What are the most common problems with the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

Significant risk of catastrophic engine failure, including seizing and lifter/camshaft issues, often at low mileage.

How many recalls does the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV have?

The 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Significant risk of catastrophic engine failure, including seizing and lifter/camshaft issues, often at low mileage. Powertrain complaints, such as rough shifting and stalling, are also a concern. Electrical system issues, particularly with running boards, have been reported. Service brake complaints suggest potential braking system deficiencies. A single recall addresses rear seatbelt retractors; confirm this has been remediated. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV.

2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Significant risk of catastrophic engine failure, including seizing and lifter/camshaft issues, often at low mileage.
Powertrain complaints, such as rough shifting and stalling, are also a concern.
Electrical system issues, particularly with running boards, have been reported.
Service brake complaints suggest potential braking system deficiencies.

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Overview

2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV offers imposing presence and luxury, but used buyers should proceed with caution. While it boasts a 5-star side crash rating, its overall safety is not rated. The primary concern for this model year is its reliability, with a notable concentration of engine failures, including seizing and internal component issues, reported by owners. Powertrain and brake system complaints also contribute to a below-average reliability assessment. With 34 complaints and one recall concerning rear seatbelts, thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount.

Critical Failure Risk

Significant concentration of critical engine failures reported at low mileage. This includes instances of engine seizing and repeated component failures, such as lifters and camshafts, some potentially linked to the Active Fuel Management system. These issues can lead to catastrophic engine damage.

Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$8,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Engine14

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing luxury and space over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity: 7
Drivetrain: 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Body Style: Suv

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 14 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 5 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (7 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 34.

How practical is the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV for daily use?

Practicality score is 9.5/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 1113 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 7.4/10. Practicality 9.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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 - Multi-Point Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Lifters/Camshafts) (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,000 • Max: $7,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

Base MSRP is $88,195.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV, drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

NHTSA ratings: Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

Top complaint category: engine (14 reports, 41.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV?

Alternative listed in this guide: 2019 Lincoln Navigator.