2026 Cadillac Escalade ESV
Only 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2003 | 12 |
| 2004 | 22 |
| 2005 | 14 |
| 2006 | 5 |
| 2007 | 39 |
| 2008 | 17 |
| 2009 | 6 |
| 2010 | 4 |
| 2011 | 13 |
| 2012 | 3 |
| 2013 | 2 |
| 2014 | 0 |
| 2015 | 8 |
| 2016 | 15 |
| 2017 | 38 |
| 2018 | 15 |
| 2019 | 32 |
| 2020 | 21 |
| 2021 | 71 |
| 2022 | 54 |
| 2023 | 83 |
| 2024 | 22 |
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2026 | 8 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 8 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
8 of 8 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
I pulled out onto a highway and sped up to 65 mph. About 10 minutes later, I heard a ticking sound.That sound proceeded to get very loud, almost like a loud pan banging/squeeling.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260822
On June 18, 2026, while my nearly new 2026 Cadillac Escalade ESV was being driven on the Ohio Turnpike, the vehicle unexpectedly entered reduced-power or limp mode, lost propulsion, shut off, and would not restart.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260804
Also filed under POWER TRAIN
Engine lost power on steep grade hill with kids in the car on our way to Tahoe putting us all at risk
NHTSA ODI report, 20260301
Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 of 8 total reports mention: electrical system.
1 of 8 total reports mentions: steering.
1 of 8 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 8 total reports mentions: fuel/propulsion system.
SAFETY TIMELINE
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ,...
Remedy: Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic ownerâs manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026.
Campaign 26V114000 — check if this car was fixed
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain...
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026.
Campaign 26V289000 — check if this car was fixed
General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2025â2026 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with 24-inch wheels.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front left and right wheel hub bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2026.
Campaign 26V304000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2026 Cadillac Escalade ESV — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 26V114000 (equipment) has been completed.
- Verify recall 26V289000 (power train) has been completed.
- Verify recall 26V304000 (wheels) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2026 Cadillac Escalade ESV reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2026 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2026 Cadillac Escalade ESV have?
3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.