2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spaciousness, advanced technology, and powerful engine options. It’s often praised for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and impressive towing capacity. However, some owners have reported issues affecting overall reliability. Engine options include a 6.2L V8 (420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque) and a 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel (277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque). Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Some common dislikes include the vehicle’s large size, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, and its high price tag.

Engine

6.2L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM)/Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illuminated, potential for significant engine damage if not addressed. AFM/DFM systems are designed to improve fuel economy by deactivating cylinders, but the lifters can fail, causing these symptoms.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters, potentially requiring removal of the cylinder head. In severe cases, camshaft replacement may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption.
  • Solution: Could vary from monitoring oil levels and topping off, to more involved solutions such as PCV valve replacement, or in severe cases, piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel

• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced power, excessive smoke (white or black) from the exhaust, potential for fuel dilution in the engine oil.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the faulty injector(s), followed by replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ (depending on the number of injectors replaced and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, rough idle, and potential stalling. The EGR valve can become clogged with soot and carbon deposits, leading to these issues.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, noticeable slipping during acceleration, hesitation when shifting.
  • Solution: Software update or transmission replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, poor fuel economy, and transmission overheating. The torque converter is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission, and issues can manifest in these symptoms.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Ride Suspension Malfunctions (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, rough ride, air compressor failing to activate, “Service Ride Control” message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the system to identify the faulty component (air struts, compressor, height sensors, or control module). Replacement of the defective part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per corner (depending on the component needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, audio issues.
  • Solution: Software updates from the dealership, reset of the system, or in severe cases, replacement of the infotainment module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially when the car is parked for an extended period.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Running Boards Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Running boards fail to extend or retract properly, get stuck in one position, or make excessive noise.
  • Solution: Inspection and lubrication of the hinge points, motor replacement, or complete running board assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close correctly, makes excessive noise, or leaks water.
  • Solution: Inspection and lubrication of the tracks, motor replacement, or complete sunroof assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater/Cooler Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters or coolers fail to function, operate intermittently, or provide inadequate heating/cooling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating/cooling element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV, while praised for its luxury and performance, has experienced some common issues reported by owners. Engine problems, particularly related to the AFM/DFM system in the 6.2L V8 and fuel injector issues in the 3.0L Diesel, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues such as harsh shifting are also significant. Other areas of concern include the air ride suspension, infotainment system glitches, and automatic running boards. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Addressing these problems promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle’s performance and reliability.