NHTSA (USA)CriticalDo Not Drive
At a glance
What can fail
A missing drivetrain component in the transfer case can cause the front and/or rear wheels to suddenly lock up without warning.
What the fix does
This page covers 6 recalls, 63 owner complaints and NHTSA crash-test ratings for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The dominant pattern in 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV complaints centers on the engine and drivetrain. Owners most frequently report sudden, complete loss of power while driving at highway speeds, often with no prior warning. Descriptions include the engine stalling, violent shaking, and multiple warning lights illuminating simultaneously. Several owners report the vehicle coming to a full stop in live traffic and being unable to shift to neutral without the engine running, which complicates getting the vehicle clear of the road. Engine knocking sounds preceding the failure appear in multiple reports, and at least one owner describes a confirmed engine failure at higher mileage. Powertrain complaints follow a similar thread, with owners reporting unexpected neutral engagement and the need for towing. The failures described span a range of mileages, from around 32,000 miles to over 100,000, suggesting the issue is not strictly tied to early wear.
63
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
By System
The 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV has 6 recalls, the most serious involving rear suspension bolts that can break and cause a rear wheel to fall out of alignment, and a separate engine defect on 6.2L V8 models where internal components can fail and cause the engine to seize.
The transfer case on four-wheel and all-wheel drive models carries its own serious concern: a defect can cause the front or rear wheels to lock up without warning, which can send the vehicle off its intended path. On the braking side, two recalls address the same real-world gap through different fixes: a software fault in the brake control system prevents the low brake fluid warning light from coming on when fluid drops to a dangerous level, leaving the driver unaware that braking power is reduced. The electrical system also has a lighting issue where daytime running lights fail to switch off when the headlights turn on, creating glare for oncoming drivers and reducing overall visibility.
At a glance
What can fail
A missing drivetrain component in the transfer case can cause the front and/or rear wheels to suddenly lock up without warning.
What the fix does
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Dealers will inspect the transfer case and replace it if needed, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The connecting rod and crankshaft in the 6.2L V8 engine may have manufacturing defects that cause engine damage and failure.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect your engine and repair or replace it if needed. Passing engines receive higher viscosity oil, new oil filter, and manual updates.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software issue prevents the low brake fluid warning light from turning on when brake fluid runs low, which can reduce braking performance.
What the fix does
GM will send a wireless software update to your vehicle's brake control system, or you can schedule an appointment at a GM dealership for the update.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The electronic brake control module software may fail to display a warning light when brake fluid is lost, leaving you without this important alert.
What the fix does
The brake control module software will be updated at no cost through an over-the-air update or by a dealer.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear suspension outer control arm bolts may lack proper heat treatment, causing them to break.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace both rear suspension outer control arm bolts at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The daytime running lights stay on when the headlights are turned on, instead of turning off as required.
What the fix does
A dealer will update the body control module software, or the update will be sent remotely to your vehicle, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
