Last updated: 2026-04-20

2019 Cadillac Escalade Reliability Report
The 2019 Cadillac Escalade scores 66/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 51 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
1
Complaints
51
Complaint Rate
14.4per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$1007
Annual Fuel Cost
$4,050
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ENGINE (25)
- POWER TRAIN (9)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is 3 years after the mid-cycle update refresh.
- Year 5 in the Fourth generation (GMT K2UL) (2015–2020).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 4th generation Escalade (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2015: Fourth generation (GMT K2UL) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2016: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is 3 years after the mid-cycle update refresh.
Should You Buy the 2019 Cadillac Escalade?
At 66/100, the 2019 Cadillac Escalade lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is 3 years after the mid-cycle update refresh.
Owners log 51 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to engine (25). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 Cadillac Escalade, which scored the same.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$120 cheaper to maintain than avg luxury fullsize SUVs
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low recall count
Cons
- −ENGINE: Lifters and camshaft, often linked to the Active Fuel Management system (25 complaints)
- −POWER TRAIN: Transmission and engine failures (9 complaints)
Compare 2019 Cadillac Escalade With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ENGINE (25)
- POWER TRAIN (9)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2019 Cadillac Escalade carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
14.4
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 22
Safety Incidents
2
Crashes
1
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Cadillac Escalade Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2019 Cadillac Escalade. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SEAT BELTS
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Cadillac CT6, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Volt, and GMC Yukon XL vehicles. Certain second-row or third-row rear seatbelts retractor assemblies may not automatically lock when the seatbelt is fully pulled out of the retractor, possibly preventing a child seat from being properly secured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
If the child seat is not properly secured in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear seatbelt retractors and replace them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 7, 2018. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18315.
Buying a used 2019 Cadillac Escalade? Check its history first
Every 2019 Cadillac Escalade has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Cadillac Escalade NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 22.8%
Safety Technologies
Cadillac EscaladeRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2.5Maintenance rating: 2.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$1007
vs $1127 avg for luxury fullsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
20%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
17 MPG
Running cost: $5,050/yr
Fuel + repair
14 city / 21–23 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Escalade 2WD 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 10-spd | 14 | 23 | 17 | $4,050 |
| Escalade 4WD 6.2L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 10-spd | 14 | 21 | 17 | $4,050 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Cadillac Escalade.
Inspect engine for knocking or ticking noises
Check for rough idling or loss of power during test drive
Verify if lifters and camshaft have been replaced
Test transmission for rough shifting or stalling
Ensure power running boards deploy and retract properly
Confirm tire pressure monitoring system displays correct information
2019 Cadillac Escalade Common Problems by Component
51 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ENGINE
25 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2019 Cadillac Escalade's engine, particularly involving the lifters and camshaft, often linked to the Active Fuel Management system. Common symptoms include loud knocking or ticking noises, rough idle, and the illumination of the check engine light, with some experiencing complete engine failure or loss of power. These problems typically arise around 70,000 miles, though some occur earlier or later. Safety implications are noted, with reports of sudden power loss on highways and one instance involving smoke and a potential fire risk. Buyers considering this model should be aware of the significant repair costs and the potential for engine-related safety concerns.
POWER TRAIN
9 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the power train of the 2019 Cadillac Escalade, primarily involving transmission and engine failures. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as rough idling, loss of power, and knocking noises, with some owners experiencing sudden stalling or engine shutdowns. These issues often occur around 85,000 to 127,000 miles, with some requiring costly engine replacements. Safety implications are noted, with several owners describing sudden loss of power or control, which could pose risks during highway driving. Buyers should be aware of these patterns, as they may indicate potential for significant repairs or safety concerns.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Cadillac Escalade report several electrical system issues, with common complaints involving malfunctioning power running boards and tire pressure monitoring system inaccuracies. The power running boards, particularly on the driver's side, often fail to deploy or retract properly, which has led to at least one reported injury. Additionally, tire pressure monitors are noted to display incorrect tire information, causing confusion. One owner also details a significant odometer discrepancy, suggesting potential odometer fraud. These issues are reported across varying mileages, with no specific mileage range consistently mentioned. Safety implications are highlighted, particularly regarding the malfunctioning power running boards leading to potential physical injuries.
SUSPENSION (3 complaints)
SUSPENSION
3 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Cadillac Escalade frequently report issues with the suspension system, particularly noting repeated "service suspension system" warnings and the need for multiple suspension replacements within relatively low mileage, around 20,000 to 33,000 miles. Symptoms described include vehicle shuddering during acceleration and alignment problems leading to tire wear. One complaint highlights a significant safety incident involving a vehicle locking malfunction, resulting in an injury, although this is not directly linked to the suspension. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues as they may incur additional repair costs and should verify any previous accident history due to reports of frame damage affecting suspension performance.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Cadillac Escalade frequently report issues with the vehicle's exterior lighting, particularly the brightness of the headlights and taillights. Complaints describe the headlights as excessively bright, causing glare and difficulty for other drivers, especially when viewed directly or in side mirrors. Some owners also mention the unique design of vertically stacked lights as a contributing factor to the problem. There are no specific mileage ranges mentioned, but the reported symptoms include difficulty seeing pedestrians and a potential safety hazard when driving in certain conditions, such as uphill or at busy intersections. These issues may be relevant for used car buyers concerned about nighttime visibility and the impact on driving safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Cadillac Escalade report issues related to electronic systems affecting vehicle control. One complaint describes a problem where a low battery causes the gear to shift from park to neutral, resulting in the vehicle moving unexpectedly. Another complaint involves a failure of electronic safety features, leading to a crash where the vehicle did not slow down adequately, even with hard braking, resulting in one injury. These reports highlight potential safety implications, including unintended vehicle movement and insufficient braking response. No specific mileage or timeline patterns are noted, but both issues involve critical vehicle control systems.
Carry Handle (1 complaints)
Carry Handle
1 complaintSafety-relatedThe car seat was in the locked rear facing position without it in use (thankfully) and I got rear ended on the freeway and the car seat became detached from the base that was anchored to my car. The car seat ended on the floor between my two middle seats.
VISIBILITY (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2019 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware that due to the placement and size of the sideview mirrors, there was a blind spot. The contact stated that the blind spots were large enough to severely reduce sideview visibility. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who declined to assist. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 41,000.
SEATS (1 complaints)
SEATS
1 complaintCAR PURCHASED FEBRUARY 2019 BRAND NEW. WHEN SEAT COOLING, THE BACK OF THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEATS HEAT UP IN ALL COOLING MODES FROM HIGH TO LOW. RETURN VENTS ON BACK SIDE OF DRIVER/PASSENGER SEATS BLOW OUT VERY HOT AIR PROVIDING SAFETY CONCERN IF TOUCHED BY PASSENGER. INFRARED THERM. PERSONALLY PURCHASED AND RECORDED A LOG OF SEAT TEMPS FOR OVER A MONTH. RETURN VENTS ON BACK OF BOTH SEATS REACHED A MAXIMUM OF 132FON DRIVERS SIDE AND 129F ON PASSENGER. ON AVERAGE, INFRARED THERM. SHOWED DRIVER/ PASSENGER BACK OF SEATS MEASURING AVG 92-96 DEGREES F. ON OCASSION COOLING SEATS WORK WITH NO ISSUE BUT USUALLY OCCURS 15 MINUTES INTO DRIVING WITH COOL ON. WHEN SEAT COOLING TURNED OFF, SEATS/VENTS COOL OFF. WHEN TURNED BACK ON SEATS/VENTS HEAT UP. CAR SERVICED BY DEALERSHIP THREE TIMES FOR THIS PROBLEM. AFTER NOTIFYING GM CUSTOMER RELATIONS WITH CERTIFIED LETTER, A GM SERVICE ENGINEER WAS SENT TO ASSESS MY CAR ISSUES ON THE THIRD TIME. PER INVOICE 10644 9/24/19, GM SERVICE ENGINEER CONFIRMED THERE WAS AIR BEING TRAPPED IN FOAM OF BACK SEAT CAUSING RETURN AIR VENTS TO HEAT UP. HE MEASURED THE BACK SEATS TO HEAT TO 81F AFTER TWO TEST RUNS ONLY WITH A DIGITAL THERMOMETER. HIS CORRECTION IS REMOVAL OF OPEN CELLED FOAM IN BACK OF DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEATS AND REPOSITIONED THEN REMOVED HOT AIR EXHAUST PORTS ON LF/RF SEAT BACK COOLERS. NOTES COOLING SEATS OPERATE AS DESIGNED. I AM NOT COMFORTABLE WITH REMOVAL OF MANUFACTURERS DESIGN PARTS FOR FUNCTIONING OF CAR. HAVE CONFIRMED OTHER CADILLAC SUV OWNERS HAVE HEATING ISSUES WITH RETURN VENTS IN A 2016 SUV SERVICED BY SAME DEALERSHIP AND PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. ALSO, 2019 ESCALADE ESV LOANER PROVIDED TO ME EXHIBITS EXACT SAME ISSUES AS THOSE REPORTED IN MY CAR WITH HEAT IN BACK OF SEATS AND RETURN VENTS DURING COOLING SEATS ACTIVATED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking violently. No warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over and contacted an independent mechanic. The check engine warning light was then illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic, who diagnosed that there was a misfire in cylinder #5. The spark plugs were replaced, and the oil was changed, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, who discovered metal shavings in the engine and determined that the camshafts and lifters needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, who also determined that there was a misfire in cylinder #5 and recommended that the engine be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the year and VIN were not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,700.
When Do 2019 Cadillac Escalade Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Cadillac Escalade Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Cadillac Escalade Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Cadillac Escalade year is 2025 with a reliability score of 72/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2020 (66/100) and 2019 (66/100).
2025
2020
2019
(Current Model)
Cadillac Escalade Years to Avoid
The worst Cadillac Escalade year is 2021 with a score of 54/100, primarily due to engine (22) issues. Also avoid 2023 (56/100).
Cadillac Escalade Reliability Score Trend
Cadillac Escalade reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 63/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 54/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2023 | 56/100 | Mixed |
| 2024 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 72/100 | Good |
Cadillac Escalade Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Cadillac Escalade reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Cadillac Escalade?
How many recalls does the 2019 Cadillac Escalade have?
Is the 2019 Cadillac Escalade expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Cadillac Escalade without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Cadillac Escalade.
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