2021 CADILLAC ESCALADE washer fluid

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
VEHICLE CARE 377
If the vehicle has electric cooling fans,
the fans may be heard spinning at low
speed during most everyday driving.
The fans may turn off if no cooling is
required. Under heavy vehicle loading,
trailer towing, high outside
temperatures, or operation of the air
conditioning system, the fans may
change to high speed and an increase
in fan noise may be heard. This is
normal and indicates that the cooling
system is functioning properly. The
fans will change to low speed when
additional cooling is no longer
required.
The electric engine cooling fans may
run after the engine has been turned.
off. This is normal and no service is
required.
Washer Fluid
What to Use
When windshield washer fluid needs
to be added, be sure to read the
manufacturer's instructions before
use. Use a fluid that has sufficient
protection against freezing in an area
where the temperature may fall below
freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
The vehicle has a low washer fluid
message on the DIC that comes on
when the washer fluid is low. The
message is displayed for 15 seconds at
the start of each ignition cycle. When
the WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID
message displays, washer fluid will
need to be added to the windshield
washer fluid reservoir.
Open the cap with the washer symbol
on it. Add washer fluid until the tank
is full. SeeEngine Compartment
Overview 0366 for reservoir location.
Caution
.Do not use washer fluid that
contains any type of water
repellent coating. This can cause
the wiper blades to chatter
or skip.
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
.Do not use engine coolant
(antifreeze) in the windshield
washer. It can damage the
windshield washer system and
paint.
.Do not mix water with
ready-to-use washer fluid. Water
can cause the solution to freeze
and damage the washer fluid
tank and other parts of the
washer system.
.When using concentrated washer
fluid, follow the manufacturer
instructions for adding water.
.Fill the washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is very
cold. This allows for fluid
expansion if freezing occurs,
which could damage the tank if
it is completely full.
Brakes
Disc brake pads have built-in wear
indicators that make a high-pitched
warning sound when the brake pads
are worn and new pads are needed.
The sound can come and go or can be

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
434 VEHICLE CARE
Do not apply waxes or polishes to
uncoated plastic, vinyl, rubber, decals,
simulated wood, or flat paint as
damage can occur.
Caution
Machine compounding or
aggressive polishing on a basecoat/
clearcoat paint finish may damage
it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and
polishes that are made for a
basecoat/clearcoat paint finish on
the vehicle.
To keep the paint finish looking new,
keep the vehicle garaged or covered
whenever possible.
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal
Moldings
Caution
Failure to clean and protect the
bright metal moldings can result in
a hazy white finish or pitting. This
damage would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. The bright metal moldings on the
vehicle are aluminum, chrome or
stainless steel. To prevent damage
always follow these cleaning
instructions:
.Be sure the molding is cool to the
touch before applying any cleaning
solution.
.Use only approved cleaning
solutions for aluminum, chrome or
stainless steel. Some cleaners are
highly acidic or contain alkaline
substances and can damage the
moldings.
.Always dilute a concentrated
cleaner according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
.Do not use cleaners that are not
intended for automotive use.
.Use a nonabrasive wax on the
vehicle after washing to protect and
extend the molding finish.
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses,
Emblems, Decals, and Stripes
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a
soft cloth, and a car washing soap to
clean exterior lamps, lenses, emblems, decals, and stripes. Follow instructions
under "Washing the Vehicle"
previously in this section.
Lamp covers are made of plastic, and
some have a UV protective coating. Do
not clean or wipe them when dry.
Do not use any of the following on
lamp covers:
.Abrasive or caustic agents.
.Washer fluids and other cleaning
agents in higher concentrations
than suggested by the manufacturer.
.Solvents, alcohols, fuels, or other
harsh cleaners.
.Ice scrapers or other hard items.
.Aftermarket appearance caps or
covers while the lamps are
illuminated, due to excessive heat
generated.
Caution
Failure to clean lamps properly can
cause damage to the lamp cover
that would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
VEHICLE CARE 435
Caution
Using wax on low gloss black finish
stripes can increase the gloss level
and create a non-uniform finish.
Clean low gloss stripes with soap
and water only.
Air Intakes
Clear debris from the air intakes,
between the hood and windshield,
when washing the vehicle.
Shutter System
The vehicle may have a shutter
system designed to help improve fuel
economy. Keep the shutter systemclear of debris, snow and ice. If the
check engine light is activated, please
check to see if the shutter system is
clear of debris, snow or ice.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield
with glass cleaner.
Clean rubber blades using a lint-free
cloth or paper towel soaked with
windshield washer fluid or a mild
detergent. Wash the windshield
thoroughly when cleaning the blades.
Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup
of vehicle wash/wax treatments may
cause wiper streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are
worn or damaged. Damage can be
caused by extreme dusty conditions,
sand, salt, heat, sun, snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weatherstrip lubricant on
weatherstrips to make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or
squeak. Lubricate weatherstrips at
least once a year. Hot, dry climates
may require more frequent
application. Black marks from rubber
material on painted surfaces can be
removed by rubbing with a clean
cloth. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0451.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to
clean the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire dressing
products on the vehicle may
damage the paint finish and/or
tires. When applying a tire dressing,
always wipe off any overspray from
all painted surfaces on the vehicle.
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap
and water to clean the wheels. After
rinsing thoroughly with clean water,
dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax
may then be applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and chrome wheel
trim may be damaged if the vehicle
is not washed after driving on roads
(Continued)

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
442 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
keep the vehicle in good working
condition, improves fuel economy, and
reduces vehicle emissions.
Because of the way people use
vehicles, maintenance needs vary.
There may need to be more frequent
checks and services. The Additional
Required Services - Normal are for
vehicles that:
.Carry passengers and cargo within
recommended limits on the Tire
and Loading Information label. See
Vehicle Load Limits0240.
.Are driven on reasonable road
surfaces within legal driving limits.
.Use the recommended fuel. See
Recommended Fuel 0326.
Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services - Normal chart.
The Additional Required Services -
Severe are for vehicles that are:
.Mainly driven in heavy city traffic
in hot weather.
.Mainly driven in hilly or
mountainous terrain.
.Frequently towing a trailer.
.Used for high speed or competitive
driving.
.Used for taxi, police, or delivery
service.
Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services - Severe chart.
{Warning
Performing maintenance work can
be dangerous and can cause serious
injury. Perform maintenance work
only if the required information,
proper tools, and equipment are
available. If they are not, see your
dealer to have a trained technician
do the work. See Doing Your Own
Service Work 0364.
Maintenance Schedule
For diesel engine vehicles, see
“Maintenance Schedule ”in the
Duramax diesel supplement.
Owner Checks and Services
Check the engine oil level. See Engine
Oil 0367.
Once a Month
.Check the tire inflation pressures,
including the spare. See Tire
Pressure 0400.
.Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire
Inspection 0406.
.Check the windshield washer fluid
level. See Washer Fluid 0377.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 443
Engine Oil Change
When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL
SOON message displays, have the
engine oil and filter changed within
the next 1 000 km/600 mi. If driven
under the best conditions, the engine
oil life system may not indicate the
need for vehicle service for up to a
year. The engine oil and filter must be
changed at least once a year and the
oil life system must be reset. Your
trained dealer technician can perform
this work. If the engine oil life system
is reset accidentally, service the
vehicle within 5 000 km/3,000 mi since
the last service. Reset the oil life
system when the oil is changed. See
Engine Oil Life System0369.
Extended Idle Use
When the vehicle is used in a way
that requires extended idle time,
one hour of use shall be deemed the
same as 53 km (33 mi). See Driver
Information Center (DIC) 0132 for
hourmeter.
Air Conditioning Desiccant
(Replace Every Seven Years)
The air conditioning system requires
maintenance every seven years. This
service requires replacement of the
desiccant to help the longevity and
efficient operation of the air
conditioning system. This service can
be complex. See your dealer.
Tire Rotation and Required
Services Every 12 000 km/
7,500 mi
Rotate the tires, if recommended for
the vehicle, and perform the following
services. See Tire Rotation0406.
.Check engine oil level and oil
life percentage. If needed, change
engine oil and filter, and reset oil
life system. See Engine Oil0367 and
Engine Oil Life System 0369.
.Check engine coolant level. See
Cooling System 0372.
.Check windshield washer fluid level.
See Washer Fluid 0377.
.Check tire inflation pressures,
including the spare. See Tire
Pressure 0400.
.Inspect tire wear. See Tire Inspection
0 406.
.Visually check for fluid leaks.
.Inspect engine air cleaner filter. See
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0371.
.Inspect brake system. See Exterior
Care 0432.
.Visually inspect steering,
suspension, and chassis
components for damage, including
cracks or tears in the rubber boots,
loose or missing parts, or signs of
wear at least once a year. See
Exterior Care 0432. Lubricate the
suspension and steering
components at least every other oil
change (if equipped with grease
fittings).

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 449
Battery
The 12-volt battery supplies power to
start the engine and operate any
additional electrical accessories.
.To avoid break-down or failure to
start the vehicle, maintain a battery
with full cranking power.
.Trained dealer technicians have the
diagnostic equipment to test the
battery and ensure that the
connections and cables are
corrosion-free.
Belts
.Belts may need replacing if they
squeak or show signs of cracking or
splitting.
.Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment to
inspect the belts and recommend
adjustment or replacement when
necessary.
Brakes
Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial
to safe driving.
.Signs of brake wear may include
chirping, grinding, or squealing
noises, or difficulty stopping.
.Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment to
inspect the brakes and recommend
quality parts engineered for the
vehicle.
Fluids
Proper fluid levels and approved fluids
protect the vehicle’s systems and
components. See Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants 0451 for GM approved
fluids.
.Engine oil and windshield washer
fluid levels should be checked at
every fuel fill.
.Instrument cluster lights may come
on to indicate that fluids may be
low and need to be filled.
Hoses
Hoses transport fluids and should be
regularly inspected to ensure that
there are no cracks or leaks. With a
multi-point inspection, your dealer
can inspect the hoses and advise if
replacement is needed. Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on
the road.
.Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure
to light, cracking, or damage. The
brake lamps need to be checked
periodically to ensure that they light
when braking.
.With a multi-point inspection, your
dealer can check the lamps and
note any concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control
for a smoother ride.
.Signs of wear may include steering
wheel vibration, bounce/sway while
braking, longer stopping distance,
or uneven tire wear.
.As part of the multi-point
inspection, trained dealer
technicians can visually inspect the
shocks and struts for signs of
leaking, blown seals, or damage, and
can advise when service is needed.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 451
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
This maintenance section applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see“Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants” in the Duramax diesel supplement.
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name or specification, including fluids or lubricants not listed here, can be
obtained from your dealer.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Automatic Transmission DEXRON ULV Automatic Transmission Fluid. Chassis Lubrication Lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant. See Cooling System0372.
Engine Oil Engine oil meeting the dexos1 specification of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic is recommended. See Engine Oil0367.
Front Axle (4WD Only) and Rear Axle. See your dealer. Hydraulic Brake System DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Key Lock Cylinders, Hood Hinges, Body Door Hinge Pins, Power Assist Steps,Liftgate Hinge, and Fuel Door Hinge Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube. See your dealer.
Transfer Case (4WD Only) See your dealer.
Weatherstrip Conditioning Weatherstrip lubricant. See your dealer. Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection requirements.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
INDEX 483
FluidAutomatic Transmission . . . . . . . . . 370
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379
Four-Wheel Drive
Transfer Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 256
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 377
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Forward Collision Alert (FCA)
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313
Four Corner Air Suspension Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Four Corner Air Suspension System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Four-Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . .256, 380
Frequency Statement Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 467
Front Axle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 381
Front Pedestrian Braking (FPB) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317
Front Seats Heated and Ventilated . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Fuel Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
Dynamic Management . . . . . . . . . . . 250
Economy, Driving for Better . . . . . 230
Filling a Portable FuelContainer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327 Fuel (cont'd)
Foreign Countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . . . 130
Prohibited Fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
Recommended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326
Top Tier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326
Full-Size Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 424
Fuses Engine Compartment FuseBlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 386
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . 385
Instrument Panel Fuse Block . . . . 389
Rear Compartment Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 391
G
Garage Door Opener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Gas Strut(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 383
Gauges Engine Coolant Temperature . . . . 117
Engine Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Transmission Temperature . . . . . . 118 Gauges (cont'd)
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Voltmeter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Warning Lights and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
General Information Service and Maintenance . . . . . . . . 441
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 363
Glass Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 383
Global Positioning System (GPS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 461
Guidance
Problems with the Route . . . . . . . . . 190
H
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . . . . 153
HD Radio Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Head-up Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
HeadlampsAiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 384
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 384