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2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary concern for used 2022 Escalade ESV buyers is the high incidence of catastrophic engine failures, including seizures and shutdowns.
  • Verify that recall 25V274000, addressing critical internal engine components for the 6.2L V8, has been completed.
  • The vehicle has a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, largely driven by engine issues, despite decent NHTSA safety scores.
  • Expect potential for significant repair costs related to engine problems, which are frequently reported at low mileages.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a full-size luxury SUV that offers substantial passenger and cargo space. However, for the used car shopper, its appeal is significantly diminished by a concerning reliability record, particularly concerning its V8 engine. With 8 recalls and 57 complaints logged with NHTSA, the data points to critical issues that demand careful consideration. The most prevalent problem involves catastrophic engine failures, including seizures and shutdowns at highway speeds, often without warning. This issue is corroborated by recall 25V274000, which addresses manufacturing defects in connecting rods and crankshafts for the 6.2L V8. While the Escalade ESV scores well in side crash tests (5 stars), its overall safety rating is a respectable 4 stars, with a 3-star rollover rating. Fuel economy figures are not available, suggesting potential for high fuel costs.

Critical Failure Risk

Critical internal engine failures, including connecting rod and crankshaft defects, leading to sudden engine seizure or shutdown. This is the most significant concern, impacting reliability and safety.

Early detection can help you avoid a $5,000-$15,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls8
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

57
Engine29
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.9/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing maximum passenger and cargo space above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a dependable, low-maintenance luxury SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic
Body Style
Suv

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See the full 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 29 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 6 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 - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Steering and Suspension Components

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 (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
8 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 6.9/10. Reliability score is 6.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 57.

How practical is the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. Seating capacity is 7.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 71%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 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 - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Steering and Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (6.2L V8) (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $5,000 • Max: $15,000+).

What transmission does the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV, transmission is Automatic.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV, body style is suv.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

Top complaint category: engine (29 reports, 50.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2022 Lincoln Navigator and 2022 Chevrolet Suburban.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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