2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500 problems

cadillac logo

The GMT900 is a General Motors full-size pickup and SUV platform used from the 2007 to 2014 model years. The platform was introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, as the replacement for the GMT800 platform. The first GMT900 vehicle introduced was the next-generation Chevrolet Tahoe.

GMT900 had been called a "Hail Mary pass" for the General Motors Corporation — the company needed the revenue from these large trucks to ensure their financial solvency. The company's resources were focused exclusively on GMT900 development through 2005, delaying other programs like the GM Zeta platform. With the 2005 spike in gasoline prices, some analysts have questioned the wisdom of "betting the company" on a line of large trucks. Sales were initially brisk, but later dropped off as the market moved to more fuel-efficient unibody vehicles.

The GMT900 series features standard vehicle stability control. Original plans called for American Axle's "I-Ride" independent suspension module in the rear, but was never used.

Tahoe production began at GM's Arlington Assembly plant in Arlington, Texas on December 1, 2005, six weeks ahead of schedule. Production of the SWB versions began at Janesville Assembly in Janesville, Wisconsin in early January 2006. Production of long wheelbase trucks (Suburban/Yukon XL) begins in Janesville and at Silao Assembly in Silao, Guanajuato, in March. The Avalanche will be produced only in Silao, and Escalade production began in March 2006, with the ESV being produced in Arlington and the EXT being produced in Silao.

The SUVs began to show up at dealers in January 2006. Sales initially exceeded expectations, but by 2008, General Motors announced they were significantly cutting back production. GM has closed the SUV plant in Janesville, Wisconsin, consolidating SUV production in Arlington, Texas.

The related Silverado and Sierra pickups started production in late 2006. The Hummer H2 was meant to move to the new platform in the next few years, but has since been cancelled (although the engines and gauge cluster shape has been carried over).

Due to a long-lasting downturn in sales of full-size trucks and SUVs in the United States (up to a 30% down through the first nine months of 2008), General Motors cancelled the next-generation CXX truck program in May 2008. Along with it, the replacements for the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban and their siblings at GMC and Cadillac.

The automotive press has speculated that some GMT900 SUV models may move to the GM Lambda platform.

On January 14, 2010, General Motors announced that they will resume development of full-size trucks and SUVs.

2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500

Social links

Common 2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500 problems

Based on the information provided in the sources, here are common problems with the Cadillac Escalade EXT 1500 2003 based on complaints from owners:

  1. Transmission Problems:
    • Issue: Transmission slipping, hard shifting, and failure to change gears.
    • Solution: Replace the 4L60E valve body with revised TCC regulator and isolator valves.
    • DTC Codes: P0757, hard shift from 2nd to 3rd gear.
    • Transmission Models: 4L60E and 4L65E in early models, 6L80, 8L90, and 10L80 in later models.
  2. Air Suspension Problems:
    • Issue: Vibration, bumpy rides, service ride control warning message, unstable handling, and poor ride height.
    • Causes: Worn-out shocks, coil spring damage, and air suspension issues.
    • Signs: Noisy and bumpy rides, ESC lights flashing, and unstable handling through corners.
  3. Gas Tank Filling Issue:
    • Problem: Difficulty filling up the gas tank due to a faulty Vapor Canister Vent Valve Solenoid.
    • Solution: Replace the Vent Valve Solenoid with a new one.
    • Symptoms: Inability to fill the tank properly, slow fuel fill issue, and triggering of gas pump nozzle pressure switch.
  4. Overdrive and Gear Shifting Problems:
    • Issue: Transmission slipping into gear, no overdrive, and difficulty shifting.
    • Possible Causes: Solenoid issues or transmission wear.
    • Solution: Consider replacing the transmission with a new or used one.

These problems are commonly reported by Cadillac Escalade owners and can impact the performance and driving experience of the vehicle. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the Cadillac Escalade EXT 1500 2003.

2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500 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.

What does EXT mean on Escalade?

The Escalade EXT is a pickup truck variant of the Cadillac Escalade full-size luxury SUV. The vehicle featured a unique “midgate” feature that enabled it to be part-pickup truck, and part-SUV. Cadillac officially referred to the model as a sport-utility truck (SUT).

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 the Cadillac Escalade have transmission problems?

Understanding Cadillac Escalade Transmission Problems

These problems may manifest as rough shifting, delays in gear engagement, or even complete transmission failure. While not all Escalades will encounter these issues, owners must be aware of the potential risks and take proactive measures.

Is the Cadillac Escalade a reliable car?

According to carparts.com, the Cadillac Escalade earns average reliability ratings. The Cadillac Escalade is far from getting the highest marks in reliability. However, it's decent if you're hunting for a luxury vehicle with room inside for your family and cargo.

Is a 2003 Cadillac Escalade AWD or 4wd?

2003 Escalade ESV Highlights

Base MSRP$56,380
Cost to Drive$479/month
Seating8 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place45.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrainall wheel drive

2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

Leave your review of 2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500 problems:

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 ...

2003 Escalade transmission questions. | Cadillac Owners Forum
2003 Escalade transmission questions. | Cadillac Owners Forum
https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/2003-escalade-transmission-questions.1046601/

Apr 8, 2018 ... The wreckers has a 2000 chevrolet 1500. Would that trans work or does it also need to be from a 2002-2006?

Common Symptoms of Clogged Orifice Tube | 2007 Cadillac ...
Common Symptoms of Clogged Orifice Tube | 2007 Cadillac ...
https://www.justanswer.com/chevy/8f2fa-chevrolet-escalade-2007-cadillac-escalade-ext.html

Apr 28, 2014 ... I have a 2007 Cadillac Escalade EXT we recently purchased with an Air Conditioning problem. I took it to a shop to be - Answered by a ...

'03 Kills Battery Overnight !!!!! - Chevy Message Forum - Restoration ...
'03 Kills Battery Overnight !!!!! - Chevy Message Forum - Restoration ...
https://www.chevytalk.org/fusionbb/showtopic.php?tid/207597/

2003 Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban; 2003 GMC Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL; 2003 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade EXT, Escalade ESV Equipped ...

Looking to buy a 2003 Escalade ESV with 190,000 miles...Advice ...
Looking to buy a 2003 Escalade ESV with 190,000 miles...Advice ...
https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/looking-to-buy-a-2003-escalade-esv-with-190-000-miles-advice.1032065/

Feb 7, 2018 ... This is my first post on this forum...looks like a great site for Cadillac help! My son sells used cars and he came across a 2003 Escalade ...

Other years of Cadillac Escalade ext 1500

cadillac escalade ext 1500 2004 photo
Escalade ext 1500 2004
Cadillac

0

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac escalade ext 1500 2007 photo
Escalade ext 1500 2007
Cadillac

0

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac escalade ext 1500 2002 photo
Escalade ext 1500 2002
Cadillac

0

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac escalade ext 1500 2003 photo
Escalade ext 1500 2003
Cadillac

0

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500?

Add car complaint
2003 Cadillac Escalade ext 1500 photo