2016 Cadillac Escalade Complaints

POWER TRAIN — Filed 08/06/2026

The transmission has experienced ongoing shifting problems, including extremely hard shifts at low speeds and difficulty shifting properly at higher/highway speeds. The hard shifting could cause the vehicle to jerk unexpectedly, and the difficulty shifting at higher speeds caused concern about the vehicle’s ability to accelerate and maintain predictable power while driving. Because of the ongoing shifting problems, we paid to have the vehicle tuned in an attempt to improve the shifting, but the transmission problems continued. More recently, after routine transmission fluid service, the transmission became significantly worse and the vehicle would not properly move in either Drive or Reverse. The vehicle has not been diagnosed or repaired by a dealership. The transmission is currently being inspected and repaired privately, and components can be retained if needed. The shifting problems were present before the recent transmission fluid service.

ENGINE — Filed 07/16/2026

At highway speed, the engine lifters associated with the Active Fuel Management system failed and caused catastrophic damage throughout the engine. The sudden loss of power on the highway almost caused vehicles traveling behind me to collide.

ENGINE — Filed 05/07/2026

The first engine failure occurred while my vehicle remained under warranty. While driving with my children and a couple of her teammates to an AAU tournament in [XXX], the vehicle just began emitting white smoke. We pulled to a gas station and were stranded until we could arrange transportation for the 7 of us. It was a good thing that we left a day early or the girls would not have made it to their game. Upon towing the vehicle back to the shop in [XXX], I was informed that one of the cylinders in the engine had malfunctioned and the only repair option was replacement. The repairs were performed by Ross Downing Cadillac, the same dealership from which I previously purchased a GM vehicle. Although the engine replacement itself was covered under warranty, I was deprived of the use of my vehicle for approximately four months because replacement parts were unavailable and the dealership had no loaner vehicles available. This was in July of 2022. My Escalade has now required a second engine replacement due to the camshaft and lifter defect. The current repair is being performed by Hammer Down Garage, and the vehicle presently has approximately 180,000 miles. While attempting to exit the interstate, the vehicle just shut off. The traffic was horrendous, and it was so hot outside. I was on the way to pick up my graduating daughter's cap and gown from the school so you can imagine the frustration. After impeding traffic for about 30 minutes, the local police department pushed the vehicle to the side of the road so traffic could flow again. The engine light did come on when the vehicle stopped. Both incidents put me, my family, and other people's children at risk of harm. Even though my particular vehicle is not on the recall list, after researching, these are common problems that people have been experiencing with this vehicle. The vehicle is now at the shop requiring yet another engine replacement, and I have no choice because I need transportation for my family. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ENGINE — Filed 01/28/2026

While driving my 2016 Cadillac Escalade, the vehicle experienced a sudden mechanical failure associated with the engine and charging system. Upon failure, the vehicle displayed warning indicators including a “low battery” warning and emitted a burnt smell. The engine subsequently failed completely. Diagnostic findings stated: engine would not crank, oil contained metal contamination, crankshaft seized, complete engine replacement required. The estimated repair cost is approximately $14,000–$18,000. This failure occurred despite regular maintenance, including an oil change completed on January 18, 2026. This sudden failure created a major safety concern because the vehicle lost reliability while being operated on public roads. A sudden engine This sudden failure created a major safety concern because the vehicle lost reliability while being driven the vehicle it completely quit and shut down in rush hour traffic causing an unsafe situation for me and my family. This sudden failure created a major safety concern because the vehicle lost reliability while being operated on public roads. A sudden engine or charging-system failure at driving speeds could have caused a crash, loss of steering assistance, loss of power, or stranded occupants in traffic. I contacted GM/Cadillac seeking assistance through the goodwill process, but assistance was declined despite the catastrophic nature of the failure. I am filing this complaint because I believe there may be a broader defect involving the engine, crankshaft failure, lubrication system, or charging system components in this vehicle platform. I request investigation into similar failures affecting Cadillac Escalade vehicles with the 6.2L engine.

ENGINE — Filed 01/28/2026

While driving in rush hour traffic, engine completely stopped. We were stranded in traffic for 2 hours until the police came to help push us out of the street. It was 20 degrees and we sat for 4 hours to get towed. After much ado, the dealership stated the following; "Checked and found engine wouldn't crank over, towed vehicle into the shop. Removed inspection cover to access torque convertor bolts, removed bolts engine still will not turn over. Checked oil in engine full of metal. Engine crank seized will need engine replacement." Upon further investigation, the recall for this vehicle only covers 2021-2025 however this is the same problem that is happening under the recalled years.

STEERING — Filed 01/31/2026

Experienced loss of electric power steering while driving at 60 MPH on interstate. Had 6 passengers in vehicle at the time and could have crashed if another vehicle was in other lane next to us during steering loss. Steering available for inspection. Have taken vehicle to dealer to fix issue. They diagnosed and replaced Negative and Positive wiring harness to battery; however, vehicle steering loss occurred again right after picking up and is back at dealership now. Sent dealer article about other owners of 2015-2017 Cadillac Escalade experiencing same issue to help explain steering issue. Also sent video of steering glitching while driving back to dealership. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior, during, or after failure known.

SUSPENSION,ENGINE — Filed 02/25/2026

Suspension failed at 50,000 miles. At 56,000 miles one of the valve components inside the engine (a lifter) has collapsed. This part controls the opening of the engine valve, and because it is no longer moving, that cylinder cannot build compression and is causing the misfire. This is an internal mechanical failure inside the engine and cannot be caused by body work, fuel quality, or anything external.

ENGINE — Filed 02/17/2026

The contact owns a 2016 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, there was an abnormal popping sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the vehicle sounded like it was going to stall, and the accelerator pedal was depressed to keep the vehicle from stalling. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with lifter failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 137,027.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 02/24/2026

TRANSMISSION ISSUES. MY VEHICLE LUNGES AND HAS HARD SHIFTS WHEN ACCELERATING FROM LOW SPEED TO HIGH SPEEDS. ALSO LUNGES WHEN SLOWING DOWN OR STOPPING

ENGINE — Filed 11/15/2024

The contact owns a 2016 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact then observed smoke entering the cabin of the vehicle through the vents from the engine and turned off the vehicle. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle, but the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that an independent mechanic arrived at the residence, inspected the vehicle, and determined that the engine had seized. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.

ENGINE — Filed 11/15/2025

I purchased a car from a used car dealer in Sacramento. Two days later, the lifters went bad. This truck only has 115,000 miles on it. This is a know issue that GM has and they're doing nothing to remedy the issue. They keep putting DOD/AFM in these expensive cars knowing the lifters will fail and cause damage to the cam. They should be responsible for doing a DOD/AFM delete on all trucks that have this issue.

ENGINE — Filed 10/13/2025

The engine started making a tapping noise on the right side. Then the tapping noise got louder and then stopped but the engine light came on and the engine started running very rough. By the noise was described to the shop and they said it is bad lifters and camshafts and this is very common for the GM 6.2L engine. The vehicle has 117,000 miles on it.

ENGINE — Filed 09/09/2025

Bought vehicle certified in 2023 with 86000 miles now at 123000 Engine needs replacing..Bought it from an accredited Cadillac dealership

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE — Filed 08/20/2025

Purchased 2016 Cadillac Escalade in April 2022 - VIN [XXX] . License plate [XXX] . Car has had electrical shortage issues in the navigation screen ever since purchasing. The navigation screen flickers, switches between apps simultaneously and isn’t responsive to finger touch as advertised. I have taken the car to the dealership 4 times within the 90 day dealership warranty. Those dates were April 25, 2022; May 26, 2022; September 3, 2022; and September 24, 2022. However, the problem hasn’t been resolved. This has also caused the car ignition start up to start slowly. The battery has been checked and is fully charged and working properly. The ignition, alternator and transmission are all working properly in good condition. I believe the dealership sold me a “Lemon” vehicle. The initial CarFax report didn’t disclose any mechanical or electrical issues. I paid a $6000 downpayment and have paid $15,999.98 so far. My monthly car payment is $999.98. This car isn’t safe to drive and I am seeking a financial settlement of $20,000 and for the dealership to take back the car without a negative ding on my credit report and no voluntary repossession listed on my credit report. [XXX] my car completely shut down and no longer would start. I had a brand new battery installed a few days prior. Called AAA 4x’s and they couldn’t jump start my car. They tested the alternator, starter, and transmission and there were no failed sensors. I didn’t have any warning lights. I had my car towed to my mechanic and he verified nothing was wrong with transmission, starter and alternator. I noticed there was a strong burn smell and something popped underneath the car causing the car to no longer start or turn on. I ended having to voluntary surrender the car back to Capital One Auto Finance (Account [XXX] ) on Monday [XXX] because the car no longer is operable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 06/22/2025

While I was driving the car turned off and the steering wheel got really hard, making it harder to get out of the road to keep my children safe since we were in the highway. Second time it happened the stabilitrack service message came up, and also the steering assist is reduced please drive with care. The ebrake. ABS and stabilitrack light on the dash turned on. This started happening on may 14 until present

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 05/14/2025

When I’m trying to park my car shuts off and turns back on, steering wheel stops working, service stabilitrak turn on and goes away, sometimes my car won’t turn on and have to disconnect the battery and connect it for it to turn on again.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 01/08/2025

My starter caught on fire trying to start my car

AIR BAGS — Filed 03/01/2024

The contact owns a 2016 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated that while driving at 40-45 MPH, the driver-side air bag deployed without any impact. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact sustained injuries to his arm, neck, and back that required medical attention. The contact drove himself to the hospital. No police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that a module failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000. The VIN was not available.

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 08/20/2020

OUR 2016 ESCALADE WITH 20,000 MILES HAD THE TAIL PIPE CORRODE AND FALL OF THE VEHICLE. THE REAR BUMPER WAS SUBJECT TO EXCESSIVE EXHAUST HEAT WHICH SUBSEQUENTLY MELTED THE BUMPER AND BACK-UP SENSORS. IF THE ISSUE WASN'T NOTICED, A MAJOR THERMAL EVENT COULD HAVE OCCURRED AND THE TRUCK COULD HAVE BEEN A TOTAL LOSS. CADILLAC HAS REFUSED TO WARRANTY THIS ISSUE. WE ALSO HAVE A 2019 ESCALADE THAT IS SHOWING SIGNIFICANT SIGNS OF CORROSION AT THE SAME WELD. I BELIEVE THIS IS 100% A DESIGN ISSUE. THE SERVICE DEALER, AUTONATION IN PALM BEACH, FL TOLD ME THAT THEY WOULDN'T WARRANTY BECAUSE I ASKED THEM TO INSTALL THE CADILLAC OPTIONAL UPGRADE EXHAUST, NOT WOULD THEY COVER ANY OF THE MELTED COMPONENTS DUE TO THE INFERIOR TAIL PIPE DESIGN. I HAVE PHOTOS OF THE 2016 EXHAUST UPON FAILURE AND THE 2019 WITH THE START OF CORROSION THAT I CAN EMAIL DIRECTLY.

AIR BAGS — Filed 02/24/2020

WHILE IN MOTION - THE CADILLAC ESCALADE'S AIRBAGS ALL SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. THERE WAS NO COLLISION OR IMPACT THAT PRECEDED THE INCIDENT. THE POLICE OFFICER ON SCENE WAS ALSO QUITE SURPRISED. THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE SUFFERED BRUISES, AND A MILD CONCUSSION. THE OTHER OCCUPANTS WERE SAFE. HOWEVER, THE DEPLOYMENT OF THESE AIRBAGS WITH NO COLLISION OR REASON REPRESENTS A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD.

AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 09/18/2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 CADILLAC ESCALADE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 42 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED ANOTHER VEHICLE TRAVELING IN THE WRONG DIRECTION AND HEADING TOWARDS HIM. THE CONTACT SWERVED TO THE LEFT TO AVOID THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT DROVE OFF THE ROAD AND STRUCK A LARGE ROCK IN A NEARBY LAWN. THE FRONT END OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED. PARTS OF THE VEHICLE'S FRONT END WAS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED INJURIES TO THE BACK AND ARM, BUT MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT RECEIVED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V645000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); HOWEVER, THE SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT DATE FOR THE REPAIR WAS AFTER THE CRASH. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,000.

SUSPENSION,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 06/14/2019

06/14/2019 I WAS DRIVING MY CADILLAC TO ESCALATE ESV TRAVELING FROM BALTIMORE TO WASHINGTON DC 95 SOUTH BAND. 12:04 PM MY VEHICLE FLIP OVER. I ALMOST LOST MY LIFE. AFTER THE ACCIDENT, I INSPECTED THE VEHICLE. I FOUND THAT LEFT THE REAR WHEEL OF THE CAR; COME OUT OF THE VEHICLE. WHEEL LOCKS AND AXLE BAR OF THE TIRE CUT OFF AND BROKEN. THIS CAUSED FLIPPING OF THE VEHICLE.

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 03/26/2019

VACUUM PUMP DETERIORATION OR FAILURE CAUSED REDUCED STOPPING OF VEHICLE. BACKED UP VEHICLE IN DRIVEWAY AND COULD NOT STOP UNTIL I PUMPED BRAKE PETAL SEVERAL TIMES. AND FINALLY STOPPED. PLACED VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL AND SET HAND BRAKE. I CHECKED ACCELERATOR AND STOP PETALS FOR OBSTRUCTION AND FOUND NONE. PLACED VEHICLE IN DRIVE AND SLOWLY MOVED FORWARD. APPLIED BRAKES ABOUT TEN FOOT FROM WALL AND VEHICLE STRUCT BRICK WALL BETWEEN GARAGES. COULD NOT STOP VEHICLE WITH THE BRAKE APPLIED. DAMAGE TO GARAGE $14,940 AND VEHICLE $4,984.

POWER TRAIN — Filed 01/01/2017

KNOWN TRANSMISSION ISSUE WHICH CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO TO BUCK AND SURGE WHEN YOU PULL UP TO TA STOP LIGHT, STOP SIGN, ON HIGHWAY,OR IN TRAFFIC. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. DEALER STATES THAT THIS IS A KNOWN CONDITION WITH NO FIX. DEALER DESCRIBES ISSUES WITH SOME VEHICLES WORSE THAN OTHERS. GENERAL MANAGER OF COLONIAL CADILLAC WOBURN MA 781-935-7000 (BRET DOUGLAS) STATES THAT HE HAS DRIVEN VEHICLES WITH SAME ISSUES AND THERE IS NO FIX. IT WAS CORRECTED IN THE 2018 VEHICLES BY GOING TO A 10 SPEED TRANSMISSION. OUR VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN FOR SERVICE MULTIPLE TIMES WITHOUT ANY SUCCESS IN A REPAIR. WE ARE AFRAID TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AS IT SURGES FORWARD AT ANY GIVEN MOMENT. CONTACTED CADILLAC AND THEY ARE UNWILLING TO DO ANYTHING TO HELP WITH THE ISSUE. THEY ARE CONCERNED THAT THIS WOULD START THEM DOWN A SLIPPERY SLOPE FOR REPAIRING MANY 2015,16,17'S THAT HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. YOU ONLY HAVE TO GOOGLE THE ISSUE TO SEE THAT MANY GM OWNERS ARE DEALING WITH THIS SAME ISSUE. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO HAVE A RESOLUTION. SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED AS A RESULT OF THIS TRANSMISSION ISSUE. PLEASE HELP

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 08/15/2016

IN THE EARLY HOURS OF AUGUST 15TH 2016 MY CADILLAC ESCALADE 2016, VIN [XXX], CAUGHT FIRE WHILE STAYING PARKED (STATIONARY) ALL NIGHT. AS PER THE PICTURES TAKEN BY THE NEIGHBORS, THE ESCALADE TUNED INTO A HUGE FIRE BALL AND BURNED THE TRUCK DOWN TO ASHES. IT ALSO BURNED DOWN TWO OTHER CARS PARKED BEHIND IT AND THE ADJACENT HOUSE ON FIRE. AS PER THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY (MARYLAND) FIRE DEPARTMENT, ARSON WAS RULED OUT AND MOST LIKELY CAUSED BY INTERNAL MECHANICAL ISSUES. (FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT NUMBER [XXX]). INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR