🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

Escalade

Year:

2004

Vehicle Type:

Full-size Luxury SUV

Generation:

Second Generation (GMT820)

Platform Code:

GMT820

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2004 Cadillac Escalade represented GM's pinnacle of luxury SUV offering, competing with domestic and international rivals in the premium full-size SUV segment.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Lincoln Navigator, Ford Excursion (in its segment), and to some extent, models like the Lexus LX 470 and Infiniti QX56.

Distinguishing Features:

Body-on-frame construction, powerful V8 engine, sophisticated interior appointments, advanced (for its time) features, and prominent Cadillac styling cues.

Value:

Provides OE-derived, accurate, and comprehensive service information, saving owners significant costs associated with professional repair and offering convenience over traditional printed manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software (Web Browser Accessible)

Access Duration:

1 Year (with renewal options)

Compatibility:

PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (requires internet connection and web browser)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for the Vortec 6.0L V8 engine (LQ4/LQ9 variants).

Drivetrain:

Service and repair of the 4-speed automatic transmission (4L65-E), transfer case, drive axles, and driveline components.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnostics, pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (ball joints, control arms, bushings, shocks/struts), alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column, steering linkage components.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for power distribution, lighting, starting, charging, body control modules, instrument cluster, and comfort systems.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, heater core replacement, climate control module diagnostics.

Body:

Exterior and interior trim removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, body panel repair principles.

Restraint Systems:

Airbag system diagnostics and component replacement, seat belt service.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, and repair strategies.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, and belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic trees and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues across all systems.

Repair:

Detailed, illustrated repair procedures for component removal, installation, and adjustment.

Rebuilds:

Instructions for engine and transmission overhaul (where applicable and documented in OE materials).

Calibration:

Procedures for recalibrating sensors and modules after replacement (e.g., ABS sensors, throttle body).

Depth:

Factory-level technical information, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

Detail Level:

Comprehensive and granular, including torque specifications, measurement tolerances, and diagnostic data parameters.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

Proprietary Web Application

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to specific topics and keywords.

Print Option:

Printable sections available, though primarily designed for digital viewing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

LQ4 (standard), LQ9 (optional, premium)*

Displacement:

6.0 Liters (364 cubic inches)

Configuration:

V8, Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5200 rpm (LQ4), 325 hp @ 5200 rpm (LQ9)*

Torque:

380 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (LQ4), 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (LQ9)*

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1 (LQ4), 10.1:1 (LQ9)*

Bore X Stroke:

4.00 in x 3.62 in (101.6 mm x 92.0 mm)

Induction:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (minimum)

Fuel Pressure:

58-62 psi (regulated)

Engine Oil Type:

API SM/SL or SF, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic

Engine Oil Capacity:

6 Quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

GM Dex-Cool (Orange) 50/50 Antifreeze/Water mix

Spark Plug Gap:

0.060 inches (1.52 mm)

Idle Speed:

Approx. 550-600 RPM (in Park/Neutral)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Model:

4L65-E

Transfer Case:

Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Overdrive Gears:

4th Gear (0.70:1)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or Dexron VI)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 11.5 Quarts (10.9 Liters) dry fill; 5-6 Quarts (4.7-5.7 Liters) for fluid change.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

207.1 inches (5260 mm)

Width:

79.1 inches (2009 mm)

Height:

76.7 inches (1948 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.0 inches (2946 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 5,417 - 5,726 lbs (2457 - 2597 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 7,000 lbs (3175 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 7,700 lbs (3493 kg) with proper equipment

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 19.6 cubic feet (0.55 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 67.0 cubic feet (1.90 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 114.1 cubic feet (3.23 cubic meters)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

6 x 139.7 mm (6 x 5.5 inches)

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch Alloy

Optional Wheel Size:

18-inch Alloy

Standard Tire Size:

P265/70R17

Optional Tire Size:

P265/65R18

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

5 Stars

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 Stars

ABS:

4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

StabiliTrak Stability Control (often optional or on higher trims)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional or standard depending on trim/package).

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Bose premium sound system, optional navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control, rear climate control.

Parking Assist:

Rear parking assist sensors (optional).

Remote Start:

Standard or optional remote keyless entry and remote start system.

Memory Seats:

Power adjustable front seats with memory settings for driver and passenger.

Power Tailgate:

Power liftgate (often standard).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, or as indicated by the Oil Life Monitoring System.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) under normal driving conditions, or sooner under severe conditions (towing, stop-and-go).

Coolant Change Interval:

First change at 150,000 miles (240,000 km) or 5 years, then every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Platinum or Iridium tipped)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or Dexron VI)

Common Problems General:

While generally robust, common issues can include the failure of the rear air suspension leveling system (if equipped), HVAC blend door actuators, and potential for early wear on suspension components due to vehicle weight. Some transmissions may experience torque converter shudder if fluid/filter is neglected.

Common Problems Engine:

Intake manifold gasket leaks on some LS-based engines (less common on LQ4/LQ9), and potential for oil pressure sensor issues.

Common Problems Electrical:

Issues with the Body Control Module (BCM), tailgate latches, and power seat motors have been reported.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Cadillac, America's longest-established automotive brand, has a long history of producing luxury vehicles, with the Escalade representing its modern interpretation of a luxury SUV.

Escalade Lineage:

The Escalade was introduced in 1999 as Cadillac's response to the growing luxury SUV market, becoming an icon of status and capability.

Second Gen Debut:

The second generation (GMT820) debuted for the 2002 model year, sharing its platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon/Yukon XL.

Manufacturing Location:

Arlington, Texas, USA

Production Years For Gen:

2002-2006

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 2004 model year might be elusive, the Escalade consistently received recognition for its luxury appointments and towing capabilities within the SUV segment.