As a luxury SUV, the Cadillac Escalade has few equals. However, it promises a lap of luxury, but . Let’s take a look at four of the worst and four of the best model years for the US’s premier SUV.
Common Cadillac Escalade Problems
says the 2016 model received the most owner-reported complaints of any model year, and broken exterior door handles received the most complaints in multiple model years. Most of the 2016 Escalade’s problems are with the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system and transmission failures, but other years have experienced engine problems and abnormally rough driving.
he says, “not all Cadillac Escalade years are created equal.” This inequality is especially true in the 2007, 2008, 2015, and 2016 Cadillac Escalade models.
2007 Cadillac Escalade
CoPilot notes that the 2007, introductory model of the third-generation Escalade has nearly 300 NHTSA complaints. These complaints include the aforementioned broken door handles and a more serious electrical system that left the luxury SUV “engulfed in flames.”
2008 Cadillac Escalade
The 2008 model received fewer complaints, with 176 total, but the broken door handle issue carried over from the previous model year. Another common problem for 2008 models is a bad instrument cluster that works intermittently. The remedy requires replacing the instrument cluster, an expensive repair process.
2015 Cadillac Escalade
With 72 NHTSA complaints and seven, the fourth-generation 2015 Escalade isn’t the worst. However, as a premium luxury SUV, it’s not as refined or reliable as people expect.
According to CoPilot, the most frequent source of complaints are tremors and shocks while driving. Several reports describe the Escalade’s rough-shifting automatic transmission this way, but the 2015 Escalade also has recurring engine misfire problems that cause a rough idle.
2016 Cadillac Escalade
According to the , the 2016 Escalade received 61 complaints and four manufacturer-issued recalls. Most of the complaints concerned the electrical system and the suspension.
Two manufacturers have problems with front airbags, one with the brake booster system. However, the more serious potential defect requires owners of the affected Escalades to “immediately stop driving this vehicle” until a qualified mechanic inspects the upper control arms (part of the front suspension) for “poor welds.”
Four best models
CoPilot recommends 2002, 2013 and 2014 Cadillac Escalades and adds the 2018 model year to the list of trusted models. CoPilot says the first-generation Escalade has received criticism as “rebadged Chevy Tahoe with leather trim.” However, when the 2002 model ushered in the second-generation Escalade, critics began to recognize it as America’s “first truly full-size luxury SUV. While the 2002 Cadillac escapade isn’t perfect, CoPilot says “its engines are reasonably priced nowadays.”
The 2013 and 2014 models are part of the third generation. Both models offer a luxurious interior with leather upholstery, heated seats and plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Plus, the 403-hp 6.2-liter V8 provides enough power to make the big Escalade nimble.
Money Inc. lists the 2018 Escalade among “Top 10 Cadillac Escalade Models of All Time”. Additionally, the review lists the 2018 model, the newest on both lists, as desirable due to its magnetic ride control, adaptive suspension, and pop-up display.
