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2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·4 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Engine failures are the most significant ownership risk, with numerous reports of sudden shutdowns and required replacements.
  • Verify that recalls for the engine (25V274000) and brake system (24V674000) have been completed.
  • Electrical system and powertrain issues are also frequently reported.
  • Despite a 4-star overall safety rating, a 3-star rollover rating suggests caution.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a large, luxurious SUV that offers substantial passenger and cargo space. However, used shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability rating. The primary concern is a significant number of reported engine failures, often occurring at low mileage. This is corroborated by a critical recall affecting the engine's internal components. Additionally, a recall for the electronic brake control module warrants attention. While it boasts a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including a 5-star side crash rating, the rollover rating is only 3 stars. With 10 recalls and 64 complaints logged, potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

Sudden, uncommanded engine shutdown while driving, often requiring towing and engine replacement. This is a critical failure occurring at low mileage.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls10
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

64
Engine28
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing maximum passenger and cargo capacity above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking predictable ownership costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 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 2023 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: 28 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 11 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 - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades and Washers

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

FAQ

Is the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 6.3/10. Reliability score is 6.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 10. Owner complaints: 64.

How practical is the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV for daily use?▾

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

What is the overall score for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 71%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 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 - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades and Washers at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 15,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $5,000 • Max: $15,000+).

What transmission does the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV, transmission is Automatic.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 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 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV, body style is suv.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 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 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

Top complaint category: engine (28 reports, 43.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

This model year has 10 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2023 Lincoln Navigator and 2023 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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