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2013 Cadillac Escalade ESV

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2013 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spaciousness, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. It’s available with a single engine option, the 6.2L V8, which produces 403 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Escalade ESV’s ample cargo space, powerful engine, and luxurious features. However, some common complaints include poor fuel economy and its large size.

Engine

6.2L V8

  • Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The AFM system deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy, but the lifters can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage. Symptoms include a check engine light with codes related to cylinder misfires, a ticking or knocking noise from the engine, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replacing the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft. Some owners choose to disable the AFM system to prevent future failures.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil frequently between oil changes.
    • Solution: Potential solutions include replacing valve seals, piston rings, or even the entire engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6L80 6-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: A shudder or vibration felt during light acceleration or cruising speeds. Often occurs between 35-55 mph.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter or performing a transmission fluid flush. Sometimes a software update can help.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Harsh or Delayed Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift harshly between gears, or there may be a delay when shifting.
    • Solution: Could be due to low transmission fluid, worn solenoids, or valve body issues. Replacing the affected components or the entire transmission may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension may sag or not maintain the proper ride height. A warning light may appear on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Suspension Strut/Shock Failure (If equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking air struts or shocks cause a bouncy or unstable ride, especially in the rear.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts or shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per strut/shock
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Autoride/Magnetic Ride Control Issues (If equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The ride may become harsh or unresponsive. Error messages related to the suspension system may appear.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected shocks or struts, or addressing any wiring issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per strut/shock
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may freeze, reboot unexpectedly, or display incorrect information. The touch screen may become unresponsive.
    • Solution: Software updates, replacing the head unit, or repairing wiring issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the vehicle sits for a few days.
    • Solution: Identifying and fixing parasitic draws, replacing the battery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window/Lock Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or operate erratically. Door locks may fail to lock or unlock.
    • Solution: Replacing the window motor, door lock actuator, or addressing wiring issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per window/lock
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Liftgate Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or may make unusual noises.
    • Solution: Replacing the liftgate struts, motor, or latch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop cracks, especially in warmer climates.
    • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Heater/Cooler Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters or coolers may stop working or become excessively hot or cold.
    • Solution: Replacing the heating or cooling elements, or addressing wiring issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per seat
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Cadillac Escalade ESV, while luxurious and spacious, can suffer from a range of issues, particularly concerning the engine’s AFM system and the transmission’s torque converter. Suspension and electrical problems are also relatively common. The severity and cost of these issues vary significantly, from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for engine or transmission replacements. Buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used Escalade ESV before purchasing.

Cadillac, Escalade ESV
Cadillac Escalade ESV 2013
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