2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT recalls and problems
The 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT has 2 safety recalls and 15 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Cadillac dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT recalls
Recall 04V-129: Structure
Problem: On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the galvanized steel tailgate support cables that retain the tailgate in the full open (Horizontal) position may corrode, weaken, and eventually fracture. If both cables fractured, the tailgate would suddenly drop and strike the top surface of the rear bumper.
Risk: Anyone sitting or standing on the horizontal surface of the tailgate when both cables fractured could be injured by falling from the tailgate. On vehicles that have had the bumper removed, the tailgate may drop even lower. Additionally, if there is cargo on the tailgate the cargo may fall off if the support cables fracture.
Fix: Dealers will replace the cables. Interim owner notification began on april 7, 20004. The recall began on september 24, 2004, when replacement parts were available, and will continue through october 29, 2004. Owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or gmc at 1-866-996-9463, or visit www.mygmlink.com, and enter your vehicle identification number.
Recall 04V-045: Service Brakes, Hydraulic
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.
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.
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.
2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 4 | |
| Electrical System | 4 | |
| Service Brakes | 3 | |
| Power Train | 2 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Electronic Stability Control | 1 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Structure | 1 | |
| Equipment | 1 | |
| Engine | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump — 2
- Power Train › Driveline — 1
- Electronic Stability Control › Automatic (Asc) — 1
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder — 1
- Air Bags › Frontal — 1
- Structure › Body › Tailgate › Hinge and Attachments — 1
- Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel — 1
- Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist System — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 96,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Cadillac Escalade EXT years
Compare all Cadillac Escalade EXT years · All Cadillac models
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT: 04V-129 (structure), 04V-045 (service brakes, hydraulic). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT?
Owners report service brakes, hydraulic problems most often (4 reports), followed by electrical system (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 96,000 miles.
Are Cadillac recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Cadillac dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.