2003 Cadillac Escalade problems
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.
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Common 2003 Cadillac Escalade problems
Based on the sources provided, here are the common problems with the 2003 Cadillac Escalade based on complaints from owners:
- Instrument Cluster Issues:
- Symptoms: Erratic or non-functional gauges, display issues, power loss, strange sounds, broken needles.
- Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster may be necessary if troubleshooting steps like checking fuses and wiring do not resolve the issue.
- Transmission Problems:
- Symptoms: Transmission failures leading to expensive repairs or replacements.
- Details: The 2021 Escalade model has been reported to experience transmission issues quickly, potentially resulting in complete failures.
- Temperature Door Actuator and Mode Door Actuator:
- Symptoms: HVAC system issues causing heat or AC to stay stuck on one side.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty actuators is required to restore proper functionality to the heating and air conditioning system.
- Steering Wheel Position Sensor:
- Symptoms: Service stability message on the dashboard, related error codes.
- Solution: Replacement of the steering wheel position sensor is necessary to address the stability message and associated issues.
- Door Lock Actuators:
- Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, slow movement of locks.
- Solution: Replacement of the latch mechanism within the door may be needed to resolve issues with locking and unlocking.
- Ignition Switch Problems:
- Symptoms: Vehicle not starting, malfunctioning functions, theft light flashing.
- Solution: Replacement of the ignition switch is required to address issues related to starting the vehicle and other functions.
These common problems with the 2003 Cadillac Escalade can impact the functionality and safety of the vehicle. Owners experiencing these issues should consider seeking professional assistance to diagnose and address the specific problems to ensure the proper functioning of their Cadillac Escalade.
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.
Do 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.
Is an Escalade expensive to fix?
The annual maintenance cost of a Cadillac Escalade is $1,007. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
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.
Is the Cadillac Escalade a reliable car?
According to the folks at RepairPal, the Cadillac Escalade has a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5, ranking 6th out of 19 for the luxury full-size SUV segment. Although the Escalade is considered a reliable vehicle, some years are less reliable than others.
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.
2003 Cadillac Escalade car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Cadillac Escalade problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Steering problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Cadillac Escalade vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Cadillac Escalade
The NHTSA has received 112 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Cadillac Escalade. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Cadillac Escalade 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.
2018-06-13
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-15
- VIN: 3GYEK63N03G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE EXHAUST MANIFOLDS ON MY TRUCK ARE SEVERELY RUSTED AND BOLTS HAVE BROKEN OFF CAUSING THE DREADED PO430 CODE AND NOW THE TRUCK WON'T PASS STATE EMISSIONS TESTING UNTIL I SPEND OVER $1,000 CORRECTING GENERAL MOTORS' DEFECT. SO MANY TRUCKS WERE EFFECTED AND MY COUSIN'S 2005 TAHOE HAD THE SAME EXACT ISSUE. BOTH TRUCKS ARE WELL MAINTAINED AND MINE IS NORMALLY PARKED IN MY GARAGE AND CLEANED FREQUENTLY. DON'T LET ME GET STARTED ON THE RUST UNDER THE REAR DOORS. GREAT TRUCKS BUT GM REALLY DROPPED THE BALL WITH QUALITY OF THESE PARTS. IT'S UNFAIR TO THE CUSTOMER TO HAVE TO CORRECT THESE ISSUES DESPITE TAKING GOOD CARE OF THEIR VEHICLES. I OWN 5 VEHICLES AND NONE OF THEM HAVE THIS ISSUE, EVEN MY 22 YEAR OLD 96 IMPALA SS.
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
2003 Cadillac Escalade recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2003 Cadillac Escalade.
2007-12-17
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION
- Components: WHEELS:HUB
- Summary: CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL REPLACEMENT WHEEL HUB ASSEMBLIES WITH THE BRAND NAMES: NATIONAL, CARQUEST P/NOS. 515020, 515021, 515025, 515053, 515054, 515059, AND 515060, SHIPPED BETWEEN JANUARY 23, 2006, AND DECEMBER 20, 2007, SOLD FOR LIGHT DUTY AND MEDIUM DUTY TRUCKS. THE INBOARD RETENTION NUT USED TO MAINTAIN HUB BEARING ASSEMBLY CAN LOOSEN RESULTING IN AN ABS LIGHT INDICATION, NOISE, AND/OR WHEEL SEPARATION.
- Consequence: WHEEL SEPARATION CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY CUSTOMERS AND WILL REPLACE THE HUB ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 7, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL TOLL-FREE AT 877-489-6659.
2006-05-19
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
2005-04-22
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: ON CERTAIN CREW CAB PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE 2ND ROW CENTER OCCUPANT SEAT BELT ROUTING MAY MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO POSITION THE LAP PORTION OF THE SAFETY BELT LOW AROUND THE HIPS OF OCCUPANTS, ESPECIALLY SMALLER OCCUPANTS, SEATED IN THIS POSITION. APPROPRIATE USE OF A CHILD SEAT OR BOOSTER SEAT, AS RECOMMENDED FOR SMALL CHILDREN, DOES IMPROVE THE FIT CONDITION FOR THIS USER GROUP. IN ADDITION TO INSTRUCTIONS ON PROPER INFANT AND YOUNG CHILD RESTRAINT (WITH CHILD SEATS OR BOOSTERS), SPECIAL VERBIAGE FOR RESTRAINING OLDER CHILD IS INCLUDED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL. ALSO, THE SUGGESTED SEAT BELT FIT/ROUTING FOR ADULTS, IRRESPECTIVE OF SEATING POSITION, IS DESCRIBED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL TEXT.
- Consequence: A LAP PORTION OF THE SEAT BELT ROUTING THAT IS NOT LOW AND SNUG ON THE HIPS CAN ALLOW THE LAP BELT TO RIDE UP ON AN OCCUPANT'S ABDOMEN INSTEAD OF FITTING LOW AROUND THEIR HIPBONES, AND THEREFORE, CAN EXPOSE THEM TO MORE RISK OF ABDOMINAL AND INTERNAL ORGAN INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL CUT OPEN THE GUIDE LOOP, REMOVE A PORTION OF THE LOOP, AND THEN THE REMAINING TWO SIDES SHOULD BE FOLDED OVER AND SECURED WITH A RETAINER FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 21, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, OR HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493.
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.
2003-02-06
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 214, "SIDE IMPACT PROTECTION." THESE VEHICLES ARE BUILT WITH FOUR WELDS ON THE REAR DOOR UPPER HINGE. ON SOME OF THESE VEHICLES, ONE OR TWO OF THE WELDS MAY NOT BE TO SPECIFICATION.
- Consequence: AS A RESULT, THE DOOR STRENGTH MAY BE DEGRADED DURING A SIDE IMPACT VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WELDS ON THE LEFT REAR DOOR UPPER HINGE. IF A WELD IS FOUND OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION, A BOLT WILL BE INSTALLED TO SECURE THE HINGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 17, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
2002-08-12
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
- Summary: CERTAIN ALL-WHEEL DRIVE SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITHOUT A POWER STEERING BRACKET TO SECURE THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE, ALLOWING THE CABLE TO COME IN CONTACT WITH THE STEERING SHAFT.
- Consequence: THIS CONTACT COULD CAUSE A WEAR-THROUGH OF THE CABLE INSULATION, EXPOSING THE WIRE CORE AND RESULT IN INTERMITTENT ELECTRICAL SHORTING. IF ENOUGH CURRENT IS DISCHARGED AT THE POINT OF CONTACT, AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE ROUTING AND RE-ROUTE, IF NECESSARY. NO OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL TAKE PLACE SINCE ALL VEHICLES WERE CAPTURED AT THE DEALERS.
Positive 2003 Cadillac Escalade car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Cadillac Escalade problems:
2003 Cadillac Escalade Problems and Complaints - 32 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-cadillac-escalade/problems
Problem with your 2003 Cadillac Escalade? Our list of 32 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Cadillac Escalade.
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 ... I have a 2003 escalade truck with a periodic problem where I get the message REDUCED POWER and Stability System - Answered by a verified ...
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.
What could be causing a fuel problem in my 2003 Cadillac Escalade?
https://www.justanswer.com/cadillac/37cmq-2003-cadillac-escalade-truck-left-running-ran.html
Mar 1, 2010 ... 2003 Cadillac Escalade: My truck was left running and ran out of gas. Put about 5 gallons of gas in to the vehicle but it still won't start.
2003 Cadillac Escalade Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/cadillac/escalade/2003/common-problems/
How reliable is the 2003 Cadillac Escalade? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
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Are you having problems with your 2003 Cadillac Escalade?
Edwin Gutmann 2025-01-07
The Cadillac Escalade is a fantastic SUV, even with rising gas prices. I purchased a 2003 White Diamond Escalade and it always turns heads when I'm driving down the road. It comfortably accommodates my entire family and allows me, as the driver, to have a great time while being comfortable. It's truly a stylish and luxurious vehicle.
Marvin Kerluke 2024-11-11
It sounds like you've found a great SUV! It's fast and powerful, and it's the best in its class.
Durward Greenfelder 2024-11-06
This car is amazing!
Devan Bartoletti 2024-11-04
Hey there! Have you heard about the best truck in the world?
Sherwood Leuschke 2024-10-22
Just bought an Escalade after looking at GMC Denali. Loved it from the first drive and it is different from GMC Yukon despite what they say. Have taken several trips and it drives great. Integrated navigation and XM Radio are fantastic and work seamlessly. Overall, it's been a fantastic drive!