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L87 6.2L Connecting Rod / Crankshaft Bearing Failure — Recall 25V274 (2021-2024)
engine knocking; engine stalls; sudden loss of power; check engine light; engine failure recall
Catastrophic2021-2024
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2021-2026 Escalade: 16+ recalls, federal probe into engine failures. Does your Cadillac qualify under California lemon law? Free case review.
You spent six figures on an icon. The Cadillac Escalade promised a throne room on wheels — 38 inches of curved OLED display, available Super Cruise hands-free driving, and a 6.2-liter V8 that launches 5,800 pounds with authority. Instead, many 2021-2026 Escalade owners are learning that badge prestige does not come with immunity from serious mechanical defects.
The story of this generation is, above all, an engine story. The L87 6.2-liter V8 is the subject of NHTSA Recall 25V274: 597,571 vehicles, manufacturing-defective connecting rods and crankshafts, and a remedy so contested that NHTSA opened investigation RQ26001 to determine whether the oil-viscosity fix actually works. Thirty-six formal post-remedy engine seizures triggered that federal review.
The transmission story is nearly as troubling. The 10-speed 10L80 automatic has been the subject of two separate rear-wheel-lockup recalls: 24V797 for diesel 2021 models and 26V085 for gas 2022 models. A companion TSB upgrades the worn aluminum feed-limit valve to steel — validating what owners reported for years as harsh downshifts and limp mode.
Add a 2026 transfer-case recall with a Do Not Drive advisory, a 2023-2024 brake-warning software failure, and power running boards that stop working despite multiple dealer visits, and the picture is clear: if your Escalade has been in the shop repeatedly for the same complaint, California law may give you far more options than your dealer lets on.
The issues owners report most, ranked by severity — each one verified against a cited NHTSA source.
engine knocking; engine stalls; sudden loss of power; check engine light; engine failure recall
transmission shifts unexpectedly; hesitation; harsh shift; transmission warning
engine seizes or loses power weeks or months after recall repair; catastrophic bearing failure after dealer oil-change remedy; replacement engine fails shortly after installation; sudden loss of propulsion at highway speeds after 25V274 service completed; metal shavings in oil post-remedy
driver seat cushion loose; seat fastener recall; seat may not stay secured
airbag warning light; passenger airbag may not deploy; SRS warning; occupant detection fault
engine stalls while driving; vehicle will not start; loss of power; fuel pump recall
A settled Margarian Law case on this exact model, published with the actual settlement math.
See every published case, with the settlement math shown →
Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome; results depend on the facts of each case.
Open any defect for the symptoms and why it matters for a California lemon-law claim. Each is tied to a cited NHTSA source.
driver seat cushion loose; seat fastener recall; seat may not stay secured
A seat belt that can be entrapped or damaged behind a folding seat mechanism directly impairs occupant protection in a crash — a core safety defect under Song-Beverly. If the dealer inspected but the belt routing re-failed (common on vehicles with frequent third-row use), the repeat-repair standard may be met. Any recall-covered safety defect that required more than two visits to permanently fix creates lemon eligibility in California.
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the third-row outboard seat belts, replacing any damaged seat belts, and rerouting them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 21, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462
airbag warning light; passenger airbag may not deploy; SRS warning; occupant detection fault
An airbag warning system that falsely indicates no occupant detection — or fails to flag a real SDM fault — is a safety defect because it compromises crash-restraint performance. Under Song-Beverly, a safety defect backed by a NHTSA recall that required repeat dealer visits to resolve establishes lemon eligibility. Owners should retain all repair orders documenting SRS light on, SRS software updates, and any recurrence.
The communications gateway module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet
engine stalls while driving; vehicle will not start; loss of power; fuel pump recall
An unexpected engine stall caused by fuel pump control module failure is a safety defect — loss of propulsion at speed creates crash risk. If a 2021 Escalade owner experienced stalling before or after the recall module replacement, each dealer visit counts as a repair attempt. Two or more attempts for this safety-category defect support a Song-Beverly claim.
Dealers will replace the fuel pump power control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 14, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number fo
clunking from drivetrain; loss of drive power; vehicle may roll when parked
Sudden driveshaft failure at speed can cause unexpected loss of propulsion and debris hazard. This recall required physical replacement of driveshaft assemblies — an invasive repair. If a 2021 Escalade owner noticed clunking, vibration, or propulsion loss before recall remedy, those pre-remedy shop visits may constitute prior repair attempts under Song-Beverly, combined with the recall service itself meeting the two-visit threshold for a safety defect.
Dealers will replace the left and/or right rear driveshaft assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 14, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM'
driver seat cushion loose; seat fastener recall; seat may not stay secured
A seat belt buckle that may fail to restrain an occupant in a crash is among the most serious safety defects recognized under California lemon law. Recall 22V617 covers 2021-2022 model years and requires physical buckle replacement — if that replacement was delayed (parts shortages were common in this period) or if the replaced buckle was subsequently found defective, each repair visit counts toward Song-Beverly's two-attempt safety threshold.
Dealers will inspect the rivet head formation on both the left and right side third-row seat belt buckle assemblies and replace seat belt buckle assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed September 28, 2022. Owner noti
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
Daytime running lights that fail to deactivate when headlights engage create oncoming-traffic glare and violate Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. While this is a software defect addressed by a BCM update, owners who had the recall performed and experienced DRL glare recurrence should document re-visits. Lighting safety defects that recur after attempted repair are eligible for Song-Beverly consideration.
Dealers will provide an over-the-air (OTA) update for the Body Control Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 15, 2022. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
Recall 22V903 is a separate campaign from 22V827 covering 2022-2023 model years with the same DRL-deactivation software defect. Owners with 2022-2023 Escalades who experienced DRL glare before receiving the OTA or dealer BCM update — especially those who made dealer appointments that were then remedied by OTA — should confirm their repair orders reflect the BCM version number updated. A software defect that required a second dealer visit to confirm fix completion may count toward Song-Beverly's repair-attempt tally.
The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac custome
front suspension noise; stabilizer bar loose; vehicle pulls or clunks
Improperly heat-treated suspension bolts that can fracture under load are a structural safety defect — fracture misaligns the rear wheel and can cause loss of control. For 2023 Escalade owners, if vibration, uneven tire wear, or rear-end handling complaints prompted dealer visits before recall 23V642 was issued, those visits serve as prior repair attempts. The recall's physical bolt-replacement remedy is the definitive fix; owners should verify both sides were replaced and retain the repair order.
Dealers will replace both rear suspension outer control arm bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 14, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
A brake control module that fails to warn the driver of fluid loss can allow the vehicle to be operated with degraded braking — a direct crash-risk safety defect. Recall 24V674's remedy is an eBCM software update (OTA or dealer). Owners should verify the update was applied and retain the repair order. If brake-pedal feel abnormalities prompted prior dealer visits before the recall was announced, those visits count as prior attempts under Song-Beverly.
The Electronic Brake Control Module (eBCM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2024. Owners can contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, o
transmission shifts unexpectedly; hesitation; harsh shift; transmission warning
Recall 24V797 affects 2021 Escalades equipped with the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine specifically. Rear-wheel lockup at speed is an acute safety defect. Diesel Escalade owners who experienced harsh transmission behavior or locking events prior to the recall TCM update should document each dealer visit, as multiple visits for this safety defect support Song-Beverly eligibility. Gas-engine 2021 Escalades are NOT covered by 24V797; the gas-engine equivalent is recall 26V085 (covering 2022 MY gas Escalades).
Dealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge. GM will provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2024.
engine knocking; engine stalls; sudden loss of power; check engine light; engine failure recall
Recall 25V274 is the defining defect of the 2021-2024 Escalade: manufacturer-confirmed connecting-rod and crankshaft manufacturing defects in the L87 6.2L engine that can cause complete engine seizure and loss of propulsion at highway speeds. With 597,571 vehicles in scope and 14,332+ field complaints, the defect is widespread and documented. Under Song-Beverly, any engine seizure — even if remedied under recall — followed by a second seizure (see NHTSA investigation RQ26001, issue iss-17) constitutes repeat repair of a safety-risk defect. California's presumption of lemon status applies after two attempts to repair a defect that could cause death or serious injury (Cal. Civ. Code §1793.2(d)(1)).
Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification lette
fuel smell; fuel leak; reduced fuel range; fuel filler or fuel tank recall
Recall 25V619 affects only 2021 Escalades with the 3.0L Duramax (LM2) diesel engine that received a fuel-tank replacement at a dealer. An incorrect replacement tank could leak fuel during a rollover. Diesel Escalade owners who had a fuel system service should verify whether 25V619 applies to their VIN. If a subsequent tank-related repair is required, that visit adds to the Song-Beverly repair-attempt count for a fire-risk safety defect.
Dealers will inspect for the correct fuel tank and replace it, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 5, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-878
transmission shifts unexpectedly; hesitation; harsh shift; transmission warning
Recall 26V085 covers 2022 Cadillac Escalade gas models with the 10L80 transmission built within a specific production window. Rear-wheel lockup at speed creates acute crash risk. Owners who experienced harsh transmission behavior or lockup-adjacent symptoms before the recall was announced in early 2026 should document all prior dealer visits. GM's recognition that the same valve defect required a second campaign (following 24V797 for diesel) demonstrates the systemic nature of the defect — strengthening Song-Beverly arguments.
Dealers will install new transmission control module (TCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet cu
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 26V114 requires a dealer visit or OTA correction to enable the in-vehicle owner's manual download. While a minor functional issue, if an owner lacks the owner's manual, they may be unaware of safety warnings and procedures — which NHTSA treats as a safety-information defect. This recall does not independently support a lemon claim but should be documented if the vehicle has other unresolved recalls requiring simultaneous dealer attention.
Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-9700, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac c
transmission shifts unexpectedly; hesitation; harsh shift; transmission warning
Recall 26V289 carries a 'Do Not Drive' advisory — among the most severe recall designations. A missing transfer case component that can cause sudden wheel lockup at speed is an acute fatality-risk defect. Under Song-Beverly, a vehicle subject to a Do Not Drive recall that cannot be promptly remedied due to parts availability has a strong case for replacement or refund, as the owner is left without use of a vehicle they cannot legally or safely operate. Document the date of recall notification and the date remedy was actually completed.
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Incorrect wheel-hub bolts that can loosen or deform over time create a risk of wheel separation — a catastrophic failure. Recall 26V304 covers 2025-2026 Escalades. Owners who noticed unusual steering vibration or clunking before the recall was announced should document those dealer visits as prior repair attempts. The dealer's replacement of hub bolts is the definitive remedy; any recurrence of loosening symptoms after the recall repair would constitute a second attempt for a safety-risk defect under Song-Beverly.
Dealers will replace the front left and right wheel hub bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for
engine seizes or loses power weeks or months after recall repair; catastrophic bearing failure after dealer oil-change remedy; replacement engine fails shortly after installation; sudden loss of propulsion at highway speeds after 25V274 service completed; metal shavings in oil post-remedy
An engine that catastrophically fails after a NHTSA-mandated recall remedy has been performed is a textbook repeat-repair scenario under Song-Beverly Cal. Civ. Code §1793.2(d). If an owner's vehicle received the 25V274 oil-change remedy and then suffered another engine seizure, that counts as a second substantial-impairment repair attempt for the same defect. California law presumes lemon status after two attempts for a defect that could cause death or serious bodily injury. An NHTSA open investigation (RQ26001) into remedy adequacy further strengthens the argument that GM knew or should have known the fix was insufficient.
Remedy under review by NHTSA. If engine fails post-remedy, return to dealer and document the prior recall service date and VIN. GM may be required to expand the recall or revise the remedy based on RQ26001 findings. Engine replacement may be required.
rear wheels suddenly lock up while driving at highway speed; transmission slams into lower gear without warning; harsh downshift accompanied by vehicle lurching; limp mode activates limiting transmission to 5th gear; DTC P0747 stored; vehicle slides or skids after unexpected lockup
Rear-wheel lockup at highway speed is a safety defect that substantially impairs vehicle use and safety under Song-Beverly. Because 26V085 is a second recall covering the same 10-speed transmission valve defect originally flagged in 24V797 (the diesel version), owners who experienced lockup symptoms and brought the vehicle in prior to the recall issuance have a strong argument for a repair attempt that failed to permanently fix the condition. Multiple repair attempts for transmission-induced wheel lockup — a defect posing crash risk — can establish lemon eligibility under Cal. Civ. Code §1793.2(d)(1).
Recall 26V085: dealer installs updated TCM software that monitors valve wear and enters limp mode (5th gear limit) approximately 10,000 miles before lockup risk. Additionally, TSB 25-NA-255 provides an internal valve-body steel-valve repair for persistent P0747 codes.
running boards stuck in extended or retracted position; boards do not move when doors open or close; HMI 'Automatic Articulating Running Boards' setting has no effect; board position count reads 65535 or unknown in scan tool; boards retract on one side but not the other; soft reset clears condition temporarily but problem returns
While a cosmetic or comfort feature, power running boards are a standard-equipment advertised feature of the Escalade and their repeated inoperability — if requiring multiple dealer visits without permanent fix — can constitute a 'nonconformity' that substantially impairs use or value under Song-Beverly. If the same module reprogram is needed more than twice, the owner should document each repair order carefully. GM's own TSBs acknowledge the defect, satisfying the 'manufacturer aware' prong of a warranty claim.
GM TSBs MC-10225664 (2022) and MC-10239672 (2023): reprogram the Assist Step Control Module to the latest calibration, then perform the running-board relearn procedure. No hardware replacement required. If symptom recurs after reprogram, re-apply relearn.
transmission snaps into a lower gear without warning; vehicle limited to 5th gear (limp mode); DTC P0747 stored; harsh jolt on deceleration or downshift; transmission shudder between 3rd-5th gear; loss of normal gear selection; symptoms worsen progressively before full lockup
Repeated transmission limp-mode events that prevent normal vehicle operation constitute a substantial impairment of use under Song-Beverly. If an owner has had the valve-body replaced once (old remedy) and the condition recurs, or if the TSB 25-NA-255 steel-valve repair fails to permanently resolve P0747 after two attempts, a lemon claim may be viable. Because GM issued a Special Coverage extending warranty to 15 years/150k miles for this specific valve defect, the manufacturer's acknowledgment of the durability problem is documented — a key element in establishing the 'defect known to manufacturer' standard.
TSB 25-NA-255: disassemble valve body, install steel Feed Limit Low Valve, higher-tension spring, and new spacer plate gasket. No TCM reprogram required. Covered under GM Special Coverage N242454441-02 (15 yr / 150,000 mi) if applicable.
steering wheel suddenly becomes very heavy requiring excessive force to turn; power steering assist disappears at low speed or during startup; warning light illuminates with steering fault; difficult to maneuver in parking lots or tight turns after assist loss; condition may clear on restart
Sudden loss of power steering assist is a safety defect. Under Song-Beverly, if the steering module software update failed to permanently resolve the condition and the vehicle required more than one repair visit, this recall-backed defect supports a lemon claim. The 2021 MY had multiple overlapping recalls — owners who experienced steering loss should verify the 21V455 remedy was applied and document whether symptoms persisted after the update.
Recall 21V455: update power steering module software via over-the-air update or dealer service. Some dealers also replaced the steering gear motor kit. Remedy is free of charge.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Incorrect wheel-hub bolts that can loosen or deform over time, risking partial loss of vehicle control, constitute a safety defect under Song-Beverly. The defect was introduced during dealer service — GM's own parts catalog did not list the correct bolt for 24-inch-wheel vehicles. 2025-2026 diesel Escalade owners with 24-inch wheel packages should confirm this recall was completed. If steering anomalies or vibration persisted after the hub-bolt replacement, that unresolved condition supports a lemon claim.
Dealers will replace the front left and right wheel hub bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for
transmission shifts unexpectedly; hesitation; harsh shift; transmission warning
A missing transfer case oil pickup tube that can cause sudden wheel lock-up is among the most dangerous powertrain defects possible. NHTSA classified it as a safety recall with a 'do not drive' advisory for some variants. Under Song-Beverly, GM's issuance of the recall before all affected 2026 Escalades were remedied means any pre-repair owner who experienced wheel lock-up events has a strong safety-defect lemon claim — particularly if they were driving when the lock-up occurred. Owner notification mailed June 22, 2026; remedy is dealer inspection and transfer case assembly replacement.
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 26V114 is a low-severity compliance recall — the radio was not configured to auto-download the electronic owner's manual. Remedy is a simple dealer radio reset. While this alone is insufficient for a Song-Beverly claim, it adds to the repair-visit record for 2026 diesel Escalades that also have more substantive open recalls (e.g., 26V289 transfer case lock-up or 26V304 hub bolts). Cumulative recall volume matters — document every dealer visit.
Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-9700, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac c
remedy available
General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2025–2026 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with 24-inch wheels. Incorrect bolts may have been installed on the left and right front wheel hubs, which can result in the bolts loosening or deforming over time.
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain 2015-2020 Suburban, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Tahoe vehicles. A component missing from the drivetrain transfer case may cause the front and/or rear wheels to lock up without warning to the driver.
remedy available
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
remedy available
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.
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, 2021, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, and 2022 and 2024 GMC Yukon vehicles equipped with a 6-cylinder diesel engine. The original fuel tank may have been replaced with an incorrect fuel tank, which can allow fuel to leak in a rollover crash.
remedy available
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.
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with diesel engines. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock-up.
remedy available
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."
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The rear suspension outer control arm bolts may not have been properly heat-treated, which can cause the bolts to break.
remedy available
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."
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV 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."
open
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.
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, and Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles. The rear wheel driveshaft assemblies may have internal components that were not heat-treated properly, possibly resulting in driveshaft failure.
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The fuel pump power control module may cause the fuel pump to fail or operate intermittently, which can interrupt fuel flow to the engine, and cause an unexpected engine stall.
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles. The communications gateway module incorrectly processes a loss of communication with the sensing diagnostic module (SDM), causing the air bag malfunction indicator light to inconsistently illuminate.
remedy available
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Suburban, and Tahoe vehicles with third-row seating. The third-row outboard seat belts may have been entrapped or misrouted behind the outboard seat-folding mechanism, which could result in damaged seat belts.
Every item below comes from this vehicle's documented defects. The more you recognize, the more a free case review is worth your time.
California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (Cal. Civ. Code §1790 et seq.) is among the strongest vehicle-warranty laws in the country. The following is general legal information as of 2026 — not legal advice; no attorney-client relationship is created.
Under Song-Beverly, if a manufacturer cannot repair a defect that substantially impairs use, value, or safety after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement or full refund (buyback).
For the Escalade, three areas are directly relevant:
Remedies may include the full purchase price plus incidental costs, less a mileage offset for pre-complaint use. Eligibility depends on the facts of each individual case.
“Could not duplicate” doesn't mean the defect isn't real. Here's exactly what to do to protect a potential California lemon-law claim.
Document the moment it happens. Photos, video, and screenshots of any warning lights — with the date and the mileage.
Get a repair order every visit — even “found nothing.” That paperwork is the foundation of a claim.
Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Note any recall that has no available remedy yet.
Track your out-of-service days. California law counts the cumulative days your vehicle spends in the shop.
Keep loaner & rental records. Alternate-transport paperwork during long repairs matters.
Save everything in one place. Symptoms, dates, repair orders, and every repeat visit — the intermittent ones especially.
The Escalade's most dangerous defects — engine bearing failure and transmission lockup — are intermittent. A dealer may scan a vehicle in its dormant state and return it unchanged. Here is what to do when that happens:
1. Demand a repair order every visit, even if nothing is found. The date, mileage, and written complaint description form your paper trail. Under Song-Beverly, each documented attempt counts toward the repair-attempt threshold.
2. Record the symptom before the appointment. A date-stamped phone video of the engine knock or transmission jolt is evidence the dealer cannot dismiss. Email it to the service advisor and request it be attached to the repair order.
3. Check your recall status at nhtsa.gov/recalls before each visit. If 25V274 is open, ask specifically whether the dealer performed an engine inspection or only the oil-change remedy. Get the remedy procedure code on the repair order — 'recall completed' is not sufficient detail.
4. For transmission concerns, request a highway-load test drive — the P0747 limp-mode event occurs under deceleration and downshifting, not at idle in the service lane.
5. Log every out-of-service day and every loaner or rental. California lemon law counts cumulative days unrepaired; 30 or more creates its own presumption of eligibility.
6. If running boards are inoperative and the dealer says 'no code,' ask them to pull the Assist Step Module position count. If it reads 65535 or 'unknown,' reference TSB MC-10239672 and request the reprogram be documented on the repair order.
7. After a post-remedy engine failure, refuse a second oil-change-only fix. NHTSA's investigation RQ26001 examines whether that remedy is adequate. Insist on an engine inspection and document the prior recall service date in writing.
The 2021-2026 Escalade has genuine strengths, but systemic manufacturing and software failures have defined ownership for a significant portion of buyers. The L87 bearing defect is real, widespread, and under active federal scrutiny for remedy inadequacy — that is not a minor warranty issue. Two transmission recall campaigns for the same fundamental valve-wear defect, plus a TSB replacing the aluminum valve with steel, confirm the root cause was never fully resolved on the assembly line. For owners who have made multiple visits for the same complaint, this is one of the most consequential recall records we have reviewed in the full-size luxury SUV segment. Do not accept 'we fixed it' without a specific procedure code on the repair order.
— The Margarian Law team
If your Cadillac Escalade has been to the dealer multiple times for engine failure, transmission lockup, or any active recall defect without a permanent fix, you may have options under California lemon law. Margarian Law offers a free case review — your repair orders are your evidence. Contact us before they expire.
Not always. NHTSA's recall 25V274 addressed L87 6.2-liter connecting-rod and crankshaft defects by replacing failed engines or — for vehicles that passed inspection — switching to higher-viscosity 0W-40 oil. But NHTSA opened investigation RQ26001 in January 2026 after receiving 36 complaints of engine failure occurring after the recall remedy was completed. Both post-oil-change and post-replacement-engine failures have been reported. If your Escalade received the oil-change-only remedy and is still making bearing noise or has lost power, return to the dealer immediately and request escalation to GM. Document every visit with a written repair order — those records are critical if you later pursue a lemon-law claim under California's Song-Beverly Act.
A gradual wear failure inside the 10-speed 10L80 transmission's control valve is the likely cause. As the valve wears, hydraulic pressure drops, triggering an emergency default that can lock the rear wheels momentarily or continuously. NHTSA Recall 26V085 addresses this specifically for 2022 Escalade gas models built between March and July 2022. The remedy is a TCM software update that detects valve wear and forces limp mode (5th gear only) before lockup can occur. A companion GM TSB upgrades the worn aluminum feed-limit valve to a steel design for vehicles showing DTC P0747. If you experienced lockup before the recall was applied — or if lockup recurred after the software update — those dealer visits count as repair attempts under California's Song-Beverly lemon law.
NHTSA Recall 26V289 covers certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV 4WD/AWD vehicles with a missing oil pickup tube inside the transfer case. Without proper lubrication, the transfer case can fail catastrophically, causing front or rear wheels to lock suddenly while driving — a serious crash risk. GM issued a 'Do Not Drive' advisory, meaning affected owners should not operate the vehicle until the dealer inspects and, if necessary, replaces the transfer case assembly. If you received a 26V289 recall notice, contact your Cadillac dealer immediately for a tow-in appointment. Owner notification letters were mailed in June 2026. A vehicle that cannot be safely driven pending recall repair may support a Song-Beverly out-of-service days claim.
Yes. NHTSA Recall 24V674 covers 2023-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV vehicles with a software mismatch in the electronic brake control module (eBCM). The defect can prevent the brake warning light from illuminating when brake fluid is lost — meaning the driver may not be alerted until braking performance has already degraded significantly. The remedy is an eBCM software update delivered over-the-air (OTA) or by the dealer at no charge. If you noticed soft brake pedal feel without a warning light, verify your VIN has received the 24V674 software update and retain the repair order. If the condition persisted after the OTA update and required a second dealer visit, that may constitute a repeat repair of a safety defect under California's Song-Beverly Act.
It may qualify, depending on your specific repair history. California's Song-Beverly Act presumes lemon status if a safety defect — such as engine seizure — is subject to two or more repair attempts and still exists, or if the vehicle is out of service for more than 30 cumulative days during the warranty period. The L87 engine recall (25V274) and NHTSA's follow-on investigation (RQ26001) into post-remedy engine failures document that some Escalades required multiple engine-related repairs. If your 2021-2024 Escalade engine seized, received the recall remedy, and then failed again — or if you waited months for an engine replacement while the vehicle was undriveable — you likely have a viable claim. Preserve all repair orders, loaner records, and recall correspondence before consulting an attorney.
The 2021-2023 Escalade's power articulating running boards can become inoperative due to a software anomaly in the Assist Step Control Module — not a hardware failure. GM issued two sequential service bulletins (MC-10225664 in 2022 and MC-10239672 in 2023) specifically instructing dealers not to replace the motor or board hardware, but instead to reprogram the module and perform a relearn procedure. If the dealer replaced hardware rather than following these TSBs, the fix may not be permanent. Ask your service advisor to reference TSB MC-10239672 and confirm the Assist Step Control Module was reprogrammed to the latest calibration. If the running boards have required more than two dealer visits without a permanent fix, this recurring malfunction of a standard advertised feature may constitute a nonconformity under Song-Beverly.
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