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2009 Cadillac Escalade Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2009 Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV, part of the third generation (2007-2014). It boasts a bold design, powerful V8 engine, and spacious interior. Key trims include the base Escalade, ESV (extended wheelbase), and EXT (pickup truck). New pricing ranged from approximately $63,000 to $80,000. Its iconic status and luxurious features made it a popular choice for those seeking a statement vehicle.
The Good

The 2009 Escalade offers strong V8 performance, providing ample power for towing and hauling. Its spacious and luxurious cabin delivers a comfortable ride. The bold Cadillac design exudes prestige. While not the most fuel-efficient, its value lies in offering a premium experience at a potentially lower used price point than newer competitors, appealing to both those seeking status and a functional SUV.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2009 Escalade include lower fuel economy compared to smaller SUVs and some reliability concerns, particularly with the transmission and electrical systems. Watch out for excessive oil consumption, worn suspension components, and issues with the navigation/entertainment system. Rust can also be a problem in colder climates.

2009 Cadillac Escalade: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 6.2L V8 (standard)
  • Horsepower: 403 hp @ 5700 rpm
  • Torque: 417 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • 2WD: 14 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
    • AWD: 13 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.7 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 8,100 lbs (depending on configuration)
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Base Escalade: Leather upholstery, tri-zone climate control, power-adjustable heated front seats, premium sound system, navigation, rearview camera, 18-inch alloy wheels.
    • Luxury: Adds heated steering wheel, power-folding second-row seats, sunroof, and upgraded sound system.
    • Platinum: Features unique interior trim, upgraded leather, heated and cooled front seats, power-retractable running boards, and 22-inch alloy wheels.
    • ESV: Extended wheelbase version offering more rear passenger and cargo space, available in the same trim levels as the standard Escalade.
    • EXT: Sport utility truck version with a pickup bed and folding midgate, available in similar trim levels.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2009
Make Cadillac
Model Escalade
Trim -
Style 2WD
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City ARLINGTON
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 2490.22 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 3220.5 kg
Overall Height 192.79 cm
Overall Length 514.35 cm
Overall Width 200.66 cm
Wheelbase Length 294.64 cm
Standard Seating 7
Engine & Performance
Engine 6.2-L V-8 OHV 16V FFV
Engine Size 6.2L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $61,595 USD
Invoice Price $56,975 USD
Delivery Charges $950 USD

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What Problems Does the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2009 Cadillac Escalade include transmission issues (slipping or rough shifting), electrical glitches (navigation/entertainment system malfunctions, power window issues), and excessive oil consumption. Some owners have also reported problems with the suspension, particularly the air suspension system (if equipped).
Recalls for the 2009 Escalade have addressed issues such as faulty fuel pump relays, potentially leading to engine stalling, and airbag inflator issues.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the longevity of the transmission and the potential for increased maintenance costs as the vehicle ages. The complexity of the electronics can also lead to expensive repairs. Rust can be a significant issue in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Thorough inspection and maintenance records are crucial when considering a used 2009 Escalade. Checking for any signs of oil leaks and testing all electronic features is highly recommended. Some earlier model years in this generation (2007-2008) had more pronounced transmission issues, so the 2009 is generally considered slightly more reliable.

How long will the 2009 Cadillac Escalade last?

With proper maintenance, a 2009 Cadillac Escalade can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. Average mileage for a well-maintained example would likely be in the 150,000 to 250,000 range. Long-term durability is generally good, but weaknesses include potential transmission issues, especially if not properly maintained with regular fluid changes. Suspension components, such as shocks and struts, may require replacement over time. The electrical system can also become a source of problems as the vehicle ages, requiring diagnostic and repair work. Regular oil changes and preventative maintenance are key to maximizing the lifespan of the engine and other critical components.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade came equipped with a range of built-in tech and features. Standard tech included a navigation system, premium sound system (often Bose), a rearview camera, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Entertainment features included a DVD entertainment system for rear passengers (optional).
Driver-assistance features were relatively limited compared to modern vehicles, but included features like rear parking sensors.
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain). Optional features included adaptive cruise control.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for the 2009 Cadillac Escalade were generally good, with five-star ratings in some categories, but results can vary depending on the specific test. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings were less comprehensive, but provided insights into specific crash scenarios. Check official NHTSA and IIHS websites for specific crash test data. Keep in mind that safety technology and testing standards have evolved considerably since 2009.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Raven
White Diamond Tricoat
Silver Lining
Quicksilver Metallic
Blue Chip Metallic
Interior Colors
Cashmere
Ebony
Light Titanium

2009 Cadillac Escalade Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade ranged from approximately $63,000 to $80,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices vary greatly based on condition, mileage, and location, typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. The Escalade has depreciated significantly due to its age and the introduction of newer models. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, maintenance history, mileage, and whether it has any significant mechanical or electrical issues. Lower mileage examples in excellent condition will command higher prices.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Cost of Ownership

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade is generally costly to own. Insurance premiums can be higher due to its luxury status and potential repair costs. Fuel costs are significant due to its poor fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can also be substantial, especially as the vehicle ages, with potential issues related to the transmission, suspension, and electronics. Long-term ownership requires a willingness to invest in preventative maintenance and address potential repairs promptly. It's definitely not an economical vehicle choice.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Flex-Fuel (Unleaded/E85)
Fuel Capacity 98.42 liters
City Mileage 5.1 km/l
Highway Mileage 8.08 km/l

2009 Cadillac Escalade Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2009 Cadillac Escalade Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date 2009-05-06
Recall no. 09v154000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 27,188 MY 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Hybrid, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Suburban, Tahoe, Tahoe Hybrid, and Colorado; and GMC Yukon, Yukon Hybrid, Yukon XL, and Canyon Vehicles. THE Fuel System Control Modules MAY Have A Condition IN Which AN Adhesive Separation OF THE Room Temperature Vulcanizing (Rtv) Seal Between THE Seal and THE Housing MAY Allow Water TO Seep Into THE Module.
Consequence Water IN THE Module Could Cause A Short or Open Circuit, Illumination OF THE Service Engine Soon Lamp, Setting OF Diagnostic Trouble Codes or THE Engine MAY BE Hard TO Start, MAY NOT Start or MAY Stall Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Install A NEW Fuel System Control Module Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 18, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438 and GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 or AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes GM Recall NO. 08411.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System
Recall date 2010-06-04
Recall no. 10v240000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2009 Buick, Lucerne; Cadillac Dts; Hummer H2; Model Year 2008-2009 Buick Enclave; Cadillac Cts; Model Year 2007-2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe; GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL; Saturn Outlook; and Model Year 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Equipped With A Heated Washer Fluid System (Hwfs). A Recall WAS Implemented IN 2008 TO ADD A Fuse TO THE Control Circuit Harness TO Address THE Potential Consequences OF A Printed Circuit Board (Pcb) Electrical Short. However, There Have Been NEW Reports OF Thermal Incidents ON Hwfs Modules After This Improvement WAS Installed. These Incidents Resulted From A NEW Failure Mode Attributed TO THE Device's Thermal Protection Feature. THE Significance Varies From Minor Distortion TO Considerable Melting OF THE Plastic Around THE Hwfs Fluid Chamber.
Consequence IT IS Possible FOR THE Heated Washer Module TO Ignite and A Fire MAY Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Permanently Disable and Remove THE Heated Washer Fluid Module. AN Updated Page FOR THE Owner Manual Will BE Provided and Inserted IN THE Owner Manual TO Document That THE Feature HAS Been Permanently Disabled and Removed From THE Vehicle. THE Safety Recall Began ON June 11, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 and Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-02-05
Recall no. 21v052000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Non-Desiccated Passenger Frontal Inflators Containing Phase-stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (Psan) Propellant. These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON February 23, 2021. Second Notification Letters Will BE Mailed Once THE Remedy IS Available. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON September 20, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006, and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212328780.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-02-05
Recall no. 21v053000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2013 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2010 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, and Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C."
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON February 24, 2021. Second Notification Letters Will BE Mailed Once THE Remedy IS Available. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON MAY 11, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006; Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020; and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212328790.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-02-05
Recall no. 21v050000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL, and 2009-2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and Sierra 3500 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Non-desiccated Passenger Frontal Inflators Containing Phase-stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (psan) Propellant. These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON February 22, 2021. Second Notification Letters Will BE Mailed Once THE Remedy IS Available. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON March 1, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006; and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212328760.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2009 Cadillac Escalade Insurance

Insurance for a 2009 Cadillac Escalade is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade competed with other full-size luxury SUVs like the Lincoln Navigator, Infiniti QX56, and Lexus LX 570.
Performance: The Escalade offered strong V8 performance, comparable to the Navigator and QX56, but the Lexus LX 570 was known for its off-road capability.
Features: The Escalade boasted a competitive array of luxury features, but the Lexus LX 570 often had higher-quality materials and a more refined interior.
Reliability: The Lexus LX 570 typically had superior reliability ratings compared to the Escalade, while the Navigator was also known for some reliability issues. The Infiniti QX56 fell somewhere in the middle.
Price: The Escalade was generally priced competitively within its class when new, but its used market value may make it more accessible than the Lexus LX 570.
Alternatives: If reliability is a top priority, the Lexus LX 570 is a better choice, though it's more expensive. The Lincoln Navigator offers similar features and performance, potentially at a slightly lower price point. If budget is a concern, consider a newer, smaller luxury SUV with better fuel economy and reliability, such as an Acura MDX or Lexus RX.

Ranks #1611 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1611 2009 Cadillac Escalade (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Cadillac Escalade a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade is ideal for those who prioritize a bold, iconic luxury SUV with strong V8 power and ample space. It can be a good used buy if you find a well-maintained example with a thorough service history and are prepared for potential maintenance costs. It's worth buying for its presence and capabilities, but only under the condition that a pre-purchase inspection is performed by a trusted mechanic. Avoid examples with high mileage or signs of neglect. Opt for the standard Escalade or Luxury trim, as the Platinum trim's extra features may not justify the potential for higher repair costs. Don't buy new; a used example is the only financially sensible option.

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.