Open safety recalls, the components owners report failing most often, crash-test results and running costs for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV, assembled from NHTSA and EPA records.
Everything on this page applies to the model as a whole. Run its VIN to decode that exact car, its engine, trim, assembly plant and factory equipment, alongside these records.
Open a VIN recordRecalls and complaints are filed against a specific model year, so figures differ from one year to the next even within a single generation. See every Cadillac Escalade ESV year.
No EPA fuel-economy match for this model. Naming may differ, or it predates EPA records.
The parts named most often across 57 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this make, model and year.
1 crash · 2 injured
Complaints are self-reported and skew toward problems people find alarming, so read this as where to look rather than as a defect rate.
Normal Routine Engine Maintenance - Suddenly the vehicle died with engine alerts of engine failure, transmission failure, low oil pressure, low 12V battery detected. Car stalled exiting highway normal driving conditions, would not start, electrical system malfunctioning warning signs and alert code immediately popped up in email, phone and onboard display for these issues, and I received an email from my OnStar system for code P0016 which seems is affiliated with the following from a major recall notice: P0016 is a critical code indicating a major internal engine defect covered by a safety recall (N252494000), often requiring engine replacementProduct Safety Recall L87 Engine Loss of Propulsion (Related field action: See Special Coverage N252494003) GM Program #: N252494000 NHTSA: 25V274 Date Issued: 2025-04-24
On XXX, at approximately 6:30 AM, I was driving my Cadillac Escalade ESV when the vehicle suddenly and completely lost engine power while I was traveling on the roadway. The engine stopped without any warning.There were no warning lights, warning messages, unusual noises, or other indications that an engine failure was about to occur. The loss of propulsion was sudden and unexpected.I was barely able to maneuver approximately half of the vehicle onto the shoulder. A significant portion of the vehicle remained in the roadway, creating a serious safety hazard to me and other motorists. I was forced to remain in this dangerous position for approximately two hours while waiting for a tow truck.The vehicle was towed to Richland Motors in Roswell, New Mexico. The dealership diagnosed the engine as seized and determined that the engine requires replacement. I have been informed that a replacement engine is currently unavailable/on backorder, and I have not been provided with a definite date when the vehicle will be repaired.This incident is particularly concerning because the vehicle had already received the L87 engine recall repair at the dealership on XXX. The recall repair was completed approximately five months before this catastrophic engine failure. As part of the service performed at that time, the engine oil was changed to 0W-40.The vehicle subsequently experienced a complete engine failure and sudden loss of propulsion while being driven, despite having already undergone the recall repair. The most significant safety concern is the sudden loss of propulsion without any warning. There was no opportunity for me to recognize an impending engine failure and safely pull off the roadway before the engine stopped. I was fortunate to be able to get part of the vehicle onto the shoulder, but the vehicle remained partially in the roadway for approximately two hours while awaiting assistance.am requesting that NHTSA document and investigate this.
My wife's 2022 Cadillac Escalade was recalled for possible engine failure. The vehicle passed the recommended engine inspection procedure; new weight oil was installed, and I was assured that the Cadillac was safe to drive. Yesterday, while driving my family home from the children's playground, the engine failed as I was driving at the posted speed limit of 50 miles per hour. There was no warning of any kind, the engine just stopped working. I had to cross over the northbound lanes of traffic, with other vehicles, in theory, going the posted speed limit of 50 miles per hour, WITHOUT ENGINE POWER. While coasting the vehicle and my family to safety, I barely missing going down an embankment. The only reason there was not a crash is the fact that I was a professional driver and former driving instructor. This was a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation and has to be investigated.
The contact owns a 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly loss power and was unable to exceed 30 MPH. The engine was knocking prior to the vehicle losing power. The failure was a recurring failure. The dealer was contacted and diagnosed the vehicle with catastrophic engine failure. The dealer waiting for parts to repair the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by phone. The failure mileage was approximately 131,000.
Engine knocking on cold start up. Second time hearing this. Loud “rattling” noise emanating from exhaust tips on rear of vehicle. I experienced this once before and notified my dealer. Additionally, at that time, I had a loss of power while towing a very, very, light empty trailer. The vehicle was struggling to maintain normal driving speeds and required considerable throttle input to do so. The loss of power was so pronounced that I actually pulled over to the side of the road in a parking lot to check to see if the wheel bearings had locked up on the small trailer I was towing. Of course, the trailer was completely normal and the hub temperatures were completely normal. I later found out about the GM L87 Engine issues and the recall issue. This vehicle then had the “pico“ test performed on it, and I was informed that it had passed. However, today I once again heard the same engine knock that I heard a few months ago.
The contact owns a 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at 75 MPH, the vehicle loss automotive power, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact shifted to neutral and pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer to be diagnosed, and it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 28,436.
Subject: Safety Complaint – 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV Transmission Failure After Recall Repair To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting a formal safety complaint regarding my 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV. VIN: [XXX] My vehicle experienced a serious transmission malfunction where the vehicle would not properly engage in reverse. The “R” gear indicator blinked multiple times, and the vehicle became unsafe and unreliable to operate. Cadillac dealership diagnostics later confirmed issues related to the transmission valve body and/or transmission control components. After researching this issue, I discovered that GM and NHTSA issued Recall No. 26V085000 regarding transmission control valve body wear in certain 2022 Cadillac Escalade vehicles equipped with the 10-speed transmission. The major concern is that my vehicle had already received the recall/software update before this failure occurred. Despite completing the recall remedy, the exact transmission problem still happened. I never received any warning before the failure. I was forced to spend significant time and money dealing with towing, dealership visits, diagnostics, and transportation disruption for my family. This raises serious concerns that the recall software update does not actually resolve the underlying mechanical defect within the transmission valve body. For a luxury SUV of this value and age, this type of major transmission failure is unacceptable and creates a serious safety concern. I request a full investigation into why the recall remedy failed, confirmation of all recall work completed on my VIN, and extended warranty coverage for the transmission and related drivetrain components. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I own a 2022 Cadillac Escalade equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine. While driving in [XXX] near [XXX] and XXX [XXX] , the engine suddenly failed without warning and left me stranded in traffic. Prior to the failure, there were either no warning signs or insufficient warning indicators to safely prevent the incident. The sudden engine failure created a serious safety concern because the vehicle lost power while operating on a public roadway. I was forced to pull over unexpectedly in traffic conditions, placing myself and others at risk. The vehicle had to be towed and I was informed the engine would require major repair or replacement. I have since learned that other owners of GM vehicles equipped with the 6.2L engine have reported similar catastrophic engine failures. The failure appears to occur unexpectedly and can leave drivers stranded without adequate warning. I believe this issue represents a significant safety risk and should be investigated. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Motor damaged. Needs new motor. Crank shaft, seals, bottom end all damaged
Accelerated onto highway and some power was lost. Engine light came on and dash read the following: rear axle system off, service stabilitrak, auto hold unavailable. Lost some power while entering the highway could’ve been put in a bad situation with traffic. Dealer confirmed issue said lifters and potential cam. No warning or lights before issue occurred. Took straight to dealership the next morning. Vehicle at dealership.
Engine started knocking and past half a mile completely lost power and stoped, towed to dealer, will wait till Monday for any info
Transmission shifts to neutral on the highway with speed of 65 on the left most lane with no shoulder parking available. Huge safety hazard. Also happened when stopping at the stop sign when taking it to safe location. Transmission failing.
Showing 12 of 57 complaints.
4 open NHTSA investigations into this model. Investigations come before recalls, so these are potential defects not yet covered by one.
Rated configuration: 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV SUV 2WD
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for this make, model and year. Recalls apply to the model, so some may already be fixed on this specific car. A dealer can confirm from the VIN.
Issue: General Motors, LLC (M) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with third-row seats. The rivet that retains the buckle to the mounting bracket in the left or right side third-row seat belt buckle assembly may have been improperly formed.
Risk: A seat belt with a deformed rivet may not properly restrain an occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rivet head formation on both the left and right side third-row seat belt buckle assemblies and replace seat belt buckle assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed September 28, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 1, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222372380.
Campaign 22V617000
Issue: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-827.
Campaign 22V903000
Issue: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
Risk: Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N252494000.
Campaign 25V274000
Issue: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles equipped with 10 Speed Transmission with ETRS (Electronic Transmission Range Select). The transmission control valve may fail and lock up the rear wheels.
Risk: Rear wheels that lock up while driving increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install new transmission control module (TCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252536750. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 12, 2026.
Campaign 26V085000