Here Are The Cadillac Escalade Years To Avoid
Source: Pixabay
For customers who are looking for an all-American full-size luxury SUV, it’s hard to go wrong with the Cadillac Escalade. The now well-established Escalade has a reputation for reliability, and many owners claimed that it’s one you can drive till the wheels fall off.
According to the folks at RepairPal, the Cadillac Escalade has a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5, ranking 6th out of 19 for the luxury full-size SUV segment. Although the Escalade is considered a reliable vehicle, some years are less reliable than others.
Today, we’re listing the Cadillac Escalade years to avoid and also the ones that you can safely buy as used.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE CADILLAC ESCALADE
With more than a decade of models on the market, it’s tricky to find the right one. You might wonder - what is the most reliable Cadillac Escalade year?
Which Cadillac Escalade Years to Avoid?
Here’s a quick list of the Cadillac Escalade years to avoid due to reliability and safety issues:
- 2007 Cadillac Escalade
- 2008 Cadillac Escalade
- 2015 Cadillac Escalade
- 2016 Cadillac Escalade
- 2019 Cadillac Escalade
2007 Cadillac Escalade
With almost 300 NHTSA complaints, according to Car Complaints, the 2007 Cadillac Escalade is an iteration you may want to avoid. Now in its third generation, the 2007 Escalade debuted with updated styling and amenities.
Perhaps the most concerning report about this year is the electrical fire. Although this particular complaint came from a single owner, we feel that it’s worth mentioning. Basically, the SUV was engulfed in flames which is a massive safety hazard.
Meanwhile, a more common complaint is that the Escalade’s inside/outside door handle is prone to breaking. Some users claimed that they have to get replacements multiple times.
BE CERTAIN YOU’RE GETTING THE BEST DEAL
CoPilot searches your area and lets you know if there’s a better deal on a similar vehicle nearby, so you’re always certain you got the best deal possible. The CoPilot app is the smartest way to buy a car.
2008 Cadillac Escalade
Having 176 complaints from CarComplaints.com, the 2008 Cadillac Escalade is another luxury SUV you should avoid.
Once again, the fragile door handle problem from 2007 was carried over to the 2008 version. According to numerous complainants, the SUV’s door handles broke from both the driver and passenger sides, and also both inside and outside. It’s a relatively quick fix, but shoppers feel that this isn’t acceptable in a luxury model.
Another area of concern is the erratic instrument panel. As described by RepairPal, the speedometer or other instrument panel gauge works on and off. A common fix is to replace the instrument cluster altogether, which can be expensive.
2015 Cadillac Escalade
The 2015 Cadillac Escalade has its issues, but it’s certainly not the most problematic of the bunch. However, it does have 95 NHTSA complaints, and 6 recalls.
One of the more prevalent issues with the 2015 Escalade is that it shakes and bumps while driving. This can be due to many different factors, but the most likely is due to transmission problems that affect the 2015 or newer Escalades. The automatic transmission is known to have rough shifting, which can result in the vehicle shaking while driving.
Additionally, engine misfires are also a problem with the 2015 Escalade. Symptoms include flashing check engine lights and P0300-P0308 codes. Some owners claimed that the problem persists even after swapping the spark plug wires or coils.
2016 Cadillac Escalade
Another member of the fourth generation Escalade has made it into this list with the 2016 year. As per Car Complaints, the 2016 Escalade received 81 complaints, and 3 recalls.
One of the most frequently reported issues of this model is the engine and suspension problems. Many drivers claimed that they experienced violent and intermittent shaking while driving the SUV. Issues of this nature were largely unsolved.
Another problem that you should look out for this year is the transmission. An NHTSA investigation revealed this problem and was described by a user as a “sudden push and a bang” as the transmission was engaged.
THE BEST CARS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS
Whether you’re squeezing into a tight campus parking spot or hauling ten loads of laundry back home, these best cars for college students will get you, your friends, and your stuff where you’re going.
2019 Cadillac Escalade
In all honesty, the 2019 Escalade is more of a dishonorable mention than an actual year you should avoid. There are very few complaints, and there are no known recalls as well.
One issue that plagues the 4th generation Escalade (2015-2020) is rough idling. Some owners reported that the SUV surges while the engine is idling. Also, the Engine Reduced Power Mode Light comes on the dash even when idling. The potential cause points to carbon build-up on the throttle body, which can affect the body’s calibration.
Aside from a few mechanical issues, this SUV has received complaints against body paint and electrical defects. Most customer accounts relate that sometimes, warning lights will just stay on for no good reason.
Which Cadillac Escalade Years are Safe to Buy Used?
Now that we’ve listed the worst Cadillac Escalade years to avoid let’s move on to the ones that you can’t go wrong by buying used.
2002 Cadillac Escalade
The first-gen Escalade’s reception wasn’t too hot, and experts critiqued it as a “rebadged Chevy Tahoe with leather upholstery.” However, those experts have changed their tune once the 2nd-gen Escalade rolled in, starting with the 2002 Cadillac Escalade.
The 2002 model is widely considered as the first true full-size American luxury SUV with a noteworthy redesign and powerful 6.0-liter V8 engine. As for reliability, it has its fair share of mechanical problems, but its engines are priced reasonably nowadays.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR BRAKES?
Unless you’re a mechanic or super-dedicated car enthusiast, you might not know much about the brakes on your car. How long do they typically last? How often should you replace your brakes? We’ve got answers
2013 Cadillac Escalade
When it comes to American luxury SUVs, it’s hard to compete with the 3rd-gen Escalades. If you’re into plush interior amenities and cavernous space, the 2013 Escalade won’t disappoint.
The 2013 Escalade is comfortable, reliable, and gives you a commanding view of the road. However, it’s far from a perfect vehicle - if you can deal with the somewhat clumsy handling and poor fuel economy, this year is a good way to be introduced to the Escalade lineup.
2014 Cadillac Escalade
The highly-rated 2014 Escalade is an excellent choice for a newer luxury SUV. As the tail-end of the 3rd generation Escalade, the 2014 model closed its generation in power and style.
The main highlight of this SUV is its powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine capable of doling out 403 hp. As expected, the occupants are treated to a plush interior with leather upholstery and heated seats. Without a doubt, the 2014 Escalade is one of the best entries of the lineup and the most dependable SUV in its class.
Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You
The CoPilot car shopping app is the easiest way to buy a car. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area to make you a personalized list of the best car listings in your area.
Only looking for newer models? CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars. Only see cars five years or newer with low mileage — CoPilot Compare is the best way to find off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO cars.
The best part? CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. CoPilot doesn’t work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices — just the most info on the best cars. Check out our About Us page to see how CoPilot works.
