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 5 recalls, 114 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2023 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 2 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine complaints dominate the 2023 Escalade's complaint record by a wide margin, accounting for more than half of all reports filed. The most consistent pattern owners describe is sudden, unexpected engine shutdown or loss of propulsion while driving at highway speeds, often with no warning lights before the event. Owners report the vehicle shifting itself into neutral and cutting power mid-highway, forcing them to coast across lanes of traffic without engine braking. Some owners report the vehicle would not restart after stalling. A separate cluster of complaints involves the engine entering a reduced-power or limp-home state, with high oil temperature warnings triggering gradual, unintended deceleration from highway cruising speeds. A smaller group of reports describes complete engine failure requiring a tow and, in at least some cases, a full engine replacement at low mileage.
114
Total Complaints
2
Crash-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2023 Cadillac Escalade has 5 recalls, the most serious involving the transfer case and rear suspension, where wheel lockup or a broken suspension bolt can cause loss of vehicle control.
The transfer case recall affects 4WD and AWD models and can cause front or rear wheels to lock up unexpectedly. The rear suspension concern involves control arm bolts that can break and throw the rear wheels out of alignment. On the engine side, certain vehicles equipped with the 6.2L V8 have connecting rod and crankshaft components that can fail internally, leading to engine shutdown while driving. Two electrical recalls round out the list: a software issue can cause daytime running lights to stay on when the headlights are active, creating glare for other drivers, and a separate brake control module software fault can prevent a warning light from appearing when brake fluid is low, leaving the driver unaware of reduced braking ability.
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
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.