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2022 Cadillac Escalade esv

The Verdict

85 Smooth Ride

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade esv has 57 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. The most reported issues are engine (47 complaints) and transmission (6 complaints). With a Klunk Score of 85/100, it earns a "Smooth Ride" rating. If you're shopping for a Cadillac Escalade esv, consider the 2025 model year which has 75% fewer complaints.

Safe Bet

The 2025 has 75% fewer complaints

View the 2025 Cadillac Escalade esv dashboard →

85

Klunk Score: Smooth Ride

This vehicle year has significantly fewer complaints than average. A reliable choice.

How is this calculated?

The Klunk Score ranks this vehicle year against all others in our database based on total owner complaints filed with NHTSA. 100 = fewest complaints (top tier), 0 = most complained-about. Scores above 60 are better than average; below 40 means more problems than most.

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Under the Hood

Each number is a complaint. Darker = bigger problem.

YearBodyBrakesElectricalEngineTransmission
20171415113013
2018437192
2019424222
2020212161
2021729685
2022301476
2023624727
2024220180
202530380

By Category

Engine
47
Transmission
6
Body
3
Electrical
1

By Severity

1
22
2
34
4
1

Worst Problems

Complaints

Engine 1

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

15d ago
Engine 2

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.

1mo ago
Engine 2

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.

1mo ago
Engine 1

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.

1mo ago
Engine 1

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.

2mo ago
Engine 2

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.

3mo ago
Transmission 2

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)

5mo ago
Transmission 2

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)

5mo ago
Engine 2

Motor damaged. Needs new motor. Crank shaft, seals, bottom end all damaged

5mo ago
Transmission 1

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.

6mo ago
Engine 1

Engine started knocking and past half a mile completely lost power and stoped, towed to dealer, will wait till Monday for any info

6mo ago
Transmission 1

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.

6mo ago
Engine 1

After the recall work was performed, the vehicle began consuming engine oil at an abnormal and excessive rate between oil changes. Most concerning, during a recent check, the engine oil level was found to be extremely low, with no oil registering on the dipstick. This condition presents a significant risk of engine damage or failure and raises serious safety concerns. Prior to the recall service, the vehicle did not exhibit any abnormal oil consumption. The issue has only occurred after the recall was completed, which strongly suggests a direct connection to the repair.

6mo ago
Engine 2

On [03/23/2026], while traveling at 79 mph in high-speed highway traffic, my 2022 Cadillac Escalade suffered a sudden, total engine seizure and complete loss of propulsion. This catastrophic failure occurred without any prior warning lamps or symptoms. The loss of motive power at highway speeds created an immediate life-threatening situation, forcing me to navigate through traffic to the shoulder with no engine power. This vehicle is currently at [Parks Chevrolet Charlotte] awaiting a full teardown and is available for inspection. Critical Safety Concern: This engine seizure occurred AFTER Recall 25V-274 was marked "Completed" on June 18, 2025. This incident represents a direct failure of the recall remedy and is a documented escalation of the issues being investigated under NHTSA Recall Query RQ26001. I am reporting this to provide evidence that the current remedy is insufficient to prevent high-speed engine seizures and loss of propulsion.

7mo ago
Engine 1

On February 21, 2026, my 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV experienced a sudden and complete engine seizure at highway speed at 57,825 miles just 8,613 miles after passing GM's PicoScope inspection under Safety Recall N252494000 (NHTSA Campaign 25V274). After fueling, I entered a highway on-ramp and accelerated to approximately 70 mph. Within 30 seconds, the engine lost power completely with no prior warning lights, no diagnostic trouble codes, and no audible warning. The only dashboard notification was a prompt to press the Start button. The vehicle behaved as if shifted into neutral, decelerating rapidly from 70 mph to 40 mph while I was navigating an exit merge ramp. I reached the right shoulder safely. Under normal weekday traffic, this failure on an active merge ramp could have caused a serious collision. The engine would not restart. The vehicle would not shift out of Park. OnStar could not remotely start the vehicle. A tow truck was dispatched; the operator could not shift the vehicle to neutral and required a dolly. The dealership confirmed the engine had seized and the engine would not crank. A complete engine replacement was performed under the recall warranty (RO 606490). The recall remedy was performed August 20, 2025 at 49,212 miles. GM records confirm the PicoScope result: "Engine Passed." The engine seized 8,613 miles later with no warning. This is consistent with 30-plus NHTSA complaints reporting loss of propulsion after the prior remedy, and demonstrates the inspection-based remedy is insufficient to identify engines at imminent risk of seizure.

7mo ago
Engine 2

My car die by itself when I was driving on a highway; screen shows oil pressure low. It has been haven electric problem many times.

8mo ago
Engine 2

The contact owns a 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) in August of 2025. However, soon after the recall inspection, while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated before responding. The vehicle also hesitated when started and shifted into drive(D) when depressing the accelerator pedal. Additionally, there was an abnormal whining sound, and the vehicle was pulling to the left or the right while driving and had to compensate by returning the steering wheel to the center. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer that performed the recall service. The vehicle was diagnosed, and the dealer informed the contact that there were no performance issues with the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 44,000.

8mo ago
Engine 2

Traveling at 70mph the car had some hesitation, then the dash displayed "vehicle is in neutral ", then displayed "shutting down systems to save battery ", then "vehicle is in transport mode". Pulled onto the shoulder of the highway and vehicle would not turn over or start. Called Cadillac roadside and had vehicle picked up and transported to FITZGERALD CADILLAC in Annapolis Maryland.

9mo ago
Engine 1

It happened on a family road trip to Big Bear, CA for Thanksgiving. Driving up a mountain road with my wife, 3 children and 3 dogs on a 2 lane highway. Engine gave out and completely seized. No warning, no lights, just a sudden loss of all power followed by a complete shutdown. I pulled over as far as I could but were still sticking out on the 2 lane highway and put our entire family in danger as well as other drivers that could not adequately see us on the blind turn. Fearing being hit, I had my family exit the vehicle and stand to the side awaiting help in a somewhat safer area..The side of the mountain was a sheer cliff, but we didn’t want to be struck. Had a good friend drive up the hill to rescue the family and dogs while I wait for a tow truck. The vehicle completely locked up and would not shift into neutral. Tow truck drivers could not/would not tow the vehicle because of the placement and the fact it was locked. After about 4 hours waiting, the day turned to night and the battery completely drained so I no longer had hazards, which made it even more dangerous. Finally got a tow that had the right equipment to complete the task and had it towed to a local dealership which confirmed a seized engine. (You don’t even want to know how they got it off the tow truck). The dealership had the vehicle for approx 35 days and I just received it back. It currently has the check engine light on and the electronics do not function so it’s going back this week. My wife is scared to drive it, and we don’t know exactly how to proceed from this point. Contacted an attorney, so we’ll see what happens next. It was an absolute nightmare situation.

9mo ago
Engine 2

MY 2022 CADILLAC ESCALADE IS IN THE REPAIR SHOP CENTRAL HOUSTON CADILLAC [XXX] MY ENGINE RECALL IS OUT AND STOP WORKING ! THE 150,000 MILE WARRANTY IS NOT GETTING UPHELD BY GENRAL MOTORS ! I AM BEING TOLD THAT MY CASE IS DENIED ! GENERAL MOTORS GIVE ME A CASE NUMBER XXX [XXX] ! GENERAL MOTORS IS SCAMMING THE RECALL REFUSING TOO DRIVE REPLACE THE ENGINE PROBLEMS THEY KNEW WAS HAPPENING! BIG STAR CADILLAC DEALERSHIP STATED MY ENGINE REPAIRS WAS FIX WITH OIL REPLACEMENT SERVICE ! THAT WAS NOT TRUE AND IS FALSE STATEMENT! RIGHT NOW I CAN NOT DRIVE MY VEHICLE! I NEED MY NEW ENGINE NOW ! THANK YOU INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

9mo ago

57 total

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