This page covers 2 recalls, 11 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2025 Cadillac Escalade.
16 mpg combined
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.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine complaints dominate what 2025 Escalade owners report, and the failures described are serious. Multiple owners report sudden, catastrophic engine failure while driving, typically at highway speeds, with oil pressure warnings appearing just before or during the event. One recurring pattern involves a broken connecting rod punching through the engine block on the 6.2-liter V8. A separate engine complaint describes loud, typewriter-like valve lifter ticking that worsens with acceleration and left the owner unwilling to drive the vehicle. On the powertrain and electrical side, a couple of owners report the vehicle losing power and shutting down after engaging skid protection mode in low-speed winter conditions. One owner also reports repeated uncommanded braking at around 45 mph with no obstacles present, though that appears in a single report rather than a broader pattern.
11
Total Complaints
By System
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade has two recalls, both rated at the same severity level, covering a transfer case defect that can cause front or rear wheel lockup and a wheel hub bolt issue that can lead to loss of vehicle control.
On four-wheel and all-wheel drive models, a transfer case defect can cause a wheel to lock up unexpectedly, which can send the vehicle into a skid or cause it to veer off course. On models equipped with 24-inch wheels, incorrect bolts may have been installed on the front wheel hubs; these bolts can loosen or break over time, allowing the wheel to shift or detach while driving.
At a glance
What can fail
The front wheel hub bolts may be incorrect and can loosen or bend over time, potentially affecting wheel stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front left and right wheel hub bolts at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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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 →
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
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.
