2021 Cadillac Escalade Problems: 2 Known Issues
2021 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is L87 6.2L Connecting Rod Bearing Failure on T1XX Escalade ($0-$12,000 repair). DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 2 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls13 recalls
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Escalade ESV vehicles. The electronic brake control module software may fail to display a warning light when a loss of brake fluid occurs. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
General Motors, LLC (M) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with third-row seats. The rivet that retains the buckle to the mounting bracket in the left or right side third-row seat belt buckle assembly may have been improperly formed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles equipped with 10 Speed Transmission with ETRS (Electronic Transmission Range Select). The transmission control valve may fail and lock up the rear wheels.
+ 8 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Cadillac Escalade problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade has 2 documented issues. Documented issues include: L87 6.2L Connecting Rod Bearing Failure on T1XX Escalade, 10-Speed Harsh Shift or Shudder Needs Cooler-Line and Data Diagnosis. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Cadillac Escalade reliable?
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade has 2 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: L87 6.2L Connecting Rod Bearing Failure on T1XX Escalade. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Cadillac Escalade problems?
Repair costs for known Cadillac Escalade issues range from $0 to $12,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, L87 6.2L Connecting Rod Bearing Failure on T1XX Escalade, typically costs $0-$12,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade L87 6.2L Connecting Rod Bearing Failure on T1XX Escalade?
The T1XX Escalade's 6.2L L87 V8 has a documented connecting-rod bearing failure that is separate from the older AFM lifter problem and separate from oil consumption. Sediment left on the connecting rods and in the crankshaft oil galleries, and out-of-specification crankshaft dime… Repairs typically run $0-$12,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade 10-Speed Harsh Shift or Shudder Needs Cooler-Line and Data Diagnosis?
GM 22-NA-182 and 22-NA-015 cover bounded 2021-2024 Escalade 10-speed concerns. A twisted cooler line or incorrect fluid level can contribute, while a 25-50 mph shudder can reflect DFM operation, engine torque variation, valve-body or TCC-solenoid behavior, or true converter slip. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.