2021 Cadillac EscaladeUNDER FEDERAL INVESTIGATIONWARRANTY EXTENSION ON FILE

73 federal complaints (104 component records) · 9 recall campaigns on file · 5 federal investigations · 793 service bulletins · 12 Canadian recalls
See all 28 model years of the Cadillac Escalade →
Engine
6.2L 8-cyl
Fuel
Diesel, Premium
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
15 city / 20 hwy
Federal complaints
73
Recall campaigns
9
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Engine & cooling
53
Power train
9
Driver assistance
8
Fuel system
7
Electrical system
7
Other
6
Seat belts
3
Glass & wipers
2
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 1 complaints01 years old: 4 complaints2 years old: 0 complaints3 years old: 12 complaints4 years old: 27 complaints5 years old: 29 complaints56 years old: 0 complaints7 years old: 0 complaints8 years old: 0 complaints9 years old: 0 complaints10 years old: 0 complaints1011 years old: 0 complaints12 years old: 0 complaints13 years old: 0 complaints14 years old: 0 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 73 of 73 complaints with a usable failure date.

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Engine & cooling

53 complaint records1 crash report
"There was a recall on the L87 propulsion. The dealer changed the oil and said it was fixed. I left the dealer and the issue still persists. They refuse to address it...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Power train

9 complaint records
"My car has 79k miles and it just went in for a new transmission. I was out of town and the transmission went out along with starter..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Driver assistance

8 complaint records
"DRIVERS SIDE BLIND SPOT MONITORING AND REAR PARKING DEFECTIVE. THIS OCCURS WHEN THE CAR IS IN MOTION AND STAYS ON OVER 35 MILES PER HOUR. UNDER 35 MILES PER HOUR IT TURNS ON AND OFF AT RANDOM TIMES...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse driver assistance parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
EA26005
opened Aug 2026
OPENEngineLoss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274.
EA25007
opened Oct 2025
OPENEngine And Engine CoolingLoss of motive power due to engine failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 1,157 reports of engine bearing failure failures in the L87 6.2L engine produced by General Motors (GM). Of the 1,157 reports received, 173 are outside of the scope of recall 25V-274.
RQ26001
opened Jan 2026
closed Aug 2026EngineLoss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274.
PE25001
opened Jan 2025
closed Oct 2025Engine And Engine CoolingLoss of motive power due to engine failure - led to recall 25V274
On January 16, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25001 after receiving complaints and field reports concerning engine failures in MY2019-2024 GM’s full-size truck and SUV T1XX platform equipped with the L87 6.2L...
PE21010
opened Apr 2021
closed Aug 2023Air BagsAir Bag Malfunction
On April 9, 2021, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE21-010 to investigate instances of air bag malfunction indicator light (MIL) illumination and potential for frontal air bag non-deployment in several vehicles manufactured by General Motors...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
25V619000Fuel System, DieselGeneral Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, 2021, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, and 2022 and 2024 GMC Yukon vehicles equipped with a 6-cylinder diesel engine.Normally free
25V274000Engine And Engine CoolingGeneral Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine.Normally free
24V797000Power TrainGeneral Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL...Normally free
22V827000Exterior LightingGeneral Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles.Normally free
22V617000Seat BeltsGeneral Motors, LLC (M) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with third-row seats.Normally free
22V036000Power TrainGeneral Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, and Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles.Normally free
21V739000Fuel System, GasolineGeneral Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles.Normally free
21V421000Electrical SystemGeneral Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles.Normally free
Show 1 more recall campaigns
CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
21V190000Seat BeltsGeneral Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Suburban, and Tahoe vehicles with third-row seating.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2025225
2025-04-24
Engine49,848Issue: On certain vehicles, the connecting rods and/or crankshaft components may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the engine could make abnormal noises and a warning light may turn on.
2024637
2024-10-24
Powertrain52,309Issue: Over time, the transmission control valve could wear and lose pressure. If this happens, the transmission could shift harshly and could cause the rear wheels to lock up.
2024060
2024-02-01
Lights And Instruments273,306Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the lower beam headlamps not to turn on as it becomes dark outside if the multi-function switch is in the "OFF" or "PARKING LAMP" position.
2023472
2023-08-24
Lights And Instruments163,611Issue: On certain vehicles, the automatic headlamps may not turn on soon enough as it becomes dark outside. Canadian regulations require automatic headlamps to turn on when the ambient light level drops below a certain point (1000 lux).
2022634
2022-11-03
Lights And Instruments16,026Issue: On certain vehicles, the daytime running lamps (DRLs) may stay on when the headlamps are on. Canadian regulations require the DRLs to turn off when the headlamps are on.
Show 7 more Canadian recalls
RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2022456
2022-08-11
Seats And Restraints30,096Issue: On certain vehicles, the left and/or right third-row seat belt buckles may not have been attached correctly. As a result, the seat belts could detach in a crash.
2022027
2022-01-27
Powertrain141Issue: On certain vehicles, parts inside the rear axle shafts may not have been manufactured properly. Over time, this could lead to wear that can cause noise and vibration.
2021583
2021-09-23
Fuel System334Issue: On certain vehicles, a problem with the fuel pump power control module could interrupt fuel flow to the engine. If this happens, you may notice poor engine performance and the check engine light may turn on.
2021380
2021-06-17
Steering537Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause a loss of power steering assist at vehicle start up or while driving.
2021348
2021-06-03
Airbag16,400Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the airbag warning light not to turn on when there is a fault in the airbag system.
2021165
2021-03-18
Seats And Restraints3,010Issue: On certain vehicles, the outboard seat belts for the third-row seat may have been installed incorrectly. As a result, the seat belts could be mis-routed or damaged by sharp edges on the seat-folding parts.
2020628
2020-12-21
Lights And Instruments121IIssue: In certain situations, the front passenger seat belt and airbag status light may be dimmed, and set to "night mode" during the daytime. As a result, the status light may not be as bright as required by Canadian regulations.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
22-NA-244
May 2024
WARRANTY EXTENSIONElectrical SystemThis service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period.
PIT6477D
Oct 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis preliminary PI was created to advise techniians in the field that they will not be able to perform a GDS automated bleed with the scan tool dues to a issue with the software in the scan tool
PIT5698F
Sep 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI provides Diagnostics tips on how the LIN bus works and how to diagnosis it.
PIT5801F
Sep 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis preliminary information communicates diagnostic tips for air leveling suspension system.
PIP4902W
Sep 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
PIT6516C
Aug 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates ordering process for the night vision camera that are on restriction for all listed vehicles for Technical Assistance review.
PIT5869B
Aug 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI provides a diagnostic tip when fuse F4DR is opening and dealerships are to inspect the wiring at the center console lid.
PIC6551C
Aug 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates to dealer to perform a MEC reset for wireless projection issues
PIT6446A
Jul 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI Communicates information to ensure Memory Recall is enabled to ensure memory mirrors return to set position after curbview assist is used.
PIT5509N
Jul 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI provides diagnostic tips for diagnosing electric trailer brakes issues.
PIT5099J
Jul 2026
Unknown Or OtherPI to help diagnose A/C concern
PIT5966F
Jun 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issue with an OTA pending message still displayed after an OTA event and how to reset/clear the message.
662.10
Jun 2026
SOFTWARE UPDATEUnknown Or OtherSuper Cruise maps will download faster, giving you updates sooner for Super Cruise compatible roads
PIT6522
Jun 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI advises dealers that if the K160 Brake System Control Module sets DTC P0606 along with P0562 and/or P25A2, additional diagnostic aids should be followed before replacing parts.
PIT6132E
Jun 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issues with the HVAC making a hum buzz noise when the blower is set to a higher speed. Engineering is working on a new HVAC door seal material to correct the noise.
PIT6477C
Jun 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis preliminary PI was created to advise techniians in the field that they will not be able to perform a GDS automated bleed with the scan tool dues to a issue with the software in the scan tool
PIT6516B
May 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates ordering process for the night vision camera that are on restriction for all listed vehicles for Technical Assistance review.
PIT5509M
May 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI provides diagnostic tips for diagnosing electric trailer brakes issues.
PIT6516A
May 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates ordering process for the night vision camera that are on restriction for all listed vehicles for Technical Assistance review.
N262552620
May 2026
SERVICE CAMPAIGNEngineCertain vehicles may have a condition that could cause the cylinder 2 glow plug to fail. If this failure occurs, the Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine Light) will illuminate and a diagnostic trouble code will set.
PIC6551B
May 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates to dealer to perform a MEC reset for wireless projection issues
PIC6423A
May 2026
Unknown Or OtherPi created to provide GM dealers with information on gathering information for projection issue
PIT6516
May 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates ordering process for the night vision camera that are on restriction for all listed vehicles for Technical Assistance review.
PIT6511
Apr 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issue with a replace or low FOB battery message
PIT6507
Apr 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI communicates information on a SPS programming issue causing Serial Data Authentication Configuration to fail.
PIT3271Q
Apr 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis preliminary information communicates information about how to determine if a wheel and tires size change is available.
PIT6347B
Mar 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issue with ABS SES MIL / Service Brake System / Service StabiliTrak / BSCM DTC P0606 P0562 and dealers to perform additional battery and connection testing.
PIP4902V
Mar 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
PIP6104
Mar 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates the steps on how to save a GDS2 Session Log and upload to a Technical Assistance Case in CX Connect.
PIT6425D
Mar 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC'ss
N252516900-01
Feb 2026
Fuel/Propulsion SystemEmission Recall. General Motors has decided to conduct a Voluntary Emission Recall. Certain vehicles listed above may have a condition which can cause the fuel pump power control module to fail. If this were to occur, fuel flow to the engine could be interrupted.
PIT6415A
Feb 2026
Unknown Or OtherPI to explain normal operation for a concern that the outside rearview mirrors may not fold when the doors are locked, due to the personalization settings for Auto Door Unlocking.
N252516900
Feb 2026
Fuel/Propulsion SystemEmission Recall. Additional VINs moved to Open status.
N252516900
Jan 2026
Fuel/Propulsion SystemEmission Recall. Additional VINs Moved to ‘Open’ Status
PIT5985K
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI provides diagnostics tips to dealership techs when trying to diagnose a CAN Bus communication issue after an event like a lightning strike, battery jump started backwards, failure over the air update, etc.
N252494003-02
Jan 2026
SERVICE CAMPAIGNEngineCertain vehicles listed above, may have a condition where the connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components in these vehicles may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
PIT6425C
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC's
PIT6400A
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis 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.
PIT6344A
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issue with blower motor speed changing when air flow is blocked by snow.
PIT5993F
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issue with high resistance in the glass breakage loop that could cause a dead battery or unwanted theft alarm. Dealers are to inspect the glass breakage loop.
PIP6098
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis PI advised dealer technicians of possible causes of diesel fuel contamination in gasoline powered vehicles and advises of warranty direction.
PIT6369B
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates to dealership technicians to perform the reset for the 2 modules noted above.
PIP4902U
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
PIT5828E
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about customers that may request the factory Integrated Trailer Brake Controller Regular Production Option Code (JL1) be installed on their Full-Size Pickup or SUV when the vehicle was not ordered...
PIT6276B
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issue with a service keyless entry message caused by aftermarket door handle covers and they should be removed.
N252516900
Dec 2025
Fuel/Propulsion SystemEmission Recall. Additional VINs moved to Open status.
PIT6132D
Nov 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issues with the HVAC making a hum buzz noise when the blower is set to a higher speed. Engineering is working on a new HVAC door seal material to correct the noise.
PIT5214G
Nov 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis 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 General Motors Technical...
25-NA-339
Nov 2025
EngineUnder Field Actions N252494000, N252494001, the service procedure includes performing a PICO test on vehicle engines within the identified suspect VIN population. If the engine passes the PICO test, the engine oil will be changed from 0W20 to Mobil 1 Supercar 0W40 dexosR.
PIT6446
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis PI Communicates information to ensure Memory Recall is enabled to ensure memory mirrors return to set position after curbview assist is used.
PIT6234A
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issue with an aftermarket device wired into the vehicle and cause the vehicle to turn off when shifted into gear. This PI provides a diagnostic tip to inform dealership to inspect for this aftermarket device.
PIT5993E
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issue with high resistance in the glass breakage loop that could cause a dead battery or unwanted theft alarm. Dealers are to inspect the glass breakage loop.
PIT6132C
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates an issues with the HVAC making a hum buzz noise when the blower is set to a higher speed. Engineering is working on a new HVAC door seal material to correct the noise.
PIT6425B
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC's
PIT6425A
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC's
PIC6551A
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary information communicates to dealer to perform a MEC reset for wireless projection issues
N242454441 -03
Oct 2025
SERVICE CAMPAIGNPower TrainCertain vehicles listed above, may have a condition where the transmission control valve has worn, resulting in a gradual loss of pressure within the valve.
N252516900
Oct 2025
Fuel/Propulsion SystemEmission Recall. Population Expansion.
PIT6440
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThe Driver Information Center may display a message of Transport Mode On after the ignition is cycled.
PIP6068C
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis preliminary information advises dealers that Engine Control Module designation E90 is on a ordering restriction through technical assistance.

Showing 60 of 793 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  2. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  3. Try the camera, sensors, and any driver-assist features in a parking lot.A blank or frozen backup camera image and phantom sensor alerts are this vehicle's driver-assistance complaints.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 9 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask the dealer whether the warranty extension on file still applies to this VIN.The manufacturer issued 1 warranty extension for this vehicle (see the service bulletins section). Extended coverage often runs by years or miles from the original sale, and a repair the seller paid for may have been free.
  6. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Cadillac Escalade →