FaultScore

FaultScore report

2023 Cadillac Escalade problems

Owners have filed 190 complaints about the 2023 Cadillac Escalade with NHTSA between 2022 and 2026. The largest single group is the engine & cooling. Across this model's run it ranks 3 of 27 worst.

D

FaultScore 77/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Cadillac Escalade.

How this is worked out

The numbers

190

Complaints

4

Crashes reported

0

Fires reported

4

Injuries reported

24,500 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

67%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 100 vs 50 Severity 22 vs 50 Early failure 100 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Cadillac Escalade. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 22
4.2% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 100
67% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2023 compares with every other Cadillac Escalade

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2023 Cadillac Escalade

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Engine & Cooling 109 57.4%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 24,500 mi

Median failure at 30,000 miles

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 19,000 mi

1 crashes, 0 fires

Other & Unspecified 7 3.7%
Brakes 4 2.1%
Wheels 3 1.6%
Acceleration & Cruise Control 3 1.6%

Median failure at 60,400 miles

Windows, Mirrors & Wipers 2 1.1%

Median failure at 18,200 miles

Lights 2 1.1%
Suspension 1 0.5%
Steering 1 0.5%
Airbags 1 0.5%

1 crashes, 0 fires

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

1,000 – 9,999 miles 2 11.1%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 7 38.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 7 38.9%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 2 11.1%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Nov 2022 peak 16 Aug 2026

NHTSA investigations into the 2023 Cadillac Escalade

An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.

2 investigations are still open.

EA26005 Opened 20 Aug 2026 Still open ENGINE

Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy

On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001.  This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s reca...

EA25007 Opened 23 Oct 2025 Still open ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Loss of motive power due to engine failure

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 1,157 reports of engine bearing failure failures in the L87 6.2L engine produced by General Motors (GM). Of the 1,157 reports received, 173 are outside of the scope of recall 25V-274. These engines are installed in Model Years (MY) 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, and 2021-2024MY Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV vehicles. The subject engine failures were investigated as part of a Preliminary Evaluation (PE25001).  GM determined that these engine failures were due to...

RQ26001 Opened 16 Jan 2026 Closed 20 Aug 2026 ENGINE

Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy

On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001.  This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s reca...

PE25001 Opened 16 Jan 2025 Closed 23 Oct 2025 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Loss of motive power due to engine failure

On January 16, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25001 after receiving complaints and field reports concerning engine failures in MY2019-2024 GM’s full-size truck and SUV T1XX platform equipped with the L87 6.2L V8 engine. These complainants alleged engine bearing failures resulting in knocking and growling noises from the engine’s bottom end and in some cases more severe consequences such as broken connecting rods leading to engine damage, or engine failure. If the engine fails during vehicle operation, the vehicle will lose propulsion, increasing...

Recalls on the 2023 Cadillac Escalade

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2025225 49,848 units in Canada

Engine

Issue: On certain vehicles, the connecting rods and/or crankshaft components may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the engine could make abnormal noises and a warning light may turn on. If you continue to drive the vehicle with these symptoms, the engine could fail. Note: This recall only affects certain vehicles equipped with a 6.2 L V8 gas engine. Safety Risk: An engine failure could cause a sudden loss of power to the wheels and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass the engine inspection, the dealer will replace the oil with a higher viscosity oil, install a new oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and add an insert to the owner's manual.

Recall 2024519 38,382 units in Canada

Lights And Instruments

Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the low brake fluid warning lamp not to turn on if the brake fluid level gets too low. A low brake fluid level can cause reduced braking. Safety Risk: A driver that isn't aware of a low brake fluid level could experience reduced braking and an increased risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and send a wireless over-the-air software update to eligible vehicles to update the electronic brake control module software. Alternatively, you may schedule an appointment to have the update performed at a GM dealership.

Recall 2024060 273,306 units in Canada

Lights And Instruments

Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the lower beam headlamps not to turn on as it becomes dark outside if the multi-function switch is in the "OFF" or "PARKING LAMP" position. This could also cause the daytime running lamps (DRLs) to turn off when the vehicle is moving. As a result, the vehicles may not meet certain requirements of Canadian regulations. Safety Risk: Headlamps and/or DRLs that don't turn on could reduce visibility, make the vehicle less visible to others and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the body control module (BCM)software.

Recall 2023472 163,611 units in Canada

Lights And Instruments

Issue: On certain vehicles, the automatic headlamps may not turn on soon enough as it becomes dark outside. Canadian regulations require automatic headlamps to turn on when the ambient light level drops below a certain point (1000 lux). Safety Risk: Headlamps that don't turn on as it becomes dark outside could reduce visibility and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and send a wireless over-the-air software update to eligible vehicles to update the body control module (BCM) software. Alternatively, you may schedule an appointment to have the update performed at a GM dealership.

Recall 2022700 85,685 units in Canada

Lights And Instruments

Issue: On certain vehicles, the daytime running lamps (DRLs) may stay on when the headlamps are on. Canadian regulations require the DRLs to turn off when the headlamps are on. Safety Risk: Daytime running lamps that stay on could cause glare for oncoming drivers and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Action: General Motors will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the body control module (BCM) software.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

Arvada, CO Crash 1 injured

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Vehicle was running with the driver side door open and driver out of vehicle. The vehicle slipped out of gear and reversed quickly. Driver went to get back in while moving backwards to try and stop vehicle. The driver got smashed between the garage and vehicle door. The vehicle door hyperextended and caused damage/injury to driver. The emergency brake did not come on until after the accident. Prior to this happening recalls were not preformed due to GM advising us that our vehicle was not next to get it done. Throughout ownership the vehicle has slipped out of gear two other times. We took it in each time and were told it shouldn’t happen again and they could not replicate. GM did an inspection after and fixed recalls and told us they would not assist us with damage or any compensation.

NHTSA complaint #11705426 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Arvada, CO Crash 1 injured

ENGINE

Vehicle was running with the driver side door open and driver out of vehicle. The vehicle slipped out of gear and reversed quickly. Driver went to get back in while moving backwards to try and stop vehicle. The driver got smashed between the garage and vehicle door. The vehicle door hyperextended and caused damage/injury to driver. The emergency brake did not come on until after the accident. Prior to this happening recalls were not preformed due to GM advising us that our vehicle was not next to get it done. Throughout ownership the vehicle has slipped out of gear two other times. We took it in each time and were told it shouldn’t happen again and they could not replicate. GM did an inspection after and fixed recalls and told us they would not assist us with damage or any compensation.

NHTSA complaint #11705426 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Arvada, CO Crash 1 injured

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING

Vehicle was running with the driver side door open and driver out of vehicle. The vehicle slipped out of gear and reversed quickly. Driver went to get back in while moving backwards to try and stop vehicle. The driver got smashed between the garage and vehicle door. The vehicle door hyperextended and caused damage/injury to driver. The emergency brake did not come on until after the accident. Prior to this happening recalls were not preformed due to GM advising us that our vehicle was not next to get it done. Throughout ownership the vehicle has slipped out of gear two other times. We took it in each time and were told it shouldn’t happen again and they could not replicate. GM did an inspection after and fixed recalls and told us they would not assist us with damage or any compensation.

NHTSA complaint #11705426 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Cape Coral, FL Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

Was at red light my light turned green proceed threw the light, another vechile ran the red light hitting my car at 50 mph. Sending the car into a 360 air bags did not deploy and on star never called

NHTSA complaint #11576528 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

Downers Grove, IL

POWER TRAIN

The engine/powertrain malfunctioned on my 2023 Cadillac Escalade at approximately 29,434 miles, ultimately requiring complete engine replacement. During the engine repair, the Cadillac technician also discovered that the transmission cooler lines were leaking fluid. The dealership replaced all of the affected transmission cooler lines as part of the repair.The original failed engine was removed by the Cadillac dealership, so I do not know whether GM/Cadillac retained it. The failure involved the vehicle’s engine and created concern about the possibility of sudden loss of propulsion or engine failure while driving. Because this is a large vehicle routinely operated on public roads and highways, an unexpected loss of engine power could significantly reduce my ability to safely accelerate, merge, or move the vehicle out of traffic. Fortunately, I brought the vehicle in for service after noticing the abnormal engine noise before a complete failure occurred while driving. Yes. Heritage Cadillac inspected and diagnosed the vehicle. The dealership documented my complaint of a “weird noise on start up” that continued until approximately 10 MPH. The technician removed the valve covers and inspected the rocker arms and pushrods. The dealership ultimately determined that an engine replacement was necessary and replaced the engine under warranty. Yes. The vehicle was inspected and repaired by Heritage Cadillac, an authorized Cadillac dealership. The dealership diagnosed the engine issue and replaced the complete engine. During the repair process, the technician also discovered leaking transmission cooler lines. I did not receive a warning lamp or dashboard message alerting me to an engine problem. The primary symptom was an abnormal engine noise shortly after startup that continued during initial acceleration to approximately 10 MPH. This prompted me to bring the vehicle to Heritage Cadillac for inspection. The dealer documented this symptom on the repair order.

NHTSA complaint #11758672 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Downers Grove, IL

ENGINE

The engine/powertrain malfunctioned on my 2023 Cadillac Escalade at approximately 29,434 miles, ultimately requiring complete engine replacement. During the engine repair, the Cadillac technician also discovered that the transmission cooler lines were leaking fluid. The dealership replaced all of the affected transmission cooler lines as part of the repair.The original failed engine was removed by the Cadillac dealership, so I do not know whether GM/Cadillac retained it. The failure involved the vehicle’s engine and created concern about the possibility of sudden loss of propulsion or engine failure while driving. Because this is a large vehicle routinely operated on public roads and highways, an unexpected loss of engine power could significantly reduce my ability to safely accelerate, merge, or move the vehicle out of traffic. Fortunately, I brought the vehicle in for service after noticing the abnormal engine noise before a complete failure occurred while driving. Yes. Heritage Cadillac inspected and diagnosed the vehicle. The dealership documented my complaint of a “weird noise on start up” that continued until approximately 10 MPH. The technician removed the valve covers and inspected the rocker arms and pushrods. The dealership ultimately determined that an engine replacement was necessary and replaced the engine under warranty. Yes. The vehicle was inspected and repaired by Heritage Cadillac, an authorized Cadillac dealership. The dealership diagnosed the engine issue and replaced the complete engine. During the repair process, the technician also discovered leaking transmission cooler lines. I did not receive a warning lamp or dashboard message alerting me to an engine problem. The primary symptom was an abnormal engine noise shortly after startup that continued during initial acceleration to approximately 10 MPH. This prompted me to bring the vehicle to Heritage Cadillac for inspection. The dealer documented this symptom on the repair order.

NHTSA complaint #11758672 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Rochester, NY

ENGINE

On 06/23/2026 at approximately 62,745 miles, I brought my 2023 Cadillac Escalade Sport Platinum 4WD equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine to a Cadillac dealership because of excessive engine oil consumption. The vehicle has been consuming approximately 3 quarts of engine oil every 2,000 miles, or roughly 1 quart every 650-700 miles. The dealership began an oil-consumption test to document the condition, and the vehicle is currently still at the dealership undergoing evaluation. This vehicle is equipped with the 6.2L L87 engine involved in NHTSA Safety Recall 25V-274 / GM Recall N252494000 concerning internal engine damage and possible loss of propulsion. I do not know whether the excessive oil consumption is directly related to the recall defect, but I am concerned that this level of oil consumption may indicate an internal engine problem that could lead to inadequate lubrication, engine damage, stalling, seizure, or sudden loss of propulsion. The vehicle is available for inspection at the Cadillac dealership. The dealer has service records and oil-consumption-test documentation associated with this condition. I am filing this complaint so the excessive oil consumption on this L87-equipped vehicle is formally documented with NHTSA and can be considered along with other reported L87 engine concerns.

NHTSA complaint #11758778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Downers Grove, IL

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The engine/powertrain malfunctioned on my 2023 Cadillac Escalade at approximately 29,434 miles, ultimately requiring complete engine replacement. During the engine repair, the Cadillac technician also discovered that the transmission cooler lines were leaking fluid. The dealership replaced all of the affected transmission cooler lines as part of the repair.The original failed engine was removed by the Cadillac dealership, so I do not know whether GM/Cadillac retained it. The failure involved the vehicle’s engine and created concern about the possibility of sudden loss of propulsion or engine failure while driving. Because this is a large vehicle routinely operated on public roads and highways, an unexpected loss of engine power could significantly reduce my ability to safely accelerate, merge, or move the vehicle out of traffic. Fortunately, I brought the vehicle in for service after noticing the abnormal engine noise before a complete failure occurred while driving. Yes. Heritage Cadillac inspected and diagnosed the vehicle. The dealership documented my complaint of a “weird noise on start up” that continued until approximately 10 MPH. The technician removed the valve covers and inspected the rocker arms and pushrods. The dealership ultimately determined that an engine replacement was necessary and replaced the engine under warranty. Yes. The vehicle was inspected and repaired by Heritage Cadillac, an authorized Cadillac dealership. The dealership diagnosed the engine issue and replaced the complete engine. During the repair process, the technician also discovered leaking transmission cooler lines. I did not receive a warning lamp or dashboard message alerting me to an engine problem. The primary symptom was an abnormal engine noise shortly after startup that continued during initial acceleration to approximately 10 MPH. This prompted me to bring the vehicle to Heritage Cadillac for inspection. The dealer documented this symptom on the repair order.

NHTSA complaint #11758672 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hallettsville, TX

ENGINE

I was driving and the vehicle stopped accelerating and the gear was in neutral. I pulled over and turned the car off then attempted to turn it on, but it would not turn over. All electrical was on, but the car would not start. This same thing happened two days prior twice within 10 min. of each other, but I was able to start the car those times. Due to the speed suddenly declining and being unable to accelerate on a two lane road with cars behind me; it could have caused a serious accident. It has not yet been confirmed by a dealer, but this is a known recall for this vehicle that was listed as complete prior. There was no warning lamps or messages prior to the failure. The first noted incident happened on 8/10/26.

NHTSA complaint #11756417 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hallettsville, TX

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was driving and the vehicle stopped accelerating and the gear was in neutral. I pulled over and turned the car off then attempted to turn it on, but it would not turn over. All electrical was on, but the car would not start. This same thing happened two days prior twice within 10 min. of each other, but I was able to start the car those times. Due to the speed suddenly declining and being unable to accelerate on a two lane road with cars behind me; it could have caused a serious accident. It has not yet been confirmed by a dealer, but this is a known recall for this vehicle that was listed as complete prior. There was no warning lamps or messages prior to the failure. The first noted incident happened on 8/10/26.

NHTSA complaint #11756417 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Birmingham, AL

POWER TRAIN

2023 Cadillac Escalade, 6.2L V8 (RPO L87). Subject of Recall 25V-274 and NHTSA investigation RQ26-001. Over the past year, this vehicle has been out of the shop only about 90 days total. The rest of the year it has been in dealer service at GM/Cadillac dealerships for a recurring, undiagnosed loss-of-power defect. It is currently in dealer service. FAILURE: The vehicle has suddenly lost all motive power on three separate occasions. Engine runs, vehicle loses all drive power, will not restart. Two events occurred at approximately 80 mph on an interstate highway. One occurred with children in the vehicle. The only warning is a “service rear axle” message that appears just before power loss. No diagnostic trouble code has isolated the fault. Root cause has not been diagnosed. REPAIR PATTERN: Six dealer visits across two Cadillac dealerships in one year. Interventions have included two battery replacements, a full engine replacement under Recall 25V-274, an approximately $1,500 charge categorized as diagnostic with no repair labor documented, and most recently a “wiring harness manipulation / re-wrap” performed over approximately 90 days. Dealer personnel described the fix as “manipulation fixed it” — which is not a diagnosed repair. On at least one return of the vehicle, dealer personnel stated in the presence of a witness that they were not certain the defect had been fixed. The “service rear axle” warning returned within three days of the most recent repair. POST-RECALL: The engine was replaced under Recall 25V-274 and the loss-of-power failures continued afterward. This is directly relevant to RQ26-001, examining post-recall-remedy failures.

NHTSA complaint #11754077 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Birmingham, AL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2023 Cadillac Escalade, 6.2L V8 (RPO L87). Subject of Recall 25V-274 and NHTSA investigation RQ26-001. Over the past year, this vehicle has been out of the shop only about 90 days total. The rest of the year it has been in dealer service at GM/Cadillac dealerships for a recurring, undiagnosed loss-of-power defect. It is currently in dealer service. FAILURE: The vehicle has suddenly lost all motive power on three separate occasions. Engine runs, vehicle loses all drive power, will not restart. Two events occurred at approximately 80 mph on an interstate highway. One occurred with children in the vehicle. The only warning is a “service rear axle” message that appears just before power loss. No diagnostic trouble code has isolated the fault. Root cause has not been diagnosed. REPAIR PATTERN: Six dealer visits across two Cadillac dealerships in one year. Interventions have included two battery replacements, a full engine replacement under Recall 25V-274, an approximately $1,500 charge categorized as diagnostic with no repair labor documented, and most recently a “wiring harness manipulation / re-wrap” performed over approximately 90 days. Dealer personnel described the fix as “manipulation fixed it” — which is not a diagnosed repair. On at least one return of the vehicle, dealer personnel stated in the presence of a witness that they were not certain the defect had been fixed. The “service rear axle” warning returned within three days of the most recent repair. POST-RECALL: The engine was replaced under Recall 25V-274 and the loss-of-power failures continued afterward. This is directly relevant to RQ26-001, examining post-recall-remedy failures.

NHTSA complaint #11754077 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Birmingham, AL

ENGINE

2023 Cadillac Escalade, 6.2L V8 (RPO L87). Subject of Recall 25V-274 and NHTSA investigation RQ26-001. Over the past year, this vehicle has been out of the shop only about 90 days total. The rest of the year it has been in dealer service at GM/Cadillac dealerships for a recurring, undiagnosed loss-of-power defect. It is currently in dealer service. FAILURE: The vehicle has suddenly lost all motive power on three separate occasions. Engine runs, vehicle loses all drive power, will not restart. Two events occurred at approximately 80 mph on an interstate highway. One occurred with children in the vehicle. The only warning is a “service rear axle” message that appears just before power loss. No diagnostic trouble code has isolated the fault. Root cause has not been diagnosed. REPAIR PATTERN: Six dealer visits across two Cadillac dealerships in one year. Interventions have included two battery replacements, a full engine replacement under Recall 25V-274, an approximately $1,500 charge categorized as diagnostic with no repair labor documented, and most recently a “wiring harness manipulation / re-wrap” performed over approximately 90 days. Dealer personnel described the fix as “manipulation fixed it” — which is not a diagnosed repair. On at least one return of the vehicle, dealer personnel stated in the presence of a witness that they were not certain the defect had been fixed. The “service rear axle” warning returned within three days of the most recent repair. POST-RECALL: The engine was replaced under Recall 25V-274 and the loss-of-power failures continued afterward. This is directly relevant to RQ26-001, examining post-recall-remedy failures.

NHTSA complaint #11754077 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Dalton, MA

ENGINE

Vehicle started making a horrendous noise, knock and squeeling noise while on the highway. Approximately 2 minutes later the check engine light came on and we completely lost power. Went from 70 to zero dead on the side of the NY Thruway rapidly. Vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was confirmed that an engine replacement was necessary. Engine previously passed PICO test and update to the oil cap was completed. Oil changes every 5k miles.

NHTSA complaint #11753366 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Belmont, MS

ENGINE

Engine stopped running while driving without any prior notifications, lights, or warnings. Car was stationary in the roadway while my wife tried repeatedly to restart the engine. After several tries the engine started and ran long enough to pull car off roadway. Car was inspected last year and procedures per recall notice where performed and was then deemed safe and reliable. Recall corrections did not fix the problem.

NHTSA complaint #11751916 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Southaven, MS

ENGINE

My vehicle was inspected as part of the 6.2 engine recall and passed. 3 months later the engine stopped. Had to get towed and get a new engine

NHTSA complaint #11750602 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Scottsdale, AZ

POWER TRAIN

2023 Cadillac Escalade Sport Platinum with 6.2L L87 V8 suffered catastrophic engine failure on 6/20/2026 at approximately 38,658 miles. Vehicle had GM recall N252494000 performed at Coulter Cadillac in Phoenix, AZ on 12/3/2025. Engine reportedly passed GM recall inspection and received oil-related remedy rather than engine replacement. Approximately six months later, while driving on I-17 near Black Canyon City, AZ at highway speed on a 75 mph interstate, the engine suddenly shut down with no warning signs or alerts. Vehicle shifted to neutral and lost all propulsion. There were no prior check-engine lights, oil-pressure warnings, reduced-power warnings, abnormal noises, or other alerts before failure. I was traveling with my family of four plus our dog in approximately 105°F heat at the start of a road trip. I was able to maneuver to the shoulder, but the sudden loss of propulsion at highway speed created a serious safety risk. We were stranded roadside for nearly one hour in a remote area. Earnhardt Cadillac in Scottsdale, AZ diagnosed crank bearing failure. GM/Cadillac has indicated the proposed repair is installation of a refurbished/remanufactured replacement engine. I am concerned this failure occurred after the recall remedy had already been completed and appears consistent with the L87 crankshaft/connecting rod/bearing failures and post-remedy failures under NHTSA review. Cadillac case number is 103635161.

NHTSA complaint #11750090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Scottsdale, AZ

ENGINE

2023 Cadillac Escalade Sport Platinum with 6.2L L87 V8 suffered catastrophic engine failure on 6/20/2026 at approximately 38,658 miles. Vehicle had GM recall N252494000 performed at Coulter Cadillac in Phoenix, AZ on 12/3/2025. Engine reportedly passed GM recall inspection and received oil-related remedy rather than engine replacement. Approximately six months later, while driving on I-17 near Black Canyon City, AZ at highway speed on a 75 mph interstate, the engine suddenly shut down with no warning signs or alerts. Vehicle shifted to neutral and lost all propulsion. There were no prior check-engine lights, oil-pressure warnings, reduced-power warnings, abnormal noises, or other alerts before failure. I was traveling with my family of four plus our dog in approximately 105°F heat at the start of a road trip. I was able to maneuver to the shoulder, but the sudden loss of propulsion at highway speed created a serious safety risk. We were stranded roadside for nearly one hour in a remote area. Earnhardt Cadillac in Scottsdale, AZ diagnosed crank bearing failure. GM/Cadillac has indicated the proposed repair is installation of a refurbished/remanufactured replacement engine. I am concerned this failure occurred after the recall remedy had already been completed and appears consistent with the L87 crankshaft/connecting rod/bearing failures and post-remedy failures under NHTSA review. Cadillac case number is 103635161.

NHTSA complaint #11750090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Kings Point, NY

POWER TRAIN

The vehicle has experienced the same safety issue on two separate occasions. While driving, the vehicle suddenly lost power and displayed a “Conditions Not Correct for Shift” warning message. During the incident, the vehicle became stuck in Drive and could not be shifted normally. The brakes also did not respond as expected, creating a significant safety hazard and making it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle. The failure occurred without warning and has happened more than once, raising concerns about the safety and reliability of the vehicle’s electrical, powertrain, and braking systems.

NHTSA complaint #11744743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Kings Point, NY

WHEELS

The vehicle has experienced the same safety issue on two separate occasions. While driving, the vehicle suddenly lost power and displayed a “Conditions Not Correct for Shift” warning message. During the incident, the vehicle became stuck in Drive and could not be shifted normally. The brakes also did not respond as expected, creating a significant safety hazard and making it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle. The failure occurred without warning and has happened more than once, raising concerns about the safety and reliability of the vehicle’s electrical, powertrain, and braking systems.

NHTSA complaint #11744743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Kings Point, NY

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The vehicle has experienced the same safety issue on two separate occasions. While driving, the vehicle suddenly lost power and displayed a “Conditions Not Correct for Shift” warning message. During the incident, the vehicle became stuck in Drive and could not be shifted normally. The brakes also did not respond as expected, creating a significant safety hazard and making it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle. The failure occurred without warning and has happened more than once, raising concerns about the safety and reliability of the vehicle’s electrical, powertrain, and braking systems.

NHTSA complaint #11744743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

New Lenox, IL

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

We were driving on an interstate in Indiana and the car jerked and then automatically went into neutral. We couldn’t accelerate or put the car back into drive. We had to get over 2 lanes and onto the shoulder. We were able to put the car in park once on the shoulder but the car would not turn on or off. We couldn’t do anything. All electronics were still running but the engine was not running. The emergency break went on as well. The car sat on the side of the road for 3 hours with the electronics going while waiting for a tow which then wore out the battery. Because the car switched on the emergency break, the towing company had a difficult time getting it up on the tow truck. There were no warning lights going off. We were going 75mph on a highway with my children in the car! Scariest thing ever. I can only imagine what could have happened. We were so lucky to not be hit on the highway trying to change lanes and not being able to accelerate. Then we had to sit on the side of a highway for 3 hours in 95 degree weather and we were 2.5 hours from home! After 3 hours, a tow truck finally showed up. My family had to take a taxi to the nearest dealership because the tow truck would not take us. After 4 days, the dealership finally ran the diagnostic test and said the engine had seized up and we need a new engine which is on backorder. That dealership is 2.5 hours from home, so we then had to pay for another tow truck to get my vehicle back up to home so the local dealership could work on it. It has been one week since this incident happened and we have no idea how long the repairs will take but it’s my understanding that they are just replacing the faulty engine with another faulty engine because GM has no fix for this engine failure issue so it will happen again!!!

NHTSA complaint #11744479 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

New Lenox, IL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

We were driving on an interstate in Indiana and the car jerked and then automatically went into neutral. We couldn’t accelerate or put the car back into drive. We had to get over 2 lanes and onto the shoulder. We were able to put the car in park once on the shoulder but the car would not turn on or off. We couldn’t do anything. All electronics were still running but the engine was not running. The emergency break went on as well. The car sat on the side of the road for 3 hours with the electronics going while waiting for a tow which then wore out the battery. Because the car switched on the emergency break, the towing company had a difficult time getting it up on the tow truck. There were no warning lights going off. We were going 75mph on a highway with my children in the car! Scariest thing ever. I can only imagine what could have happened. We were so lucky to not be hit on the highway trying to change lanes and not being able to accelerate. Then we had to sit on the side of a highway for 3 hours in 95 degree weather and we were 2.5 hours from home! After 3 hours, a tow truck finally showed up. My family had to take a taxi to the nearest dealership because the tow truck would not take us. After 4 days, the dealership finally ran the diagnostic test and said the engine had seized up and we need a new engine which is on backorder. That dealership is 2.5 hours from home, so we then had to pay for another tow truck to get my vehicle back up to home so the local dealership could work on it. It has been one week since this incident happened and we have no idea how long the repairs will take but it’s my understanding that they are just replacing the faulty engine with another faulty engine because GM has no fix for this engine failure issue so it will happen again!!!

NHTSA complaint #11744479 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

New Lenox, IL

ENGINE

We were driving on an interstate in Indiana and the car jerked and then automatically went into neutral. We couldn’t accelerate or put the car back into drive. We had to get over 2 lanes and onto the shoulder. We were able to put the car in park once on the shoulder but the car would not turn on or off. We couldn’t do anything. All electronics were still running but the engine was not running. The emergency break went on as well. The car sat on the side of the road for 3 hours with the electronics going while waiting for a tow which then wore out the battery. Because the car switched on the emergency break, the towing company had a difficult time getting it up on the tow truck. There were no warning lights going off. We were going 75mph on a highway with my children in the car! Scariest thing ever. I can only imagine what could have happened. We were so lucky to not be hit on the highway trying to change lanes and not being able to accelerate. Then we had to sit on the side of a highway for 3 hours in 95 degree weather and we were 2.5 hours from home! After 3 hours, a tow truck finally showed up. My family had to take a taxi to the nearest dealership because the tow truck would not take us. After 4 days, the dealership finally ran the diagnostic test and said the engine had seized up and we need a new engine which is on backorder. That dealership is 2.5 hours from home, so we then had to pay for another tow truck to get my vehicle back up to home so the local dealership could work on it. It has been one week since this incident happened and we have no idea how long the repairs will take but it’s my understanding that they are just replacing the faulty engine with another faulty engine because GM has no fix for this engine failure issue so it will happen again!!!

NHTSA complaint #11744479 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Thomasville, NC

ENGINE

I was driving at highway speeds when my vehicle suddenly lost power and began rapidly decelerating. The vehicle eventually stalled in the middle of the roadway, creating a serious safety hazard for me and other drivers and significantly increasing the risk of a crash. This vehicle had previously undergone the GM safety recall inspection under Recall N252494000 for the L87 6.2L engine loss of propulsion defect. The recall inspection and remedy failed to identify the underlying engine defect, and the engine still catastrophically failed only months later. After the recall was completed, the vehicle was maintained according to GM’s updated recall instructions, including use of the required 0W-40 engine oil. Despite compliance with the recall remedy and maintenance requirements, the engine still failed during normal highway operation. The recall specifically acknowledged potential manufacturing defects involving the connecting rod and/or crankshaft components that could lead to engine failure and loss of propulsion. That is exactly what occurred in this incident. I believe the recall inspection procedure was inadequate and failed to detect defective engines that remain unsafe and subject to catastrophic failure even after being marked as “recall completed.”

NHTSA complaint #11739194 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Livonia, MI

ENGINE

As a loyal GM customer who has purchased three Cadillac Escalades and had them exclusively serviced at Cadillac dealerships, , I am writing regarding my 2023 Escalade, equipped with the 6.2L V8 (L87) engine, affected by the recall (N252494000) impacting approximately 597,630 vehicles . I recently took my vehicle to a Cadillac dealership for the recall inspection, where it passed, received a switch to o@-40 Mobil 1 Supercar oil, and was granted an extended warranty of 10 years or 150,000 miles from the purchase date. Despite this , I am deeply troubled by GM's handling of the recall, which has caused significant unease, undermined my trust, failed to honor my loyalty, and imposed unfair burdens. I respectfully request clarification and action on the following issues: Inadequate Recall Remedy and Impact on Gas Mileage - The remedy for vehicles that pass inspection- switching from 0W-20 to higher-viscosity 0W40 oil- raises serious doubts about its effectiveness in addressing a manufacturing defect in the crankshaft and/or connecting rods, which GM acknowledges can lead to engine failure and increase crash risk. Many owners, including myself, question whether thicker oil is a permanent solution or a temporary workaround. Additionally, the switch to 0W-40 is likely to reduce fuel efficiency due to increased engine drag, imposing an unaddressed cost in deduced gas mileage. This is especially concerning for me, as I rely on my Escalade for annual drives from [XXX] to [XXX] for the winter months. Can GM provide technical evidence proving the oil change fully resolves the defect, and will the company compensate owners for the loss in fuel economy? Inconsistent Communications Regarding the Extended Warranty - The dealership assured my vehicle is "fine" after passing the inspection, yet GM is providing an extended warranty of 10 years or 150,000 miles. This contradiction - claiming the engine is defect-free while extending warranty coverage - suggests GM anticipat INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF IN

NHTSA complaint #11738840 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Spring, TX

POWER TRAIN

5/7/2026: Travelling on freeway with son at 70-75mph, vehicle shifted itself into Neutral causing loss of acceleration and a message stating vehicle engine needed to be restarted. I had to navigate crossing multiple lanes of traffic to safely exit while quickly loosing speed. Was able to safely exit the freeway and come to a complete stop to restart the engine and resume normal driving. 10 minutes later, the vehicle repeated this causing yet another safety issues. Vehicle has been at the dealership since 5/8 and as of this report 5/12, the technicians are reporting that they have not been able to replicate the problem. I am in fear of the safety of myself and my family and am very hesitant about accepting the vehicle back without a proper diagnosis or repair.

NHTSA complaint #11737417 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Alamo, CA

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

My vehicle lost full engine propulsion going 70mph on the highway. We were blocking lanes of traffic and lost speed at a very rapid pace. No engine or warning light came on before the car lost engine and shifted into neutral. We called 911 and the California Highway Patrol had to assist in us not getting hit from behind as our car was disabled and would not restart to move off of lanes of traffic.

NHTSA complaint #11735822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Alamo, CA

ENGINE

My vehicle lost full engine propulsion going 70mph on the highway. We were blocking lanes of traffic and lost speed at a very rapid pace. No engine or warning light came on before the car lost engine and shifted into neutral. We called 911 and the California Highway Patrol had to assist in us not getting hit from behind as our car was disabled and would not restart to move off of lanes of traffic.

NHTSA complaint #11735822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.