2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant service brake issues are the primary concern for owners, often manifesting as pedal travel loss or unexpected warnings.
- Powertrain and engine complaints, including potential issues with the Active Fuel Management system, are also notable.
- A critical recall addressed potential air bag non-deployment due to software; confirm this has been serviced.
- The vehicle boasts a strong NHTSA safety score, with 5-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests.
2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV
The 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a large, luxurious SUV that offers substantial passenger and cargo space. Its V8 engine provides ample power for towing and hauling. However, used shoppers should be aware of its 'Below Average' reliability rating. The most frequent owner complaints center on the service brake system, followed by powertrain and engine issues. A high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) also suggests underlying complexity. Despite these concerns, it maintains a respectable 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints frequently cite brake pedal travel to the floor, loss of braking assist, and unexpected ABS/brake assist warnings. This is a critical safety concern.
Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$6,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 420HP
- Torque
- 460 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing luxury, space, and towing capacity above all else.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a low-maintenance, worry-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV.
Vehicle Specs
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Horsepower
- 420 hp
- Torque
- 460 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- RWD, AWD
- Body Style
- Suv
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See the full 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Braking System
Most reportedUsage: 11 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 8 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 46.
How practical is the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV for daily use?
Practicality score is 9.0/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 71%. Maintenance 7.0/10. Practicality 9.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,800. Repair prediction highlight: Brake System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Base MSRP is $85,895.
What engine is in the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Engine specs list V8. Output is 420 hp • 460 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is RWD, AWD.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV, fuel economy range is 15-20 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV, drivetrain is RWD, AWD. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.
What are the most common service brakes problems on the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
Top complaint category: service brakes (11 reports, 23.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.