GradeCadillac Escalade Reliability Grade
Below-average reliability
Grade a specific Cadillac Escalade
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Cadillac Escalade earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C- for its engine and a C for its transmission. It ranks 3rd of 6 full-size SUVs we grade. Both its engine (C-) and transmission (C) grade poorly, so a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic is a must. Grades are based on 1,005 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Cadillac Escalade reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2006, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014
Years to avoid: 2007 (stalling / loss of power), 2021 (engine failure / knocking) and 2022–2023 (stalling / loss of power)
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Cadillac Escalade last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Cadillac Escalade vs. other full-size SUVs
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Sequoia | A | A | A |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | B | C+ | B- |
| Chevrolet Suburban | C+ | C- | C |
| Cadillac Escalade | C- | C | C |
| GMC Yukon | C | C- | C- |
| Ford Expedition | C | D | D |
Own a Cadillac Escalade?
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Rate your EscaladeCadillac Escalade reliability FAQ
Is the Cadillac Escalade reliable?
Below-average reliability. The Cadillac Escalade earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C- for its engine and a C for its transmission. It ranks 3rd of 6 full-size SUVs we grade. Both its engine (C-) and transmission (C) grade poorly, so a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic is a must. Grades are based on 1,005 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Cadillac Escalade last?
We estimate a well-maintained Cadillac Escalade lasts around 180,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Cadillac Escalade?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Cadillac Escalade model years are 2006, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014.
What Cadillac Escalade years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Cadillac Escalade years to be most careful with are 2007, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The 2023 grades an F overall (engine F, transmission F), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power. The 2007 grades a D overall (engine C-, transmission C-), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power, which a recall covers.
Is the Cadillac Escalade transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Cadillac Escalade transmission a C (below-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Cadillac Escalade engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Cadillac Escalade engine a C- (below-average reliability).