Cadillac Escalade hybrid problems

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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.

photo of Cadillac Escalade hybrid car production

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Cadillac Escalade hybrid model years

cadillac escalade hybrid 2014 photo
Escalade hybrid 2014
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cadillac escalade hybrid 2012 photo
Escalade hybrid 2012
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cadillac escalade hybrid 2009 photo
Escalade hybrid 2009
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Common Cadillac Escalade hybrid problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, common problems with these cars include:

  • Drop in Average MPG: Another common problem reported by owners is a drop in average miles per gallon (MPG) over time. Some users have noticed a decrease in fuel efficiency from around 18 MPG to 15 MPG within a year. This decline in gas mileage can be concerning and may indicate underlying issues with the hybrid system or battery of the vehicle.
  • Battery System Concerns: There have been mentions of potential battery-related problems in the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. Owners have expressed uncertainty about the condition of the battery and its impact on the vehicle's performance. Some have raised questions about testing the battery system independently or seeking competent shops for battery diagnostics in Northern California to address these concerns effectively.

These issues highlight some of the challenges faced by owners of the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, impacting the driving experience and overall satisfaction with the vehicle. Addressing these common problems is crucial to ensure the optimal performance and reliability of these hybrid SUVs.

Cadillac Escalade hybrid

What was the worst year for the Cadillac Escalade?

Q: Which Cadillac Escalade years should I avoid? A: IIt's best to steer clear of the 2007, 2008, 2015, 2016, and 2019 model years of the Cadillac Escalade. These years have been reported to have more issues and are considered the least reliable.

How does the Cadillac Escalade hybrid work?

The Escalade Hybrid features fully blended regenerative braking to capture energy that would otherwise be lost during vehicle deceleration. By using one or both of the EVT's traction motors as a generator, braking energy is converted to electrical energy and stored in the ESS for future use to propel the vehicle.

How many miles per gallon does the Escalade Hybrid get?

20 mpg combined

The two-wheel drive Escalade hybrid has a 20/21 city/highway fuel economy rating from the EPA, and a 20 mpg combined rating.

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.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Cadillac Escalade hybrid years

We have researched Cadillac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Cadillac Escalade hybrid cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Cadillac Escalade hybrid model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Cadillac Escalade hybrid model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Cadillac Escalade hybrid years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Cadillac Escalade hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Cadillac Escalade hybrid , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Service brakes problems

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

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Escalade hybrid model years

A total of 5 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Escalade hybrid model years

There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Escalade hybrid model years

There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

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

Latest 25 complaints

Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
  • VIN: 1GYFK26259R
  • Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: After driving car all day off and on, it suddenly went into limp mode. Multiple misfires. Service traction t control and service stabilitrak warnings. Engine light flashing. Car had oil. Replaced oil pressure sensor. Replaced spark plugs. Wires. And coils. Will not clear misfire and won’t go out of limp mode. $7500 fix. This is ridiculous. I have heard of 15 others with the same issue.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-16
  • VIN: 1GYFC26219R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,ENGINE
  • Summary: Low oil pressure causing engine failure, suspension issues constantly, limp mode won’t go off
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-26
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-26
  • VIN: 1GYFK23229R
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Observed information on dashboard stating service Air Bag...it was told that my car has a Takarta brand air bag ..is there a recall for this airbag ? If so can I be sent a notification..
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-04
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-06
  • VIN: 1GYFC43569R
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE
  • Summary: N/A
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-03-07
  • Date Complaint: 2022-03-14
  • VIN: 1gyfc43579r
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle was shuddering with an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over and turned off and restarted the vehicle. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was notified of an engine misfire due to a faulty camshaft sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 117,000.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-02-23
  • Date Complaint: 2022-02-23
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 1GYFK23279R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary:  For approx. the past 6 months, the radio has been cutting out several times during my daily commute. On occasion, a message would appear saying Stabilitrack is off. Saturday, it cut out and stayed off for more than 30 minutes and did it several more times. Everytime the radio cuts out, the door locks started locking and unlocking on their own, the air conditioning, cooled front seats, and defrost turns on and the seats the airbag off light came on, and a warning message saying service stability system came on, plus the engine was revving without power and I was worried I was going to lose all electrical and control, so I pulled off the We have ran several diagnostic but found no error code messages and nothing wrong with the vehicle. When I was talking to them, the system was acting normally. I have taken the car to the dealership and my local family mechanic shop. We have paid extensively to change the grounding wire, battery, cables, fuses and other grounding components to resolve this issue. It is very dangerous and has caused my family to jerk and sometimes be hit in the process. It has died on the highway and creates an extreme possibility for accident to others, if this continues to occur. I typically would not reach out in this manner and I would just replace the vehicle, but through further research, others have also had this problem, reported it on the Cadillac forum and we have not been added to the previous electrical recall or gotten resolutions. This is my last resort before this becomes a fatality for some owner.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-12-01
  • Date Complaint: 2021-07-09
  • VIN: 1GYS3EEJ4CR
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 21V051000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who stated that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The failure mileage was 124,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-02-15
  • Date Complaint: 2021-03-20
  • VIN: 1GYS3KEF5CR
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: EVERY SO OFTEN MY SERVICE AIR BAG LIGHT WILL APPEAR ON THE DASH UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE. I THOUGHT IT COULD HAVE SOMETHING TO DO WITH MOVING THE SEATS BACK AND FORTH AND A WIRE ISSUE. I RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONTAL AIRBAG INFLATOR SHORTLY AFTER THIS STARTED HAPPENING. WHEN I CALLED ABOUT REPAIRING THE RECALL THEY SAID THEY DIDN'T HAVE PARTS AVAILABLE TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE. I HAVE CHILDREN THAT RIDE IN THE FRONT AND I'D HATE FOR THIS TO EXPLODE WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ON THEM OR ANYONE FOR THAT MATTER. WHEN WILL THERE BE A SOLUTION? HOW WILL WE KNOW THE PART IS AVAILABLE? PLEASE FIX ASAP!!
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-03-01
  • Date Complaint: 2021-03-09
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GYFK23219R
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT IMPACT WHICH RESULTED IN THE CONTACT LOSING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A POLE. NO FURTHER DETAILS WERE AVAILABLE IN REGAURDS TO THE CRASH. THE CONTACTS WIFE WHO WAS SEATED IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SUSTAINED WHIPLASH AND DID NOT SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO (WHITMORE'S WRECKER SERVICES INC 600 W GREENWOOD AVE, WAUKEGAN, IL 60087 (847) 623-7080). UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V052000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-03-01
  • Date Complaint: 2021-03-03
  • VIN: 1GYFK23239R
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V052000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. ARROWHEAD CADILLAC (8310 W BELL RD, GLENDALE, AZ 85308, (623) 455-6910) WAS CONTACTED AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE AND REQUESTED THAT THE VEHICLE NOT BE DRIVEN UNTIL REPAIRED. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-02-23
  • Date Complaint: 2021-01-04
  • VIN: 1GYFC43579R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I WENT TO REPLACE /REPAIR MY VEHICLE AND THERE WAS A 5 MONTH BACK ORDER FOR A HYBRID BATTERY FROM CHINA. IF I HAVE TO WAIT THAT LONG FOR GM TO PRODUCE PARTS THEY SHOULD RECALL THE VEHICLE. I TRIED TO USE AN AFTERMARKET PROGRAM AND I'M STILL HAVING ISSUES WITH MY TRUCK. HYBRID IS IMPORTANT FOR THE CAR AS THE VEHICLE GOES INTO LIMP MODE WITH LIMITED POWER OR NO THROTTLE RESPONSE AT ALL.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-11-30
  • Date Complaint: 2020-11-30
  • VIN: 1GYS4HEF5CR
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: WE HAVE THREE CRACKS ON OUR DASH BOARD. THE CAR IS GARAGE KEPT AND HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT AND THE CRACKS KEEP FORMING. WE HAVE HAD THE CAR FIVE YEARS AND EVERY YEAR ANOTHER CRACK FORMS.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-01
  • Date Complaint: 2020-11-24
  • VIN: 3GYFK22269G
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V381000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT CALLED TAYLOR MOTORS, INC. (2525 CHURN CREEK RD, REDDING, CA 96002; (530) 410-6816) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *BF*JB
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-02
  • Date Complaint: 2020-09-10
  • VIN: 1GYFK23279R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE BLIND SPOT INDICATOR FAILS INTERMITTENTLY.
Cadillac Escalade hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2020-08-18
  • VIN: 1GYS3BEF3CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: INTERIOR DASH CRACK , ONSTAR SYSTEM STOP WORKING

Latest negative Cadillac Escalade hybrid car reviews

  1. Leon Ebert 2024-09-06

    Vehicle year: 2012

    I'm feeling a bit frustrated with my car at the moment. I was hoping for a smoother experience with the navigation and CD player, but unfortunately it's not functioning as well as I had hoped. Additionally, I've had a few issues with the quality management and some of the interior components. Overall, I'm finding it a bit difficult to enjoy my driving experience.

  2. Wade Abshire 2024-08-19

    Vehicle year: 2009

    I purchased this car with the intention of being environmentally friendly, but unfortunately, the only thing that was green about it was the high price tag. As a long-time Mercedes owner, I have always appreciated the quality of their cars and didn't mind spending the extra money. However, there is simply no comparison between the two. The leather in the Escalade is cheap and my dogs have scratched it every time they've been in there. Additionally, there is very little storage space, not even enough room for the DVD headphones. I was disappointed to find out that there was no spare tire included and had to pay an extra $1,400 to have one mounted underneath the car. In my opinion, this car needs a complete redesign to be done correctly. I would not recommend wasting your money on this one.

  3. Juvenal Mitchell 2024-07-03

    Vehicle year: 2009

    Well, I understand your concerns about Cadillac. It seems like for the price, you were expecting more attention to comfort and convenience. It's surprising that there isn't a cabin air filter, especially when even low model Toyotas have them. Perhaps a slightly smaller wheel size, like 20 inches, would provide a smoother ride. Additionally, it would be great if Cadillac could redesign the 3rd row seating folding to allow for more storage space. I appreciate your feedback and hope that Cadillac takes it into consideration.

  4. Casper O'Reilly 2024-05-23

    Vehicle year: 2009

    I'm feeling a bit frustrated with my car at the moment. I was hoping for a smoother experience with the navigation and CD player, but unfortunately it's not functioning as well as I had hoped. Additionally, I've had a few issues with the quality management and some of the interior components. Overall, I'm finding it a bit difficult to enjoy my driving experience.

  5. Isai Walker 2024-04-29

    Vehicle year: 2012

    Be cautious of this model. I purchased the Escalade Hybrid used for my family with the hope of enjoying its large comfort, good sound, and power and pulling capabilities. However, I have experienced serious problems with the electrical system, hybrid system, and power steering. The car dash flashes with strange warnings and then shuts off. The power steering went out, and this problem ultimately bricked it. Despite replacing the hybrid battery, regular battery, auxillary transmission pump, auxilary transmission module, and electronic control module, the car still does not run. Unfortunately, GM discontinued the steering position sensor, which I now need, and no aftermarket versions exist. I have invested a lot of money in this car, but the dealership, GM, and Cadillac have not been able to help me. I am disappointed with my experience and will not be purchasing another Cadillac.

Latest positive Cadillac Escalade hybrid car reviews

  1. Helmer Renner 2024-11-26

    Vehicle year: 2012

    I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your car! It sounds like the Escalade has been a great choice for you, with an increase of about 5 mpg and an impressive 200 miles between fill-ups. It's great to hear that the magnetic ride control has made it the best riding vehicle you've ever owned, and the tight turning radius makes it easy to park. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!

  2. Favian Collins 2024-11-23

    Vehicle year: 2009

    I'll get straight to the point: I get an average of 18 MPG, the iPhone 3G pairs easily and Bluetooth works great. The kids can watch and listen to movies with the included Bluetooth headphones, while parents can listen to 6-disc CDs/XM. The rear console A/V jacks keep cables out of sight when hooking up to an iPhone or a 111 game Nintendo knock-off or PSP. The exterior styling says, 'yeah, I'm making money' and prompts jealous onlookers. I used to exclusively buy Japanese cars, but not anymore! I'm 33 years old and I'm grateful for what I have.

  3. Kareem Skiles 2024-10-11

    Vehicle year: 2012

    Great SUV! Even though it is a hybrid, it has considerable power. When compared to other vehicles such as the Range Rover and GL550, they just don't match up for the features and the price. Your wife will love this vehicle, it is perfect for your family.

  4. Jermain Spencer 2024-08-16

    Vehicle year: 2012

    I'll get straight to the point: I get an average of 18 MPG, the iPhone 3G pairs easily and Bluetooth works great. The kids can watch and listen to movies with the included Bluetooth headphones, while parents can listen to 6-disc CDs/XM. The rear console A/V jacks keep cables out of sight when hooking up to an iPhone or a 111 game Nintendo knock-off or PSP. The exterior styling says, 'yeah, I'm making money' and prompts jealous onlookers. I used to exclusively buy Japanese cars, but not anymore! I'm 33 years old and I'm grateful for what I have.

  5. Brando Lind 2024-06-15

    Vehicle year: 2009

    Great SUV! Even though it is a hybrid, it has considerable power. When compared to other vehicles such as the Range Rover and GL550, they just don't match up for the features and the price. Your wife will love this vehicle, it is perfect for your family.

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