2018 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2018 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spaciousness, powerful engine, and upscale features. The 2018 model came with a 6.2L V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. People appreciate the Escalade for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and ample cargo space, especially in the ESV (Extended Stretch Vehicle) version. Common dislikes often include its large size making it difficult to maneuver, and the high fuel consumption.

Engine

6.2L V8 (L86)

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue occurs when the AFM lifters collapse, leading to misfires, rough idling, and potential engine damage. Often indicated by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to cylinder misfires.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed AFM lifters is the typical solution. Some owners opt to disable the AFM system during the repair to prevent future occurrences.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption can occur due to worn piston rings or valve seals. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently between oil changes and blue exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Diagnosis often involves a compression test and leak-down test. Repairs could range from replacing valve seals to a complete engine rebuild, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (10L80)

• Rough Shifting/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or harsh shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can be caused by issues with the valve body or transmission control module (TCM).
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue in some cases. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or transmission overhaul.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration or cruising speeds, often noticeable around 30-50 mph.
  • Solution: A transmission flush with an updated fluid type may help. In some cases, torque converter replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MRC shocks can fail, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride. Leaking fluid from the shocks is a common symptom. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the MRC system will often be present.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed MRC shocks is required. Replacing in pairs (front or rear) is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor may fail, leading to a saggy rear end or the inability to adjust the ride height.
  • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• CUE (Cadillac User Experience) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The CUE system touchscreen can become unresponsive, develop cracks, or experience delamination. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Replacing the CUE system screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can occur due to various electrical issues, such as a parasitic draw. This can result in difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic draw, which could involve faulty modules or wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may fail to display an image, show a distorted image, or become intermittently unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replacing the backup camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Running Boards Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The power running boards may fail to extend or retract properly, or may become stuck in one position.
  • Solution: Lubricating the running board mechanism may resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require motor or running board replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater/Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters or coolers may stop working on one or more seats.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty heating or cooling element or module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Cadillac Escalade ESV has some potential issues to watch out for. Engine and transmission problems, while not universal, can be costly to repair, particularly the AFM lifter failures and transmission shudder. Electrical issues with the CUE system and battery drain are also common complaints. Suspension issues can also occur, but tend to be less frequent than electrical issues. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. When purchasing a used 2018 Escalade ESV, a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.