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VIN REPORT

1GYS4KKJ8LR2259062020 CADILLAC Escalade ESVESV Platinum

Risk Score
12
LOW RISK
out of 100
2 Found
2 campaigns
13
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
6 yrs
Made in UNITED STATES (USA)
C
Score: 74/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2020 CADILLAC Escalade ESV was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 13 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

  • 2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • Complaint rate is accelerating — issues appear to be getting worse, not better
  • Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
12/100
Low Risk
Low risk profile — minor signals only, likely routine.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 2 detected
2 model-wide recalls on record
+6
Accelerating complaint trend — problems increasing over time
+6
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
CADILLAC
Model
Escalade ESV
Year
2020
Trim / Series
ESV Platinum
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
8-cyl 6.2L
Transmission
Automatic
Doors
4
Manufacturer
GENERAL MOTORS LLC
Assembly
ARLINGTON, TEXAS, UNITED STATES (USA)
GVWR
Class 2F: 7,001 - 8,000 lb (3,175 - 3,629 kg)
B+Quality76/100
Good📍 ARLINGTON, TEXAS

Builds Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, and Escalade. One of GM's better-performing domestic plants.

Awards & Recognition
  • JD Power IQS recognition — large SUV segment
Safety
C
Score: 74/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety24/30
Complaint History30/30
20/100Moderate
  • Fuel system recall
74/100
Comprehensive
16 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Pedestrian AEB
Low
  • 1 complaint(s) involved a fire
Moderate
  • Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

Forward Collision WarningStandard
Automatic Emergency BrakingStandard
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure WarningStandard
Lane Keep AssistStandard
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot MonitoringStandard
Rear Cross Traffic AlertStandard
Adaptive Cruise ControlStandard
Adaptive HeadlightsStandard
Auto High BeamStandard
Parking AssistStandard
Backup CameraStandard
Electronic Stability ControlStandard
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash NotificationStandard
Dynamic Brake SupportStandard
Keyless IgnitionStandard
Recalls
38/100
Monitor Deferred Risk
7 component(s) approaching service intervals within the next 20,000 miles. Factor routine maintenance costs into your ownership budget.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~72,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
MONITORCriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 120,000 mi · Est. ~72,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Timing Chain Tensioner service before 120,000 mi
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
MONITORCriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 100,000 mi · Est. ~72,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Water Pump service before 100,000 mi
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 6 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighDifferential / Transfer Case Fluid
Service interval: 4 yr · Vehicle age: 6 yr · Past due by age
Service Differential / Transfer Case Fluid immediately — already past the 50,000 mi / 4 yr interval
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 6 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
MONITORModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 100,000 mi · Est. ~72,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) service before 100,000 mi
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
MONITORModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 120,000 mi · Est. ~72,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Fuel Injectors service before 120,000 mi
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
22 RECALLS

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 2 recalls is ~70%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

70%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

CADILLAC Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
87%Fair

CADILLAC completes recalls at a fair rate (87%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~20 months.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~20 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
20mo
#21V115000
Invalid Date

TIRES

SummaryGeneral Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
Read full details...
ConsequenceOver cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~65%

~35% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#19V837000
Invalid Date

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

SummaryGeneral Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Camaro, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The fuel pump may be missing a pressure regulator, allowing for over-pressurization of the fuel system.
Read full details...
ConsequenceOver-pressurization can crack the fuel pump and cause leaks, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source.
Est. Repair Completion~74%

~26% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

21/11/2019
2 total campaigns
Suspension/WheelsFuel System
1
Part Replacements
0
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
Complaints
Engine/Powertrain
10
Electrical
2 crash2
Other
1
2020
1
2021
1
2023
1
2024
1
2025
3
2026
6
233% trend in recent years (increasing complaints)
Accelerating +350%
9
Last 24 months
2
Prior 24 months

⚠ Complaint rate is accelerating — issue may be getting worse

PEAKS SPRING (MAR–MAY)

46% of complaints filed in Mar & Jan — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Engine stalling1
Fire/smoke1
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (3)Startup (2)Parking/low-speed (2)
13HIGH VOLUME
1
Fire
2
Crashes
ODI #11733688ENGINE

My vehicle doesn’t even have 66k miles on it and the lifters have gone bad. The check engine came on and the vehicle has stopped working.

ODI #11727310ENGINE

Engine Failure According to Chevrolet dealership my engine needed to be replace due to tapping coming from the engine. In addition, they found lifter damage along with the camshaft. Cylinder 3 lifter roller failure causing noise and camshaft damage, Yes this was confirmed and engine replaced at that same dealership No warning light or any other symptoms prior to the problem. I have a copy of the receipt and the complete work order from the dealership.

ODI #11725325ENGINE

Engine has been making a knocking sound and shaking and vibrating very loud loudly. The engine light has been on as well as the traction light and it is acts like it’s going to stall every time I turn on the engine. Because of safety concerns, especially on the very busy highway, where I do a lot of driving, I have been afraid to drive the car. Sewell Cadillac is aware of the engine problem and they informed me I need a $10,000 engine replacement! My 2020 engine falls outside of the current recall by one year. I feel as if GMC should be responsible for this unbelievable and totally unexpected problem! I have several friends who are experiencing the same issues with their GMC with the same year and comparable mileage.

ODI #11721402ENGINE

Noticed smoke in rear view mirror while driving at 65 mph. Towed to repair facility. Engine has a piston rod broken and pushed through the block.

ODI #11716653POWER TRAIN

THE CALAPSABLE LIFTERS HAVE FAILED AND I NEED TO HAVE THEM REPLACED AS WELL AS THE CAM SHAFT. WHY ISNTTHE 2020 ESCALADE ON THE RECAL LIST OF 6.2L ENGIN RECALLS?

ODI #11710600ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2020 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated that while starting and driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine made abnormal sounds. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the year and VIN were not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 55,571.

ODI #11669904ENGINE

Scary, driving with my 3 kids. Engine lights and hazard lights saying pull over. Loud sound coming from the hood. We immediately pulled over. Dealership and private Mechanic told us we need a new engine. We just spent $15k on a new transmission. Dealership won’t help us, said our 2020 wasn’t part of the recall. We can’t find an engine if our life depended on it. It’s the same engine as the recall yet they haven’t recalled the 2020 engine yet. The dealership didn’t even tell us what to do or where to complain besides their dealership. No help. Our Cadillac now sits un drive-able. We have to try to get a loan and buy another vehicle. So upset. GMC is not admitting ANYTHING with the 2020’s

ODI #11660029ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2020 Cadillac Escalade. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment, before the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the lifters, resulting in damages to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 106,000.

ODI #11650769ENGINE

Engine has 64k miles and at stop lights and while parked drops idle to below 500 makes a random knock like sound shudders like it is going to cut off or have engine failure but no check engine lights.

ODI #11565837FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Vehicle stops unexpectedly in parking lots (5-10mph) and on freeways (70-76mph). Speed ranges from 5 - 75 mph. Unexpected braking occurs for no reason. There are typically no obstructions or vehicles in front of the vehicle. It is most concerning when the vehicle automatically applies braking traveling at 70-76mph.

ODI #11542464ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCECRASHFIRE

This is the component that failed Parts Passenger Side Instrument Panel Wiring Harness Junction Block GM Part # 84114433 Component combustion Yes, the burning of the component has been confirmed Not checked - Just replace the component only No warning lights appeared

ODI #11445717EXTERIOR LIGHTINGCRASH

Cadillac Escalade was struck in a rear end collision in Georgia. Driver of trailing car stated that the Escalade "suddenly stopped". After reviewing dash cam footage from the trailing car it can be seen that the Escalade was very slowly decelerating for ~4 seconds before suddenly stopping, the trailing driver did not react to the initial deceleration, only the sudden stop. Closer inspection of the footage suggests the non-standard brake lights of the Escalade contributed to the crash. The vertical stripes do not register as brake lights easily, especially as they blend into the structure of the vehicle. Screenshots of dashcam footage showing this are attached.

ODI #11321030POWER TRAIN

CAR STARTS BUT WILL NOT GO INTO DRIVE OR REVERSE. UPON RESTARTING THE CAR, IT MAY OR MAY NOT GO WORK. WHEN IT DOES WORK THE CAR WILL NOT SHIFT INTO A HIGHER GEAR.

HighFUEL PUMP issue detected

Engine stalling at speed — fuel delivery failure can cause sudden loss of power in traffic or on highways

Annual complaints and reliability score for CADILLAC Escalade ESV — recall years marked in red
0360501002020202120222023202420252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 13 total NHTSA complaints filed over 6 years, with the worst year being 2026 (6 complaints).

The amber reliability line is declining — recent years score around 80/100, lower than earlier in the vehicle's life. This pattern indicates issues are accumulating over time rather than being resolved, which is a concern for used buyers.

Notably, despite 13 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.

Red dots on the amber line flag 2 years (2021, 2023) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

ACTIVESPECIAL COVERAGEN202338470
GM AFM/DoD Lifter Special Coverage
Engine – Active Fuel Management Lifters (5.3L / 6.2L V8)
COVERAGE:10 years / 150,000 miles from original sale date

Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifters on 5.3L EcoTec3 and 6.2L V8 engines collapse prematurely, causing a metallic ticking noise, oil consumption, and potential engine damage. GM issued Special Coverage #N202338470 and related programs for affected vehicles.

HOW TO CLAIM: Visit any authorized Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, or Cadillac dealer. Provide your VIN — the dealer will confirm coverage via GM's warranty system. Repair includes lifter replacement and sometimes oil consumption correction.
VERIFY WITH DEALERSPECIAL COVERAGEPIP5353
GM 8-Speed Transmission Shudder Special Coverage
Transmission – 8L90 / 8L45 8-Speed Automatic
COVERAGE:7 years / 100,000 miles from original sale date

8-speed automatic transmissions (8L90 and 8L45) exhibit a shuddering or shaking sensation during light acceleration, especially at highway speeds. GM issued multiple TSBs and extended coverage programs. The fix involves a fluid exchange with a revised fluid formulation and, in persistent cases, torque converter replacement.

HOW TO CLAIM: Contact your GM dealer with your VIN. Multiple TSBs address this (PIP5353, PIP5555, etc.). If the fluid exchange does not resolve the shudder, the torque converter should be replaced under warranty.

Coverage eligibility depends on your VIN, original sale date, and current mileage. Always verify with an authorized dealer or manufacturer customer service — programs may have been updated since this database was compiled.

Details & Analysis
Financial
EngineCritical
$1,800–$4,200
12–20 hrs labor

AFM lifter failure

Often leads to full engine replacement if ignored ($6,000–$12,000)

EngineHigh
$400–$900
3–5 hrs labor

Active Fuel Management (AFM) system

Disable AFM with a tune ($300–$500) to prevent lifter failure

Worst-case total exposure$2,200–$5,100

Estimates based on RepairPal averages, ASE mechanic surveys, and NHTSA investigation data. Actual costs vary by region and shop.

$40,359
~$673/mo over 5 yrs
$0.6/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$11,775
Maintenance
$10,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$1,500
Depreciation
$7,084

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $40,359 (~$673/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

2 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,000
Total recommended deduction−$1,000
1 critical inspection item must be resolved before purchase. Do not skip these checks.
CRITICAL
Pull valve covers and inspect AFM lifters for collapsed roller or flat spots
GM 5.3L AFM lifters are the #1 failure on this model. A mechanic must physically inspect lifters or do a cylinder deactivation test drive. Ticking at idle = early-stage failure. Repair: $2,000–$4,200.
HIGH
Connect OBD-II scanner — check for P0300 misfire, P06DD oil pressure codes, or AFM-related codes
These codes appear before audible lifter noise. Ask the seller for any stored codes — a cleared code history is a red flag.
HIGH
Inspect for fuel pump issue detected — ask for repair records
Engine stalling at speed — fuel delivery failure can cause sudden loss of power in traffic or on highways
HIGH
Verify recall TIRES has been repaired
Recall on record for: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Su
HIGH
Verify recall FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP has been repaired
Recall on record for: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Camaro, Silverado 1500, Sub
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: POWER TRAIN
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
20%
18-month
36%
2-year
Moderate Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 36%

20% estimated recall probability — some indicators present but not alarming.

  • Accelerating complaint rate — increasing pressure on NHTSA to act

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$3,010–$3,830/yr
~$251–$319/mo
Liability Only
$650–$820/yr
~$54–$68/mo
Category: Luxury Full-SizeModerate surcharge risk
High theft risk model: +18% to comprehensive premium 6-year-old vehicle: −7% (moderate depreciation)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

High
4.8× national average · 51/1,000 vehicles
Recovery rate:39%of stolen CADILLAC Escalade ESVs are recovered

CADILLAC Escalade ESV has an elevated theft rate (4.8× average). Factor in higher comprehensive insurance costs.

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VIN1GYS4KKJ8LR225906
Model Year2020
MakeCADILLAC
ModelEscalade ESV
TrimESV Platinum
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Doors4
Seat Rows7
Drive Type4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionAutomatic

Engine

Engine Cylinders8
Displacement (L)6.2

Manufacturer

ManufacturerGENERAL MOTORS LLC
Assembly CityARLINGTON
Assembly CountryUNITED STATES (USA)

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)1GY
Check Digit (Char 9)8
Model Year Code (Char 10)L
Plant Code (Char 11)R
Sequence (Chars 12–17)225906

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count2
NHTSA Complaint Count13
1
1
G
2
Y
3
S
4
4
5
K
6
K
7
J
8
8
9
L
10
R
11
2
12
2
13
5
14
9
15
0
16
6
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
1
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
G
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
Y
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
S4KKJ
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
8
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
L
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
R
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
225906
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
United States
From VIN position 1 (1)
Model Year Character
"L" → 2020
Could also be 1990
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 6/5/2026, 12:36:01 PM.