2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT

Introduction:

The 2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT is a full-size pickup truck that combines luxury and utility. It was offered with two engine options: a 5.3L V8 and a 6.0L V8, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Escalade EXT was praised for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and impressive towing capacity. However, it also received criticism for its fuel consumption and high maintenance costs.

Engine

5.3L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and rough idling
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve covers
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• AFM (Active Fuel Management) System Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption
  • Solution: Replace the AFM lifters and valves
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets and resurfaced heads
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty accelerating, rough shifting, and loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the transmission or rebuild it
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Lock-up Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations during acceleration, rough gear shifts, and loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises, vibrations, and poor handling
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sag:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, uneven suspension, and poor stability
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies quickly after parking, even without running
  • Solution: Identify and fix the source of the drain, such as faulty lights or stereo
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting, and warning lights on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Body Panel Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion and rust on the body panels, especially around the wheel arches
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Chrome Trim Peeling:
  • Description/Symptoms: Peeling or flaking chrome on the exterior trim pieces
  • Solution: Replace the affected trim pieces
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater Core Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat blowing from the vents
  • Solution: Replace the heater core
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking the doors
  • Solution: Replace the lock actuators
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT offers a spacious and luxurious interior, powerful engines, and excellent towing capacity. However, it has several notable issues that can be expensive to repair, particularly in the engine and transmission. These issues can range in severity and cost from minor electrical problems to major engine failures, but they should be considered when considering the purchase of this vehicle.