- The problem
- Certain federal-mogul replacement wheel hub assemblies with the brand names: national, carquest p/nos. 515020, 515021, 515025, 515053, 515054, 515059, And 515060, shipped between january 23, 2006, and december 20, 2007, sold for light duty and medium duty trucks. The inboard retention nut used to maintain hub bearing assembly can loosen resulting in an abs light indication, noise, and/or wheel separation.
- The risk
- WHEEL SEPARATION CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- The fix
- Federal-mogul will notify customers and will replace the hub assembly free of charge. The recall began on february 7, 2008. Owners can contact federal-mogul toll-free at 877-489-6659.
Vehicle safety record
2004 Cadillac Escalade Problems, complaints & recalls
Owners have filed 103 complaints about the 2004 Cadillac Escalade with NHTSA, most often about the electrical system (32) and the brakes (26). Those complaints describe 14 crashes, 7 fires and 29 injuries. It is covered by 4 recalls, the latest in December 2007 for the hub. For comparison, the 2003 has 112 and the 2005 has 62.
NHTSA data checked
DMore problems than a typical Escalade year, for its age
#105 most complained-about 2004 vehicle
- Complaints
- 103
- Recalls
- 4
- Crashes
- 14
- Fires
- 7
- Injuries
- 29
- Deaths
- 0
Most common 2004 Cadillac Escalade problems
Share of all 103 complaints. One complaint can name more than one area. Tap an area for its complaints and recalls.
2004 Cadillac Escalade recalls 4
Recall repairs are free. Your dealer fixes them whether or not you bought the car there - check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if yours is done. What to do
- The problem
- Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n g3727, with date codes x52911 through x60801 sequentially or x600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing manufactured from october 18, 2005, through march 21, 2006, sold for use on the vehicles listed above and on certain school buses. (To see the school bus engine sizes, click on "document search" and then "bus applications"). The connector on the fuel filter was not manufactured to honeywell's specification. As a result, the o-ring may not seat correctly on the fuel line.
- The risk
- This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
- The fix
- Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. The recall began on october 18, 2006. Owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (option 1).
- The problem
- On certain crew cab pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the 2nd row center occupant seat belt routing may make it difficult to position the lap portion of the safety belt low around the hips of occupants, especially smaller occupants, seated in this position. Appropriate use of a child seat or booster seat, as recommended for small children, does improve the fit condition for this user group. In addition to instructions on proper infant and young child restraint (with child seats or boosters), special verbiage for restraining older child is included in the owner's manual. Also, the suggested seat belt fit/routing for adults, irrespective of seating position, is described in the owner's manual text.
- The risk
- A lap portion of the seat belt routing that is not low and snug on the hips can allow the lap belt to ride up on an occupant's abdomen instead of fitting low around their hipbones, and therefore, can expose them to more risk of abdominal and internal organ injury.
- The fix
- Dealers will cut open the guide loop, remove a portion of the loop, and then the remaining two sides should be folded over and secured with a retainer free of charge. The recall began on july 21, 2005. Owners may contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, gmc at 1-866-996-9463, or hummer at 1-800-732-5493.
- The problem
- Certain sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and passenger vans fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 135, ?Passenger car brake systems.? Some of these vehicles were produced with an out-of-specification brake hydro-boost housing relief valve bore.
- The risk
- Consequently, the valve o-ring seal may fracture. Steering efforts may be slightly increased while braking or parking. Under certain driving conditions, a fractured seal may require a slight increase in the applied brake pedal effort to achieve the same vehicle deceleration rate as prior to the seat fracture.
- The fix
- Dealers are to replace the hydro-boost relief valve. The recall began on june 18, 2004. Owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339; chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; gmc at 1-866-996-9463; or hummer at 1-866-486-6376.
What owners say
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103 complaints about the 2004 Cadillac Escalade
Newest first, as filed with NHTSA by owners. Page 1 of 5.
When this device is used to replace the Flasher Module (my had failed so I ordered this replacement from Amazon) I found that the brake light circuit to any trailer connected tot he vehicle would no longer work. Under further research on Amazon via reviews and other online sources, I found that all of the Chinese clone parts have this same failure mode. Since most people check trailer lights with Directionals or 4 Way flashers, they would not be aware of the failure of the brake (stop) lamps not working on the trailer leading to critical dangerous situation if they need to slow as the driver behind them is likely to rear end the trailer due to the failure of the stop lamps to light.
Unknown
I don't know all I stopped driving it because it is not shifting right and I can't ark it for some reason . I have to leave it in reverse and then turn off and put rocks so it does not move. Not safe, one day I drive 30 minutes later it is this way.
At speeds of 50 mph and above, my vehicle does the death wobble. Any time I hit a tiny crack in the road, going higher speeds. The person that sold he this car knew it did not pass emissions in September 2024 and I bought it in November 2024. A dealership checked car fax for me after I bought it. And this person rolled back the odometer also. I found this out after I purchased it.
Searching of Google results indicates this is a known problem with these vehicles. I am unable to put fuel/gas in the tank because the vapor safety system fails! Having to replace the entire vapor purge and canister assembly is very costly when this known safety hazard should have been taken care of by the manufacturer.
so when I give it some gas the blower Moter for the ac /heat with go Fater then when the rpms go down the fan goes down with it same with the lights they flicker. i had changed the brake pads an rotors an blew compressed air on the caliper an seen a pin hole on the rubber seal.
When driving it feels like I'm slowing down when I'm not. The lights inside, the headlights, & on dashboard flicker & sometimes go out while driving. My seatbelts on the driver, back seat behind driver not working. The driver seat does not adjust so I can position myself correctly. The truck rocks side to side while driving as if it will tip over on its side if I drive over 30. I just recently acquired the truck within the last few months and I need to be on the road driving my babies around. I love the truck andu problems with it sounds and drive like it's all a safety issue. Please let me know if these issues are covered to be fixed.
The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The contact stated that the ABS and traction stability warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer and was diagnosed with needing the shocks and struts replaced. The vehicle was repaired but continued to experience the failure. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and was awaiting a response. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
I have multiple recalls that are older, but still should be taken care of correct? I'll take screenshots and send them. Thank you
My truck started on fire smoke started under glove box!, Then flames started and the whole truck burned up! I was just driving ion the highway!! Lucky to be alive to tell the story
Headlights and ballets been replaced 3times.. They comes on only when not driving then I start driving then all the lights start flickering. Seatbelt in rear was repaired twice but wont retract after unbuckleing.
Bought this vehicle from a dealer and cannot get it inspected due to the issues with the abs and steering sensors.Replaced abs module and am still having trouble with it. The dealer would not do anything to resolve any of these issues because I bought it as is and they refused to give me any kind of warranty and had me sign an affidavit stating so.When I left the dealership I had to fuel up and hit the brakes and could barely get it stopped.Found a lot of bad brake lines and the abs light came on
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 cadillac escalade. While driving 25 mph, another motorist alerted the contact that fuel was leaking from the fuel tank. The dealer (pietroske chevrolet, 4000 grand ave, manitowoc, wi 54220, (920)-445-8134) was contacted to schedule a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that there were no recalls under the vin. The failure mileage was 200,030. *Tt updated 11/30/18*jb
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 cadillac escalade. While driving 50 mph, the stepper motor for the instrument gauge cluster dashboard failed. The failure caused the speedometer, fuel gauge, and tachometer to display the incorrect readings and fail completely. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer (hendrick and carrey cadillac, 101 team hendrick way #101, cary, nc 27511) and was informed that the failure was a known issue; however, the contact missed the special roll out program to get the vehicle repaired. The manufacturer stated that nothing could be done and referred the contact back to the dealer. The failure mileage was 62,000.
During routine repair work transmission lines, break lines and power steering lines had to be replaced because they were rotten or badly leaking. In addition, fuel pump, rear backing plates and power steering and transmission cooler needed to be replaced due to rot.
Truck stalls out when pulling out. No matter how much you push on the gas pedal. Getting service stability trak control messages, when turning it off it seems it does not stall out as bad. Gas gauge is sticking, never know how much gas you truly have everyday!!
I had a badly corroded brake line rupnture and nearly wrecked. I took it to the dealership and after 2 days they say they won't fix it. They say they are not familiar with lines routed through the frame, or between frame and body. They recommend a full body removal and they refused. Faulty trans modules and peeling/leaking stock rims.
2004 Cadillac escalade with 45,104 miles. 2Nd owner. Had to panic stop on local highway exit ramp when another vehicle was coming wrong way on the ramp. Had a to avoid other vehicle to right of ramp and aggressively apply brakes to avoid accident at approximately 15-25 mph. Anti-lock brakes pulsated and stopped the vehicle followed by brake pedal depressing to floor. Continued to proceed and brakes again going to floor. Determined that brake lines failed and front drivers side of vehicle, completely emptying brake...
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master cylinder causing loss of front and rear brake systems. Was able to proceed on emergency brake since home was within a mile and half. At home, filled the master cylinder in driveway and did stationary test of system. Engine started, brakes again go to floor and massive brake leak occurred on driver's side by leading edge of front door at truck frame spilling fluid on ground and catalytic converter/exhaust system. Have read in new york times this is an issue on gm light trucks and gm refuses to recall. This is a major safety defect that should be addressed.
Tl* the contact owned a 2004 cadillac escalade. While driving approximately 30 mph, the driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a brick wall. During the crash, the air bags deployed, but did not inflate. In addition, the front and rear seat belts malfunctioned and did not secure the passengers. The driver sustained a left leg laceration and left shoulder injury. The front passenger sustained injuries to the chest and right knee and the rear passenger sustained five fractured vertebrae. No further...
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information was available. The vehicle was destroyed and towed. A police report was filed. The cause of the failures was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer (integrity gm of chattanooga, tn) were notified of the failures. The vin was not available. The failure mileage was 120,000.
Radio sound goes in and out. Also door chime does or doesn't work right along with it. It could be a short or the bcm from what I can see. Also sometimes the sunroof leaks
The strong odor of. Fuel inside and outside of the vehicle. Strong when driving. We find no gas on the ground leaking. We have made sure the gas cap is secure. It is getting 14mpg.
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 cadillac escalade. While driving 65 mph, rear passenger seat became hot and caught on fire. The contact was able to pull over and extinguish the fire. There were no injuries. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was not destroyed, only the seat. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 232,000.
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 cadillac escalade. While driving various speeds, the contact was unable to read the speedometer and the gauges displayed the incorrect speed, fuel, and rpm information. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Tl* the contact owned a 2004 cadillac escalade esv. While driving approximately 30 mph, the preceding vehicle stopped abruptly and caused the contact to swerve and crash into a pole. The air bags did not deploy and there were no injuries. The vehicle was towed and deemed destroyed by the insurance company. A police report was not filed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000.
I was the owner of a 2014 cadillac escalade. On august 26, 2015, while driving I plugged in my cell phone charger into the cigarette lighter. Sparks and smoke started coming from underneath the dashboard. I pulled over to a side street. No sooner than I was able to get out, the entire cabin of the vehicle, the doors,seats, console burst into flames. The engine was on fire as well. This was a devastating incident to endure. I am lucky to be alive
Cadillac Escalade: every year compared
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 167 | 4 | D |
| 2007 | 286 | 4 | F |
| 2006 | 24 | 2 | A |
| 2005 | 62 | 4 | C |
| 2004 | 103 | 4 | D |
| 2003 | 112 | 6 | D |
| 2002 | 145 | 3 | D |
| 2001 | 3 | 1 | A |
| 2000 | 83 | 4 | C |
2004 Cadillac Escalade vs rivals
| Vehicle | Complaints | Recalls | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 Cadillac Escalade | 103 | 4 | D | |
| 2004 Nissan Armada | 463 | 3 | F | Compare |
| 2004 Toyota Sequoia | 380 | 9 | F | Compare |
| 2004 Ford Expedition | 297 | 4 | F | Compare |
| 2004 Lincoln Navigator | 86 | 0 | D | Compare |
| 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser | 0 | 1 | A | Compare |
| 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe | 0 | 5 | C | Compare |
| 2004 Chevrolet Suburban | 0 | 6 | D | Compare |
| 2004 GMC Yukon | 0 | 4 | C | Compare |
More sales usually means more complaints, so compare similar vehicles of the same year. The grade compares each vehicle with its own model's other years.
Questions about the 2004 Cadillac Escalade
Does the 2004 Cadillac Escalade have any recalls?
Yes - NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2004 Cadillac Escalade: hub (December 2007); fuel system, gasoline (May 2006); rear / other (April 2005); service brakes, hydraulic (February 2004). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether yours has been fixed.
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Cadillac Escalade?
By the complaints owners filed with NHTSA, the most common problem areas are the electrical system (32), brakes (26), airbags (12).
How many complaints has the 2004 Cadillac Escalade had?
103 complaints have been filed with NHTSA, the first on December 9, 2003 and the latest on July 20, 2025. Of these, 14 describe a crash and 7 a fire, and together they report 29 injuries and 0 deaths.
Is the 2004 Cadillac Escalade a reliable vehicle?
Its Safety Index is 30 out of 100 (grade D: more problems than a typical Cadillac Escalade year, for its age). The index weighs complaints, crashes, fires, injuries, deaths and recalls against how long the vehicle has been on the road, compared with the same model's other years. It is not a measure of every repair - read the complaints and owner experiences, and have any used vehicle inspected before you buy.
Which Cadillac Escalade years have the most complaints?
2007 (286), 2008 (167), 2023 (146). See every Cadillac Escalade year compared.
What should I do if my 2004 Cadillac Escalade has a problem?
If it is a safety problem, stop driving it if it is unsafe and contact your dealer. Report it to NHTSA at nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem - enough reports start investigations and recalls - and share your experience here so other owners know what to look for.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints and recalls, checked . Complaints are owners' own reports and are not verified. How we use the data