NHTSA Complaint #11695455 — 2025 CADILLAC ESCALADE

Component/system that failed; availability for inspection GM 6.2-liter V8 (L87) gasoline engine and cooling system. At ~4,000 miles the engine suffered a catastrophic internal failure and the radiator failed concurrently. Dealer diagnosed “engine failure” and replaced the entire long block with an OEM unit and replaced the radiator. Repair orders and the vehicle are available for inspection at the selling/servicing Cadillac dealership; I can provide copies on request. How safety was put at risk The vehicle lost normal operation unexpectedly and required a tow. A sudden loss of propulsion and cooling can cause stalling in traffic, overheating, and loss of power-assist systems, which creates a crash hazard. My family member was stranded and unable to move the vehicle for approximately an hour, increasing exposure to traffic and environmental danger. We no longer feel safe driving a vehicle that already experienced an early engine failure and is being refitted with the same 6.2L design. Has the problem been reproduced/confirmed by a dealer? Yes. Cadillac dealer confirmed engine failure and completed engine and radiator replacement under warranty. Service Director acknowledged they have seen similar failures on prior model years that were subject to recall. Has the vehicle/component been inspected by manufacturer/others? Yes. Inspected and repaired by an authorized Cadillac dealer acting for General Motors. I can provide the service director’s email and repair documentation. Warning lamps/messages/symptoms prior to failure Prior to failure the vehicle exhibited overheating and loss of power; then became undriveable and required towing. Engine and coolant system faults were indicated at the time of the incident (exact DTCs not provided to owner). Context/known issues GM has recalled 2021–2024 vehicles with the same 6.2L L87 engine family for internal defects (connecting rod/crank/bearing failures). My 2025 Escalade experienced a substantially similar failure at very