🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

Escalade

Model Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009

Generation Covered:

Second Generation (2002-2006), Third Generation (2007-2014)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Cadillac Escalade has historically been positioned as a flagship luxury full-size SUV, emphasizing comfort, technology, and prestige. It competes with other premium large SUVs from brands like Lincoln, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW.

Competitive Analysis:

During the 1999-2009 period, the Escalade faced strong competition. The Lincoln Navigator offered a similar blend of luxury and capability. Lexus' LX series (LX470 initially, then LX570) provided robust off-road prowess alongside luxury. European competitors like the BMW X5 (though typically smaller) and later the X7, Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (later GLS) offered more sophisticated driving dynamics and advanced technology, but often at a higher price point and with less outright utility.

Key Features:

Luxury appointments, powerful V8 engines, spacious interior, advanced (for the time) infotainment and comfort features, significant towing capacity, and a commanding presence on the road.

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Manual Type:

Owners Manual

Downloadable:

Yes

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Exterior Lighting, Interior Lighting, Driver Controls, Locks and Security Systems, Seating, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts), Vehicle Driving Operation, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (US), Cleaning Procedures, General Maintenance, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel System, Air Filter, Lubricant Specifications, Accessory Operation.

Procedures Included:

Operation of vehicle controls, understanding warning lights and indicators, infotainment system usage, climate control operation, basic maintenance checks (oil, coolant, tire pressure), fluid refill procedures, battery maintenance, fuel recommendations, air filter replacement guidance, cleaning and care instructions, understanding safety features, reporting safety defects, accessory installation overview.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive owner-level guidance for operation, basic maintenance, and system understanding. Includes detailed diagrams and pictures for visual assistance, facilitating DIY checks and simple procedures. Not a full service or repair manual but provides crucial information for everyday ownership and routine tasks.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable on all pages

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF (dependent on original scan quality)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1999-2000:

6.5L (395 cu in) OHV V8 Turbo Diesel (L45)

Engine 2000-2002:

5.7L (350 cu in) OHV V8 Vortec (L31) - 255 hp @ 4600 rpm, 330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Engine 2002-2003:

5.3L (325 cu in) OHV V8 Vortec (LM7) - 285 hp @ 5200 rpm, 325 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2003-2007:

5.3L (325 cu in) OHV V8 Vortec (LM7) - 295 hp @ 5200 rpm, 330 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2003-2007 Escalade Esv:

6.0L (364 cu in) OHV V8 Vortec HO (LQ4) - 345 hp @ 5200 rpm, 380 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2007-2009:

6.2L (376 cu in) OHV V8 Vortec (L94) - 403 hp @ 5700 rpm, 417 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Horsepower Range:

255 hp to 403 hp

Torque Range:

330 lb-ft to 417 lb-ft

Fuel Injection:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (87 octane minimum, but 91 recommended for optimal performance, especially for the 6.2L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1999-2006:

4-speed automatic (4L60-E / 4L65-E)

Transmission 2007-2009:

6-speed automatic with manual mode (6L80-E)

Optional Transmission:

N/A (All Escalades in this period used automatic transmissions)

Transmission Features:

Includes Tow/Haul mode for improved towing performance, selectable drive modes (e.g., 2WD, AWD/4WD Auto).

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length 2000-2006:

Approx. 198.5 inches

Overall Length 2007-2009:

Approx. 204.7 inches

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.1 inches

Overall Height:

Approx. 77.0 - 77.7 inches

Wheelbase 2000-2006:

116.0 inches

Wheelbase 2007-2009:

116.0 inches

Seating Capacity:

7 or 8 passengers (depending on 2nd-row configuration)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row 2000-2006:

Approx. 16.1 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row 2007-2009:

Approx. 10.4 cu ft

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 5,200 - 5,700 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 8,000 - 8,400 lbs (depending on model year and configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating 2000-2006:

Driver: 5-Star, Passenger: 5-Star

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat Rating 2000-2006:

5-Star

IIHS Offset Crash Test Rating 2002-2006:

'Good' (highest rating at the time)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak (GM's electronic stability control system, introduced in later years), available all-wheel-drive.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, available side-impact airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features Early Models:

AM/FM/CD stereo, optional Bose premium audio, available navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system (DVD player with screens).

Infotainment Features Later Models:

Touchscreen navigation, Bluetooth connectivity (introduced in later years), enhanced Bose audio systems, improved rear-seat entertainment options.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rear parking assist sensors (Park Assist), rearview camera (introduced in later years), StabiliTrak stability control, cruise control, adjustable pedals.

Connectivity Options:

OnStar telematics system (standard or optional depending on trim/year), auxiliary audio inputs, later models offered Bluetooth.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on oil viscosity.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles

Engine Coolant Flush:

Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years (Dex-Cool coolant).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs.

Engine Oil Viscosity Vortec V8:

SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific application)

Engine Oil Capacity 5.3L V8:

Approx. 6.0 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 6.2L V8:

Approx. 6.0 quarts (with filter)

Transmission Fluid Type 4-Speed:

Dexron-III (or equivalent specification)

Transmission Fluid Type 6-Speed:

Dexron-VI (or equivalent specification)

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 (Orange Dex-Cool Long-Life Coolant)

Known Issues Common:

Early models: potential for head gasket issues (especially 5.3L LM7), fuel pump failures, exhaust manifold leaks. Later models: transmission issues (particularly with the 4-speed), magnetic ride control system problems, interior trim wear, occasional electrical gremlins.

Oil Filter 5.3L V8:

ACDelco PF46 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH10575)

Air Filter 2007-2009 6.2L:

ACDelco A2796C or equivalent

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Cadillac, established in 1902, is America's oldest luxury automotive brand, renowned for pioneering automotive technology, comfort, and distinctive styling. The Escalade's introduction in 1999 marked Cadillac's entry into the burgeoning luxury SUV market.

Model Evolution 1999-2009:

The Escalade debuted in 1999 as a rebadged GMC Yukon Denali, sharing its platform and powertrains. The second generation (2002-2006) brought a significant redesign based on the new GMT820 platform (shared with Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL), offering distinct Cadillac styling, improved interiors, and new features. The third generation (2007-2014), based on the GMT900 platform, introduced a more radical styling update, the longer Escalade ESV (now ESV) variant, and more powerful engines, including the 6.2L V8 and a 6-speed transmission.

Production Locations:

Arlington, Texas, USA (primarily)

Production Years:

1999 - Present

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The first-generation Escalade was met with mixed reviews, often criticized for its shared platform with less luxurious vehicles. However, it quickly became a status symbol and a significant sales success, establishing the luxury SUV segment for Cadillac.

Second Generation Awards:

Received generally positive reviews for its improved styling, luxury appointments, and comfort, solidifying its position in the luxury SUV market. Often cited for its quiet cabin and smooth ride.

Third Generation Awards:

Praised for its powerful new V8 engine and 6-speed transmission, refined interior, and modern technology. Maintained strong sales and brand cachet despite increasing competition.