2023 Cadillac Escalade esv

My 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV brakes on its own when Super Cruise is on. This happens in normal highway traffic with no vehicle, object or hazard in my path. The braking is sudden and hard. A vehicle behind me could hit me. On several occasions, a vehicle behind me had to brake hard / swerve to avoid a collision. I have a few cases captured on camera. The problem is intermittent. It first happened at about 15K miles in April 2025. Since then it has happened several times. I took the vehicle to nearby dealers 5-6 times for this issue. Each time the dealer said that they could not duplicate the problem, even after leaving there for several days, and they did no repair. The problem continues.

On September 24, 2024, my 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV stalled while I was driving in traffic and would not restart. I was unable to proceed normally at a green light, creating a risk of a rear-end or other collision. I have video footage of the vehicle unable to proceed. The authorized dealership documented a no-crank/no-start condition and found the engine assembly was seized. The engine assembly was replaced under warranty. Following the September 24 engine failure, the vehicle remained at the dealership through October 31, 2024 while the engine assembly was replaced under warranty. Earlier that same day, the dealership completed serial-data gateway module reprogramming and brake-system control-module programming related to brake-fluid leak detection. This is included as a factual chronology; I do not know whether that work was related to the engine seizure. Separately, on July 30, 2024, I received a “Replace Brake Pads” warning and heard grinding. The dealer found the driver-side front brake pads metal-on-metal and the wear sensor damaged. The dealer replaced the front brake pads, rotors, and wear sensor, and performed a brake-fluid exchange. These are separate, documented engine, brake, and electrical-system safety concerns. Dealer repair records and supporting video footage are available for review.

I am filing this safety complaint regarding a critical, unresolved mechanical defect in my 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV (approx. 80,000 miles). The dealership (Earnhardt Chandler Cadillac) notified me that my vehicle required an engine replacement under a recall/warranty service. Following their service, a brand-new replacement engine was installed. However, immediately after the replacement, the new engine developed a loud metallic knock upon cold starts, indicating severe internal mechanical failure, defective components, or improper assembly. Despite recognizing this critical defect, the dealership and General Motors failed to rectify it. Most dangerously, they recently delivered the vehicle back to my residence, claiming it was "fine," while the engine continues to exhibit the exact same loud metallic knocking noise. Operating a vehicle with a severely defective, knocking replacement engine poses a high risk of catastrophic engine failure, sudden loss of power while driving, and potential highway accidents, endangering my safety and the safety of other motorists. I request that NHTSA investigate this pattern of defective replacement engines and faulty dealership repairs to prevent severe safety hazards on public roads. p.s. I have all email communications and video recordings of this issue.

My 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV, equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine, developed an abnormal engine knocking/clicking noise despite previously receiving the remedy for GM engine safety recall N252494000, NHTSA campaign 25V274. On August 21, 2025, at 37,437 miles, Costa Mesa GMC Cadillac performed the recall inspection. The repair invoice states that the engine passed the PicoScope inspection and that the dealer changed the oil and filter and installed a new oil-fill cap. On September 16, 2026, at approximately 49,000 miles, I first noticed an unusual engine noise while driving through a store parking lot. After returning home, I observed a clicking/knocking noise at approximately 1,500–2,000 RPM. On September 17, I brought the vehicle to Costa Mesa GMC Cadillac at 49,093 miles. Repair order 61438 documents an engine knock during acceleration. Approximately two hours after drop-off, the service adviser informed me that GM had authorized replacement of the engine. As of September 24, 2026, the vehicle has remained at the dealership for one week and is awaiting a replacement engine. The vehicle is available at the dealership for inspection, subject to coordination with the dealer. Whether the original engine will be retained and available for inspection after replacement is UNKNOWN. My safety concern is the potential for engine failure and sudden loss of propulsion while driving, which could increase the risk of a collision. The recall notice specifically identified this risk. I am reporting the abnormal engine noise and dealer-reported need for replacement; whether the engine had reached the point of imminent seizure or loss of propulsion is UNKNOWN. The dealer evaluated the vehicle and reported GM’s replacement authorization. The exact internal component failure and root cause are UNKNOWN because I have not received the final diagnostic or repair report. Whether a GM representative separately inspected the engine, rather than reviewing the dealer’s findings, is UNKNOW

About 11pm Driving 70 on freeway started feeling pull back and then started to hear a knock noise. So turned down the music and the knock noise was getting louder as I was driving so I went to the right lane as I went to the right lane I felt like the car was pulling back and slowing down even as I accelerated… knock got even louder and I decided to exit the freeway early instead of getting to my destination. As I exited the freeway the entire car shut down lights flickered check engine went on and low oil pressure flickered once but then turned off. I couldn’t get it in park couldn’t get the car to turn over. I was able to get out of the middle of the intersection turning off the freeway and pulled gas station called AAA. I’ve had no prior problems or warning lamps before this problem happened with the vehicle. I have videos of the whole incident that will not let me download on bottom of page. “2023 Escalade ESV, VIN [XXX]. Towed to Cadillac of Laguna Niguel. Engine knocked, then complete no-crank, suspected seizure. I need a case tied to recall N252494000 / NHTSA 25V-274 and special coverage N252494003. Do not authorize paid diagnosis. I need a loaner Escalade or equivalent and PQC approval for engine replacement.” “This SUV was towed to Dealership on September 18th at 1130pm. 2023 Escalade ESV, 6.2 L87. It knocked and now it will not crank at all engine is likely seized. Cadillac case number is XXX Book this under GM recall N252494000 and special coverage N252494003 — L87 connecting rod / crankshaft / loss of propulsion. To service advisor: Please do not bump-start or crank it. Do not write this as a starter, battery, or customer-pay no-start. I want the RO to say: ‘Catastrophic L87 internal failure, no crank after knock, inspect for engine replacement under N252494003.’ Open PQC today. I also need a comparable loaner. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Date: XXX Time: 10:30 am approx. Location: [XXX] Vehicle: Cadillac Escalade VIN: [XXX] Mileage: 25,572 While driving normally, the vehicle experienced sudden engine failure. No prior warning lights provided adequate notice. Vehicle became disabled and required towing. This vehicle is equipped with an engine subject to a known recall. A recall mitigation involving higher-viscosity oil was previously performed by a Cadillac dealership. Concerns regarding the recalled engine were raised with GM directl in May (no call back) and direct with dealer in October 2025 (dismissed by dealer “not thier issue”). INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to report a serious vehicle safety concern involving my 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The vehicle is currently displaying the following warning messages: "Service Leveling System" "Vehicle Too Low, Drive with Caution" In addition, the vehicle is visibly sitting lower than normal, indicating a potential suspension system failure. On September 20, 2023, NHTSA announced Recall Campaign Number 23V642000 related to improperly heat-treated rear suspension bolts that could fail and affect vehicle stability and safety. Based on the symptoms my vehicle is exhibiting, I believe it may be experiencing the same defect addressed by this recall. Given the similarity between the reported recall condition and the issues affecting my vehicle, I respectfully request that NHTSA review this matter and determine whether my vehicle's VIN should be included in Recall 23V642000 or whether additional investigation is warranted. This condition presents a potential safety risk and requires urgent attention. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your review and response.

The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and while idling, the engine was shaking, the vehicle stalled, and the vehicle lost power. The contact restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with battery failure. The failure reoccurred, and the vehicle was returned to the dealer and was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated that approximately 45,000 miles later, while driving at various speeds, the vehicle started drifting to the left and the right. The message "Auto Hold Unavailable, was displayed. During the failure, the vehicle shut off, and while restarting the vehicle, there was a loud grinding sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the failure had occurred even after following all the instructions on how to properly care for and maintain the new engine. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer had opened a case for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving and accelerating, the vehicle stalled and jolted forward. Additionally, while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle lost automotive power with the check engine warning light flashing on and off. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the contact was informed that no cause for the failures was found. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 56,000.

The engine is knocking between 10-30 mph and over 50 mph. The forward collision light lights up. This is the third time this has happened. I am very concern it will stall on me at high speeds

The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, an "Engine Restarting" message displayed on the instrument panel and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact pulled over to the side of the highway, where the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact associated the failure with an unknown NHTSA Campaign Number, which was previously performed on the vehicle, but the recall remedy failed to prevent the failure from occurring. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 49,989.

I was going down the highway at 75mph and all of sudden the engine started loud knocking and loss of power. Good thing I was able to get off the exit and stop safely. Car was towed to dealer. Needs new engine 48k miles

Total engine failure on the I-95 Express Lane in Miami.

The truck drives rough feels like I hit something while driving and slows down while driving high speed. Every time I take to the dealership they don’t see anything wrong with it. I’m not the only one with this issue a lot of people with this same 2023 Escalade esv have the the same problem. I want the problem fixed it’s not fair that I have to deal with this. I paid a lot of money for my truck and work hard for it.

Motor ceased at 38k miles In october 2025 replaced engine and happened again several months later ceased at 3k miles in the middle of highway. major safety issues with these 6.2 v8 motors. GM has NOT fixed the design problem.

In August of 2025 my escalade went t the dealership to perform the engine recall test. It passed the test and the oil change fix was completed. However, within weeks or so the engine began to experience some issues. It was taken back to the dealership and a full engine replacement was performed. Fast forward to the beginning of August 2026. The new engine is experience the same symptoms as before. Flashing engine light, rough idle, loss of power, and excessive gas consumption, knocking, etc. I took the car to the dealership and this is the service advisors message to me about the car: "Cylinders one and six are causing the misfires, he sent some information to our technical assistance center because the cylinders walls do not show a lot of damages but, like I said before it was low in oil with no present oil leaks. He has to capture some freeze frame data for technical assistance and send in so it has to be driven some more. They want it driven over some miles. They will determine if we replace the engine or not, I may not have an update from them until Monday. They do not work on Saturdays and Josh your technician has to perform all of the test they sent over. A lot of the extra testing has come from this possibly being the second engine that could go in the vehicle. The car remained for about 2 weeks and gm refuses to pay for a new engine until because there isnt enough data. Meanwhile I am stuck driving a car that can seize up and leave me at any time. They also refused to buy back or help me into another vehicle without coming all out of pocket on my end

Dear NHTSA Vehicle Safety, I would like to report a recurring safety issue involving the instrument cluster in my 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV. Vehicle: 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV VIN: [XXX] Current Mileage: Approximately 170,000 miles The digital instrument cluster/display directly behind the steering wheel intermittently goes completely black while the vehicle is in operation. When this occurs, I lose visibility of the speedometer, odometer, warning information, and other important driver information. The center navigation/infotainment display can remain operational while the driver’s instrument cluster is completely black. This condition originally began before the vehicle reached 70,000 miles. Initially, it occurred only occasionally and the instrument cluster would eventually turn back on by itself. The problem has progressively worsened and, particularly after approximately 120,000miles, the blackouts have become considerably more frequent. The vehicle has been brought to a Cadillac dealership. I was advised that insufficient battery power could be causing the problem. The battery was replaced and the vehicle software was updated. However, the instrument cluster continues to intermittently go completely black. The dealer has now indicated that the complete instrument cluster may need to be replaced. I am reporting this condition because I believe the sudden loss of the speedometer and other critical driver information while operating the vehicle presents a potential safety concern. I respectfully request that NHTSA document this complaint and review whether similar instrument cluster/display failures have been reported by other owners of 2021–2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV vehicles and whether further investigation may be appropriate. Thank you for reviewing this safety complaint. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine was replaced at 70,000 miles by warranty by GM and now at 110,000 miles as in the new engine has the engine is given the same issue again

On [XXX], while driving my 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV from the Salt Lake City area toward Las Vegas, the vehicle developed a serious loss-of-power condition in Utah. I contacted OnStar, exited the highway, and waited at a gas station. OnStar arranged towing to a Cadillac dealership. GM records document the tow at approximately 56,644 miles. At the dealership, I reported the loss of power. After initially being told they were too busy, I waited about 10 minutes and was then told the vehicle was ready. After returning to the highway, the vehicle suddenly lost power again at approximately 70 mph. Pressing the accelerator did not produce normal acceleration, creating a serious risk of a highway collision. I immediately returned to the dealership. The dealer then performed another repair. The invoice states the Service Engine Soon light was illuminated, soot level was 255%, and a service regeneration was performed. I was charged $406.16 and was again told the vehicle was ready. After leaving again, the same loss-of-power condition occurred. After safely exiting the highway, I recorded video showing the vehicle at approximately 38 mph with little or no acceleration response and the check-engine light illuminated. I returned to the dealer for a third time. The dealer then kept the vehicle, stated the repair was covered under warranty, and provided a rental. The vehicle has remained under repair since July 21. I have not received a clear explanation of the root cause or complete repair details. I have videos, towing records, repair documents, photos, and GM correspondence. I am concerned this repeated sudden loss of propulsion at highway speed could cause a serious crash. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

While traveling at 75 mph, our SUV suddenly lost power going uphill. We barely reached the crest and were able to coast down to a safe place off the highway. We were stranded 300 miles from home and nearly 100 miles from the closest Cadillac dealership, sitting on the side of the highway with my family for three hours before someone could pick us up. The cause was a catastrophic bearing failure in the L87 engine, requiring the entire engine to be replaced. Thankfully, we were able to get off the highway safely. If the engine had completely locked up at 75 mph, this could have caused a serious or even fatal accident.