2023 Cadillac Escalade

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2023 Cadillac Escalade, categorized for clarity and accuracy.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and advanced technology. Engine options include a 6.2L V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel producing 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Escalade’s opulent features, comfortable ride, and commanding presence. Criticisms often revolve around its large size making it hard to park, and its high price tag.

Engine

6.2L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, ticking noises, and potential for significant internal engine damage. This is often attributed to the AFM lifters failing and causing damage to the camshaft.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected AFM lifters, camshaft, and potentially other valvetrain components. Some owners opt to delete the AFM system altogether during the repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ per injector (depending on location and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, hesitation when shifting, and a general lack of smoothness in gear changes.
  • Solution: Software recalibration of the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, replacement of valve body components or the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software recalibration; $1,500 - $4,000+ for valve body or transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Ride Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits lower than normal, ride quality is diminished, and a warning light illuminates on the dashboard. This is due to the compressor for the air ride suspension failing, causing the air bags to not inflate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The large OLED screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes, requiring a system reboot. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate controls.
  • Solution: Software updates. In some cases, hardware replacement of the infotainment module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $300 for software updates (covered under warranty if applicable); $1,000 - $2,000+ for module replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver Assistance Features Malfunctions (e.g., Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist)
  • Description/Symptoms: Error messages related to the driver assistance systems, intermittent or complete failure of these features to function correctly.
  • Solution: Recalibration of sensors, software updates, or replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ for recalibration/software; $500 - $1,500+ for sensor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Running Board Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic running boards fail to deploy or retract properly, or make excessive noise during operation.
  • Solution: Lubrication of hinges and pivot points, replacement of the running board motor, or replacement of the entire running board assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 for lubrication; $300 - $800+ for motor replacement; $1,000 - $2,500+ for assembly replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater/Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters or coolers stop working, or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating/cooling element or the control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade, while a luxurious and feature-rich vehicle, exhibits a range of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly AFM lifter failure in the 6.2L V8, can be severe and costly. Transmission issues with the 10-speed automatic are relatively common but can often be addressed with software updates. Electrical glitches, especially those affecting the infotainment system and driver assistance features, are also reported. Suspension and exterior component malfunctions can add to the ownership costs. While some problems may be minor and easily resolved, others could lead to significant repair bills. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a thorough inspection before purchase.