2022 Cadillac Escalade Safety Report

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but significant concerns regarding engine reliability and other critical component failures. NHTSA awarded the vehicle an overall 4-star safety rating, with a 4-star frontal crash rating, an excellent 5-star side crash rating, and a 3-star rollover rating. However, the vehicle has accumulated 60 total complaints, including 4 crashes, 1 fire, and 3 injuries, which is notable for a relatively new model year. The most alarming pattern in the complaint data revolves around the engine, which accounts for a staggering 29 complaints, with related categories like 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING' adding another 8. Many complaints describe sudden engine failure, stalling while driving, loss of power, and engines seizing, often at highway speeds or in busy intersections. This issue is directly linked to a major recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000) concerning potential engine failure due to defective internal components, which increases the risk of a crash. Several complaints indicate that even after recall inspections or engine replacements, owners experienced subsequent failures. Beyond the engine, the Escalade has been subject to three other significant recalls. One recall addresses a software issue in the 10-speed automatic transmission that could cause rear wheels to lock up, increasing crash risk. Another recall pertains to exterior lighting, where daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate, potentially causing glare and reducing visibility. Finally, a recall for seat belt critical fasteners in third-row seats highlights a risk of improper occupant restraint during a crash. These recalls, combined with the high volume of engine-related complaints, suggest that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, its real-world reliability and the potential for sudden component failures pose considerable safety risks.

Our recommendation: Given the critical engine reliability issues and multiple safety recalls, potential buyers should exercise extreme caution and ensure all recalls have been addressed, with a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on engine health and recall compliance.