2004 Cadillac Escalade

Introduction: The 2004 Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV powered by either a 5.3L V8 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 6.0L V8 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 5.3L V8 engine produces 285 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.0L V8 engine generates 345 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The Escalade is known for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and comfortable ride, but it has also had some issues reported by owners.

Engine 5.3L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine coolant or oil leaks, overheating, engine performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: #04V257000
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve covers, causing oil loss and smoke from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• No Major Issues Found

Transmission 4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, or no shifting at all.
  • Solution: Replace the shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, or overheating while driving.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises or clunking sounds from the front suspension, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or uneven rear end, difficulty handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear suspension leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, loss of power accessories, battery discharge.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dead battery, no power to accessories.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, door ajar warnings.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control not functioning properly, temperature fluctuations.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2004 Cadillac Escalade is a capable and powerful SUV, but it has had some issues reported by owners. The most severe and costly issues include torque converter failure in the 6-speed automatic transmission, intake manifold gasket failure in the 5.3L V8 engine, and suspension component failures. Other issues, such as electrical problems, door lock actuator failures, and climate control unit failures, are also prevalent. While some issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be costly and require extensive repairs. Overall, the reliability of the 2004 Cadillac Escalade is below average, and prospective buyers should be aware of the potential issues before purchasing.