2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv Safety Report
2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (4) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (57) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 3 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2025 | Compare against the 2025 Cadillac Escalade Esv with 0 complaints and 0 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2021 | Check the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Esv before buying across this generation. |
Cadillac Escalade Esv Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Cadillac Escalade Esv years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Cadillac Escalade Esv | 17 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2022 Cadillac Escalade Esv | 44 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2025 Cadillac Escalade Esv | 0 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Cadillac Escalade Esv | 74 | 10 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2026 Cadillac Escalade Esv | 2 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Cadillac Escalade Esv | 16 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
21 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Cadillac onlyPower Train
6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Cadillac onlyPower Train,Engine
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Engine issues Cadillac onlyEngine And Engine Cooling
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine And Engine Cooling issues Cadillac onlyElectrical System,Unknown Or Other
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System,Unknown Or Other issues Cadillac onlyPower Train,Electrical System,Engine
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Electrical System,Engine issues Cadillac onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
Reliability Score
The 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv receives a reliability score of 5 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine And Engine Cooling General Motors has issued a recall for certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV models due to hard parts internal/ mechanical issues in the engine and engine cooling system. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic Brake Fluid Low Warning General Motors has issued a recall for certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and 2023-2024 models due to brake fluid low warning issues. |
Medium | Common | 18k-20k miles |
| Suspension, Rear General Motors has issued a recall for certain 2023 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Chevrolet Suburban models due to rear suspension issues. |
Low | Common | 18k-20k miles |
| Exterior Lighting, Lighting Control Module, Software General Motors has issued a recall for certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision models due to exterior lighting issues. |
Low | Common | 18k-20k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv:
Engine issues are the most common problem, affecting 23% of the vehicles.
Power train issues are the second most common problem, affecting 18% of the vehicles.
Electrical system issues are the third most common problem, affecting 10% of the vehicles.
Service brakes issues are the fourth most common problem, affecting 8% of the vehicles.
Recall Details for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
The following 4 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv by NHTSA:
Summary: 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.
Consequence: 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, Ch...
Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Escalade ESV vehicles. The electronic brake control module software may fail to display a warning light when a loss of brake fluid occurs. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence: Without a warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The Electronic Brake Control Module (eBCM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2024. Owners can contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N242447990.
Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The rear suspension outer control arm bolts may not have been properly heat-treated, which can cause the bolts to break.
Consequence: A broken suspension bolt can result in misalignment of the rear wheel, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace both rear suspension outer control arm bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 14, 2023. 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 N232415910.
Summary: 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."
Consequence: 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 prev...
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 3 complaints involved crashes.
The engine failed on I-17 while driving 75MPH on 2/14/2026. The car shifted into neutral and was able to coast on to the berm of the interstate. The car was towed to Flagstaff Chevrolet and was determined to have engine failure and is waiting for a replacement engine. When the engine failed a warning message came on warning of severe engine overheating and shut down and the car automatically sh...
On 5/8/2024, at approximately 18,969 miles, the vehicle suffered a sudden and complete loss of engine power while driving on the highway in the rain with my family inside. The engine died, the vehicle lost all propulsion creating an immediate and severe safety hazard. Dealer diagnosis revealed a catastrophic crankshaft main bearing failure, requiring a full engine replacement. Since the engine rep...
6.2 engine had the recall fix done to it. It did not work because the engine seized up yesterday
On Saturday 2/14/26 our Escalade was making a light ticking noise. We made an appointment to bring it in for service, earliest appointment was 2/17/26. On the evening of 2/14 the vehicle died on the freeway and had to be towed to the local dealer after it would not start, Crest View Cadillac in Rochester Hills, MI. Our service write Tony Griffin, confirmed verbally on 2/16 that the vehicle m...
Vehicle was taken in to L87 engine recall in Sept 2025. Passed said inspection on September 29, 2025 and new higher viscosity oil was put in the vehicle. Feb 14, 2026 - driving the vehicle down the highway at 70mph. Car shifts to neutral, engine turns off and losses propulsion. Manage to get to the shoulder of the highway. Vehicle would not restart or turn on. We were traveling with our 3 small ch...
The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), and the vehicle was taken to the dealer at 51,000 miles, and stated that the engine would be inspected, and if necessary, repaired or replaced. Additionally, the vehicles that passed the inspection, dealers would add higher viscosity oil, inst...
For the second time, engine stalled out and car would not start. Going 75 miles per hour on major highway on cruise control and engine just stopped in the middle of the road. Major hazard and crash risk, unable to restart car and had to be towed. Trafffic was dodging vehicle and it was a major safety hazard. Approximately 7 months ago, the car would not start and had to be towed; we reported t...
While driving my 2023 Cadillac Escalade (approx. 42,308 miles), the vehicle experienced a sudden and complete loss of power while accelerating on a busy highway. Engine power shut down without warning. I was able to pull to the shoulder, but the vehicle then became non-responsive and would not restart. The failure appears related to the electrical/charging system (12V battery, battery management s...
The vehicle experienced a loss of propulsion 2 times when idol at traffic lights due to an uncommanded shift into neutral while stopped at a traffic light, requiring the vehicle to be restarted to regain drive. These events occurred after a longstanding history of front end vibration and grinding noises that have been repeatedly reported to a GM authorized dealer since October 2024. The most recen...
I had a complete engine failure while driving. This was after going through the recall inspection in September 2025 where they looked, changed the oil and said everything was okay,
To Whom It May Concern at General Motors, I am writing to express my profound concern, disappointment, and fear following a recent experience with my Cadillac Escalade that has caused me to seriously question the safety, reliability, and future of the Cadillac brand. For important context, the first Cadillac Escalade my family owned was a 2012 model that we purchased used in Ann Arbor. At the ...
While driving approximately 50 mph on a busy road, the vehicle unexpectedly shifted into neutral and stalled, leaving it unable to restart in the roadway. The car was towed to the dealership, where a new battery was installed and the engine seized.
My 2023 Cadillac Escalade esv has been at the dealership countless times over the last 2 years with strange engine sounds, acceleration issues, 4 wheel drive would top working and I couldn't make turns without a grinding sound coming from under the hood, check engine light (with no issues seen/heard). The engine recall was "passed" in October even after our concern with the engine sounds and stran...
My vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure requiring full engine replacement after a recall remedy (oil change with thicker oil) was performed and the vehicle passed the pico test. Engine symptoms became more pronounced after the oil change. In addition, the vehicle has experienced repeated steering system abnormalities requiring multiple repairs, including replacement of airbag-related ...
On December 19, 2023, when pulling out of a parking lot onto the street, pressing the gas vehicle jerked and would not accelerate. No lights on dash. Drove less than 1 minute and turned down a side street, to get out of traffic while going slow/no power. Stopped at stop sign, went thru intersection. Went to next intersection, at stop sign, vehicle shut off, in the middle of traffic. Still no dash ...
In March 2025, my 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV experienced a sudden engine failure. The engine began running rough, the check engine light turned on, and the vehicle became unsafe to drive. The Cadillac dealer diagnosed the engine with #8 exhaust push rod bent and metal debris in the engine oil. This matches the defect described in GM Recall N252494000 (connecting rod/crankshaft internal engine def...
The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving with the cruise control activated, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the pa...
Auto started for about 5 minutes. Got in started vehicle and drove off. Immediately sounded like a motorcycle, loud exhaust. Volume of noise increased, upon acceleration. Checked under vehicle for exhaust problems when got to destination, 30 minutes drive, found nothing. Stayed about 90 minutes. Drove back home, same noise. Had vehicle towed to dealership. Informed transmission fluid pump was crac...
The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The engine warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufa...
The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. No warning light was illuminated. The loc...
Showing 20 of 57 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Engine
Opened 2026-01-16
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 36 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging engine failure in vehicles subject to Recall 25V274. In each VOQ, the engine had the recall remedy completed prior to the reported failure incident. Recall 25V-274 addresses vehicles equipped with a L87 6.2L V8 gas engine that experienced engine damage or failure. Recall 25V-274’s remedy includes an engine inspection. Based on the results of the inspection the vehicle will receive an oil chang...
Component: Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical
Opened 2025-01-16 · Closed 2025-10-23
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...
Component: Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical
Opened 2025-10-23
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 ...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
Has the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV been recalled?
Yes, the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV has 4 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV have?
The 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV has 57 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 3 involved crashes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
The 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 3/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV involve engine (21 complaints), power train (6 complaints), power train,engine (5 complaints). Other affected components include engine and engine cooling, electrical system,unknown or other, power train,electrical system,engine.
How many crash reports does the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV have?
There are 3 crash reports associated with the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV out of 57 total complaints (5.3% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV have?
There are no fire reports for the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV.
How many injuries are reported for the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
No injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV.
Should I buy a 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV is acceptable with caveats. It has 57 complaints, 4 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
The components with the most failures on the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV are: 1. ENGINE (21 complaints), 2. POWER TRAIN (6 complaints), 3. POWER TRAIN,ENGINE (5 complaints), 4. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (4 complaints), 5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 21 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
Be cautious of engine and engine cooling issues, as they have been the most common problems reported. Regular maintenance and keeping up with recalls is crucial. The 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV has 57 NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).
How reliable is the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
The 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV receives a reliability score of 5/100, indicating below-average reliability. This is based on 57 owner complaints, 4 recalls, and 3 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine and Engine Cooling and Service Brakes, Hydraulic Brake Fluid Low Warning.
What are the known issues with the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV?
Known issues with the 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV include: Engine and Engine Cooling, Service Brakes, Hydraulic Brake Fluid Low Warning, Suspension, Rear, Exterior Lighting, Lighting Control Module, Software. These are based on patterns found across 57 NHTSA complaints. 4 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common issues with the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
The most common issues are engine and engine cooling problems, followed by power train and electrical system issues.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Yes, there are recalls for engine and engine cooling, service brakes, and exterior lighting issues.
What should I do if I experience engine issues with my 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Contact your local dealership immediately and follow their recommendations for inspection and repair.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of engine and engine cooling issues, as they have been the most common problems reported. Regular maintenance and keeping up with recalls is crucial.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv. The data includes 57 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Esv an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 3 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-13