vehicles with third-row seating. The third-row outboard seat belts may have been entrapped or misrouted behind the outboard seat-folding mechanism, which could result in damaged seat belts.

Risk. A damaged seat belt can break during a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the third-row outboard seat belts, replacing any damaged seat belts, and rerouting them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 21, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313000.

Seat Belts › Critical Fasteners20V811000
Filed Dec 23, 2020470 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.

Risk. If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.

All 10 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Oct 7, 2026FL

My 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV (VIN [XXX]) developed an engine failure after receiving the recall remedy for NHTSA recall 25V-274 (GM 6.2L V8 connecting rod/crankshaft defect). Symptoms: engine misfiring, dashboard warning lights illuminated, engine stalling/misfiring at idle, loss of power on acceleration, and a valve-like knocking noise coming from the engine. The loss of power and stalling while driving put my safety and the safety of others at risk. The vehicle is currently at the Vera Cruz Cadillac dealership, where it has been sitting for almost a month while awaiting the warranty process. The dealer has not confirmed the root cause. This engine failure occurred AFTER the 25V-274 recall remedy was completed on this vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Oct 6, 2026FL

Body of what was just sent to GM- this should answer most/all questions: To the GM Executive Resolution Team, I am escalating a critical safety hazard and severe dealer misconduct involving my 2021 Cadillac Escalade (53,700 miles), which is fully covered under the GM Factory Powertrain Warranty and a GM Platinum Extended Warranty. This vehicle is experiencing its third catastrophic top-end valvetrain failure. The component history on this VIN is as follows: First Failure: Lifters replaced at a GM dealership in Miami, FL. The worn camshaft was left in place. Second Failure: Lifters replaced at AutoNation Cadillac West Palm Beach. The worn camshaft was left in place. Third Failure: The engine is actively failing again, knocking and ticking severely on warm restarts due to complete bleed-down. My last attempt to address this issue was to take the vehicle to Wallace Cadillac in Stuart, FL, and physically presented the Service Manager with glitter-filled oil and an oil filter containing metal debris, proving advanced mechanical erosion and engine self-destruction. Instead of initiating a warranty claim, the Service Manager/Senior Technician at Wallace Cadillac explicitly instructed me to continue driving the vehicle until it completely "blows up and have it towed in," claiming GM corporate would otherwise do nothing. As supporting evidence, he recited a recent claim refusal on an XT4’s engine where “I bore-scoped it and knew it was done, returned it to GM and they did not reimburs

Engine
Filed Oct 5, 2026GA

I was driving down the interstate going 80 miles an hour and my engine completely shut off. I had to cross four lanes of traffic, on an interstate where the speed limit is 75 miles an hour, to get over on the shoulder while my car was able to accelerate. It was traumatizing and extremely dangerous and a miracle that a wreck was not caused. Engine would not start up after that.

Engine
Filed Aug 30, 2026FL

While driving out of state the engine started knocking- I took it to the dealer before it left me stranded on the road. I was told the engine had failed and needed to be replaced.

Engine
Filed Aug 28, 2026CA

•Purchased the 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV Premium Luxury on XXX, at roughly 68,000 miles. •Within roughly 300 miles of ownership, the 6.2L engine suffered a catastrophic failure involving a rod and ultimately required a complete engine replacement by GM. •The incident involved a loss of propulsion while the vehicle was being driven, making the event more significant than an ordinary mechanical repair. •The incident occurred while transferring from the XXX North to the [XXX] on the turn with 7 people in the car (including 4 children ranging from [XXX]) No lights or warning signs prior to the event. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Aug 27, 2026FL

I had two issues while the car was still under warranty one occasion while driving on a road the engine failed during my trip and I was stranded on the side of the road had to get it towed to the dealer. Second time. I was pulling out of the grocery store and my vehicle lost power as well so on two occasions while driving my car lost power while being in use. I cannot remember the exact date, but I believe it was between 2023 and 2025 for both incidents

Engine
Filed Aug 27, 2026PA

Bad motor

Engine
Filed Aug 18, 2026TX

On XXX I had been driving my vehicle with no issues. I had drove from [XXX] to [XXX]. My vehicle had no warnings or issues prior and my vehicle has been properly cared for and all oil and maintenance has been done through the Cadillac dealership in [XXX]. On my way to [XXX] I stopped at the local gas station and filled my gas tank fully up, when I started my vehicle there was a horrible sound and my car began to shake and all the electronics began coming up. I went to work less than 5 minutes down the road and the vehicle was horrible acting. I called my husband and began thinking maybe I had put bad gas in the vehicle because like i mentioned earlier there was nothing wrong with my vehicle prior to this. We contacted the dealership in [XXX] and they told us to bring the vehicle in, I had to drive my car back to [XXX] where i was petrified my vehicle was going to blow up or just die in the road. I made it to the dealership and explained what happened and that i thought it was bad gas, they let me know they would look at the vehicle and let us know. They contacted my husband later in the day and let him know the good news was that it was not bad gas, unfortunately my engine blew up. He said my engine has done what the recall engines have been doing, unfortunately my vehicle is not in the recall and that it would be $12,000.00 to fix it. When my husband called me, I had him three way the dealership and explained we have taken very good care of our vehicle with all maintenance a

Power Train
Filed Aug 16, 2026CA

Bought vehicle brand new in 2021 took delivery in 2022. Had to have a full transmission replacement and radiator that was cracked replaced at 30,000 miles. Over the next few years have had fuel delivery issues due to fuel pump. This fuel pump was not fixed. As of this year 2026 i've had the vehicle in the shop just shy of every single month. I have had a thermostat sensor that caused the engine fan to go into high RPM causing limp mode on the freeway with a family of 5 in the vehicle. Ive had breaks replaced and not mounted correctly. Additionally, being told the radiator is cracked again in the exact same spot from the initial replacement. Most recently i had a "exhaust pressure back flow valve replaced" that also caused the vehicle to go into limp mode. The following week was another pressure back flow valve issue from the install requiring 2 forced regen's. Approximately 4 days later (08/14/26) from getting the vehicle back from the dealership i have a new check engine light recommending a new catalytic converter. These issues predominately and without warning putting the car into limp mode on the highway is causing major safety concerns for my family with 3 little girls. The vehicle continues to be assessed at the dealership and we have been treated as more of a nuisance than a customer with major vehicle concerns

Engine
Filed Aug 10, 2026AZ

2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV equipped with L87 6.2L V8, subject to NHTSA Recall 25V-274 / GM N252494000. The recall inspection was completed and the vehicle passed, so GM performed the 0W-40 higher-viscosity-oil remedy rather than engine replacement. The vehicle has a history of unexplained oil loss with no obvious external leak, including a prior low-oil warning. At a recent oil change after approximately 5,000 miles, no oil registered on the dipstick before service. The engine was then filled to the full mark. Using the same repeatable checking method, the level was approximately 3/4 at 227 miles and approximately 1/2 at 1,300 miles. I am concerned that a progressive internal engine condition may not have been detected by the recall inspection and that the oil-only remedy may be inadequate. NHTSA currently has Recall Query RQ26001 open regarding engine failures after Recall 25V-274 remedies. I am also concerned because GM Special Coverage N252494003 excludes an engine presenting with low/no oil as neglect even if unresolved mechanical oil consumption caused the low level. I am requesting this complaint be associated with Recall 25V-274 and RQ26001. Please advise. I just bought the car less than a year ago and can’t a new engine.

Engine
Filed Aug 9, 2026WA

My 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV with the 6.2L L87 engine received the remedy for Safety Recall 25V-274 (GM recall number N252494001) on July 30, 2025. The dealer inspected the engine, passed it, and performed the higher viscosity oil remedy. The engine was not repaired or replaced. On [DATE], while driving, the vehicle hesitated and lost power under acceleration. Engine noise then increased progressively until I pulled over on the side of the road. The engine stopped running and would not restart. The dash displayed a message to press the start button again. The check engine light illuminated at the time of failure. There were no warning lights prior to that day. My family, including my children, were in the vehicle when it lost power. We were stranded on the roadside until the vehicle could be towed. The battery and electrical system are functioning normally, but the engine would not start. The vehicle was towed to a Cadillac dealership. At the dealership, a start attempt produced a loud knocking noise from the engine along with a fuel/oil odor. I believe the connecting rod bearings have failed. These symptoms — hesitation, loss of power, and knocking noise — are the exact pre-failure indicators GM identified in Recall 25V-274. This was a loss of motive power while driving on a public roadway, creating a serious crash risk for my family and surrounding traffic. The recall remedy performed on this vehicle was inadequate. GM inspected this engine, passed it, and it failed approx

Engine
Filed Jul 13, 202690,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving at 50 MPH, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine. No warning light was illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact associated the failure with Special Coverage Program: N252494003 (Engine Loss of Propulsion); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 16, 2026TX

I purchased a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV and shortly thereafter experienced an engine malfunction. The vehicle developed a misfire, rough idle, loss of power, and produced significant blue/white exhaust smoke. The check engine light illuminated and the vehicle began running abnormally. An independent repair facility inspected the vehicle and reported oil-related issues affecting a cylinder and spark plug. The repair facility also observed excessive exhaust smoke during diagnosis. The condition raises concerns about potential engine failure while driving, which could result in loss of power and create a safety hazard in traffic. The vehicle is currently undergoing diagnostic testing, including a leak-down test, to determine the cause of the failure. The problem has been confirmed by a repair facility and occurred shortly after purchase.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 20, 2026OH

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. Several dealers were previously contacted for recall inspection appointments, and the contact was informed that the manufacturer had denied the request to perform the service. A dealer was recently contacted and agreed to schedule the recall repair appointment. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle would remain with the dealer in the event that the vehicle failed the inspection, and the vehicle would be repaired in 3-4 months because the part was on backorder. The contact was informed that vehicle rental assistance might not be provided. 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.

Engine
Filed Apr 18, 2026MO

82.826 miles sounded like a idler pully making dinging noise got louder driving in city went to get on highway sudden lost of power and rattling noise and jerking and lunging got off first exit pulled into parking lot and shut it off. Called dealer they sent tow truck diagnosed it as bad motor 4/6/26 got remanufactured motor on 4/17/26 waiting to see how long this one lasts

Engine
Filed Apr 15, 2026CA

I purchased a used 2021 Cadillac Escalade in May 2025 with approximately 48,000 miles. While driving on Highway 14 near Acton CA at speeds exceeding 60 mph, the vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure (March 28th - 2026). The engine suddenly lost all power and shut off completely while in motion. Only electrical systems remained operational. At the time of the incident, I had my three children in the vehicle. This created a dangerous situation, as I was forced to maneuver across traffic and safely pull over without engine power. The vehicle could not be restarted and had to be towed to the dealership. The dealership replaced the engine with a refurbished unit April 14th - 2026. I was not informed in advance that the replacement engine would be refurbished rather than new. Immediately following the engine replacement, the vehicle began experiencing additional issues, including electrical malfunctions and air suspension problems, which required further repairs. After retrieving the vehicle, it is still not operating as expected. The vehicle is noticeably slow, sluggish, and noisy, raising concerns about reliability and the potential for another failure. Given the sudden loss of engine power at highway speed and the continued performance issues after repair, I have serious concerns about the safety of this vehicle.

Engine
Filed Apr 2, 2026UT

This vehicle had its engine replaced at around 33,000 miles. Today, at around 43,000, the replacement engine failed. It's now at the dealer waiting for yet another engine replacement.

Engine
Filed Mar 16, 2026UT

In early February, 2026, a check engine light produced code P1098, engine coolant control valve position sensor performance. Code caused the cooling fans to run continuously when the engine reached a certain temperature and the vehicle had reduced acceleration, which posed a safety hazard when driving the vehicle due to prolongated times to get to the posted speed limit and posed a hazard to other drivers because of reduced acceleration. The vehicle was inspected by Jerry Seiner Dealerships on North Salt Lake, Utah and the check engine light code of P1098 was confirmed. I reviewed General Motors bulletins and found that a special coverage N252508341 which covered LM2 Coolant Control Valve Replacement, dated September 16, 2025. The special coverage applies to Cadillac Escalade model year 2021 to 2023. When I asked the dealership about this coverage, I was informed that the coverage did not apply to my vehicle as the bulletin was VIN specific. I called Cadillac and opened a case with Cadillac as I found it unreasonable that General Motors / Cadillac know there is an issue with coolant control valves, yet they refused to cover the cost of repairs for my vehicle because of the VIN was not part of the special coverage N252508341. I paid for the dealership to replace the coolant control valve as the vehicle was not safe to drive due to the reduced acceleration. My complaint is that General Motor / Cadillac knows there is an issue with the coolant control valves for my vehicle model

Engine
Filed Feb 18, 2026100,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the engine made ticking sounds. The check engine and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the engine consumed an excessive amount of oil and that engine oil was added every two to three weeks. The contact pulled over and had the vehicle towed to the dealer. The dealer informed the contact that because the vehicle was used as a limousine, the engine was consuming more oil than was normal. The dealer replaced the engine, but the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Engine
Filed Feb 10, 2026PA

My 2021 Cadillac experienced a catastrophic engine failure that is mechanically identical to a known GM engine defect currently under recall. GM has denied coverage solely because my VIN is not included, despite the failure matching recall symptoms and diagnostics. This defect caused sudden loss of vehicle use and presents a safety and financial risk. GM is excluding vehicles with identical failures from recall coverage based strictly on VIN rather than defect presence. I am requesting NHTSA review of recall scope and defect coverage.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 7, 2026CT

I am experiencing an ongoing issue with my vehicle’s rear passenger door. The door frequently cannot be opened from either the inside or the outside. At first, I believed the problem was related to the child safety lock. However, even after confirming that the child safety lock is fully disengaged, the door still fails to open from both inside and outside. Occasionally, after turning the vehicle off and restarting it several times, the door will open normally. However, the problem returns randomly, and the door appears to lock itself again without warning. Based on these symptoms, I strongly suspect a defect or malfunction in the rear door latch or door lock actuator. This issue presents a significant safety concern, as it can prevent passengers from exiting the vehicle when needed. I am requesting a thorough inspection and proper repair to permanently resolve this issue. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 5, 2026FL

On 12/18/2025 at approximately 73,097 miles, while driving on I-75 near Wildwood, Florida at about 75 mph, the vehicle experienced a sudden powertrain failure. The engine became seized/locked, the vehicle progressively lost power, and there were abnormal/loud mechanical noises. I was able to avoid a crash, but the event created a safety risk due to loss of propulsion at interstate speed. No accident occurred. The vehicle later received an engine replacement at Plaza Cadillac (Leesburg, FL). Dealer paperwork indicates completion on 01/07/2026, and the vehicle was returned to me on 02/02/2026. After the engine replacement, the vehicle displays safety-related warnings including: “Service Transmission Now – Unable to Shift Soon” “Service Electric Parking Brake” Because of these warnings, I am not driving the vehicle. The dealer plans to tow the vehicle in for inspection. In addition, the dealership has stated in writing that they typically clear diagnostic codes for test driving and that no post-repair/post-road-test diagnostic scan reports are saved or printed, meaning there may be limited retained documentation verifying that all modules were fault-free at release after the engine replacement. Cadillac case reference: Cadillac Care Center Service Request #88422536. I consent to sharing this complaint and vehicle details with the manufacturer.

SteeringCrash
Filed Jan 22, 2026MO

The steering wheel locked up and the car shifted. I was unable to control the steering wheel it caused a crash

Engine
Filed Jan 2, 2026VA

My wife was driving my kids to their nana and papas house when the vehicle loss power. The vehicle started to have a knocking noise and started to vibrate towards the engine compartment. The dash lit up like a Christmas tree. We took the vehicle to a local mechanic and he suggested that we might need a tune up. We purchased 8 brand new spark plugs, spark plug wires and 8 brand new coil packs. The local mechanic installed all of the new parts and the vehicle acted just like it was before the tune up. We then took the vehicle to Boyd Cadillac in Henderson,NC. Tim, who is our service provider, contacted us and told us that we had severe engine failure. His recommendation was a complete engine install. We have used Boyd Cadillac, Tim on several occasions. We had an alternator replacement done which was not under warranty. We had lifters replaced under warranty around the 50k mile mark.

Engine
Filed Dec 18, 2025WA

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.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Nov 24, 202596,000 milesKY

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.

Engine
Filed Nov 19, 202571,000 milesMD

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.

Engine
Filed Oct 28, 2025TN

The connecting rod and crankshaft failed while driving on the interstate causing loss of power.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Oct 24, 202515,000 milesKY

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.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Oct 8, 202535,000 milesNY

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.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 17, 2025FL

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.

Engine
Filed Sep 9, 2025NY

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

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Sep 2, 2025NM

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.

Engine
Filed Aug 30, 2025CA

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.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 25, 202557,000 milesAZ

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.

Engine
Filed Aug 20, 2025FL

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.

Unknown or Other1 injured
Filed Aug 8, 2025MS

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.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 1, 2025WA

After driving about 3 hours, the TPMS system displays an error saying the module has failed. This occurs with OEM and aftermarket TPMS sensors. The error clears itself after the vehicle is parked for > 1 hour. The dealer has found no fault in the sensors but would not test the system otherwise. Losing TPMS readings during long drives is unsafe and could lead to an accident or damage to the vehicle if tire damage occurs while the system is malfunctioning.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 1, 2025WA

The rear, third row passenger vent will occasionally put out very hot air. This results in the back seats becoming overheated especially on hot days. This is putting my young children at risk for heat related injuries and possibly death as the front seats remain cooled but the rear compartment heats up substantially. The dealer was unable to reproduce the problem but it occurs at random so reproduction is difficult. No error codes are shown. The problem will resolve once the vehicle is shut off for an extended period of time but will then recur at random putting all rear passengers that are sleeping or too young to complain about the temperature at significant risk.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 1, 2025WA

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.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 17, 202569,608 milesCO

The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while returning from vacation, the vehicle stalled while the contact's wife was driving at 70 MPH. The contact's wife managed to pull to the shoulder of the highway. The vehicle was towed over 100 miles to the nearest dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and informed the contact that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000(Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle remained with the dealer for 90 days, and an unknown partial engine repair was performed. The vehicle was then towed to the contact's local dealer, where it remained for the final repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 69,608. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Jul 2, 2025TX

At [XXX] my car started shaking on the highway I was my kids I happened and thanks God was less traffic after this problem I goes to BAYWAY CADILLAC SOUTHWEST Houston Texas 77074 From May 8 to till now my car is there and asking me 5000$ because they put new engine even this is not my fault Im uber driver and that is only my source of income in loss a lot because my car is in there hand INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Jun 28, 2025WA

Experienced engine failure as outline in recall for 6.2liter L87 engines. Engine failure occured on 5/28/2025. Confirmed engine failure by Cadillac dealer on 5/29/2025. Vehicle is still in repair shop with no ETA on replacement motor. Cadillac has failed to provide a comparable loaner vehicle. This is creating financial impact as I use my vehicle for work.

Engine
Filed Jun 27, 2025MN

While on a family vacation in the Black Hills, I began to hear a knocking sound from the front right of the vehicle. Shortly after the engine began to sputter and multiple warning lights/ messages began to appear. Just prior to this, everything on the vehicle was functioning perfectly. We stopped operating the vehicle immediately when it began to malfunction and pulled over, leaving me and my young family stranded over an hour away from our rental cabin. The next day we were able to get a tow truck and find a dealership, Denny Menholt Chevrolet back in Rapid City, SD that was able to look at it right away. We were told by Denny Menholt later that day that there was a bearing failure of the rod and piston on cylinder #8 and that the entire engine block was destroyed resulting in the need of a whole new engine. We were also told by the dealer that our vehicle was not included in the recall of all the other 6.2 motors, however, GM was going to take care of everything including a brand new engine, rental car coverage, and shipping the vehicle back to us, all free of charge to us. Fast forward several weeks and we got a call from Denny Menholt stating that GM had gone back on their word and was not going to pay for any of the damages because we were 7k miles over the powertrain warranty. I have filed a complaint with GM customer service but have gotten nowhere after 3 weeks worth of phone calls and emails. The engine failure that I had is the exact same problem that all of the oth

Engine
Filed Jun 25, 2025CA

Vehicle: 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV Engine: 6.2L V8 Mileage at failure: 84,000 miles Problem: Complete engine failure Description: I own a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV with a 6.2L V8 engine. At only 84,000 miles, the engine failed and had to be completely replaced. The symptoms and failure are identical to what is described in GM’s recent recall of 2021–2024 Escalades with 6.2L V8 engines. However, when checking my VIN, it shows that my vehicle is not included in the current recall. Given the premature engine failure and matching issue, I believe the recall scope may be too narrow and does not fully capture all affected vehicles. I’m requesting NHTSA investigate and consider expanding the recall to include my VIN. I have repair records and can provide further details.

Engine
Filed Jun 16, 2025145,000 milesGA

The contact owns a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the check engine and traction control warning lights illuminated. Additionally, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the vehicle started to lose motive power and was pulled over, turned off, and then restarted. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the engine was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 145,000.

Engine
Filed May 28, 2025MN

City and highway driving, lost power on acceleration. Engine started knocking. Had vehicle towed to dealership. Through a piston. This vehicle had all the described issues of 6.2 liter V8 2021 cadillac escalade ESV, but I have not received a recall. This vehicle has been out of service since April 2025 and no recall and no replacement parts (new engine)

Engine
Filed May 21, 2025MT

GM has a coolant control valve issue that impacts all Escalades and Suburban vehicles. Vehicle will maintain speed as a result of issue. This is a huge safety issue. All of a sudden the car drops to 45mph.

Engine
Filed May 1, 2025NJ

Engine failure

Engine
Filed Apr 30, 2025FL

The vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure while it was being driven, according to the renter who had it through Turo. It broke down and stalled at a stoplight. I then had it towed to a Cadillac dealership in Cocoa Beach. After inspection, the dealership informed me that the engine had seized and provided a replacement estimate of over $16,000. Because of the high cost, I chose to take the vehicle to a reputable local repair shop (Fastlane Automotive). They quoted me a lower price of approximately $11,000. The engine is currently on order but is backordered at the moment and its currently parked up there. I firmly believe this engine failure is connected to an active recall affecting this vehicle.

Complaints 1-50 of 74, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2023
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202611300Do not drive
202514100Routine
202422200Routine
202392400Routine
202258400Routine
2021 — this page741000Routine
202022200Routine
201934110Routine
201815120Routine
201738110Routine
201615300Do not drive
20158600Do not drive
20140200Routine
20132400Routine
20123300Routine
201113500Routine
20104300Routine
20096500Routine
200817400Routine
200739421Fatalities reported
20065100Routine
200514110Routine
200422110Routine
200312100Routine

Compare every Escalade Esv year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 24, 2025. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.