NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2022 Cadillac Escalade Esv
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Cadillac Escalade ESV is the stretched, long-wheelbase version of GM's flagship full-size luxury SUV, competing at the top of a segment that includes the Lincoln Navigator L and Mercedes-Benz GLS. Built for buyers who want maximum interior space, a commanding road presence, and premium amenities, it draws a loyal following among families, executives, and livery operators who refuse to compromise on size or status.
The 2022 Cadillac Escalade Esv earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the Escalade ESV for its imposing road presence, lavish interior, and the confidence-inspiring tech suite found on higher trims. Most acknowledge it as a benchmark in full-size luxury SUVs for comfort and feature content, while noting that its size and truck-based platform create handling trade-offs that buyers in this segment typically accept as part of the ownership proposition.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 16284
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE26V085000
Risk: Rear wheels that lock up while driving increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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 customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252536750. Vehicle Identification
Reported 2026-02-13
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL25V274000
Risk: Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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 letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevro
Reported 2025-04-24
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE22V903000
Risk: DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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 customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous
Reported 2022-12-08
SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS22V617000
Risk: A seat belt with a deformed rivet may not properly restrain an occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: 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 notification letters were mailed on November 1, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1
Reported 2022-08-11
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
51 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.