Model year

2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV

SUV, gasoline, 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4, built in United States. Owner complaints on file from Dec 20, 2020 to Sep 21, 2026.

Recall campaigns covering this model year234k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints22Close to the median 2020 suv
Severity index13.62020 suvs average 5.6
First 24 months3Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV peaked in 2025, with 7 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

02.557.51020202021202220232024202520269
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

64% of complaints about the 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV name engine and cooling

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Engine and cooling
14
Airbags
4
Wheels
4
Fuel system
3
Powertrain
2
Structure
2
Electrical system
1
Driver assistance
1
Brakes
1
Steering
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

2 recall campaigns cover the 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
21V-115Feb 25, 2021Affected tires were cured for too long during productionTires33,838Part replacement
19V-837Nov 21, 2019Fuel pump may be missing a pressure regulator, allowing for over-pressurization of the fuel systemFuel system502Part replacement
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

22 complaints on file, page 1 of 2.

  1. Filed Sep 21, 2026Failure Jul 17, 2026Channahon, ILPower train

    Torque convertor shutter, hard shifts, delayed shifts

    NHTSA complaint 11765856
  2. Filed Jun 12, 2026Failure Jun 11, 2026Springfield, KYEngine

    This vehicle is equipped with the 6.2 V8 engine we have experienced catastrophic engine failure twice. The vehicle is relatively low mileage.

    NHTSA complaint 11743653
  3. Filed May 8, 2026Failure May 4, 2026San Antonio, TXAir bags, Electrical system, Body

    Purchased a 2020 Cadillac Escalade Suburban about three months ago from GMC dealership at 8155 Interstate 35, San Antonio, Texas 78224. This vehicle had about 50,000 miles when we bought it. We were not driving the Escalade everyday, we use it occasionally and about a month after we purchased it the battery went dead. Before the battery went completely dead we were on the road one day and we rolled down the window and it would not roll back up, then the back window popped open and it would not shut back down. GMC dealership we bought it from came to our home and used a charger to recharge the battery. We took it to the dealership service department and dealership determined it was a bad battery, they gave us a new battery. On May 4, we attempted to use the Escalade and once more the battery was dead. Service person from GMC dealership came back to our home to charge the new battery but it would not start at all this time. We no longer feel safe driving this vehicle and want to turn it back in as a lemon and get our money back.

    NHTSA complaint 11736511
  4. Filed Apr 29, 2026Failure May 13, 2025Atwater, OHEngine

    There is something causing an engine misfire, and this was the first time it happened. It has happened again, and I realized that there were a lot of class action lawsuits about lifter failure in these engines

    NHTSA complaint 11734715
  5. Filed Apr 14, 2026Failure Mar 19, 2026Auburn, KSEngine

    While driving on a highway, my wife abruptly experienced warning lights, loud rattling from engine and loss of power. Check engine light indicated cylinder misfire. Troubleshooting revealed a bent push rod and later discover broken lifter. While researching the issue it was found to be a very common issues with vehicles using active fuel management. Issue is so widespread parts are replacement parts are unavailable. If more traffic were around situation could resulted in loss of control in traffic and collision.

    NHTSA complaint 11731123
  6. Filed Mar 30, 2026Failure Jun 20, 2025Irvine, CAEngine

    My original factory 2020 Escalade 6.2L engine suddenly without warning seized while driving on a two lane undivided highway. I was forced to steer and brake the vehicle from 70mph to the shoulder of the road. My Vehicle had to be towed to GM dealer who diagnosed a seized engine. GM Replaced engine under warranty. This incident is identical to the 6.2L engine failures of the 2021 to 2024 recall.

    NHTSA complaint 11727921
  7. Filed Mar 17, 2026Failure Nov 3, 2025Salem, MAEngine

    The colling system is not working properly and damage the engine

    NHTSA complaint 11724916
  8. Filed Jan 22, 2026Failure Aug 8, 2025Mount Prospect, ILEngine, Fuel/propulsion system, Power train

    Persistent Engine Failure and Safety Hazards – 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV 97000 miles The vehicle suffered a major engine failure while traveling at highway speeds. The incident began with a loud mechanical knocking from the engine, followed by a sudden loss of propulsion and the vehicle entering "limp mode." Both the Check Engine Light (flashing/solid) and multiple safety system warnings illuminated simultaneously. Diagnostic reports confirmed multiple cylinder misfires. Despite thousands of dollars spent at various independent service centers, the underlying mechanical issues persist, rendering the vehicle unreliable and unsafe for operation.

    NHTSA complaint 11712596
  9. Filed Jan 12, 2026Failure Nov 24, 2025125,236 milesAventura, FLEngine

    The contact owns a 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact allowed the vehicle to coast to the shoulder of the roadway and shifted into park(P). The contact attempted to restart the vehicle, but the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,236.

    NHTSA complaint 11710428
  10. Filed Nov 6, 2025Failure Oct 2, 2025Lexington, KYEngine

    My Engine is experiencing rough idle. This vehicle has the l87 engine that has been recalled on other year models. Rough idle is one of the symptoms described before complete failure of the l87 engines.

    NHTSA complaint 11697952
  11. Filed Nov 5, 2025Failure Apr 5, 2025St. Louis, MOEngine

    My engine completely failed and required replacement. It failed on the highway and luckily I was able to coast to an exit ramp. I had a repair shop replace the entire engine. There are complaints all over the internet about this engine and it failing. GM recalled the 2021 through 2024 engine, but this one is also faulty.

    NHTSA complaint 11697629
  12. Filed May 22, 2025Failure Jan 1, 2025105,000 milesSouthampton, NJEngine

    The contact owns a 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while at a complete stop at the red traffic light, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and turned off. The contact stated that upon attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle to restart. The vehicle was towed to a certified independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the engine had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The mechanic contacted an unknown dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11662573
  13. Filed May 13, 2025Failure Apr 25, 2025Braintree, MAEngine

    The engine had lost power without warning. While driving at low speed.

    NHTSA complaint 11660803
  14. Filed May 6, 2025Failure Feb 17, 2025Jacksonville, FLEngine

    Knocking noise coming from engine. Chirp noise coming from camshaft, and coils. Cylinder 7 misfiring, metal found in oil. I took my car to the Dealer because of vibration. Replaced 4 tires, balanced and aligned front end, that did not fix the problem. I took it back to the dealer balanced again and repaired valve stem, that still did not fix the vibration. I took the vehicle to 2 other places, balanced the tires again, replaced rear brakes, rotors, shocks still did not fix the vibration. Took the vehicle back to the dealer again, they road force balanced the tires, that still did not fix the problem. I returned home and the next day started the vehicle and heard a bad noise. Towed it to the Dealer they diagnosed engine failure with no warning.

    NHTSA complaint 11659358
  15. Filed Apr 28, 2025Failure Feb 2, 2025Southampton, NJEngine

    I learned that General Motors issued a voluntary recall for engine issues covering 2021 through 2024. I have a 2020 with the same exact engine problem. Basically, the engine completely failed when driving and now I'm stuck making payments on a car that is useless.

    NHTSA complaint 11657146
  16. Filed Jan 29, 2025Failure Jan 20, 2025Southampton, NJEngine

    We had a catastrophic engine failure when it seized up due to the rod bearing wear issue I read yesterday that your agency was investigating. I was told I need a new engine by my mechanic. Please reach out if you need more information. [XXX][XXX]

    NHTSA complaint 11639250
  17. Filed Mar 13, 2024Failure Feb 13, 2024Sarasota, FLWarnings, Warning, Wheels

    Right front wheel fell off, traction control system and forward collision system were disabled, leaving me stranded on I75.

    NHTSA complaint 11577251
  18. Filed Jun 23, 2022Failure Nov 2, 20205,000 milesRogersville, MOBody

    The contact owns a 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while he was approaching the vehicle, the side step was extended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnosis and the actuator was replaced. The failure continued and the contact took the vehicle back to the dealer and the actuator was replaced again however, the failure continued. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 5,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11470740
  19. Filed Dec 23, 2021Failure Dec 21, 2021Portsmouth, VAService brakes

    March of this year while on vacation in South Carolina this vehicle had a partial brake failure at 2145 miles. It was repaired in Charlestown S. C. at a Cadillac Dealership and shipped back to Rick Hendrick Cadillac Norfolk Virginia. On 12/21/21 the same issues resurfaced one day prior to heading to South Carolina for Christmas. The vehicle was towed to Rick Hendrick Cadillac in Norfolk Virginia where it will stay. I have loss all confidence in the brake system on that vehicle. It will not come back to my home.

    NHTSA complaint 11444787
  20. Filed Jul 20, 2021Failure Nov 13, 2020Dayton, OHAir bags, Fuel/propulsion system, WheelsCrash1 injured

    er to case number: Case#9-6698447273v 3136671128 Vera Cadillac case Escalated and I am not getting through. Just want to make sure that I made the effort to each our to dealerships and headquarters to no avail. And if this is really is what is happening, this is what really need to be done properly: per lemon vehicle with extended warranty program, with defective equipment (manufacturer’s defects)failure to service right rear tire request per fotainment alert. Plus steering wheel airbag failure to inflate and deploy upon collision, resulting internal injuries, including, but not limited to loss of smell and loss of taste due to this defective automobile. Also note: diagnostics mentioned vehicle was up for a possible recall with its fuel system.

    NHTSA complaint 11425722
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

663 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • PIT5698F Sep 26, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI provides Diagnostics tips on how the LIN bus works and how to diagnosis it.
  • PIP4902W Sep 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
  • PIT5099J Jul 21, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    PI to help diagnose A/C concern
  • PIT3271Q Apr 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This preliminary information communicates information about how to determine if a wheel and tires size change is available.
  • PIP6104 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates the steps on how to save a GDS2 Session Log and upload to a Technical Assistance Case in CX Connect.
  • PIP4902V Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
  • PIT6425D Mar 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC'ss
  • PIT6483 Feb 5, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This preliminary information communicates an issue with aftermarket LED headlights causing IPC warning messages and MIL along with several low speed lan DTCs.
  • PIP6098 Jan 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI advised dealer technicians of possible causes of diesel fuel contamination in gasoline powered vehicles and advises of warranty direction.
  • PIT6400A Jan 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI Communications information on an alternative product dealers can use to perform 19-NA-255: Wax Coating on Frame Peeling, Metal Shows Corrosion/Rusting due to issue with getting product from current supplier listed in the bulletin.
  • PIT6425C Jan 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC's
  • PIP4902U Jan 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
  • 25-NA-156 Jun 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on Tire Sidewall Irregularities.
  • 00-06-01-026R Jun 5, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on replacing the intake manifold when the engine is replaced after severe internal engine damage.
  • PIT5214G Nov 20, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have had multiple repair attempts that are being performed on customer’s vehicles that exhibit vibration conditions without utilizing the support of Genera…
  • 23-NA-153 May 15, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
  • PIT6425B Oct 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC's
  • PIT6425A Oct 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC's
  • PIT6440 Oct 4, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The Driver Information Center may display a message of Transport Mode On after the ignition is cycled.
  • 22-NA-080 Sep 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This technical bulletin provides a procedure to replace the camshaft actuator magnet to correct customer concerns of engine related shudder.
  • PIT5479H Sep 9, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about fluid leaking from the brake caliper piston area found during a service of the vehicle. The substance is actually excess assembly grease from the caliper boot and piston.
  • 13598 Sep 9, 2025 · Other
    New Vehicle Monitoring Programs Section in IVH
  • 25-NA-118 May 8, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for the technicians to use a Customer Concern Verification sheet to facilitate the questions needing to be answered by the customer regarding Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) issues.
  • PIP4902T Aug 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
  • PIC5650M Aug 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes B3055, B306…
  • PIP5601B Jul 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.
  • 15-NA-010 May 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel for new vehicles with less than 1,000 miles that may not pass California smog inspection or smog inspection in other states.
  • PIT6400 Jun 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI Communications information on an alternative product dealers can use to perform 19-NA-255: Wax Coating on Frame Peeling, Metal Shows Corrosion/Rusting due to issue with getting product from current supplier listed in the bulletin.
  • PIC6086J Jun 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI communicates a procedure to clean oil leaking from the rain sensor.
  • PIT6180A Jun 10, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates assistance in locating the Rear seat belt comfort guides in the parts catalog.
  • PIP4902S Jun 9, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
  • N252494770-01 Jun 20, 2025 · Service Campaign
    Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owne…
  • N252494770 Jun 17, 2025 · Service Campaign
    Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owne…
  • PI0281L Apr 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This preliminary informational (PI) bulletin provides information to dealership personnel that may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers.
  • 25-NA-100 Apr 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information on vehicles outside of a California Emissions State who move to and register their vehicle in a California Emission State may be entitled to the 7 year, 70,000-mile Emission Select State Comp…
  • PIT5074R May 30, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
  • PIT5074R May 30, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
  • PIT5074R May 30, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
  • 24-NA-229 Apr 10, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides a procedure on how to check for a battery drain utilizing the Picoscope and how to measure the load on the system that may be causing a drain.
  • 07-00-89-037W Apr 8, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
  • 25-NA-087 Apr 3, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on the proper Reflective High Temperature Heat and/or Insulating Tape to use for certain repairs, such as Wiring Harness Repairs.
  • 25-NA-052 Mar 25, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin advises the technician to flush the cooling system multiple times if oil has been found in the cooling system and replace the parts that may be contaminated due to oil in system.
  • 23-NA-185 Mar 25, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin helps diagnose/reduce possible CCND issues on Transfer Cases - Service 4WD on DIC, Intermittent Failures, Noise Concerns, Driveline/Steering Vibration/Shudder, Intermittent DTCs/MIL Illuminated, Engagement/Disengagement/Ratcheting Conc…
  • 13-08-116-001K Mar 31, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them.
  • 24-NA-098 Mar 21, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
  • 25-NA-065 Mar 21, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin instructs the tech when fuel/fluid is needed to be tested and where it can be sent for analysis.
  • 15-06-03-001F Mar 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information to diagnose batteries that have set for a long period of time and/or cold weather climates and testing those batteries.
  • 08-03-10-006I Mar 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides a procedure on how to clean and resurface aluminum wheel bead seats for vehicles that have the condition of Tire Slowly Goes Flat, Tire Air Loss, Low Tire Pressure Warning Light Illuminated, Aluminum Wheel Bead Seat Corrosion.
  • PIT5551R Apr 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates a "Forward Collision System Reduced" message displayed on the DIC when the Forward Automatic Braking has been set to the "Alert" setting.  This is normal when the FAB has been set to  "Alert".
  • 19-NA-255 Mar 11, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides frame coating repair information to correct a customer concern of wax coating on frame peeling, metal shows corrosion/rusting (U.S. and Canada Only).
  • 25-NA-052 Mar 4, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin advises the technician to flush the cooling system multiple times if oil has been found in the cooling system and replace the parts that may be contaminated due to oil in system.
  • PIP5943A Mar 25, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician on diagnostic aids to help with the diagnosis and repair of 8 Speed Transmissions
  • 17-NA-073 Mar 5, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
  • 05-03-07-009L Feb 25, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on Wheel Alignment Specifications, Requirements and Recommendations for GM Vehicles.
  • 11-00-89-005Y Feb 22, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Warranty Administration bulletin provides information on Dealer Empowerment for Goodwill, Customer Enthusiasm and Policy (U.S. Only).
  • 05-08-51-001L Feb 20, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin provides a procedure on how to remove the paint stain that may present itself under the shipping film.
  • PIP5966A Mar 2, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates Diagnostic aids for a no start or DTC'S following a transmission replacement
  • PIP5966A Mar 2, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates Diagnostic aids for a no start or DTC'S following a transmission replacement
  • 16-NA-109 Feb 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides a procedure inspecting for excess grease or Sealant on the Exterior of the steering gear due to seeing grease or sealant on certain locations on the gear.
  • 24-NA-264 Feb 13, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin helps aid the tech in possible noise that may be normal or abnormal depending on the concern noted.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.