2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT

Introduction

The 2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT is a full-size luxury pickup truck. It is available with two engine options: a 6.2L V8 that produces 403 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.2L supercharged V8 that produces 500 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Escalade EXT is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. However, it is criticized for its high fuel consumption, poor handling, and lack of modern safety features.

Engine

6.2L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, overheating, rough idle, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cylinder Head Warping
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace cylinder head(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L Supercharged V8

• Timing Chain Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: 14V462, 14V541

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks, slipping, loss of power
  • Solution: Repair or replace transmission fluid line(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sags, rough ride, compressor noise
  • Solution: Replace air suspension components (e.g., compressor, struts, bags)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, vibration, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joint(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Inspect and repair electrical system (e.g., alternator, wiring)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights dim or flicker, premature bulb failure
  • Solution: Replace headlight components (e.g., bulbs, ballasts, wiring)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks, door cannot be opened
  • Solution: Replace door handle assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Steering Wheel Controls Inoperative
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering wheel controls do not work, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace steering wheel module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Panel Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof panel rattles or makes noise
  • Solution: Inspect and adjust sunroof components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT has a number of potential issues, particularly with its engine and transmission. These issues can be costly to repair, so it is important to be aware of them before purchasing a used Escalade EXT. Overall, the severity of the issues is moderate, and the average cost to fix them is between $500 and $2,000.