🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

Escalade

Year:

2004

Generation Identifier:

GMT800 (Second Generation)

Platform Code:

GMT820 (for standard wheelbase), GMT830 (for extended wheelbase - ESV)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-Size Luxury SUV

Competitors:

Lincoln Navigator, Ford Excursion (though less direct luxury competitor), Lexus LX, Infiniti QX.

Defining Characteristics:

Body-on-frame construction, powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior appointments, advanced comfort features for its time, significant towing capacity.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Regions:

Primarily US market (Reporting safety defects section)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a full factory owner's manual of this era)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Vehicle Systems:

Engine compartment, instrument cluster, driver controls, locks and security, seating and safety restraints, climate controls, entertainment systems, lighting, driving controls, customer assistance, cleaning, maintenance, specifications.

Operational Procedures:

Starting and operating the vehicle, using climate control, operating entertainment systems, adjusting seats and restraints, locking/unlocking, using lighting functions, basic driving techniques, refueling, basic maintenance tasks.

Depth Of Information:

Covers essential owner information for operation, safety, and basic maintenance. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic steps typical of a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Readability:

Requires PDF reader software (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader).

Printability:

Likely printable from PDF reader, though quality may vary based on original factory scan.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Vortec 6.0L (364 ci) V8 OHV

Engine Code:

RPO: LQ4 (standard), LQ9 (high-output in premium trims)

Horsepower:

300-345 hp (depending on specific engine RPO and calibration)

Torque:

360-380 lb-ft (depending on specific engine RPO and calibration)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance, though 87 octane may be acceptable per manual)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

Hydra-Matic 4L60-E

Drivetrain:

Available in RWD (2WD) and AWD (with full-time transfer case)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

116.0 inches (standard), 130.0 inches (ESV - Extended)

Length:

198.9 inches (standard), 219.5 inches (ESV)

Cargo Volume Behind Third Row:

Approx. 13.4 cu ft (standard), 42.0 cu ft (ESV)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 5,600 - 5,900 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4/5 Stars (Class II - Small SUV)

Traction Control:

Standard (often referred to as StabiliTrak or similar).

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS.

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, available side-impact airbags (often seat-mounted).

Seatbelts:

Three-point safety belts for all seating positions, including shoulder belts for rear passengers.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Bose premium audio system with AM/FM/CD player, possibly with cassette and navigation options on higher trims.

Rear Entertainment:

Available rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Parking Assist:

Available ultrasonic rear parking assist system (often labeled as 'Ultrasonic Rear Object Detection').

Onstar:

Available OnStar in-vehicle safety and communication system (subscription-based).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or as indicated by the oil life monitoring system (if equipped).

Tire Rotation:

Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6 quarts (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

GM Gen IV Dex-Cool (Orange)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III or Dexron-VI (with specific procedures for checking and filling)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems 2004 Escalade:

Potential for catalytic converter failure, fuel pump issues, dashboard cracks (common GM issue of the era), suspension component wear (especially air suspension if equipped), and HVAC system problems (blower motor, actuators).

Engine Oil Filter Part Number Example:

ACDelco PF44, Wix 51042, Fram PH8300 (ensure correct fitment)

Air Filter Part Number Example:

ACDelco A3077C, Wix 49034

📚 Vehicle History

Cadillac Legacy:

Cadillac, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing luxury vehicles in the United States, known for comfort and premium features.

Escalade Timeline:

The Escalade was introduced in 1999 as Cadillac's first SUV, entering a growing luxury SUV market. The 2004 model represents the second generation (GMT800 platform), which saw significant updates over the first generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Arlington, Texas, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Awards:

While specific awards for the 2004 model may vary, the Escalade typically performed well in luxury SUV comparisons for its features and comfort during its production years.