2004 Cadillac Escalade

Routine

Owners filed 69 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the electrical system. It has been recalled 4 times.

Avoid One of the Cadillac Escalade years to avoid: an unusual share of fires, crashes and deaths for a car of its age. Which Cadillac Escalade years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
84,489 milesMedian miles at failure

50 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 75,000–90,000 miles.

Most common 2004 Cadillac Escalade problems

17 of the 69 complaints (25%) are about the electrical system.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Service Brakes · brakes15
000
Electrical System12
130
Air Bags · airbags6
5011
Seats4
021
Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel4
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration3
000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission3
100
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system3
000
Unknown or Other2
108
Steering2
000

4 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Wheels › Hub07E106000
Filed Dec 17, 2007130,000 vehiclesFederal-Mogul Corporation

Defect. CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL REPLACEMENT WHEEL HUB ASSEMBLIES WITH THE BRAND NAMES: NATIONAL, CARQUEST P/NOS. 515020, 515021, 515025, 515053, 515054, 515059, AND 515060, SHIPPED BETWEEN JANUARY 23, 2006, AND DECEMBER 20, 2007, SOLD FOR LIGHT DUTY AND MEDIUM DUTY TRUCKS. THE INBOARD RETENTION NUT USED TO MAINTAIN HUB BEARING ASSEMBLY CAN LOOSEN RESULTING IN AN ABS LIGHT INDICATION, NOISE, AND/OR WHEEL SEPARATION.

Risk. WHEEL SEPARATION CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY CUSTOMERS AND WILL REPLACE THE HUB ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 7, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL TOLL-FREE AT 877-489-6659.

Fuel System, Gasoline06E043000
Filed May 19, 200688,303 vehiclesHoneywell International, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.

Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).

Seat Belts › Rear/Other05V163000
Filed Apr 22, 20051,359,824 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. ON CERTAIN CREW CAB PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE 2ND ROW CENTER OCCUPANT SEAT BELT ROUTING MAY MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO POSITION THE LAP PORTION OF THE SAFETY BELT LOW AROUND THE HIPS OF OCCUPANTS, ESPECIALLY SMALLER OCCUPANTS, SEATED IN THIS POSITION. APPROPRIATE USE OF A CHILD SEAT OR BOOSTER SEAT, AS RECOMMENDED FOR SMALL CHILDREN, DOES IMPROVE THE FIT CONDITION FOR THIS USER GROUP. IN ADDITION TO INSTRUCTIONS ON PROPER INFANT AND YOUNG CHILD RESTRAINT (WITH CHILD SEATS OR BOOSTERS), SPECIAL VERBIAGE FOR RESTRAINING OLDER CHILD IS INCLUDED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL. ALSO, THE SUGGESTED SEAT BELT FIT/ROUTING FOR ADULTS, IRRESPECTIVE OF SEATING POSITION, IS DESCRIBED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL TEXT.

Risk. A LAP PORTION OF THE SEAT BELT ROUTING THAT IS NOT LOW AND SNUG ON THE HIPS CAN ALLOW THE LAP BELT TO RIDE UP ON AN OCCUPANT'S ABDOMEN INSTEAD OF FITTING LOW AROUND THEIR HIPBONES, AND THEREFORE, CAN EXPOSE THEM TO MORE RISK OF ABDOMINAL AND INTERNAL ORGAN INJURY.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL CUT OPEN THE GUIDE LOOP, REMOVE A PORTION OF THE LOOP, AND THEN THE REMAINING TWO SIDES SHOULD BE FOLDED OVER AND SECURED WITH A RETAINER FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 21, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, OR HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic04V045000
Filed Feb 4, 200468,875 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND PASSENGER VANS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 135, ?PASSENGER CAR BRAKE SYSTEMS.? SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH AN OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION BRAKE HYDRO-BOOST HOUSING RELIEF VALVE BORE.

Risk. CONSEQUENTLY, THE VALVE O-RING SEAL MAY FRACTURE. STEERING EFFORTS MAY BE SLIGHTLY INCREASED WHILE BRAKING OR PARKING. UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS, A FRACTURED SEAL MAY REQUIRE A SLIGHT INCREASE IN THE APPLIED BRAKE PEDAL EFFORT TO ACHIEVE THE SAME VEHICLE DECELERATION RATE AS PRIOR TO THE SEAT FRACTURE.

Remedy. DEALERS ARE TO REPLACE THE HYDRO-BOOST RELIEF VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 18, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; GMC AT 1-866-996-9463; OR HUMMER AT 1-866-486-6376.

All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal › Flasher Unit
Filed Jul 20, 2025WI

When this device is used to replace the Flasher Module (my had failed so I ordered this replacement from Amazon) I found that the brake light circuit to any trailer connected tot he vehicle would no longer work. Under further research on Amazon via reviews and other online sources, I found that all of the Chinese clone parts have this same failure mode. Since most people check trailer lights with Directionals or 4 Way flashers, they would not be aware of the failure of the brake (stop) lamps not working on the trailer leading to critical dangerous situation if they need to slow as the driver behind them is likely to rear end the trailer due to the failure of the stop lamps to light.

Unknown or OtherCrash8 injured
Filed Mar 18, 2025CA

Unknown

Electrical System
Filed Jan 29, 2025CA

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.

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 22, 2025CO

At speeds of 50 mph and above, my vehicle does the death wobble. Any time I hit a tiny crack in the road, going higher speeds. The person that sold he this car knew it did not pass emissions in September 2024 and I bought it in November 2024. A dealership checked car fax for me after I bought it. And this person rolled back the odometer also. I found this out after I purchased it.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 28, 2024FL

Searching of Google results indicates this is a known problem with these vehicles. I am unable to put fuel/gas in the tank because the vapor safety system fails! Having to replace the entire vapor purge and canister assembly is very costly when this known safety hazard should have been taken care of by the manufacturer.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 23, 2022RI

So when I give it some gas the blower Moter for the ac /heat with go Fater then when the rpms go down the fan goes down with it same with the lights they flicker. i had changed the brake pads an rotors an blew compressed air on the caliper an seen a pin hole on the rubber seal.

Suspension
Filed Dec 1, 2022CA

When driving it feels like I'm slowing down when I'm not. The lights inside, the headlights, & on dashboard flicker & sometimes go out while driving. My seatbelts on the driver, back seat behind driver not working. The driver seat does not adjust so I can position myself correctly. The truck rocks side to side while driving as if it will tip over on its side if I drive over 30. I just recently acquired the truck within the last few months and I need to be on the road driving my babies around. I love the truck andu problems with it sounds and drive like it's all a safety issue. Please let me know if these issues are covered to be fixed.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 14, 2020FL

I HAVE MULTIPLE RECALLS THAT ARE OLDER, BUT STILL SHOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF CORRECT? I'LL TAKE SCREENSHOTS AND SEND THEM. THANK YOU

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Oct 9, 2019200 milesMN

MY TRUCK STARTED ON FIRE SMOKE STARTED UNDER GLOVE BOX!, THEN FLAMES STARTED AND THE WHOLE TRUCK BURNED UP! I WAS JUST DRIVING ION THE HIGHWAY!! LUCKY TO BE ALIVE TO TELL THE STORY

Electrical System
Filed Sep 25, 2019234,000 milesMI

HEADLIGHTS AND BALLETS BEEN REPLACED 3TIMES.. THEY COMES ON ONLY WHEN NOT DRIVING THEN I START DRIVING THEN ALL THE LIGHTS START FLICKERING. SEATBELT IN REAR WAS REPAIRED TWICE BUT WONT RETRACT AFTER UNBUCKLEING.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 9, 2019186,000 milesMD

BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE FROM A DEALER AND CANNOT GET IT INSPECTED DUE TO THE ISSUES WITH THE ABS AND STEERING SENSORS.REPLACED ABS MODULE AND AM STILL HAVING TROUBLE WITH IT. THE DEALER WOULD NOT DO ANYTHING TO RESOLVE ANY OF THESE ISSUES BECAUSE I BOUGHT IT AS IS AND THEY REFUSED TO GIVE ME ANY KIND OF WARRANTY AND HAD ME SIGN AN AFFIDAVIT STATING SO.WHEN I LEFT THE DEALERSHIP I HAD TO FUEL UP AND HIT THE BRAKES AND COULD BARELY GET IT STOPPED.FOUND A LOT OF BAD BRAKE LINES AND THE ABS LIGHT CAME ON

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 28, 2018200,030 milesWI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, ANOTHER MOTORIST ALERTED THE CONTACT THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE DEALER (PIETROSKE CHEVROLET, 4000 GRAND AVE, MANITOWOC, WI 54220, (920)-445-8134) WAS CONTACTED TO SCHEDULE A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS UNDER THE VIN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,030. *TT UPDATED 11/30/18*JB

Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel
Filed May 18, 201862,000 milesNC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE STEPPER MOTOR FOR THE INSTRUMENT GAUGE CLUSTER DASHBOARD FAILED. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE SPEEDOMETER, FUEL GAUGE, AND TACHOMETER TO DISPLAY THE INCORRECT READINGS AND FAIL COMPLETELY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER (HENDRICK AND CARREY CADILLAC, 101 TEAM HENDRICK WAY #101, CARY, NC 27511) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS A KNOWN ISSUE; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT MISSED THE SPECIAL ROLL OUT PROGRAM TO GET THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT NOTHING COULD BE DONE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,000.

Service Brakes
Filed May 3, 201896,959 milesNY

DURING ROUTINE REPAIR WORK TRANSMISSION LINES, BREAK LINES AND POWER STEERING LINES HAD TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE THEY WERE ROTTEN OR BADLY LEAKING. IN ADDITION, FUEL PUMP, REAR BACKING PLATES AND POWER STEERING AND TRANSMISSION COOLER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO ROT.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 17, 201745,104 milesNJ

2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE WITH 45,104 MILES. 2ND OWNER. HAD TO PANIC STOP ON LOCAL HIGHWAY EXIT RAMP WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE WAS COMING WRONG WAY ON THE RAMP. HAD A TO AVOID OTHER VEHICLE TO RIGHT OF RAMP AND AGGRESSIVELY APPLY BRAKES TO AVOID ACCIDENT AT APPROXIMATELY 15-25 MPH. ANTI-LOCK BRAKES PULSATED AND STOPPED THE VEHICLE FOLLOWED BY BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSING TO FLOOR. CONTINUED TO PROCEED AND BRAKES AGAIN GOING TO FLOOR. DETERMINED THAT BRAKE LINES FAILED AND FRONT DRIVERS SIDE OF VEHICLE, COMPLETELY EMPTYING BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER CAUSING LOSS OF FRONT AND REAR BRAKE SYSTEMS. WAS ABLE TO PROCEED ON EMERGENCY BRAKE SINCE HOME WAS WITHIN A MILE AND HALF. AT HOME, FILLED THE MASTER CYLINDER IN DRIVEWAY AND DID STATIONARY TEST OF SYSTEM. ENGINE STARTED, BRAKES AGAIN GO TO FLOOR AND MASSIVE BRAKE LEAK OCCURRED ON DRIVER'S SIDE BY LEADING EDGE OF FRONT DOOR AT TRUCK FRAME SPILLING FLUID ON GROUND AND CATALYTIC CONVERTER/EXHAUST SYSTEM. HAVE READ IN NEW YORK TIMES THIS IS AN ISSUE ON GM LIGHT TRUCKS AND GM REFUSES TO RECALL. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY DEFECT THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED.

Air BagsCrash3 injured
Filed Aug 31, 2017120,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A BRICK WALL. DURING THE CRASH, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED, BUT DID NOT INFLATE. IN ADDITION, THE FRONT AND REAR SEAT BELTS MALFUNCTIONED AND DID NOT SECURE THE PASSENGERS. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A LEFT LEG LACERATION AND LEFT SHOULDER INJURY. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE CHEST AND RIGHT KNEE AND THE REAR PASSENGER SUSTAINED FIVE FRACTURED VERTEBRAE. NO FURTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL DEALER (INTEGRITY GM OF CHATTANOOGA, TN) WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 3, 2017165,890 milesIN

THE STRONG ODOR OF. FUEL INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. STRONG WHEN DRIVING. WE FIND NO GAS ON THE GROUND LEAKING. WE HAVE MADE SURE THE GAS CAP IS SECURE. IT IS GETTING 14MPG.

SeatsFire
Filed Jan 10, 2017232,000 milesTN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, REAR PASSENGER SEAT BECAME HOT AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DESTROYED, ONLY THE SEAT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 232,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 3, 2017120,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO READ THE SPEEDOMETER AND THE GAUGES DISPLAYED THE INCORRECT SPEED, FUEL, AND RPM INFORMATION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Apr 12, 2016148,964 milesCA

I WAS THE OWNER OF A 2014 CADILLAC ESCALADE. ON AUGUST 26, 2015, WHILE DRIVING I PLUGGED IN MY CELL PHONE CHARGER INTO THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER. SPARKS AND SMOKE STARTED COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE DASHBOARD. I PULLED OVER TO A SIDE STREET. NO SOONER THAN I WAS ABLE TO GET OUT, THE ENTIRE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE, THE DOORS,SEATS, CONSOLE BURST INTO FLAMES. THE ENGINE WAS ON FIRE AS WELL. THIS WAS A DEVASTATING INCIDENT TO ENDURE. I AM LUCKY TO BE ALIVE

Electrical System
Filed Apr 6, 2015178,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, IT FAILED TO START AND THE KEY REMAINED IN THE START POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 178,000.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Feb 4, 2015110,000 milesNY

I HAVE A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN FOR OLDER MODEL CADILLAC ESCALADE'S AIR BAGS. I OWN A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE THAT HAS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED. THE AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED AT FULL SPEED WITHOUT CAUSE WHILE I WAS PARKED, IDLING. IF I WAS DRIVING, I COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED OR CAUSED OTHER INNOCENT PEOPLE TO BE KILLED OR INJURED. THIS DEFECT HAS ME WONDERING IF THIS WILL BE A SAFETY ISSUE FOR OTHERS WITH THIS VEHICLE. GM IS CURRENTLY COMMITTED TO ONLY INSPECT THE VEHICLE AT THIS TIME. MY EXPECTATION IS THAT THEY DEFINE ROOT CAUSE AND REPAIR THE VEHICLE TO A SAFE RELIABLE VEHICLE. *TR

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jan 8, 201519,800 milesMO

VEHICLE IS NO LONGER PROVIDING SPEED READOUT WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION OR GAUGE IS INOPERATIVE AT RANDOM. MY VEHICLE IS 11 YEARS OLD BUT HAS LESS THAN 20,000 ORIGINAL MILES (MOST ARE HIGHWAY). 19,800 TO BE EXACT. DEALER INDICATES GM WILL NOT AUTHORIZE A FIX AT NO COST UNDER THEIR SPECIAL COVERAGE ADJUSTMENT #07187C. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED AND I FAIL TO SEE HOW HAVING SIMPLE TIME PASSAGE ON A LOW MILEAGE VEHICLE IS CAUSE FOR NOT BACKING THE PRODUCT. LOOKS LIKE THEY KNOW THEY HAVE A PROBLEM AND JUST DON'T WANT TO PAY TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE. THEY ARE USING TIME PASSAGE AS A WAY TO SIDE STEP CORRECTING THE ISSUE ON A PART THAT THEY KNOW TO BE DEFECTIVE. A PART THEY KNOW FAILS. A PART THAT PROVIDES THE OPERATOR WITH FEEDBACK SO SAFE OPERATION AND CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE CAN BE MAINTAINED. I DO NOT KNOW THE SPEED OF THE VEHICLE WHEN I FIRST NOTICED THE ISSUE, HOWEVER I WAS ON A HIGHWAY IN SNOWY CONDITIONS... *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 19, 201444,177 milesPA

ON 8/13/2014 WHILE APPROACHING A RED LIGHT ON US ROUTE 22 IN MONROEVILLE, PA.; AT ABOUT 30 MPH, MY PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. I IMMEDIATELY SHIFTED TO LOW GEAR AND APPLIED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. I WAS VERY LUCKY TO NOT HIT THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME, ABOUT 2 FEET TO SPARE. PULLED OFF ROAD, OPENED HOOD, MASTER CYLINDER LOW, PUDDLE UNDER DRIVER'S SEAT. AS I WAS ONLY 1/4 MILE FROM MY FAVORITE MECHANIC AND WAS ON A LEVEL ROAD, I PUT THE 4 WAY FLASHERS ON, LOW GEAR, AND PROCEEDED AT 5 MPH TO THE SERVICE CENTER. ONLY BRAKES I HAD WAS EMERGENCY, NOTHING AT ALL FROM PEDAL ?????? WHAT USE IS A DUAL MASTER WHEN THE LINE TO THE ABS BURSTS. THIS VEHICLE HAS 45K MILES ON THE ODOMETER, IT MAY BE 10 YEARS OLD; BUT THIS SHOULD NEVER HAPPEN ON A VEHICLE IN THIS CONDITION, LOOKS NEW, DRIVES NEW. REPAIR TO GET BACK ON THE ROAD WAS $274.01 BUT; MECHANIC INFORMED ME THAT ALL MY LINES WERE BAD AND SHOULD BE REPLACED. I JUST HAD ALL THE BRAKE LINES / FLEX HOSES / AND GEE EVEN THE GAS LINE WERE RUSTING THRU REPLACED AT A COST OF $1323.32. SO I'VE SPENT $1500.00 ON BRAKE / FUEL LINE REPLACEMENT. I AS WELL AS MANY OF MY FRIENDS WERE SHOCKED AT THIS FAILURE, ESPECIALLY WHEN WE DRIVE 50 60 YEAR OLD TRIUMPH SPORTS CARS WITH ORIGINAL BRAKE LINES. NEVER HAVE I EXPERIENCED THIS TYPE OF FAILURE. IF I WOULD HAVE BEEN TRAVELING ON A FREEWAY AT 65 OR 70 AND NEEDED TO STOP I'D PROBABLY BE DEAD, AS WELL AS WHOEVER I MAY HAVE HIT IN FRONT OF ME. THIS IS A TERRIBLE PROBLEM AND I HAVE SEEN LOTS OF FOLKS WITH GM TRUCKS C

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 21, 201475,445 milesMD

DRIVERS SIDE BRAKE LINE RUPTURED AND LEAKING FLUID. BRAKE LINES ON BOTH SIDES OF VEHICLE RUSTED. NO BRAKE PEDAL PRESSURE. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 9, 201499,982 milesNY

I WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH AND A CAR CUT ME OFF AND I HAD TO STOP SHORT. MY TRUCK'S BRAKES DIDN'T RESPOND BUT AFTER PUMPING THEM I WAS ABLE TO JUST STOP BEFORE HITTING THE CAR THAT CUT ME OFF AND STOPPED. NOTICED BRAKES DIDN'T FEEL RIGHT AFTERWARDS BUT DROVE CAREFULLY. PARKED AND WHEN I CAME BACK TO THE TRUCK A FEW HOURS LATER ALL THE BRAKE FLUID WAS ON THE GROUND AS MY BRAKE LINE RUPTURED AND WHEN I TURNED ON THE TRUCK I HAD NO BRAKE PRESSURE. HAD THE TRUCK TOWED TO THE LOCAL CADILLAC SERVICE CENTER AND WAS TOLD THE BRAKE LINES WERE CORRODED/RUSTED AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. I HAVE HAD MY TRUCK SERVICED BY CADILLAC SINCE I BOUGHT IT NEW AND JUST SPENT OVER $3,000 IN MAY OF 2013 TO HAVE THE TRUCK SERVICED INCLUDING HAVING THE BRAKES REPLACED INCLUDING THE ROTORS. NO MENTION THAT MY BRAKE LINES WERE COMPROMISED AND COULD FAIL. AS I READ IN THE NY TIMES YESTERDAY THAT OTHER GM VEHICLES HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME ISSUE I WANTED TO SHARE MY EXPERIENCE AND I AM VERY FORTUNATE THAT NO ONE WAS INJURED. *TR

Steering
Filed Jun 25, 2014150,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE ABS LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AS THE POWER STEERING FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY AND BARRING NEED TO BE REPLACED. NO REPAIRS HAD BEEN MADE TO THE VEHICLE AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 7, 2014187,500 milesNJ

I OWN A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, I ATTEMPTED TO ENGAGE THE BRAKES BUT THE BRAKE PEDAL ABNORMALLY SANK INTO THE FLOORBOARD. THE BRAKE WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED AND I HAD TO ENGAGE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, AND MANUAL BREAKING IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. AFTER A MECHANIC INSPECTED THE VEHICLE HE NOTICED THAT BRAKE FLUID WAS LEAKING FROM UNDER THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT (FRONT DRIVER-SIDE). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SHOP. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT DUE TO CORROSION, THE BRAKE LINE WAS FRACTURE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 187,500. I HAVE NEVER OWNED A CAR WHERE THE BREAK LINES ACTUALLY RUSTED OUT ??? *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Feb 27, 201449,315 milesNY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, HE ATTEMPTED TO ENGAGE THE BRAKES BUT THE BRAKE PEDAL ABNORMALLY SANK INTO THE FLOORBOARD. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE BRAKE WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED AND HE HAD TO ENGAGE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. ALSO, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE HE NOTICED THAT BRAKE FLUID WAS LEAKING FROM UNDER THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT DUE TO CORROSION, THE BRAKE LINE WAS FRACTURE AND ALL OF THE BRAKE LINES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 49,315.

Electrical SystemCrash
Filed Dec 3, 2013108,000 milesMN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND CAUSED THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO A GUARD RAIL. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 8, 2013135,000 milesNC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 35 MPH AND APPLIED THE BRAKES HOWEVER, THE PEDAL ABNORMALLY TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO COAST THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROADWAY AND PARK. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TOWED TO A LOCAL DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE CORRODED BEHIND THE ABS CLAMPS, WHICH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE INCIDENT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000. UPDATED 12/04/13*LJ UPDATED 12/9/2013 *JS

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 12, 2013105,000 milesMD

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS STUCK TO THE FLOOR BOARD WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT NOTICED THE BRAKE FLUID ON THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION, WHICH LOCATED THE BRAKE LINES SEVERELY CORRODED AND FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 105,000. UPDATED 12/118/13*CN ALSO, THE FUEL LINES RUSTED OUT, ON TOP OF THE FUEL TANK. UPDATED 12.24.13

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 24, 201374,900 milesNY

I WAS TRAVELING AT A LOW RATE OF SPEED IN A RESIDENTIAL AREA AND MY FOOT WENT TO THE FLOOR AS I APPLIED THE BRAKES. I KEPT PUMPING THEM AND DOWNSHIFTED TO COME TO A STOP. UPON INSPECTION, NOTICED BRAKE FLUID COMING FROM PASSENGER REAR (ABOVE EXHAUST PIPE). SEEMS THAT LINE IS CORRODED. I'VE NEVER HAD SOMETHING LIKE THIS HAPPEN BEFORE. I TAKE CARE OF MY VEHICLES AND FOR THE PRICE I PAID, THIS IS UNCALLED FOR. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 20, 201289,500 milesMD

A CAR TRAVELING DIRECTLY IN FRONT STOPPED SUDDENLY WHEN A TRAFFIC CHANGED TO YELLOW, TRAVELING WEST ON LEESBURG PIKE (VA-286) NEAR STERLING VA. TOWING A TRAILER, I HAD TO BRAKE HARD TO AVOID REAR ENDING. THE BRAKES INITIALLY WORKED NORMALLY, AND I SHOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO STOP SAFELY. THEN THE PEDAL SUNK TO THE FIREWALL AND WARNING LIGHTS & MESSAGES APPEARED. I SOUNDED THE HORN AND THE CAR IN FRONT MOVED TO GIVE ME SPACE TO COMPLETE THE STOP UNDER MANUAL BRAKING, WHICH IS PRONE TO SKIDDING WITHOUT MODULATION OR TRACTION CONTROL. ONCE GETTING THE TRUCK TO A SHOP, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE LEFT REAR BRAKE LINE HAD BURST, AND THAT ALL THE LINES SUFFERED HEAVY CORROSION. I'VE READ THERE HAS BEEN INVESTIGATION OF BRAKE LINE CORROSION ON GM TRUCKS, IT SEEMS MINE IS AFFECTED. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 7, 201287,000 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE PEDAL ABNORMALLY TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD. THE CONTACT COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND PARKED IT. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TOWED TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE BRAKE LINES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 87,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 9, 201274,328 milesNY

MY WIFE HAD JUST LEFT THE PARKING LOT APPROACHING THE TRAFFIC LIGHT SHE STEPPED ON THE BRAKE THE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP SHE WENT THROUGH THE RESD LIGHT AND COASTED UNTIL THE VEHICLE STOPPED. LUCKILY SHE DID NOT HAVE AN ACCIDENT, AFTER CHECKING TO SEE WHAT WAS WRONG, BRAKE FLUID WAS LEAKING UNDER THE VEHICLE TOWARDS THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL, THE BRAKE LINES WERE RUSTED, CORRODED, AND LEAKING EVERY TIME THE BRAKE WAS APPLIED, THE ENTIRE UNDER CARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE LOOKED LIKE A FIFTY YEAR OLD VEHICLE I'VE NEVER SEEN ANY THING LIKE THIS IN ALL MY LIFE. I THOUGHT BRAKE LINES WERE MADE TO OUT LAST THE VEHICLE. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND OUT THAT A GROWING NUMBER OF SUV OWNERS ARE EXPERIENCING THEN SAME PROBLEM. I THINK THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE, I JUST NEED MY VEHICLE TO BE REPAIRED WITH GENUINE PARTS. *TR

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Filed Oct 1, 201274,328 milesNY

2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE BRAKE LINE. *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN HIS WIFE APPLIED THE BRAKE, THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR, AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT STOP. SHE WENT THROUGH A RED LIGHT AND COASTED UNTIL THE VEHICLE FINALLY STOPPED. THE CONSUMER DISCOVERED BRAKE FLUID LEAKING UNDER THE VEHICLE TOWARD THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL, AND THE BRAKE LINES WERE SEVERELY RUSTED, TO THE POINT OF CORROSION.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 16, 201218,000 milesWA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR AN UNRELATED REPAIR WHEN THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE BRAKE BOOST VALVE WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE IT WAS LEAKING BRAKE FLUID. THERE WAS A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V045000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) BUT THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,000.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Nov 19, 2011130,000 milesGA

I WAS IN AN MVA ON NOV. 1, 2011 THAT TOTALED MY 2004 ESCALADE. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, DESPITE DAMAGE TO ALL SIDES OF THE AUTOMOBILE, INCLUDING FRONT END IMPACT. THE CAR ACTUALLY ROLLED. THE FRAME WAS BENT AND THE FRONT HIT AN EMBANKMENT NOSE FIRST WITH GREAT IMPACT. I SUFFERED SEVERAL INJURIES, INCLUDING HEAD TRAUMA. *TR

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Apr 4, 201184,000 milesNY

SPEEDOMETER, TACH AND OIL PRESSURE GAUGE DO NOT WORK ON 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. *TR

Air BagsCrash3 injured
Filed Mar 8, 2011CA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65-75 MPH, THE CONTACT FELL ASLEEP. THE VEHICLE DRIFTED OFF THE ROAD AND CRASHED INTO A BRIDGE BARRIER. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A BROKEN WRIST AND FACIAL LACERATIONS. THE FRONT SEAT PASSENGER WAS AIR-LIFTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND SUSTAINED A BROKEN RIGHT LEG AND SEVERE FACIAL INJURIES. THE REAR SEAT PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE SPINE. THE AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY WITH THE MASSIVE IMPACT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A COLLISION CENTER. UPDATED 10/14/11

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jan 18, 2011120,000 milesCA

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. A PENNY FEEL BETWEEN THE CONSOLE AND THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER AND CAUSED A SHORT IN THE WIRING. THE CONTACT DISCONNECTED THE WIRING AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A LOCAL DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THE ENTIRE WIRING SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER SHOULD BE LOCATED IN A DIFFERENT POSITION IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE ENTIRE VEHICLE COULD HAVE CAUGHT FIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 24, 201070,821 milesCA

MY 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE WANTS TO SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING. THE SYSTEM IS RESETTING ITS SELF, CAUSING MY CAR TO STALL, THE ALTERNATOR GAUGE IS FLUCTUATING BACK AND FORTH. *TR

Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed May 28, 201084,489 milesNC

I PURCHASED A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE IN MARCH 2010, HOWEVER SOON AFTER PURCHASE MY WATER PUMP HAD A LEAK WHICH THE DEALERSHIP STATED THEY COULDN'T DO NOTHING ABOUT IT, A MONTH LATER WHEN I WENT TO BACK UP MY VEHICLE THE REVERSE DID NOT WORK MY CAR DOES NOT HAVE NO REVERSE I HAVE CONTACT CADILLAC DEALERSHIP AND THEY ACT LIKE I DON'T KNOW WHAT I AM TALKING ABOUT AND ALSO THE TRANSMISSION GAUGE INSIDE VEHICLE IS PASS THE LIMIT LINE OVER HEATING. *TR

SeatsFire1 injured
Filed Apr 15, 2010110,000 milesMI

DECEMBER 2009 WHILE DRIVING,,, THE HEATED SEATING COIL CAUGHT ON FIRE, BURNING THE SEAT FROM THE INSIDE OUT AND ALSO BURNING MY LEG. *TR

Seats
Filed Jan 19, 201063,301 milesCA

THE DRIVER SEAT HAS A SHORT IN IT. WHEN I PUSH THE FORWARD BUTTON ON THE SEAT, IT NOW GOES IN REVERSE. *TR

Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/CoolerFire
Filed Jan 8, 2010104,000 milesMI

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. HE STATED THAT THE PASSENGER REAR SEAT CAUGHT FIRE DUE TO THE SEAT WARMER THAT WAS ACTIVATED ON ITS OWN. HE SMELLED SMOKE AND THEN NOTICED THE FLAMES. HE WAS ABLE TO UNPLUG THE SEAT WARMER FROM UNDERNEATH THE SEAT; HOWEVER, THERE WERE DAMAGES TO THE SEAT, PILLOW AND A BLANKET. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY STATED THAT THEY WOULD GIVE HIM A CALL; HOWEVER, HE HAS NOT RECEIVED ANY RESPONSE. THE DEALER ALSO STATED THAT THE REPAIR FOR THE FAILURE IS COVERED PER THE WARRANTY. THERE HAVE BEEN NO REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 104000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 107000.

Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel
Filed Mar 20, 2009720,000 milesCO

I AM THE OWNER OF A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE AND MY SPEEDOMETER HAS QUIT WORKING IT STARTED MALFUNCTIONING/STICKING, NOT SHOWING CORRECT SPEED ON APPROXIMATELY FEBRUARY 27, 09 AS OF TODAY IT HAS QUIT WORKING ALL TOGETHER. WHEN I CALLED THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP (RED NOLAND CADILLAC) I WAS ADVISED THE COST TO REPAIR THE SPEEDOMETER CLUSTER WOULD BE APPROXIMATELY $370. AND BECAUSE I HAVE APROX 72,000 MILES ON MY VEHICLE THE SPECIAL BULLETIN THAT WAS ISSUED BY GM HAS EXPIRED. I ASKED THE DEALERSHIP IF THERE WERE ANY EXCEPTIONS TO THE SPECIAL BULLETIN SINCE I AM ONLY 2,000 MILES OVER THE THRESHOLD, I WAS TOLD THAT IF I WAS THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF THE VEHICLE THEY COULD HELP ME, BUT SINCE I AM NOT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO FOR ME. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Feb 23, 200988,100 milesNY

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL ON THE VEHICLE BECAME INOPERABLE, INCLUDING THE SPEEDOMETER. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS; HOWEVER, THE MANUFACTURER WAS AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND STATED THAT CADILLAC WOULD REPLACE THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FOR FREE ON VEHICLES WITH LESS THAN 75,000 MILES. THE CONTACT DID NOT KNOW IF HIS VEHICLE FIT THE CRITERIA. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 88,100.

Power Train
Filed Feb 12, 2009FL

FRONT DIFFERENTIAL GOING BAD AND CAUSING THE TRANSFER CASE TO GO OUT WITHOUT WARNING, CAR DEALER UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. *TR

Complaints 1-50 of 69, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2007
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20271000Routine
202639300Do not drive
202521100Routine
202452200Routine
2023143400Routine
202286410Routine
202179910Routine
202014210Routine
201925000Routine
201822110Routine
201751210Routine
201689430Do not drive
201598930Do not drive
201420210Routine
201319410Routine
201220300Routine
201149600Routine
201038300Routine
2009585110Fatalities reported
2008136450Routine
2007230470Above average
200619200Routine
200543410Routine
2004 — this page69460Routine
200381640Routine
2002115370Routine
20013110Routine
200071430Routine
199939510Routine

Compare every Escalade 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: Dec 17, 2007. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.