2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV has a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, primarily due to significant recalls concerning airbags and numerous electrical system complaints.
- Prioritize inspecting the electrical system, especially the body control module and wiring, due to reports of intermittent malfunctions affecting dashboard lights, HVAC, and potentially engine controls.
- Confirm that all 6 recalls, particularly those involving passenger frontal air bag inflator modules and the ignition lock actuator, have been addressed by a qualified technician.
- Expect high fuel costs with a combined EPA rating of 14 MPG from its 6.2L V8 engine.
2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV
Critical Failure Risk
Intermittent electrical issues are a significant concern, manifesting as dashboard light flickering, HVAC system cycling, and problems with door locks and radio. These can sometimes be linked to engine or vehicle speed control issues, suggesting a complex electrical architecture or module failure.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers seeking a large, luxurious SUV with ample passenger and cargo space.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford unexpected repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline or E85
- Seating Capacity
- 8
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 14
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 2 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 1 reports
First Service Interval
- Synthetic Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Washer)
Est. shop cost: $150 - $250
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 5.
How practical is the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV for daily use?
Practicality score is 6.1/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 14 MPG. Seating capacity is 8. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 1297 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 6.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Synthetic Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Washer) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System Components (BCM, Wiring) (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,500).
What engine is in the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Engine specs list 8 • 6.2.
What transmission does the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2012 Escalade ESV require Gasoline or E85 gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
EPA combined estimate is 14 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV, seating capacity is 8.
What body style is the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Top complaint category: electrical system (2 reports, 40% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Lincoln Navigator and 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe.