2022 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV Engine Problems

32 complaints about Engine

32
Complaints
0
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Deaths

This Problem Across All Years

All Engine Complaints (32)

Jan 6, 2026

It happened on a family road trip to Big Bear, CA for Thanksgiving. Driving up a mountain road with my wife, 3 children and 3 dogs on a 2 lane highway. Engine gave out and completely seized. No warning, no lights, just a sudden loss of all power followed by a complete shutdown. I pulled over as far as I could but were still sticking out on the 2 lane highway and put our entire family in danger as well as other drivers that could not adequately see us on the blind turn. Fearing being hit, I had my family exit the vehicle and stand to the side awaiting help in a somewhat safer area..The side of the mountain was a sheer cliff, but we didn’t want to be struck. Had a good friend drive up the hill to rescue the family and dogs while I wait for a tow truck. The vehicle completely locked up and would not shift into neutral. Tow truck drivers could not/would not tow the vehicle because of the placement and the fact it was locked. After about 4 hours waiting, the day turned to night and the battery completely drained so I no longer had hazards, which made it even more dangerous. Finally got a tow that had the right equipment to complete the task and had it towed to a local dealership which confirmed a seized engine. (You don’t even want to know how they got it off the tow truck). The dealership had the vehicle for approx 35 days and I just received it back. It currently has the check engine light on and the electronics do not function so it’s going back this week. My wife is scared to drive it, and we don’t know exactly how to proceed from this point. Contacted an attorney, so we’ll see what happens next. It was an absolute nightmare situation.

Jan 6, 2026

MY 2022 CADILLAC ESCALADE IS IN THE REPAIR SHOP CENTRAL HOUSTON CADILLAC [XXX] MY ENGINE RECALL IS OUT AND STOP WORKING ! THE 150,000 MILE WARRANTY IS NOT GETTING UPHELD BY GENRAL MOTORS ! I AM BEING TOLD THAT MY CASE IS DENIED ! GENERAL MOTORS GIVE ME A CASE NUMBER XXX [XXX] ! GENERAL MOTORS IS SCAMMING THE RECALL REFUSING TOO DRIVE REPLACE THE ENGINE PROBLEMS THEY KNEW WAS HAPPENING! BIG STAR CADILLAC DEALERSHIP STATED MY ENGINE REPAIRS WAS FIX WITH OIL REPLACEMENT SERVICE ! THAT WAS NOT TRUE AND IS FALSE STATEMENT! RIGHT NOW I CAN NOT DRIVE MY VEHICLE! I NEED MY NEW ENGINE NOW ! THANK YOU INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Jan 3, 2026

My 2022 Cadillac Escalade Diesel (3.0 LM2) is experiencing a failure of the engine coolant control valve, a known defect addressed by GM under Special Coverage bulletin N252508341. The failure causes: •Intermittent reduced engine power •High-speed radiator cooling fans running continuously •Check engine light •Emissions system malfunction As a result of this condition, the vehicle fails emissions/smog testing and cannot be registered or legally operated in my state when the fault is active. The reduced power condition occurs unpredictably during normal driving, creating a drivability and safety concern, especially during merging, highway driving, and traffic conditions. GM has acknowledged the defect through a Special Coverage program but has denied repair coverage due to salvage title branding, leaving the vehicle with an unresolved emissions-related defect that affects safe operation and compliance. This issue is unrelated to any prior damage and occurs during normal vehicle operation.

Nov 17, 2025

At approximately 6:45pm on Friday November 14, 2025, while driving among tractor trailers in the passing lane at highway speed on westbound RT 30 near mile marker 191 (Lancaster, PA), my 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV Sport Platinum experienced a complete loss of propulsion. This catastrophic and sudden engine shutdown came with no warning lights, no symptoms prior to a complete loss of power. The vehicle had previously been inspected as part of the recall service by Fred Beans Cadillac in Doylestown months prior and customer was informed it had passed the recall inspection and was given the recommended corrective action - (new oil [0W40], oil filler cap and new oil filter). Customer had ABSOLUTELY NO REASON TO SUSPECT this engine had issues, because it "passed" GM's recall... This vehicle's unexpected & compete loss of power gravely endangered the lives of the vehicle's four occupants who were absolutely terrified during this experience ! I put the vehicle's hazard lights on and guided it to a stop on the right shoulder of RT 30 at the mile marker 191 Westbound. I contacted my insurance provider's roadside assistance for a flatbed tow off the highway. Vehicle was eventually flatbed to Kelly Cadillac for engine diagnosis. [will give much more details in subsequent communications as the characters here are limited] We are awaiting Cadillac dealer's diagnosis of the cause of this catastrophic engine failure with complete loss of propulsion at highway speed (after the recall was performed and vehicle was cleared). I have added photos of the confirmation from the insurance company's dispatch of a flatbed to my location on RT 30 as well as a screenshot of us on the right shoulder of RT 30. I have attached text messages received from GM of the engine issue that were received AFTER the vehicle was stopped on the shoulder of highway. My family - and others on the highway that evening - could have been gravely injured or even killed by this Cadillac's complete malfunction !

Sep 22, 2025

Dear NHTSA, I am writing to report an ongoing safety issue regarding my 2022 Cadillac Escalade related to an engine recall. On September 19, 2025, I took my vehicle to the dealership for inspection, but they chose to pass the recall inspection despite the fact that the engine continues to experience serious issues. The problems include: •Engine propulsion failure and loss of acceleration at highway speeds, creating a hazardous situation. •Rumbling noise from the engine when releasing the accelerator pedal. •Erratic RPM fluctuations, with the engine surging significantly up and down. •Frequent engine misfires, which increase the risk of stalling. •On several occasions, the accelerator dropped speed on the freeway unexpectedly, endangering me, my passengers, and others on the road. These symptoms are ongoing and pose a serious safety hazard. I believe the inspection should not have been passed, as the engine clearly remains defective. I strongly urge that the engine be replaced to address these issues. Please advise on the next steps, as I am concerned for my safety and the safety of my passengers. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

Aug 21, 2025

I own a 2022 Cadillac Escalade that is subject to NHTSA ID Number: 25V274000 / GM Recall N252494003 for a potential connecting rod/crankshaft defect in the 6.2L L87 engine. I have contacted my authorized Cadillac dealership (Cadillac Pensacola), Pensacola, Florida Five times by phone (dates:1 July 2025 - 15 August 2025) requesting an appointment for the recall inspection and repair. The dealership has failed to schedule an appointment or return my calls. This defect poses a serious safety risk due to possible sudden engine failure and loss of motive power while driving. GM’s recall remedy involves inspecting the engine and, if necessary, replacing it. The delay in repair scheduling is preventing me from having the federally mandated safety remedy performed. I am concerned that GM and its dealer network are failing to provide a timely remedy as required by the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. I request NHTSA to investigate this delay and require GM to ensure an immediate repair or alternate remedy (loaner, buyback, or replacement).

Jun 28, 2025

The vehicle acts like it wants to cut off, and when the lane driving assistance option is activated, it will jump lanes and almost cause an accident.

Jun 26, 2025

I own a 2022 Cadillac Escalade that is affected by Recall N252494000. Although the recall repair is not yet available, I’m experiencing several serious symptoms that appear related to the recall: The engine consumes oil at an abnormal rate. I need to add oil frequently between scheduled changes. When I press the gas pedal, there is a delay in response — the car doesn’t accelerate immediately, then suddenly surges. I also hear a light metallic ticking or knocking sound when the engine is warm, especially at idle. I use this vehicle daily for work, and these issues are affecting safety and causing financial loss. I brought the vehicle to a dealership, but they were unwilling to replace the engine without a diagnostic trouble code. I’m concerned that GM is delaying the proper fix, and I am requesting NHTSA to investigate and ensure that affected customers like me receive a complete engine replacement when symptoms are present — even without error codes. Thank you for your attention.

May 22, 2025

We were driving on the freeway when all of a sudden the vehicle went into neutral, shut off and started slowing down. We were in the middle lane and our 3 children and grandparents were also in the car. This was incredibly dangerous and thankfully slowly we got to the right shoulder and the vehicle no longer turned on. We had to contact AAA and we took it to the dealership where we dropped it off. A few weeks ago I had called the dealership to ask about the repairs for the engine recall and they said they didn’t have anything solutions for that recall. Now dealer is stating it is still under warranty yet they haven’t been able to provide a vehicle large enough to accommodate our family. Nonetheless, they are stating that it might be over two weeks before they can get a new engine and then install it.

May 21, 2025

I am reporting persistent safety issues with my 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV, with ~87k miles. Despite a completed recall for an engine seizure, the vehicle continues to fail dangerously, eroding confidence in its safety and reliability.Early in ownership, the computer and dashboard were replaced due to malfunction. Later, the engine seized while driving at 70 mph on a highway, a recall-related issue requiring a three-month repair. The vehicle has spent significant time in the shop, impacting usability.On May 20, 2025, my wife experienced a sudden shutdown at a busy intersection while merging onto a high-speed road. The vehicle lost power without warning, stranding her in a hazardous position. She exited to direct traffic, risking a collision. After ~5 minutes, she restarted it, and the system prompted her to reset the front windows’ limits, suggesting a computer issue. This post-recall failure indicates unresolved defects.These incidents—computer replacement, engine seizure, and shutdown—show a pattern of unreliability. With 87,000 miles, lemon law eligibility may be limited, but GM should have offered a buyback earlier given the history. These failures pose serious safety risks.I urge NHTSA to investigate potential defects in the 2022 Escalade ESV’s engine and electronics. I also seek guidance on whether GM should repurchase this vehicle to ensure safety. Please confirm receipt and advise on next steps. I can provide service records.

May 15, 2025

Vehicle is burning oil with low engine oil light flashing months before the oil change is required. Vehicle does not always have full power and may slingshot forward at time of acceleration as opposed to a smooth acceleration.

May 5, 2025

[XXX] on Sunday I was driving Longisland’ highway around 70 mile per a hour on left line my Cadillac engine stop end notification start engine I barely stop my car called police officer he help me because car it wast safe area with tow truck take my car now car in service almost week still no response and I have a appointment last Saturday because it was recall one day before engine blows just want to notification if necessary low suite in figure best regards car service name smithtown king o road best regards INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Apr 30, 2025

Hi at April 28 around 10.30 pm I was driving Longisland highway city to Hamton’ before exit 70 my engine stopped suddenly I was on the left line trafic coming behind me i barely controlled my car pull over very hardly right side and called police I have recorded 911 officer help me to tow my car it was dar and not safe area now car at the dealership smithtown king of Cadillac dealership

Apr 20, 2025

I was driving with my family and kinds a car a freeway and vehicle start making loud sounds And shut off We were so scared Caz it got stopped on the middle of traffic and I couldn’t checking the lane Caz of heavy traffic It was scary moment of my life Talked to the dealership they took two months to get me a new engine under Warrenty But I didt have my car for three months Now they gave me my car back with NO WARRENTY YHIS IS TERRIBLE I know it will happen again

Apr 13, 2025

Without any prior symptoms or warnings when I was driving on the highway I felt the car losing power and the car started to slow down in the middle of the road and then check engine light came on when i was on my way to pull over. When I stopped, I felt a strong vibration throughout the car, as if it was about to shut down. Then it actually stopped. I tried once to start it, but failed. I towed the car to the dealership .It took them 4 days to diagnose it , l They charged me a diagnose fee for removing the top of the engine and then a separate fee for removing the bottom of the engine. Then they told me they had to call Cadillac support because they didn't know what to do.I waited about a week to know the result and then unfortunately they told me that I had to replace the entire engine and pay about $13,000. Let me tell you I was at the same dealership 4 days before what happened. I was there because they recommended me to do a throttle body cleaner. I did the recommended service and they confirmed that everything was working properly and the car is perfectly fine. Let me also tell you that I do all the maintenance, I change the oils even before the time for changing them, I use a premium gas from top tier station, Now the car at the dealership since February 2025 , my car's engine is back ordered, they don't have any expectations or time frame or even average wait time! So frustrated and nothing to do. It is truly a disaster and I do not know what I did to deserve this material and moral suffering. I hope to God that you help me to be justified in this clear injustice. Thank you;

Apr 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle shifted into neutral, and the Push to Start message was displayed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to coast off the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was bearing failure and that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the parts were on backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 41,530.

Mileage: 41,530

Mar 30, 2025

While driving 55mph on a highway ([XXX]) at [XXX] on [XXX], the vehicle shut down and went into neutral. The vehicle coasted to the shoulder of the highway. It was a very dangerous situation with virtually no vehicles following the move over law and flying by us at 60 plus mph. The vehicle was towed to Capellino Cadillac in Williamsville, NY where it sat for days without anyone looking at it or moving from the parking spot where it was dropped off. On 3/13/2025, I phoned service to find out the status of my vehicle and was told the engine was "Blown". This without anyone even looking at it. I was told that it is becoming a frequent problem with low mileage motors and the motor would have to be sent to GM for evaluation and my motor replaced. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Mar 23, 2025

no warning out of nowhere while driving about 35mph the car stopped driving but still had power then i pressed gas again and it jerked me and stopped driving again so slowly had to pull off the road to get out of traffic. cadillac wouldn’t move back or forward when gears shifted. called aaa to pick up car and take to the dealership. no explanation or calls to what is happening to my car. has been 1 month since have no replies or answers what’s happening with my vehicle.

Mar 17, 2025

I was driving with my children in tow. My "reduced acceleration light" came on as well as my check engine light. Within minutes of these turning on, my car went into Limp mode (shifted in neutral) and would not accelerate and steering felt locked up. I quickly got off to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. When I restarted, the vehicle would not go into reverse or any gear other than park. This was terrifying. Thankfully, the road I was on had a speed limit of 40; however, had I been on the GA 400 or I-285, my family could have been easily involved in an accident. I had the vehicle towed to the local Cadillac dealership. After a week, I am told it is a faulty Control Valve Body and that there is no ETA on when this part with be available. The tow truck driver stated I was the 3rd Escalade driver in the last two weeks that the same issue had occurred. I will be reaching out to a lemon law attorney as well. This vehicle is still under warranty.

Mar 14, 2025

6.2L V8 - First engine trouble was at 71K miles, right side lifter failure. Dealership and GM covered part of the engine tear down and right side lifter replacement in July 2024. [XXX], complete engine failure on the highway in Amarillo, TX. My wife, 3 children and dog in the car. Engine stopped driving down the highway and ended up blocking a very busy 4 way construction stop. Was unable to put vehicle into Neutral, so tow truck had to drag vehicle onto deck. Autonation Cadillac of Amarillo diagnosed as engine failure and engine would need replacement. We understand there is an ongoing investigation into 2019-2024 of these engines. Car has now been transported to Jerry's Cadillac Service in Hudson Oaks, TX. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Mar 3, 2025

Driving 55 mph in heavy traffic on [XXX] going into uptown Charlotte the Cadillac suddenly when i switched lanes the vehicle misfired seemingly and a banging sound persisted. It slowed down slightly but as I accelerated the sound got louder and when i came to a stop on a busy street the Cadillac shut off in the middle of traffic. The only message to come up was battery low needs service and didn’t start after several tries and the vehicle wouldn’t come out of park gear either. The vehicle displayed no warning lights or error messages prior to or during the incident. - got the vehicle towed for inspection and diagnostic testing. Tech finding: the engine had sustained significant damage, including a compromised crankshaft and two damaged piston rods in cylinders 1 & 5., camshaft showed signs of wear. the shop completed a engine overhaul remove & reinstall, securing parts in place of not being able to get the major part needed, the Long block which was on national backorder at GM with no estimated frame. GM needs to address the oil consumption problems in the 6.2 engines. The critical issues which has lead up to or may lead to the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV 6.2 engine failures Synthetic 0W–20 oil being recommended does not support the critical parts of this engine through out in regards to higher mileage or age of vehicle. upon repair the technicians recommended using Oil - Synthetic 5W-30 Synthetic 5W-30 Dxs SAE Full Synthetic 5W-30 uniquely formulated with intelligent molecules that cling to the engine like a magnet adding a layer of protection that dramatically reduces engine wear Superior engine protection on critical engine parts. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Feb 28, 2025

Driving on the interstate, vehicle slowed down, pulled over and put the car in park. Shut car off, tried to restart and it would not start. Cadillac dealership says vehicle needs a new engine. Bought brand new in 2022

Feb 23, 2025

I was driving 70 mph on the highway and the engine shut off with no warning. The screen said to press start again. That's when I realized the engine was off. I pulled over it took four or five tries to turn the engine back on it. Cranked multiple times before it turned over. Got it back on drove another half mile and then the engine seized. We had it towed an hour south of where we were. The dealer had no loaners and there were no rental cars anywhere in the vicinity. We had to rent a cargo van and drive me, my wife and my three kids and cousin in a cargo van (zero rear seats) back to our house which was another hour and a half south of there. We were driving north for a weekend vacation with was cancelled. The whole experience with exception of the very nice tow driver was an absolute nightmare. Now we are without our car not sure what to do. The Escalade needs a new engin, $155k car and no one seems to care. This Escalade has been in the shop at the dealer many times before for extended periods of time for computer issues, brake issues, dashboard issues. You name it this car has it.

Feb 15, 2025

I purchased a used 2022 Cadillac Escalade. With 34,000 miles...as I was driving in the highway the engine failed. No brakes, everything went black on the screen and engine was out. Dealership told me it was harness chaffing and fixed it. No less than a week later, on the highway, the engine seized and failed. New engine is being ordered. This was extremely dangerous at high speeds and almost killed us, twice.

Feb 2, 2025

- Engine seized at highway speeds - Vehicle had lose of power while in the middle of the highway. Fortunately I was able to coast to the side of the road without impact. - The vehicle components went through inspection by the Cadillac dealer it was delivered to. - There were no messages or other symptoms that alerted me prior to the problem occured.

Feb 1, 2025

While driving 70 mph on the highway, my Escalade flipped into Neutral and ultimately died in the middle of the highway. There was absolutely no warning. I was traveling with my husband and three children. We could have been involved in a serious accident as cars and 18 wheelers were flying by, and had to dodge our vehicle. Luckily, we were able to exit the car and get on the side of the highway. I refuse to ever drive this vehicle ever again. Especially after researching and seeing others with the same issue.

Jan 29, 2025

The contact owns a 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while his son was driving 70 MPH, the vehicle shut off. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at slow speeds, the vehicle stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Action Number: PE25001 (Engine, Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a claim. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Mileage: 50,000

Jan 29, 2025

On Sunday [XXX] , while driving my Cadillac Escalade 2022 with a 6.2L V8 engine on [XXX] at 70 mph, my vehicle suddenly lost power without warning. This put me in immediate danger, as I was in the left lane and had to quickly maneuver to the right emergency lane to avoid a complete stop in moving traffic. During this emergency maneuver, vehicles behind me nearly crashed into me, creating a high risk of a serious, potentially fatal accident. There were no warning lights or prior indications before the sudden loss of power, making this issue extremely hazardous. Given recent reports about engine failures in GM’s L87 V8 models, I strongly believe my vehicle is affected by the same manufacturing defect. I am requesting an urgent investigation by NHTSA, as this issue poses a severe risk to all drivers. Additionally, I would like to know if there are any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from GM regarding this problem. Please confirm receipt of this complaint and advise me on any next steps I should take. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Jan 25, 2025

Complete engine failure with no prior warning and vehicle is currently at dealer waiting for new engine to arrive. The lives of myself and my children were at risk as the engine failure occurred while traveling at about 55 mph on a rural country road with cars having to swerve around me before I came to a complete stop on the shoulder of road. Again there was no prior warning or warning lights on the vehicle. The Cadillac dealership in Texarkana has inspected the vehicle and determined the engine failed and needs a completely new engine.

Jan 24, 2025

In August 2022, with only 9,875 miles, the engine of my 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV ceased. While alternating lanes of a freeway onramp, my vehicle completely shut down. Not only was it inoperable, it was also unable to be shifted into neutral to be moved out of traffic. It was then towed to the nearest Cadillac. After several days I was notified that the engine had ceased and there there were currently no replacements available. It was in the shop for over 7 weeks before being repaired. In August 2024, with 43,050 miles, the engine ceased again! Without warning, after passing through an intersection, my Escalade completely shut down and was inoperable and unable to be moved. It was towed in to the nearest Cadillac dealership where it was Later confirmed that the engine had in fact seized for the second time since purchase. This time it was in the shop for over 5 weeks, awaiting an engine replacement. In addition to the 2 engine failures, it has been in the shop for multiple electrical issues including malfunction of motorized running boards, control panel display going black, battery dying, transmission codes, and auto starting in my garage multiple times.

Jan 20, 2025

While driving, I noticed a very distinct knocking sound, that changed frequency and tone depending on how fast the engine was spinning or how warm it was. This noise I only noticed while walking outside the car or with the windows down. As a mechanical engineer, I knew something was terribly wrong with the internal parts of the engine (lifters, cam, main bearings, etc) as this type of sound I am familiar with in pre-emptive engine failure. I made an appointment with my local dealer (Massey Cadillac South - Orlando). I took it in. Within an hour of it being there, they asked me to leave and took me to a Hertz to get a loaner. I called a week later asking where my car is, they said they are waiting on a complete engine. I was shocked as the vehicle has under 47,000 miles on it. I am still without the vehicle 6 weeks later. Doing searches I noticed there are thousands of others with the same issue as mine and GM is well aware of this engine failure issue with their bulletins that they send to dealers. I am happy to have made it to the dealer without incident, however if it was my wife driving the vehicle, she would not have noticed the noise. She thought the noise it made was normal. Again, I am experienced to notice noises like this. GM should have recalled these vehicles MANY years ago.

Feb 17, 2023

The contact owns a 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated he was unable to restart or move the vehicle. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the driver’s side rear brake harness to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 9,635.

Mileage: 9,635