2023 Escalade ESV 6.2L Engine Seized After Rotating Squeaking Noise
I wanted to share my experience in case it helps anyone else with a 2021–2024 Escalade/Escalade ESV with the 6.2L L87 engine.
I bought a used 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV not even two months ago. Before my ownership, the oil change prevention/update and all recalls had already been completed, including the L87 Engine Loss of Propulsion recall. I had no issues leading up to this. Currently sitting at 53,000 miles.
While driving about 45 mph, I started hearing a rotating squeak/chirp noise. At first it almost sounded like it could have been coming from the wheel area, but it may have been from the engine bay. There was no smoke, no burning smell, and no obvious warning beforehand.
Shortly after the noise started, the vehicle would not accelerate. I was on the highway, pulled over, and the dash told me to restart the vehicle. Once I stopped, the vehicle would not restart and also would not shift into neutral because of the electronic shifter.
My VIN showed the recall itself had been completed, but it still had Special Coverage N252494003 active. The dealer has now confirmed the engine seized, and GM is replacing the motor. It is currently at the dealer while I wait for an update on when they can get the new motor.
I’m honestly really disappointed. I came from a BMW X5 that I loved, but we needed a bigger vehicle for our family. I’ve actually been enjoying the features of the Cadillac, and it had been a smooth transition from the BMW until this happened.
I’m posting the video/audio because the sound may be helpful for others to compare. Before this happened, I found another Reddit video that sounded very similar, and that person said theirs ended up being a bearing failure. That helped me connect some dots.
I’m hoping the replacement goes smoothly and that once the new motor is in, I won’t have to worry about this issue again.