2021 CADILLAC ESCALADE fuel

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
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-
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
444 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
.Inspect power steering for proper
attachment, connections, binding,
leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.
.Visually inspect halfshafts and drive
shafts for excessive wear, lubricant
leaks, and/or damage including:
tube dents or cracks, constant
velocity joint or universal joint
looseness, cracked or missing boots,
loose or missing boot clamps, center
bearing excessive looseness, loose or
missing fasteners, and axle seal
leaks.
.Check restraint system components.
SeeSafety System Check 064.
.Visually inspect fuel system for
damage or leaks.
.Visually inspect exhaust system and
nearby heat shields for loose or
damaged parts.
.Lubricate body components. See
Exterior Care 0432.
.Check parking brake and automatic
transmission park mechanism. See
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism
Check 0381.
.Check accelerator pedal for damage,
high effort, or binding. Replace if
needed.
.Visually inspect gas strut for signs
of wear, cracks, or other damage.
Check the hold open ability of the
strut. If the hold open is low,
service the gas strut. See Gas
Strut(s) 0383.
.Inspect sunroof track and seal,
if equipped. See Sunroof038.
.Verify spare tire key lock operation
and lubricate as needed. See Tire
Changing 0413.
.Visually inspect the spare tire to
ensure that it is tightly stowed
under the vehicle. Push, pull, and
try to turn the tire. If the spare tire
moves, tighten as necessary. See
Tire Changing 0413.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
446 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Footnotes—Maintenance Schedule
Additional Required Services -
Normal
(1) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent passenger
compartment air filter replacement
may be needed if driving in areas with
heavy traffic, poor air quality, high
dust levels, or environmental
allergens. Passenger compartment air
filter replacement may also be needed
if there is reduced airf low, window
fogging, or odors. Your GM dealer can
help determine when to replace the
filter. (2)
Visually check all fuel and vapor
lines and hoses for proper attachment,
connection, routing, and condition.
(3) Or every four years, whichever
comes first. If driving in dusty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
oil change or more often as needed.
See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0371.
(4) 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 transfer case fluid. Contaminated
fluid will decrease the life of the
transfer case and/or axles and should
be replaced. (5)
Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System0372.
(6) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage; replace,
if needed.
(7) Replace brake fluid every five
years. See Brake Fluid 0379.
(8) Or every 12 months, whichever
comes first. See Wiper Blade
Replacement 0382.
(9) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. See Gas Strut(s)0383.
(10) Replace air conditioning
desiccant every seven years.

Cadillac Escalade Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
13690472) - 2021 - CRC - 8/10/21
448 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Footnotes—Maintenance Schedule
Additional Required Services -
Severe
(1) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent passenger
compartment air filter replacement
may be needed if driving in areas with
heavy traffic, poor air quality, high
dust levels, or environmental
allergens. Passenger compartment air
filter replacement may also be needed
if there is reduced airf low, window
fogging, or odors. Your GM dealer can
help determine when to replace the
filter.
(2) Visually check all fuel and vapor
lines and hoses for proper attachment,
connection, routing, and condition.
(3) Or every four years, whichever
comes first. If driving in dusty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
oil change or more often as needed.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 0371.
(4) 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 transfer case fluid. Contaminated fluid will decrease the life of the
transfer case and/or axles and should
be replaced.
(5)
Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System0372.
(6) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage; replace,
if needed.
(7) Replace brake fluid every five
years. See Brake Fluid 0379.
(8) Or every 12 months, whichever
comes first. See Wiper Blade
Replacement 0382.
(9) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. See Gas Strut(s)0383.
(10) Replace air conditioning
desiccant every seven years.
Special Application
Services
.Severe Commercial Use Vehicles
Only: Lubricate chassis components
every oil change.
.Have underbody flushing service
performed. See "Underbody
Maintenance" in Exterior Care0432.
Additional Maintenance
and Care
Your vehicle is an important
investment and caring for it properly
may help to avoid future costly
repairs. To maintain vehicle
performance, additional maintenance
services may be required.
It is recommended that your dealer
perform these services —their trained
dealer technicians know your vehicle
best. Your dealer can also perform a
thorough assessment with a
multi-point inspection to recommend
when your vehicle may need
attention.
The following list is intended to
explain the services and conditions to
look for that may indicate services are
required.

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.