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.
This page covers 5 recalls, 67 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade.
16–22 mpg combined
10.7–14.7 L/100km
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 3 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine complaints dominate what 2022 Escalade owners report, and the pattern is hard to miss. The most common thread is lifter noise and valve train problems in the 6.2-liter V8, which owners describe as a ticking or rattling that often progresses to rough idle, misfires, and in a significant number of cases, complete engine failure requiring a full replacement. Excessive oil consumption shows up repeatedly alongside these symptoms, owners report the engine burning through oil well before the next scheduled change, sometimes triggering low-oil warnings within 2,000 miles of a dealer service. Several owners also describe the auto stop-start system stalling the engine during restarts rather than resuming smoothly. A smaller cluster of reports mentions sudden loss of power while driving, accompanied by multiple warning lights illuminating at once.
67
Total Complaints
4
Crash-Related
1
Fire-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2022 Cadillac Escalade has 5 recalls, the most serious involving two separate defects that can lock up the wheels while driving: a transfer case issue affecting 4WD and AWD models, and a transmission control valve failure in vehicles with the 10-speed electronic transmission, either of which can cause a sudden loss of vehicle control.
On the engine side, Escalades equipped with the 6.2L V8 have a recall covering internal engine components, specifically the connecting rod and crankshaft, which can fail and cause the engine to shut down unexpectedly while driving. Third-row seating raises a separate concern: the rivet that holds the seatbelt buckle to its mounting bracket may have been formed incorrectly, meaning the buckle can pull free in a crash and leave a rear passenger unrestrained. Rounding out the list, a software issue in the exterior lighting control module can cause the daytime running lights to stay on when the headlights are active, producing glare that reduces visibility for other drivers.
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.
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Driver Assistance
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 →
What the fix does
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 transmission control valve may fail, causing the rear wheels to lock up and stop rotating while driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will install updated transmission control module software at no cost to restore normal transmission operation.
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
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.
At a glance
What can fail
The rivet holding the buckle to the mounting bracket in the left or right third-row seat belt buckle assembly may not have been formed properly, potentially affecting the buckle's retention.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the rivet head formation on both third-row seat belt buckle assemblies and replace them as needed at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.