2003 Cadillac Escalade esv problems

cadillac logo

The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV manufactured by General Motors and marketed by their luxury division Cadillac. It was the luxury brand's first major entry into the SUV market. The Escalade was introduced for the 1999 model year in response to an influx of new luxury SUVs in the late 1990s such as the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Range Rover, Lexus LX, and (especially) Ford's 1998 debut of the Lincoln Navigator. The Escalade project went into production only ten months after it was approved. The Escalade is built in Arlington, Texas. The term "escalade" refers to a siege warfare tactic of scaling defensive walls or ramparts with the aid of ladders or siege towers. More generally, it is a French word which is the noun-equivalent form of the French verb escalader, which means "to climb or scale".

The Escalade is currently sold in North America and select international markets (Europe and Asia) where Cadillac has official sales channels. The Escalade ESV (Escalade Stretch Vehicle) is sold in North America, Russia, and the Middle East, but is only available by special order in some international markets. The right-hand-drive Escalade and Escalade ESV are available through third-party conversion specialists without official agreement with Cadillac in Australian, Oceanic, and Japanese markets.

On August 8, 2023, GM unveiled the Escalade IQ, an all-electric version of the Escalade, and the third model in Cadillac's EV line, after the Celestiq, and Lyriq. It is expected to go on sale in late 2024 for the 2025 model year, with a starting price of $130,000.

2003 Cadillac Escalade esv

Social links

Common 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV, several common problems have been identified:

  1. Temperature Door Actuator and Mode Door Actuator:
    • These actuators are part of the HVAC system and control the temperature and airflow distribution in the vehicle. Issues with these actuators can lead to one side of the vehicle having different temperatures than the other, causing heating or cooling problems.
    • Symptoms include the heat or AC being stuck on one side, indicating a faulty actuator that needs replacement.
  2. Instrument Panel Cluster:
    • Owners have reported erratic or non-functional gauges on the instrument panel. This can affect the accuracy of vital information displayed to the driver.
    • To address this issue, the instrument panel cluster may need to be removed and sent out for repair, ensuring that the gauges receive the correct signals.
  3. Steering Wheel Position Sensor:
    • The steering wheel position sensor, located at the base of the steering column, can trigger a "service stability" message on the dashboard.
    • When this sensor fails, it can lead to codes related to the steering wheel position, necessitating a replacement to restore proper functionality.
  4. Door Lock Actuators:
    • Problems with the door lock actuators, which are part of the latch mechanism, can result in issues with locking and unlocking doors.
    • Owners may notice slow or non-responsive door locks, indicating a malfunction that requires replacing the latch mechanism.
  5. Ignition Switch:
    • The ignition switch, located in the steering column, can cause starting issues, malfunctioning functions, and trigger warning lights like the theft light.
    • Dirty or burnt contacts within the ignition switch can lead to these symptoms, necessitating the replacement of the switch for proper operation.

These common problems with the 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV highlight key areas where owners have experienced issues that impact the vehicle's performance and comfort. Addressing these problems promptly can help maintain the overall reliability and functionality of the vehicle.

2003 Cadillac Escalade esv engine

How many miles can a 2003 Cadillac Escalade last?

Expect to have between 200,000 to 250,000 miles on your Escalade, with proper care and maintenance. Over the web, several owners at the Vehicle History forums have shared real-world experiences with their Escalade. One user claimed their 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV has almost 400,000 miles and still runs perfectly.

Do Cadillac Escalades have transmission problems?

Understanding Cadillac Escalade Transmission Problems

Some owners have reported experiencing transmission problems, which can be concerning. These problems may manifest as rough shifting, delays in gear engagement, or even complete transmission failure.

What are the best years for Escalade?

A: The 2002, 2013, and 2014 model years are considered the most reliable for the Cadillac Escalade. These years offer a quality driving experience and are less likely to encounter expensive repairs over time.

Should I get Escalade or ESV?

Interior Seating & Cargo Space Comparison

The Escalade ESV offers the most cargo space between the two body sizes, and third-row passengers will appreciate the extra legroom as well. Both SUVs offer the same cargo features, despite the difference in cabin size.

How many miles can a 2003 Cadillac Escalade last?

Expect to have between 200,000 to 250,000 miles on your Escalade, with proper care and maintenance. Over the web, several owners at the Vehicle History forums have shared real-world experiences with their Escalade. One user claimed their 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV has almost 400,000 miles and still runs perfectly.

What are the best years for Escalade?

A: The 2002, 2013, and 2014 model years are considered the most reliable for the Cadillac Escalade. These years offer a quality driving experience and are less likely to encounter expensive repairs over time.

Should I get Escalade or ESV?

Interior Seating & Cargo Space Comparison

The Escalade ESV offers the most cargo space between the two body sizes, and third-row passengers will appreciate the extra legroom as well. Both SUVs offer the same cargo features, despite the difference in cabin size.

How long will the 2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV last?

With rugged, body-on-frame construction, Cadillacs are built to last longer than most other vehicles. According to a study by iSeeCars, Cadillac Escalade ESV is among the top range SUVs that can last for over 200,000 miles.

2003 Cadillac Escalade esv car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Cadillac Escalade esv problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv

The NHTSA has received 96 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv vehicles.

2024-02-04

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-03
  • VIN: 3GYFK66N03G
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: All of a sudden 3rd and 4th gears became useless causing a rapid deacceleration of the vehicle and posing the possibility of being rear ended with end result of massive damage to vehicle and serious injury to occupants
2023-04-22

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-14
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N53R
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: The sunroof on my vehicle flew off on the highway while it was in the "closed" position. There was NO personal injury nor damage to any persons or vehicles. I returned to the area where the glass flew off only to find it shattered all over the shoulder of the road, completely destroyed. I've uploading a pic of the serial number sticker and my VIN sticker off my door panel.
2021-06-23

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-16
  • VIN: 3GYEK63N93G
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT. The contact stated that the air bag light was illuminated. The contact contacted an independent mechanic who informed the contact that the air bag needed replacement but did not diagnose the failure cause. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact to take the vehicle to the dealer. The failure mileage was 178,531.
2021-06-16

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-14
  • VIN: 3GYEK63N93G
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Air bag light is on .want go off..its Cadillac (EST TRUCK )NOT THE SUV
2021-04-25

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-01
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N13R
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: COMPLETE BRAKE SYSTEM FAILURE DUE TO BRAKE LINE LEAK DUE TO INFERIOR BRAKE LINES
2020-09-09

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-08-27
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N83R
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: BREAKS WENT TO THE FLOOR AND CAR WENT DOWN EMBANKMENT.
2020-05-20

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-04-22
  • VIN: 3GYFK66N93G
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: SOME BODY TAKE MY TRUCK LIKE A ROBBERY. IM HAVE A POLICE REPORT BIT THEY DON'T FIND IT. *TR
2019-12-21

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-12-10
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N53R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING I LOST ALL USE OF BRAKES IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT CAME ON DRIVING 45MPH ON A CITY STREET. WHILE DRIVING THE STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT CAME ON AND CAR SHUT OFF 60MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. ON ANOTHER OCCASION STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT CAME ON AND STEERING COLUMN LOCKED UP WHILE TURNING. T/C LIGHT AND ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH ON A CITY STREET AND IMMEDIATELY LOST RESPONSE FROM THE GAS PEDAL. DASH LIGHTING SYSTEM FLASHES DIFFERENT INDICATOR LIGHTS, DISPLAY RANDOMLY GOES OUT WHILE DRIVING.
2019-12-15

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-12-14
  • VIN: 1GYEC63T53R
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: CONTINOUSLY LIGHT COMES ON SERVICE AIRBAG, ESPECIALLY WHEN DRIVER SEAT IS MOVED AND WHEN HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD
2019-06-27

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-05
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N93R
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT, ON DIFFERENT OCCASIONS, THE ACCELERATOR AND BRAKE PEDALS SEIZED AND FAILED TO RELEASE WHEN NEEDED. THE FAILURE PRESENTED THE RISK OF A POTENTIAL CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 04V045000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) AND 02V224000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); ALTHOUGH, THE FAILURES WERE SIMILAR TO THE RECALL CAMPAIGNS. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA11001 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
2019-03-15

STEERING,PARKING BRAKE,SEAT BELTS,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-02-25
  • Components: STEERING,PARKING BRAKE,SEAT BELTS,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND IT FELT AS IF SHE WOULD LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING AT CERTAIN SPEEDS. ON OCCASION, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT TIGHTENED AND LOOSENED ON ITS OWN. FURTHERMORE, THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE ADJUSTED, THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED, AND THE "REAR DOOR MAINTENANCE" MESSAGE APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME AND THEN TAKEN TO KUNI CHEVROLET CADILLAC (2449 FULTON AVE, SACRAMENTO, CA 95825, (916) 538-7217). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE POWER STEERING AND SEAT BELT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE CONTACT PLANNED TO SCHEDULE ANOTHER APPOINTMENT FOR THE STEERING AND SEAT BELT. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
2018-05-10

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-04-21
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N03R
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: I WAS COMING HOME FROM WORK SATURDAY, 4/21/18 AND WHEN I GOT ON THE RAMP TO TAKE I-40 EAST IN KNOXVILLE, TN, MY FRONT PASSENGER TIRE FELT LIKE IT WAS GOING TO COME OFF, THE STEERING WHEEL PULLED ME TO THE RIGHT. I STARTED TO DRIVE SLOW AND WHEN I PICKED UP SPEED TO SEE IF EVERYTHING WAS OK AND IT APPEARED TO BE. GET FURTHER DOWN THE BELTWAY, ALMOST HOME AND MY TIRE BRAKES OFF AT THE AXLE AND ROLLS ACROSS 3 LANES.
2017-11-14

AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-04
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N24R
  • Components: AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: TAKA TA RECALL, I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE HIT A SPEED BUMP AND MY AIRBAG IN MY STEERING WHEEL CAME OUT AND INFLATED AND MY STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT HAS BEEN A PROBLEUM. AT THIS TIME I DIDN'T NO WHAT TO DO, SO I CALLED ROADSIDE FOR A TOW TRUCK. MY SENSORS HAVE BEEN COMING ON EVERY SINCE.CAN SOMETHING BE DONE TO HELP WITH MY SITUATION.
2017-03-22

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-03-21
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N53R
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE PULLING INTO A PARKING AREA, SMOKE ENTERED THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE WITH HIS BABY. UPON FURTHER INSPECTING THE HOOD AREA, IT WAS NOTICED THAT THE FIRE ORIGINATED NEAR THE BATTERY AND POWER STEERING. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES AND THE VEHICLE WAS LEFT AT THE LOCATION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE INSURANCE COMPANY WAS NOTIFIED, TOOK PICTURES, AND WAS TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 06E043000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AND 02V224000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WAS WAITING FOR THEM TO FOLLOW UP TO INVESTIGATE THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
2016-04-19

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-03-15
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N53R
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE CAR ACCELERATES AS SOON AS YOU TURN IT ON AND IT JUST KEEPS ACCELERATING SO WE HAVE TO TURN IT OF BECAUSE IT DOES NOT STOP. THE CAR WAS IN MOTION WHEN THIS HAPPENED.
2016-01-18

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-09-01
  • VIN: 3GYFK66N53G
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: BROKEN EXHAUST MANIFOLD BOLTS ON ENGINE FOUND AT UNDER 100K MILES. CREATES SERIOUS FIRE HAZARD.
2015-12-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-10-15
  • VIN: 3GYFK66N73G
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH, ALL THE GAUGES AND INDICATORS ON THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER SUDDENLY FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER HAD FAILED BUT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNKNOWN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
2015-11-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-10-26
  • VIN: 1GYEK03N03R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AND THE STEERING ABILITY SEIZED. THE CONTACT HAD TO MANEUVER TO THE SHOULDER AND CALLED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE BATTERY CABLE WAS DAMAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
2015-09-21

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-09-18
  • VIN: 3GYFK66N03G
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO DECELERATE. THE ABS AND TRACTION ACTIVITY WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE HYDRO-BOOST FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V045000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
2015-09-17

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-09-17
  • VIN: 3GYEK63N73G
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TAILGATE LATCH FAILED TO LOCK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V129000 (STRUCTURE); HOWEVER, THE RECALL WAS ONLY PARTIALLY COMPLETED DUE TO PARTS NOT BEING AVAILABLE FOR THE COMPLETE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 187,869.
2015-09-05

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-08-24
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N53R
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I WAS ON I 75 PASSING UNDER MILLER RD IN FLINT, MI WHEN TRAFFIC STARTED TO BACK UP AND SLOW DOWN. I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THE CAR STATED TO SLOW DOWN, THE BRAKE PEDDLE THEN WENT TO THE FLOOR AND I HAD NO BRAKES. I WAS ABLE TO DOWN SHIFT TO 1ST GEAR AND GET TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CAR SLOWED DOWN TO WHERE I COULD GET IT INTO REVERSE TO STOP IT. WE WHERE SO LUCKY! I GOT IT TO A CADILLAC DEALER IN DEARBORN, MI AND FOUND OUT THAT THE MAIN BRAKE LINE HAD RUSTED THROUGH. I HAD ALL THE BRAKE LINE REPLACE. I HAVE MAJOR CONCERNS THAT THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF GM VEHICLES WITH THIS PROBLEM STILL ON THE ROAD. I HAVE SINCE BEEN TOLD THAT GM HAD A BRAKE LINE MATERIAL PROBLEM DURING THE EARLY 2000 THAT LEAD TO RUSTING OUT OF THE LINES. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS FOR THE SAFETY OF OTHERS. THE DEALER WAS LES STANFORD CADILLAC UPDATED 10/9/15 *LN
2015-07-31

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-02-28
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N93R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, ALL OF THE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED AND THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FAILED TO RESPOND FOR APPROXIMATELY THREE TO FIVE SECONDS BEFORE INDEPENDENTLY RESPONDING. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,000. UPDATED 09/21/15*LJ *CN
2015-07-30

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-06-25
  • VIN: 3GYFK66N63G
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: BRAKES HAVE FAILED COMPLETELY THREE TIMES BECAUSE OF FAILURE OF HYDRAULIC LINES/COMPONENTS. LAST TIME WHEN BRAKE FAILED I WAS ON A FREEWAY AND I HIT THE BRAKE TO SLOW DOWN THE CAR TO TAKE AN EXIT AND LOST COMPLETE CONTROL OF THE CAR. THANKS GOD NO DAMAGE TOOK PLACE. I AM HAVING LOT OF RUST/CORROSION/CHROME FAILURE PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR.
2015-04-23

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-02
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N83R
  • Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL PROBLEM ON THE 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT COMES ON, ABS LIGHT COMES ON, SERVICE STABILITY CONTROL ALARM COMES ON. WHEN IT IS NOT ONE ALARM OR THE OTHER IT IS ALL. REPLACED HUBS, SHOCKS, SENSORS, COMPRESSOR SEVERAL TIMES, WORKED ON SYSTEM GROUNDS FOR ELECTRICAL, ETC. PROBLEM SOMETIME WILL GO AWAY FOR A FEW THOUSAND MILES THEN RETURNS. CADILLAC MECHANICS STUMPED.STARTED WHEN VEHICLE HAD ALMOST 80,000 MILES NOW HAS 146,000 AND IT IS CONSTANT PROBLEM AND LARGE AMOUNTS OF MONEY. SEEMS PROBLEM CANNOT BE FIXED AND I DO NOT WANT TO SPEND MORE MONEY ON IT..... *TR
2015-04-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-03-21
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1GYEK63N33R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE EMITTING FROM UNDERNEATH THE CUP HOLDER. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE PART BENEATH THE CUP HOLDER HAD MELTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 182,000.

2003 Cadillac Escalade esv recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv.

2004-02-04
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND PASSENGER VANS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 135, ?PASSENGER CAR BRAKE SYSTEMS.? SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH AN OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION BRAKE HYDRO-BOOST HOUSING RELIEF VALVE BORE.
  • Consequence: CONSEQUENTLY, THE VALVE O-RING SEAL MAY FRACTURE. STEERING EFFORTS MAY BE SLIGHTLY INCREASED WHILE BRAKING OR PARKING. UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS, A FRACTURED SEAL MAY REQUIRE A SLIGHT INCREASE IN THE APPLIED BRAKE PEDAL EFFORT TO ACHIEVE THE SAME VEHICLE DECELERATION RATE AS PRIOR TO THE SEAT FRACTURE.
  • Remedy: DEALERS ARE TO REPLACE THE HYDRO-BOOST RELIEF VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 18, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; GMC AT 1-866-996-9463; OR HUMMER AT 1-866-486-6376.

Negative 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv car reviews

  1. Cristobal Stoltenberg 2024-04-25

    Overall, I think it's a nice vehicle, but I was hoping for more than just Cadillac emblems on a Suburban/Yukon XL. The 'Cadillac ride' doesn't seem to apply to the ESV.

Positive 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv car reviews

  1. Berta Balistreri 2025-01-01

    A wonderful machine! This truck is extremely comfortable and smooth riding. Finally, a large family vehicle that's fun to be in and drive, loaded with high-end features and quality. Now, on a trip, I won't have to miss the BMWs and Mercedes at home in the garage!

  2. Sedrick Hauck 2024-11-14

    This is the most comfortable vehicle I have ever owned in 50 years of driving. For the size, it is nimble, smooth and very powerful. As a road vehicle it is wonderful to drive. I just drove it 500 miles in one day and arrived rested and relaxed. It is definitely first rate in almost all respects.

  3. Moses Bartell 2024-08-22

    To be honest, if all American-made cars were this good, there would be no moaning in Detroit! This vehicle looks great, has a smooth ride that is inimitable, and starts up every time without a blip, even in hot and cold weather. I wish it would last forever, but then again, at this rate, it just might!

  4. Jakob Moen 2024-08-09

    This is definitely a great car! It has a smooth ride and impressive pickup for an SUV. Overall, it's my favorite car out of the ones I have.

  5. Carlos Koepp 2024-07-20

    It rides smoothly and has a rich look.

Leave your review of 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv problems:

2003 Cadillac Escalade Problems and Complaints - 32 Issues
2003 Cadillac Escalade Problems and Complaints - 32 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-cadillac-escalade/problems

Top 2003 Cadillac Escalade Problems · Inside/Outside Door Handles May Break · Speedometer or Other Instrument Panel Gauge May Work Erratically · Heating and AC ...

2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV Q&A: Common Problems & Engine ...
2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV Q&A: Common Problems & Engine ...
https://www.justanswer.com/cadillac/hjkuh-2003-cadillac-escalade-esv-6-0l-v8.html

Aug 21, 2021 ... Most likely the seals inside the master cylinder have failed and will not allow the master to produce pressure. I would suggest replacing the ...

2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT Problems and Complaints - 24 Issues
2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT Problems and Complaints - 24 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-cadillac-escalade-ext/problems

Problem with your 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT? Our list of 24 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT.

2003 Escalade problems | Cadillac Owners Forum
2003 Escalade problems | Cadillac Owners Forum
https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/2003-escalade-problems.1037098/

Feb 27, 2018 ... For #2 - you may be losing fuel pressure. I'm guessing the regulator holds the pressure so the new one might be bad??? 2005 Escalade ESV

Q&A: Cadillac Escalade EXT 2003 - Throttle Body Problems, Repair ...
Q&A: Cadillac Escalade EXT 2003 - Throttle Body Problems, Repair ...
https://www.justanswer.com/cadillac/8229n-cadillac-escalade-ext-2003-escalade-truck.html

Oct 15, 2013 ... If you continue to have problems after servicing the grounds, the throttle body connector may need to be replaced. It is also common for the ...

Other years of Cadillac Escalade esv

cadillac escalade esv 2004 photo
Escalade esv 2004
Cadillac

87

1

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac escalade esv 2005 photo
Escalade esv 2005
Cadillac

53

1

18

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac escalade esv 2006 photo
Escalade esv 2006
Cadillac

24

1

13

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac escalade esv 2007 photo
Escalade esv 2007
Cadillac

263

4

19

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac escalade esv 2008 photo
Escalade esv 2008
Cadillac

165

4

18

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac escalade esv 2009 photo
Escalade esv 2009
Cadillac

61

5

20

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2003 Cadillac Escalade esv?

Add car complaint
2003 Cadillac Escalade esv photo