2021 CADILLAC ESCALADE Owner's Manual

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
432 VEHICLE CARE
10. Reset any lost presets.The outside temperature display
will default to 0 °C (32 °F) but will
reset with normal usage.
Dolly Towing
Caution
Do not tow this vehicle with two
wheels on the ground, or vehicle
damage could occur. This damage
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Dolly towing this vehicle is not
allowed with either the front or the
rear tires on the ground for two-wheel
drive or four-wheel drive, regardless of
transfer case.
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
0 451.
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 your dealer. Follow all
manufacturer directions regarding
correct product usage, necessary
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Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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VEHICLE CARE 433
Caution (Continued)
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.
If using an automatic car wash, follow
the car wash instructions. The
windshield wiper and rear window
wiper, if equipped, must be off.
Remove any accessories that may be
damaged or interfere with the car
wash equipment.
Rinse the vehicle well, before washing
and after, to remove all cleaning
agents completely. If they are allowed
to dry on the surface, they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to
avoid surface scratches and water
spotting.
Cleaning Underhood Components
Caution
Do not power wash any component
under the hood that has this
e
symbol.
This could cause damage that
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Solvents or aggressive cleaners may
harm underhood components. The
usages of these chemicals should be
avoided.
Recommend water only.
A pressure washer may be used, but
care must be utilized. The following
criteria must be followed:
.Water pressure must be kept below
14,000 KPa (2,000 PSI).
.Water temperature must be below
80 °C (180 °F).
.Spray nozzle with a 40 degree wide
angle spray pattern or wider must
be used.
.Nozzle must be kept at least 30 cm
(1 ft) away from all surfaces.
Finish Care
Application of aftermarket clearcoat
sealant/wax materials is not
recommended. If painted surfaces are
damaged, see your dealer to have the
damage assessed and repaired. Foreign
materials such as calcium chloride
and other salts, ice melting agents,
road oil and tar, tree sap, bird
droppings, chemicals from industrial
chimneys, etc., can damage the
vehicle's finish if they remain on
painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as
soon as possible. If necessary, use
non-abrasive cleaners that are marked
safe for painted surfaces to remove
foreign matter.
Occasional hand waxing or mild
polishing should be done to remove
residue from the paint finish. See your
dealer for approved cleaning products.

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-
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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
436 VEHICLE CARE
Caution (Continued)
that have been sprayed with
magnesium chloride or calcium
chloride. These are used on roads
for conditions such as dust and ice.
Always wash the chrome with soap
and water after exposure.
Caution
To avoid surface damage on wheels
and wheel trim, do not use strong
soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes,
cleaners, or brushes. Use only GM
approved cleaners. Do not drive the
vehicle through an automatic car
wash that uses silicon carbide tire/
wheel cleaning brushes. Damage
could occur and the repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses
for proper hook-up, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake
pads for wear and rotors for surfacecondition. Inspect drum brake linings/
shoes for wear or cracks. Inspect all
other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and
Chassis Components
Visually inspect steering, suspension,
and chassis components for damaged,
loose, or missing parts or signs of
wear at least once a year.
Inspect power steering for proper
attachment, connections, binding,
leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint
boots and axle seals for leaks.
At least every other oil change
lubricate the outer tie rod ends.
Control arm ball joints are
maintenance-free.
Caution
Lubrication of applicable steering/
suspension points should not be
done unless the temperature is
−12 °C (10 °F) or higher, or damage
could result.
For a heavy-duty Suburban, see the
Suburban Heavy-Duty Package
supplement.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood
hinges, liftgate hinges, steel fuel door
hinge and power assist step hinges,
unless the components are plastic.
Applying silicone grease on
weatherstrips with a clean cloth will
make them last longer, seal better,
and not stick or squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
Caution
Avoid pressure washing the vehicle
frame. Use of high-pressure washers
can result in removal of corrosion
protection and possible vehicle
damage.
At least twice a year, spring and fall,
use plain water to flush any corrosive
materials from the underbody. Take
care to thoroughly clean any areas
where mud and other debris can
collect. If equipped with power assist

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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VEHICLE CARE 437
steps, extend them and then use a
high pressure wash to clean all joints
and gaps.
Do not directly power wash the
transfer case and/or front/rear axle
output seals. High pressure water can
overcome the seals and contaminate
the fluid. Contaminated fluid will
decrease the life of the transfer case
and/or axles and should be replaced.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and requires
sheet metal repair or replacement,
make sure the body repair shop
applies anti-corrosion material to
parts repaired or replaced to restore
corrosion protection.
Original manufacturer replacement
parts will provide the corrosion
protection while maintaining the
vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and
scratches with touch-up materials
available from your dealer to avoidcorrosion. Larger areas of finish
damage can be corrected in your
dealer's body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon and
attack painted vehicle surfaces
causing blotchy, ring-shaped
discolorations, and small, irregular
dark spots etched into the paint
surface. See
“Finish Care”previously in
this section.
Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions,
regularly clean the vehicle's interior.
Immediately remove any soils.
Newspapers or dark garments can
transfer color to the vehicle’s interior.
Use a soft bristle brush to remove
dust from knobs and crevices on the
instrument cluster. Using a mild soap
solution, immediately remove hand
lotions, sunscreen, and insect
repellent from all interior surfaces or
permanent damage may result.
Use cleaners specifically designed for
the surfaces being cleaned to prevent
permanent damage. Apply all cleaners directly to the cleaning cloth. Do not
spray cleaners on any switches or
controls. Remove cleaners quickly.
Before using cleaners, read and follow
all safety instructions on the label.
While cleaning the interior, open the
doors and windows to get proper
ventilation.
To prevent damage, do not clean the
interior using the following cleaners
or techniques:
.Never use a razor or any other
sharp object to remove soil from
any interior surface.
.Never use a brush with stiff bristles.
.Never rub any surface aggressively
or with too much pressure.
.Do not use laundry detergents or
dishwashing soaps with degreasers.
For liquid cleaners, use
approximately 20 drops per 3.8 L (1
gal) of water. A concentrated soap
solution will create streaks and
attract dirt. Do not use solutions
that contain strong or caustic soap.
.Do not heavily saturate the
upholstery when cleaning.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
438 VEHICLE CARE
.Do not use solvents or cleaners
containing solvents.
Interior Glass
To clean, use a terry cloth fabric
dampened with water. Wipe droplets
left behind with a clean dry cloth.
If necessary, use a commercial glass
cleaner after cleaning with plain water.
Caution
To prevent scratching, never use
abrasive cleaners on automotive
glass. Abrasive cleaners or
aggressive cleaning may damage
the rear window defogger.
Cleaning the windshield with water
during the first three to six months of
ownership will reduce tendency to fog.
Speaker Covers
Vacuum around a speaker cover
gently, so that the speaker will not be
damaged. Clean spots with water and
mild soap.
Coated Moldings
Coated moldings should be cleaned.
.When lightly soiled, wipe with a
sponge or soft, lint-free cloth
dampened with water.
.When heavily soiled, use warm
soapy water.
Fabric/Carpet/Suede
Start by vacuuming the surface using
a soft brush attachment. If a rotating
vacuum brush attachment is being
used, only use it on the floor carpet.
Before cleaning, gently remove as
much of the soil as possible:
.Gently blot liquids with a paper
towel. Continue blotting until no
more soil can be removed.
.For solid soils, remove as much as
possible prior to vacuuming.
To clean: 1. Saturate a clean, lint-free colorfast cloth with water. Microfiber cloth is
recommended to prevent lint
transfer to the fabric or carpet.
2. Remove excess moisture by gently wringing until water does not drip
from the cleaning cloth. 3. Start on the outside edge of the
soil and gently rub toward the
center. Fold the cleaning cloth to a
clean area frequently to prevent
forcing the soil in to the fabric.
4. Continue gently rubbing the soiled area until there is no longer any
color transfer from the soil to the
cleaning cloth.
5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap solution
followed only by plain water.
If the soil is not completely removed,
it may be necessary to use a
commercial upholstery cleaner or spot
lifter. Test a small hidden area for
colorfastness before using a
commercial upholstery cleaner or spot
lifter. If ring formation occurs, clean
the entire fabric or carpet.
After cleaning, use a paper towel to
blot excess moisture.
Cleaning High Gloss Surfaces
and Vehicle Information and
Radio Displays
Use a microfiber cloth on high gloss
surfaces or vehicle displays. First, use
a soft bristle brush to remove dirt that

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
VEHICLE CARE 439
can scratch the surface. Then gently
clean by rubbing with a microfiber
cloth. Never use window cleaners or
solvents. Periodically hand wash the
microfiber cloth separately, using mild
soap. Do not use bleach or fabric
softener. Rinse thoroughly and air dry
before next use.
Caution
Do not attach a device with a
suction cup to the display. This may
cause damage and would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Instrument Panel, Leather, Vinyl,
Other Plastic Surfaces, Low
Gloss Paint Surfaces, and
Natural Open Pore Wood
Surfaces
Use a soft microfiber cloth dampened
with water to remove dust and loose
dirt. For a more thorough cleaning,
use a soft microfiber cloth dampened
with a mild soap solution.
Caution
Soaking or saturating leather,
especially perforated leather, as well
as other interior surfaces, may
cause permanent damage. Wipe
excess moisture from these surfaces
after cleaning and allow them to
dry naturally. Never use heat,
steam, or spot removers. Do not use
cleaners that contain silicone or
wax-based products. Cleaners
containing these solvents can
permanently change the appearance
and feel of leather or soft trim, and
are not recommended.
Do not use cleaners that increase
gloss, especially on the instrument
panel. Reflected glare can decrease
visibility through the windshield
under certain conditions.
Caution
Use of air fresheners may cause
permanent damage to plastics and
painted surfaces. If an air freshener
comes in contact with any plastic (Continued)
Caution (Continued)
or painted surface in the vehicle,
blot immediately and clean with a
soft cloth dampened with a mild
soap solution. Damage caused by
air fresheners would not be covered
by the vehicle warranty.
Cargo Cover and
Convenience Net
If equipped, wash with warm water
and mild detergent. Do not use
chlorine bleach. Rinse with cold water,
and then dry completely.
Care of Seat Belts
Keep belts clean and dry.
{Warning
Do not bleach or dye seat belt
webbing. It may severely weaken
the webbing. In a crash, they might
not be able to provide adequate
protection. Clean and rinse seat belt
webbing only with mild soap and
lukewarm water. Allow the webbing
to dry.