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2002 Cadillac Escalade

Introduction: The 2002 Cadillac Escalade is a full-size SUV known for its comfort, performance, and luxurious amenities. It is powered by a 5.3L V8 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine: 5.3L V8

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, and engine performance issues.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Misfire on Multiple Cylinders:
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation, shaking, and decreased fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Oil Leak from Rear Main Seal:
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the back of the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle, loss of power, and potentially catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls:
    • NHTSA Campaign Number: 07V312000
      • Issue: Fuel Pump Module Failure
    • NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V480000
      • Issue: Faulty Engine Crankshaft

Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic

  • No Issues Found

Suspension:

  • Front Upper Control Arm Bushing Worn/Failed:
    • Description/Symptoms: Loose or rattling noises from the front end, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the upper control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Rear Springs Sagging/Broken:
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting low, poor handling, and excessive bouncing.
    • Solution: Replace the rear springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Electrical:

  • Alternator Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, dim headlights, and battery warning light illuminated.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Starter Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle not starting, clicking noise from the starter when attempting to start.
    • Solution: Replace the starter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior:

  • No Issues Found

Interior:

  • Headliner Sagging:
    • Description/Symptoms: Fabric headliner detaching from the ceiling, creating a droopy appearance.
    • Solution: Reattach or replace the headliner fabric.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Plastic Trim Pieces Breaking/Cracking:
    • Description/Symptoms: Plastic trim pieces around the dashboard, door panels, or console breaking or cracking.
    • Solution: Replace the broken trim pieces.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary: Overall, the 2002 Cadillac Escalade is a reliable vehicle with a few common issues. The most severe and expensive issue is the potential for timing chain tensioner failure, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Other issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure or suspension component wear, are more common but less severe and expensive to repair. It is recommended to have the vehicle inspected regularly and to address any issues promptly to prevent them from becoming more costly or dangerous.

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