
Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-MidEast-9369153) -
2016 - crc - 6/19/15
216 Driving and Operating
2. Set the parking brake andpress and hold the brake
pedal. See Parking Brake
0 217.
3. Start the vehicle or turn the ignition to ON/RUN.
4. Shift the transmission to N (Neutral).
5. Shift the transfer case to 2
m.
6. Turn the transfer case knob clockwise to N (Neutral) until it
stops and hold it there until the
N (Neutral) light starts blinking.
This will take at least
10 seconds. Then slowly
release the dial to the 4
n
position. The N (Neutral) light
will come on when the transfer
case shift to N (Neutral) is
complete.
7. With the engine running, verify that the transfer case is in
N (Neutral) by shifting the
transmission to R (Reverse),
then shift the transmission to
D (Drive). There should be no
movement of the vehicle while
shifting the transmission. 8. Turn the engine off, and the
ignition to ACC/ACCESSORY.
9. Place the transmission shift lever in P (Park). See
Recreational Vehicle Towing
0319.
10. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
Shifting Out of N (Neutral)
To shift: 1. Set the parking brake and apply the brake pedal.
2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the engine off.
3. Shift the transmission to N (Neutral).
4. Turn the transfer case knob to the desired setting.
After the transfer case has
shifted out of N (Neutral), the
N (Neutral) light will go out.
5. Release the parking brake.
6. Start the engine and shift the transmission to the
desired gear.
Brakes
Antilock Brake
System (ABS)
This vehicle has ABS, an advanced
electronic braking system that helps
prevent a braking skid.
When the vehicle begins to drive
away, ABS checks itself.
A momentary motor or clicking noise
might be heard while this test is
going on, and it might even be
noticed that the brake pedal moves
a little. This is normal.
If there is a problem with ABS, this
warning light stays on. See Antilock
Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
0 133.
If driving safely on a wet road and it
becomes necessary to slam on the
brakes and continue braking to

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-MidEast-9369153) -
2016 - crc - 6/19/15
Driving and Operating 217
avoid a sudden obstacle, a
computer senses the wheels are
slowing down. If one of the wheels
is about to stop rolling, the computer
will separately work the brakes at
each wheel.
ABS can change the brake pressure
to each wheel, as required, faster
than any driver could. This can help
you steer around the obstacle while
braking hard.
As the brakes are applied, the
computer keeps receiving updates
on wheel speed and controls
braking pressure accordingly.
Remember: ABS does not change
the time needed to get a foot up to
the brake pedal or always decrease
stopping distance. If you get too
close to the vehicle in front of you,
there will not be enough time to
apply the brakes if that vehicle
suddenly slows or stops. Always
leave enough room up ahead to
stop, even with ABS.Using ABS
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold
the brake pedal down firmly and let
ABS work. You may hear the ABS
pump or motor operating and feel
the brake pedal pulsate. This is
normal.
Braking in Emergencies
ABS allows you to steer and brake
at the same time. In many
emergencies, steering can help
more than even the very best
braking.
Parking Brake
Set the parking brake by holding the
regular brake pedal down, then
pushing down the parking brake
pedal.
If the ignition is on, the brake
system warning light will come on.
SeeBrake System Warning Light
0 132.
Caution
Driving with the parking brake on
can overheat the brake system
and cause premature wear or
damage to brake system parts.
Make sure that the parking brake
is fully released and the brake
warning light is off before driving.
To release the parking brake, hold
the regular brake pedal down, then
push down momentarily on the
parking brake pedal until you feel
the pedal release. Slowly pull your
foot up off the parking brake pedal.
If the parking brake is not released
when you begin to drive, a DIC

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-MidEast-9369153) -
2016 - crc - 6/19/15
Driving and Operating 219
normal, and is done to periodically
check the correct operation of the
EPB system.
If the EPB fails to apply, the rear
wheels should be blocked to
prevent vehicle movement.
EPB Release
To release the EPB:1. Place the ignition in the ACC/ ACCESSORY or ON/RUN/
START position.
2. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
3. Push down momentarily on the EPB switch.
The EPB is released when the red
parking brake status light is off.
If the amber parking brake warning
light is on, release the EPB by
pushing down on the EPB switch
and holding it down. Continue to
hold the switch until the red parking
brake status light is off. If either light
stays on after release is attempted,
see your dealer.
Caution
Driving with the parking brake on
can overheat the brake system
and cause premature wear or
damage to brake system parts.
Make sure that the parking brake
is fully released and the brake
warning light is off before driving.
Automatic EPB Release
The EPB will automatically release if
the vehicle is running, placed into
gear, and an attempt is made to
drive away. Avoid rapid acceleration
when the EPB is applied, to
preserve parking brake lining life.
If parking on a hill, or if the vehicle
is pulling a trailer, see Driving
Characteristics and Towing Tips
0 249.
Brake Assist
The Brake Assist feature is
designed to assist the driver in
stopping or decreasing vehicle
speed in emergency driving
conditions. This feature uses the stability system hydraulic brake
control module to supplement the
power brake system under
conditions where the driver has
quickly and forcefully applied the
brake pedal in an attempt to quickly
stop or slow down the vehicle. The
stability system hydraulic brake
control module increases brake
pressure at each corner of the
vehicle until the ABS activates.
Minor brake pedal pulsation or
pedal movement during this time is
normal and the driver should
continue to apply the brake pedal as
the driving situation dictates. The
Brake Assist feature will
automatically disengage when the
brake pedal is released or brake
pedal pressure is quickly
decreased.
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
If equipped, the HSA feature may
be useful when the vehicle is
stopped on a grade. This feature is
designed to prevent the vehicle from
rolling, either forward or rearward,
during vehicle drive off. After you
completely stop and hold the vehicle

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-MidEast-9369153) -
2016 - crc - 6/19/15
Driving and Operating 251
a lower temperature than at normal
altitudes. If the engine is turned off
immediately after towing at high
altitude on steep uphill grades, the
vehicle may show signs similar to
engine overheating. To avoid this,
let the engine run while parked,
preferably on level ground, with the
transmission in P (Park) for a few
minutes before turning the engine
off. If the overheat warning comes
on, seeEngine Overheating 0270.
Parking on Hills
{Warning
Parking the vehicle on a hill with
the trailer attached can be
dangerous. If something goes
wrong, the rig could start to move.
People can be injured, and both
the vehicle and the trailer can be
damaged. When possible, always
park the rig on a flat surface. If parking the rig on a hill:
1. Press the brake pedal, but do not shift into P (Park) yet. Turn
the wheels into the curb if
facing downhill or into traffic if
facing uphill.
2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels.
3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular
brakes until the chocks absorb
the load.
4. Reapply the brake pedal. Then apply the parking brake and
shift into P (Park).
5. Release the brake pedal.
Leaving After Parking on a Hill
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
2. Start the engine.
3. Shift into a gear.
4. Release the parking brake.
5. Let up on the brake pedal.
6. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 7. Stop and have someone pick
up and store the chocks.
Maintenance when Trailer
Towing
The vehicle needs service more
often when pulling a trailer. See
Maintenance Schedule 0333.
Things that are especially important
in trailer operation are automatic
transmission fluid, engine oil, axle
lubricant, belts, cooling system, and
brake system. It is a good idea to
inspect these before and during
the trip.
Check periodically to see that all
hitch nuts and bolts are tight.
Trailer Towing
Do not tow a trailer during break-in.
See New Vehicle Break-In 0200.
Before towing a trailer, see
"Hands-Free Operation" under
Liftgate 038.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-MidEast-9369153) -
2016 - crc - 6/19/15
274 Vehicle Care
Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir
is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid. See
Engine Compartment Overview
0261 for the location of the
reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the
brake fluid level in the reservoir may
go down:
. Normal brake lining wear. When
new linings are installed, the
fluid level goes back up.
. A fluid leak in the brake
hydraulic system. Have the
brake hydraulic system fixed.
With a leak, the brakes will not
work well.
Always clean the brake fluid
reservoir cap and the area around
the cap before removing it. Do not top off the brake fluid.
Adding fluid does not correct a leak.
If fluid is added when the linings are
worn, there will be too much fluid
when new brake linings are
installed. Add or remove fluid, as
necessary, only when work is done
on the brake hydraulic system.{Warning
If too much brake fluid is added, it
can spill on the engine and burn,
if the engine is hot enough. You
or others could be burned, and
the vehicle could be damaged.
Add brake fluid only when work is
done on the brake hydraulic
system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low
level, the brake warning light comes
on. See Brake System Warning
Light 0132.
Brake fluid absorbs water over time.
Replace brake fluid at the specified
intervals to prevent increased
stopping distance. See Maintenance
Schedule 0333.
Checking Brake Fluid
Check brake fluid by looking at the
brake fluid reservoir. See Engine
Compartment Overview 0261.
The fluid level should be above
MIN. If it is not, have the brake
hydraulic system checked to see if
there is a leak.
After work is done on the brake
hydraulic system, make sure the
level is above MIN but not over the
MAX mark.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-MidEast-9369153) -
2016 - crc - 6/19/15
Vehicle Care 323
4. Put the transmission inP (Park).
5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly following the manufacturer's
instructions.
6. Use an adequate clamping device designed for towing to
ensure that the front wheels
are locked into the straight
position.
7. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory.
Use a de-icing agent only when
absolutely necessary, and have the
locks greased after using. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0338.
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish,
wash it often and out of direct
sunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based,
acidic, or abrasive cleaning
agents as they can damage the
vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic
parts. If damage occurs, it would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Approved cleaning
products can be obtained from
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
your dealer. Follow all
manufacturer directions regarding
correct product usage, necessary
safety precautions, and
appropriate disposal of any
vehicle care product.
Caution
Avoid using high-pressure
washes closer than 30 cm (12 in)
to the surface of the vehicle. Use
of power washers exceeding
8,274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result
in damage or removal of paint
and decals.
The
esymbol is on any
underhood compartment electrical
center that should not be power
washed. This could cause damage
that would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-MidEast-9369153) -
2016 - crc - 6/19/15
Index 347
IndexA
Accessories andModifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259
Accessory Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Active Fuel Management
®. . . . . . 206
Adaptive Cruise Control . . . . . . . . 225
Add-On Electrical Equipment . . . 257
Adjustable Throttle and Brake Pedal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Adjustments
Lumbar, Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine . . . . . . . 266
Air Filter, Passenger Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Airbag System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
How Does an AirbagRestrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Passenger Sensing System . . . . 83
What Makes an Airbag Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
What Will You See after an Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
When Should an Airbag Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . . . . 79 Airbags
Adding Equipment to the
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Passenger Status Indicator . . . 129
Readiness Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Servicing Airbag-Equipped Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Alarm Vehicle Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Alert
Lane Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 242
Side Blind Zone (SBZA) . . . . . . 241
All-Season Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 292
All-Terrain Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293
Antilock Brake System (ABS) . . . 216 Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Appearance Care Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
Armrest Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Assistance Systems for
Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
Assistance Systems for
Parking and Backing . . . . . . . . . . 233
Automatic Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-MidEast-9369153) -
2016 - crc - 6/19/15
Index 351
Headlamps (cont'd)Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . 137
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . 168
Lamps On Reminder . . . . . . . . . 138
Heated Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
Heated and Cooled Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
High-Speed Operation . . . . . . . . . . 294
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . 193
Hill Start Assist (HSA) . . . . . . . . . . 219
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
I
Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
IndicatorVehicle Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Infants and Young Children, Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . . . . 346
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Instrument Panel
Storage Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Interior Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . 48
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
J
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
K
Key and Lock Messages . . . . . . . . 148
Keyless Entry Remote (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . 29
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
L
Lamps Cornering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Daytime Running (DRL) . . . . . . 168
Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
Exterior Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Exterior Lamps OffReminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
License Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Malfunction Indicator . . . . . . . . . 130
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 Lamps (cont'd)
Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
Lane Change Alert (LCA) . . . . . . . 242
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
Lane Keep Assist (LKA) . . . . . . . . 244
Lane Keep Assist Light . . . . . . . . . 134
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
LATCH System Replacing Parts after aCrash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
LATCH, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
LED Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Level Control
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
Liftgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Lighter, Cigarette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Lighting Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . 171
LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 Airbag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Antilock Brake System(ABS) Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Brake System Warning . . . . . . . 132