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2004 Cadillac Escalade

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By Research the Car 2 min read

2004 Cadillac Escalade

Overview

The 2004 Cadillac Escalade, a full-size luxury SUV, was known for its commanding presence and upscale interior. Under the hood, it primarily offered a robust V8 engine paired with a capable automatic transmission, designed for smooth power delivery and towing. While generally well-regarded for its comfort and features, like any vehicle of its age, it has specific areas that have shown a propensity for issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented common problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair areas for owners and prospective buyers.

Engine

6.0L Vortec V8 (LQ4/LQ9)

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

  • Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine misfires, rough idle, overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Cost: $400 - $800

Oil Cooler Line Leaks

  • Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the front of the engine, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking oil cooler lines.
  • Cost: $300 - $600

Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifter failure (on later models with this feature, less common on 2004)

  • Symptoms: Engine knocking noise, misfires, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of lifters and potentially camshaft.
  • Cost: $1500 - $3000+

Transmission

4L60-E 4-Speed Automatic

Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Issues

  • Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, inability to lock up, slipping.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the torque converter and potentially transmission.
  • Cost: $800 - $2000+

Overheating and Fluid Leaks

  • Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifting, burning smell, visible fluid leaks.
  • Solution: Service transmission, repair leaks, or rebuild.
  • Cost: $500 - $2500+

Suspension

Air Suspension (Rear)

Air Spring Leaks/Failure

  • Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, compressor running constantly, uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replacement of air springs or compressor.
  • Cost: $400 - $1000

Magnetic Ride Control (MRC)

Sensor and Actuator Failures

  • Symptoms: Harsh ride, clunking noises, suspension warning light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors or struts.
  • Cost: $600 - $1500 per corner

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

  • Symptoms: Power windows, locks, lights, or dashboard indicators malfunctioning intermittently.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
  • Cost: $500 - $1200

Alternator

Premature Failure

  • Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, starting issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

No widespread issues reported.

No major issues reported for this configuration.

Interior

Heated Seat Elements

Failure of Heating Elements

  • Symptoms: One or both heated seats not working.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element pads.
  • Cost: $300 - $600

Screen Delamination/Failure

  • Symptoms: Faded screen, dead pixels, touch screen unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit or screen.
  • Cost: $500 - $1500

Summary Verdict

The 2004 Cadillac Escalade, while offering a luxurious experience, presents several common areas for potential repair, particularly related to its advanced suspension systems (air and magnetic ride), electrical components like the BCM and alternator, and the robust but aging 4L60-E transmission. Engine issues like intake manifold leaks are also noted. Owners should be prepared for potential costs associated with these specific components, especially as the vehicle ages. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs are crucial for mitigating larger, more expensive repairs.

Cadillac, Escalade
Cadillac Escalade 2004
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