2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV Owner's Manual
2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV Manual
2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV manual content summary:
- 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 1
- 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 2
The 2003 Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV Owner Manual Seats and Restraint Systems ...1-1 Front Seats ...1-3 ...1-7 Rear Seats Safety Belts ...1-25 ...1-48 Child Restraints Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) ...1-73 ...1-87 Restraint System Check Features and Controls ...2-1 2-3 Keys ...Doors and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 3
You can obtain a French copy of this manual from your dealer or from: Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207 GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CADILLAC, the CADILLAC Crest & Wreath and the name ESCALADE are registered trademarks and the name ESV is a trademark of the General Motors - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 4
Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning. You will also find a circle - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 5
Controls in Section 3 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators in Section 3 Audio System(s) in Section 3 Engine Compartment Overview in Section 5 help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. You'll also see - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 6
'ORWARD-FACING CHILD RESTRAINT IN THIS SEATING POSITION DOOR LOCK UNLOCK AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY d 4 OWNER'S MANUAL DAYTIME * * e RUNNING LAMPS : t : 0 ENGINE OIL PRESSUREw SERVICE '\I1' POWER WINDOW LAMPS $0 ANTI-LOCK BRAKES ( @ ) SERVICE MANUAL - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 7
5. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 8
Passengers ...1.41 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults ...1.44 Seat Position ...1-64 Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position ...1-66 Securing a Child Restraint in Belts Properly ...1-30 Driver Position ...1-30 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy ...1-38 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 9
1 Seats and Restraint Systems Passenger Sensing System ...1.81 Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle ...1.86 Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle ...1.86 ...1.87 Restraint System Check ...1.87 Checking YourRestraintSystems ...Replacing Restraint SystemParts ...1.87 After a Crash - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 10
go of the control when the lower seatback reaches the desired level of support. You can also reshape the side wing area of the lower seatback for more lateral support. To increase support, press and hold the top of the control. To decrease support, press and hold the bottom of the control. Let go of - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 11
doors. The engine must be running for the heated seat feature to work. The low setting warms the seatback and cushion until the seat temperature is near body high, medium and low and to turn the heated seat off. Indicator lights will glow to designate the level of heat selected, three for high, two - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 12
Reclining Seatbacks The vertical power seat control described earlier allows the seatback to recline. But don't have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is m o .'-g. The lap belt can't do its job either.In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 13
Head Restraints Pull straight up on the head restraint to raise it and push it down to lower it. I The front head restraints can also be tilted forward in addition to being slid up or down. To tilt either of the front head restraints do the following: Pull the head restraint toward you until you - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 14
Escalade: To enter or exit the third row seat you must fold the second row seat down following the instructions floor. Be sure to return the seat to the passenger position when finished. Pull forward and push rearward on the seat to make sure it is locked in place. Escalade ESV: The passenger's side - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 15
or twisted won't provide the protection needed in a crash.The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured. After raising the rear seatback, always check to be sure that the safety belts are properly routed and attached, andare not twisted. Be sure to return the seat to the passenger position - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 16
seat which may be folded down to create a load floor and give you more cargo space. On the Escalade, the rear seatbacks are equipped with rearward folding head Press the button a third time to turn the seats off. An Indicator light will glow for each heat setting when the seats are operating. The - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 17
seat footwell area will be exposed and will have to be covered by the load floor panel(s). To create a load floor, do the following: Escalade ESV: On the passenger side of Escalade ESV models, the lever at the base of the seat must be pulled up to release the seatback. Pull the seatback forward - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 18
position, do the following: 1. On Escalade ESV models. lift the load floor panels and latch them into the seatback. Escalade models, return the head restraints to the upright position. 6. Check to see that the safety belt buckles on the driver's side seat are accessible to the outboard and center - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 19
, do the following: 1. Pull up on the release lever labeled 1 and then pull up on the seatback or the assist strap located on the outboard side of the seat until the seatback locks into the upright position. Unfoldin- the Seatbacks 2. Push forward on the seatback to make sure it is locked - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 20
Tilting the 50/50 Split Bench Seat 1. Fold the seatbacks forward using the instructions listed previously. 2. Unlatch the seat from the floor by pulling up on the lever labeled 2, located on the rear of the seat. Returning the Seat(s) to an Upright Position atback isn't locked, it - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 21
locked into place. 5. Pull up on the release lever labeled 1 and then pull up on the seatback or the assist strap located on the outboard side of the seat until the seatback locks into the upright position. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 22
3. To unlatch the rear of the seat from the floor, pull up on the release lever labeled 2, at the rear of the seat. and lift the rear of the seat up from the floor. 4. Squeeze the release handle while pulling the seat out. 5. While holding the rear of the seat up, roll the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 23
the belt could be seriously injured. After raising the rear seatback, always check to be sure that the safety belts are properly routed and attached, and holding the rear of the seat up, slide the front wheels into the slots on the floor. The front latches should lock into place. If the latches - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 24
labeled 1 and pull the seatback up using the assist strap on the outboard side of the seat to return it to its upright position. Folding the Seatback If cannot be raised to the upright position unless the seat is secured to the floor. Bench Seat If your vehicle has a full bench, the seatback can - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 25
is locked. 1. Fold the seatbacks forward using the instructions listed previously. 2. Unlatch the seat from the floor by pulling up on the lever labeled 2 located on the rear of the seat. -7 2. Push and pull on the seatback to check that - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 26
could cause injury to people and damage to your vehicle. Always be sure the support rod is properly engaged when the third row seat is folded forward. 4. Pull the seat toward you and push firmly down until the seat latches in the floor. 4. Try pulling it up to be sure it is locked into place. The - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 27
unless the seatback is folded. 3. To unlatch the rear of the seat from the floor, pull up on the release lever labeled 2 at the rear of the seat and lift the located in the lower middle of the seat to unlatch the seat from the floor and pull the seat out. Use one hand to pull the release strap - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 28
belt could be seriously injured. After raising the rear seatback, always check to be sure that the safety belts are properly routed and attached, sure to lock the seat into place properly when installing it. wheels into the slots on the floor. The front latches should lock into place. If the latches - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 29
it forward. Reclining the Seatbacks To recline the seatback, do the following: 1. Pull up the lever located under the seat cushion. Escalade lever shown, Escalade ESV lever similar. 2. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull the lever again without pushing on the seatback - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 30
2. Pull the seatback release lever upward and pull the seatback up and fold it down until it is flat. Escalade lever shown, Escalade ESV lever similar. I On the Escalade ESV models, you must first remove the headrest and store it on the top of the seat cushion as shown next. Pull the headrest out - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 31
rearward on the seatback to be sure it is locked. To return the seatbacks to the upright position, do the following: 1. On Escalade ESV models, lift the load floor panels and latch them into the seatback. 1. Release the panels from the seatbacks by pushing forward on the latches. 2. Then fold the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 32
Belts: They Are for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 33
comes on as a reminder to buckle up. See Safety Belt Reminder Light on page 3-33. Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. In most states and crashes buckling up does matter ...a lot! Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels. 1-26 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 34
Put someone on it Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop. 1-27 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 35
The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... or the instrument panel... 1-28 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 36
why safety belts make such good sense. vehicle has air bags, why should I have to wear safety belts? A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you're in a vehicle that has air bags, you still - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 37
0: If I'm a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? How to Wear Safety Belts Properly This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 38
Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here's how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight. To you. Don't let it get twisted. 5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 39
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 40
if ; - l r shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body. A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won't give nearly as much protection this way. 1-33 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 41
Q: What's wrong with this? You can be seriol njurec your S buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, notat the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 42
Q: What's wrong with this? You can be seriously injured if your belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied at the abdomen, not at the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or fatal - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 43
Q: What's wrong with this? njurec ' you wear the 'ou cc.-. be se shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 44
Q: What's wrong with this? You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it. A: The belt is twisted across the body. 1-37 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 45
push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 46
Center Passenger Position Right Front Passenger Position To learn how to wear the right front passenger's safety belt properly, see Driver air bag. If this happens unintentionally, just let the belt go back all the way and start again. Second Row - Lap-Shoulder Belt When you sit in the center - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 47
Third Row - Lap Belt until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the When you sit in the center seating position in the third row, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 48
Rear Seat Passengers It's very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren't safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 49
out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. 1-42 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 50
at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash. To unlatch the belt, just push - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 51
belt comfort guides will provide guide better positions the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide available for each outside passeger position in the rear seats. Here's how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt: Second Row Seat 1. For the second row, remove the guide - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 52
the third row, remove the guide from its storage clip on the side of the seatback. 2. Place the guide over the belt and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The guide must be on top of - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 53
safety belt as described in Rear Seat Passengers on page 7-4 7. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out of the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 54
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn't long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It's free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 55
Child Restraints Older Children Q: What is the proper way to wear safety A: If possible, an older child should wear a belts? lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit snugly below - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 56
Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults on page 1-44. If the child is sitting in the center position, move the child toward the safety belt buckle. In either case, be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child's shoulder, so that in a crash the child's upper body would have - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 57
is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is CAUTION: (Continued) Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and in a vehicle. I Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have the protection provided by appropriate - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 58
. (110 kg) force on a person's arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint. People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy it is not possible to hold -- CAUTION: (Continued - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 59
up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer outstanding protection safety standards. The restraint manufacturer's instructions that come with the restraint state the weight and height limitations for a - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 60
including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant's neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing seat settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 61
infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant's head rests toward the center of the vehicle. A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 62
1 A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child's body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to improve the fit - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 63
attached to a flat pad which rests low against the child's body. A shelf- or armrest-type shield has straps that are attached to a wide, shelf instructions that come with the restraint which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 64
in a forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in a booster seat. Never put a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat unless your vehicle has the passenger sensing system and the passenger air bag status indicator shows off. Never put a rear facing child - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 65
always to be anchored. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint. If yours requires that the top strap be anchored, don't use the restraint unless it is anchored properly. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 66
1-59 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 67
rear of the seat cushion for each seating position in the second row, for the center seating position in the third row on bench seats. Escalade: A child restraint with a top strap should only be used in the second row in the third row for 50/50 split seats. Escalade ESV Third Row Bench Seat 1-60 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 68
Escalade Third Row 50/50 Split Seat 1-61 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 69
the seatback meets the seat cushion. In order to use the system, you need either a forward-facing child restraint that has attaching points (B)at its base and a top tether anchor (C), or a rear-facing child restraint that has attaching points (B), as shown here. 1-62 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 70
. See "Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System", "Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position", "Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position", or "Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position" in the Index for information on how to secure - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 71
-facing, attach the top strap to the top strap anchor. See Top Sfrap on page 1-58. Tighten the top strap according to the child restraint instructions. 5. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, simply unhook the top strap - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 72
. 2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 3. Buckle the belt - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 73
the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position 5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If you - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 74
using a lap-shoulder belt see Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position on page 1-64. Third Row The center seat position in the third row has a lap belt. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the chiid restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 75
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 76
no system is fail-safe, and no one can guarantee that an air bag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned child restraints be secured in the rear seat whenever possible, even if the air bag is off. If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system and you need - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 77
in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag, always move the seat as far back has turned off the right front passenger's frontal air bag, the off indicator on the inside rearview mirror will be lit and stay lit when you turn - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 78
- 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 79
check to be sure the right front passenger's frontal air bag is off before you begin to drive. If the air bag has been turned off the off indicator will light the air bag still doesn't turn off, install the infant restraint in a rear seat position of the vehicle and have your vehicle serviced as - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 80
SRS) This part explains the frontal and side impact Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) or air bag systems. Your vehicle has four air bags - a frontal air bag for the driver, another frontal air bag for the right front passenger, a side impact air bag for the driver, and another side impact air bag - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 81
inflation before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with frontal air bags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle. Front occupants should not lean on or sleep against the door. Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 82
the air bag symbol. Where Are the Air Bags? The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Air Bag Readiness Light on page 3-34 for more information. The driver's frontal air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 83
The right front passernger's frontal air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger's side. The driver's side impact air bag is in the side of the driver's seatback closest to the door. 1-76 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 84
the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering. Don't let seat covers block the inflation path of a side impact airbag. I When Should an Air Bag Inflate? The right front passenger's side impact air bag is in the side of the passenger's seatback closest to the door. The driver's and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 85
vehicle design. Side impact air bags are not Wheel-Drive Vehicle Off Paved Roads on page 4-17for tips on off-road driving. Seat Position Sensors Vehicle's with dual stage air bags are also equipped with special sensors which enable the sensing system to monitor the position of both the driver - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 86
hardware are all part of the air bag modules. Frontal air bag modules arelocated inside the steering wheel and instrument panel. For side impact air bags, the air bag modules arelocated in the seatback closest to the driver's and/or right front passenger's door. How Does an Air Bag Restrain? In - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 87
components include the steering wheel hub for the driver's frontal air bag and the instrument panel for the right front passenger's frontal air bag. For side impact air bags, the side of the seatback closest to the driver's and/or right front passenger's door will be hot. The parts of the bag that - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 88
, engine RPM, brake and throttle data. 0 properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel, both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger's air bag, or both the air bag module and seatback for the driver's and right front passenger's side - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 89
front passenger seat unless the air bag is off. ~~ I Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator - Canada The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger's frontal air bag under certain conditions. The driver's air bag and the side air bags are not part of the passenger sensing system - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 90
small child is present in a booster seat, a right front passenger takes hidher weight off of the seat for a period of time. the right front passenger seat who has outgrown child restraints. or if there is a critical problem with the air bag system or the passenger sensing system. A child in a rear - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 91
light and stay lit to remind you that the air bag is active. For some children who have outgrown child restraints and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system may or may not turn off the right front passenger's frontal air bag, depending upon the persons seating posture and body centered - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 92
vehicle serviced promptly, because an adult-size person sitting in the right front passenger's seat may not have the protection of the frontal air bag. See "Air Bag Readiness Light'' in the Index for more on this, including important safety information. Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers, - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 93
Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 7-2. For u- o 10 mir es after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 94
Restraint System Check Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 95
belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH system, safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system wasn't being used at the time of the collision. If an - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 96
Operation ...2-22 Parking Brake ...2-24 Shifting Into Park (P) ...2-25 Shifting Out of Park (P) ...2-27 Parking Over Things That Burn ...2-28 Engine Exhaust ...2-28 Running Your Engine While You Are Parked ...2-29 Mirrors ...2-30 Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Onstar@,Compass and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 97
Controls 2.41 2-41 2-41 2-41 2.42 2-43 2-43 2.43 2.44 Sunroof ...2.46 Vehicle Personalization ...2.47 Memory Seat ...2.47 Storage Areas ...Glove Box ...Cupholder(s) ...Center Console Storage Area ...Luggage Carrier ...Rear Storage Area ...Rear Seat Armrest ...Convenience Net ...Cargo Cover ... 2-2 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 98
Keys Le:...~ g _Aldren in a _ ~ i t L -he ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. ~ They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don't leave the keys in a vehicle with children. 2-3 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 99
sided key for the ignition, door locks and liftgate. Remote Keyless Entry System Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part Cadillac Roadside Service@. See Roadside Service - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 100
, hold the transmitter higher, and try again. Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See "Battery Replacement" under Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on page 2-5. e a (Unlock): Pressing this button once will unlock the driver's door. The interior lamps will come on. Pressing - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 101
(Lock): Pressing this button once will lock all of the doors. Pressing the button again within three seconds may cause the horn to chirp for lock confirmation. You can choose different feedback options for each press - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 102
to change the battery. Notice: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these the battery with a three-volt CR2032 or equivalent battery, positive (+) side up. 3. Align the covers and snap them together. 4. Check the operation - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 103
the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren't locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive. Young children who get into unlocked Tounlockthedoor from the inside, slide the manual lever forward. To lock the door, slide the manual lever rearward. CAUTION: (Continued) 2-8 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 104
Locks The power door lock switches are located on the driver's and front Delayed Locking When locking the doors with the power lock switch or the keyless entry transmitter and a door or the Iiftgate is open, the delayed locking feature will delay locking the doors and tailgate until five seconds - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 105
Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic IocWunlock feature which enables you to program your vehicle's power door locks. You can program this feature through the Driver Information Center (DIC), or by the following method. To enter the program mode, do the following: 1. Begin with the ignition - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 106
timer will begin. I 3. Mode 4: No automatic door unlock. The automatic door locks were pre-programmed at the door once thetransmission factory to unlock the driver's is shifted to PARK (P). The following instructions detail how to program your door locks differently than the factory setting - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 107
Protection This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the driver's door will unlock. 2-12 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 108
its highest speed and select the control setting that will force outside air into your vehicle. See "Comfort Controls" in the Index. ~. If you have 01 Zts on or under _..J instrument panel, open them all the way. See "Engine Exhaust" in the Index. - To open from the outside, insert the key into - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 109
Windows Leaving ch ren in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by the extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather. 2-14 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 110
operating the power windows. A small light in the lockout switch will come on side doors. The switches operate the windows when the ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See "Retained Accessory Power" under Ignition Positions on page 2- 18. The driver's door - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 111
, then will turn off to save the battery power. You can choose different feedback options for the alarm. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-47. Remember, the theft-deterrent system won't activate if you lock the doors with a key or use the manual door lock. It activates only if you use - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 112
. You may also want to check the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-100. See your dealer for service. In an emergency, call the Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Service on page 7-5. 2-17 3. Get out of the vehicle, close the door and wait for the security light to go out. 4. Then - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 113
55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don't drive at any one speed - fast or slow - for the first 500 miles (805 km stops for the first 200 miles (322km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren't yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 114
like the radio, power windows and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. C (RUN): This position is for driving. D (START): This position starts your engine. Retained Accessory Power (RAP) The Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature will allow certain features on your vehicle to continue - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 115
used to adjust the pedals are located on the driver's side door panel. 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START and hold it there up to 15 seconds. When the engine starts, let go of the key. 2. If your engine still won't start (or starts but then stops), it - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 116
before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don't, it could be damaged. To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The . cord is located on the driver's side of the engine compartment, near thepower steering fluid reservoir - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 117
(P): This position locks your drive wheels. It's the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can't move I a ve gear while your engine iShiftinL "racing" (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 118
manually select SECOND (2) the transmission will drive in second gear. You may use this feature for reducing the speed of the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power, but lower fuel economy engine - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 119
Tow/HauI Mode Selector Button Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. A chime will activate and the warning light will flash when the parking brake is applied and the vehicle is moving at - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 120
light will go off. 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this: Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 121
with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P). If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and the parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you move the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 122
you don't shift your vehicle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver's seat. To find out how, see Shifting Into Park (P) on page2-25. When you are ready to drive, move - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 123
Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust Engine exhaust can kill.It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can't see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 124
brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don't leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to.If you've left the engine . Exhaust - with CO - can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. See "Winter Driving'' - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 125
with Onstar@,Compass and Temperature Display Your vehicle may have this feature. When on, an electrochromic mirror automatically dims to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark. Temperature and Compass Display Press the on/off button, located to the far left, briefly - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 126
function by pressing and holding the on/off button for approximately six seconds until the green indicator light turns off. Compass Variance The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate for compass variance if you live - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 127
Indicator Your vehicle may be equipped with a passenger air bag indicator, on the mirror glass, just above the buttons. If your vehicle has this feature, the mirror will display the word ON, or an air bag symbol in Canada, when the passenger air bag is enabled. For more information, see Passenger - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 128
them manually. The mirrors also include a memory function which works in conjunction with the memory seats. See Memory Seat on page 2-47 for more information. Outside Convex Mirror Your passenger's side mirror is convex. A convex mirror's surface is curved so you can see more from the driver's seat - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 129
. When you press this button, a defogger warms the heated driver's and passenger's outside rearview mirrors to help clear them of ice, snow and condensation. Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror with Curb View Assist The driver's outside mirror will adjust for the glare of the headlamps behind you. See - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 130
@are: Automatic Notification of Air Bag Deployment Emergency Services Roadside Assistance Stolen Vehicle Tracking AccidentAssist Remote Door Unlock Onstar@uses global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology, wireless communications, and state of the art call centers to provide you with a wide - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 131
more about Onstar@Personal Calling, refer to the Onstat-@ owner's guide in your vehicle's glove box, or call Onstar@at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827). Onstar@Steering Wheel Controls (((7 : If your vehicle is equipped with the steering wheel control buttons you can use them to interact with the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 132
Canada. than an authorized service facility could void door locks, security systems and home lighting. Additional HomeLink@information can be found on the internet at www.homelink.com or by calling 1-800-355-3515. If your vehicle is equipped with the HomeLink@ Transmitter, it complies with Part - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 133
door, it is advised to park outside of the garage. It is recommended that a new battery be installed in your hand-held transmitter for quicker and more accurate transmission of the radio frequency. 4 The indicator light and observe the indicator light. Your vehicle's engine should be turned off - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 134
and depending on the brand of the garage door opener (or other rolling code device), repeat in the same manner. If you live in Canada, or you are having difficulty programming a gate and hold down the two outside buttons until the indicator light begins to flash, after 20 seconds. 2. Release both - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 135
settings do the following: 1. Hold down the two outside buttons for about 20 seconds until the indicator light begins to flash. 2. Continue to hold both buttons until the HomeLink@ indicator light turns off. 1. Press and hold the desired HomeLink@button. Do not release the button. 2. The indicator - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 136
Box To open your glove box, lift up the latch and pull the door open. Center Console Storage Area Your vehicle has a console compartment between the bucket seats. To open it, press the button on the side of the console and swing the console lid open. The console may be equipped with an accessory - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 137
the load in the area over the rear wheels (behind the rear side door on ESV models). If you need to, cut a piece of 3/8 inch plywood to fit inside the crossrails and siderails to spread the load. If plywood is used, tie it to the siderail supports. Tie the load to the crossrails or the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 138
Your vehicle has a Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) located above the rear glass. If cargo area of the vehicle in the driver's side trim panel. To open the compartment on standard models, press in on the release latch and swing the compartment door open. Convenience Net The convenience net (if - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 139
, you can use it to cover items in the cargo area of your vehicle. push the cover endcap toward the driver's side of the vehicle. The endcap should lock in the compressed position. 3. Lift the cover up on the passenger's side, swing the cover rearward and take it out of the vehicle. 2-44 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 140
at an angle and place the cover holder tab into the slot in the driver's side trim panel. 4. Push the button on top of the passenger's side endcap. This will allow the cover to extend into the trim slot. 5. Lightly pull on the cover holder to make sure it is secure. On some models - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 141
periods of time as debris may collect in the tracks. If the battery has been recharged, disconnected or is not working, you may need to See "Retained Accessory Power" under lgnition Positions on page 2- 18. Press and release the rear side of the button located in the front overhead console to express - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 142
are located on the driver's door. To store your memory seat, throttle and brake pedals, mirrors and radio presets, do the following: 1. Adjust the driver's seat (including the seatback recliner, lumbar, and side wing area), throttle and brake pedals, both of the outside mirrors, and the radio - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 143
brake pedals and mirror positions can also be recalled when placing the key in the ignition if programmed to do so through the Driver Information Center stored for the identified driver (1 or 2). Easy Exit Seat The controls for this memory function are located on the driver's door. h (Easy Exit - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 144
39 Engine Coolant Temperature Gage ...3-39 Transmission Temperature Gage ...3.40 Malfunction Indicator Lamp ...3.41 Oil Pressure Gage ...3.43 Security Light ...3.44 Cruise Control Light ...3.45 Tow/Haul Mode Light ...3-45 Fuel Gage ...3-45 Low Fuel Warning Light ...3-46 Driver Information Center - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 145
Theft-Deterrent Feature ...Audio Steering Wheel Controls ...DVD Distortion ... Instrument Panel Understanding Radio Reception ...3.97 Care of Your Cassette Tape Player ...3-97 Care of Your CDs and DVDs ...3-98 Care of Your CD Changer ...3-98 Care of Your CD and DVD Player ...3-98 Cleaning the Video - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 146
- 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 147
I D m 0 0 I \ =\ I 0 D -u D 13 R cn 1 1 i D - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 148
Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons L. Parking BrakeRelease M. TiltLever N. Comfort Control System Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. But they won't flash if you're braking - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 149
top of the steering column. Tilt Wheel The tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle. The tilt lever is located on the driver's side of the steering column under - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 150
of the turn or lane change. The lever on the left side of the steering column includes the following: Turn and Lane Change Signals the arrows flash more quickly than normal, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won't see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 151
. Flash-to-Pass This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. It works even if your headlamps are the high beams are on, this indicator light on the instrument panel cluster will also be on. $0io (Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer): - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 152
or return to your preset speed. 1 You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to the top of the lever, the shorter the delay. 9(Delay): 0 (Low - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 153
is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. 0(Off): This position turns the system off. To turn the not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will shut off. a (Washer Fluid): To wash the check the fluid level. 3-1 0 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 154
drive safely at a steady speed. So, don't use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel 1 (Continued) The CRUISE light on the instrument panel will illuminate - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 155
your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, disengages the cruise control. But you don't accelerate the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don't hold the switch at resumelaccelerate - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 156
control: Step lightly on the brake pedal, move the cruise control switch to off, or shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N). If your vehicle has the Stabilitrak@feature, cruise control will deactivate if road conditions cause Stabilitrak@to activate. The control on the driver's side of your instrument - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 157
sold in Canada. Automatic Headlamp on your headlamps when driving through a parking garage, lights. When the vehicle is turned off and the headlamps are in AUTO, the headlamps may automatically remain on for a set time. You can change this delay time using the DIC. See Driver Information Center - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 158
exterior lamps control is in AUTO, the transmission is not in PARK (P), and the light sensor determines it is daytime. 0 Lamps On Reminder If a door is open, a reminder chime will sound when your headlamps or parking lamps are manually turned on and your key is out of the ignition. To turn off the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 159
the left side of The to turn them off. An indicator light will glow near the button when the fog lamps are lamps alone will not give off as much light as your headlamps. Never use your fog , up or down to brighten or dim the instrument panel lights and the radio display. This will only work if the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 160
again and return it to the out position. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will come on when you open a door. Exit Lighting With exit lighting, the interior lamps will come on when you remove the key from the ignition. The lamps will not come on if the dome override - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 161
i located inside the vehicle, on the passenger's side rear upper trim panel. It has three color-coded lights that can be seen through the rearview mirror or by turning around. Battery Run-Down Protection This feature shuts off the dome, reading, glove box and underhood lamps if they are left on for - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 162
1 foot (0.3 m) a continuous chime will sound and all three lights (amber/amber/red) will flash. URPA can detect objects 3 inches (7.6 cm) and wider, and at least 10 inches (25.4 cm) tall, but it cannot detect objects that are above the center of the Cadillac crest badge on the liftgate. In order for - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 163
there is a problem. The light will also flash red while driving if any of the following conditions exist: Other conditions that may affect system performance include things like the vibrations from a jackhammer or the compression of air brakes on a very large truck. As always, drivers should use - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 164
fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer for additional information on the accessory power plugs. To remove the ashtray, pull it from the center console ashtray and lighter are located in the center console near the cupholders. Press on the access door to open it and use the ashtray and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 165
vehicle also has a flow-through ventilation system described later iv this section. Driver's Side Temperature Knob The driver's side knob is used to adjust the temperature of the air coming through the system on the driver's side. The temperature can be adjusted even if the system is turned off - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 166
driver's press and hold the AUTO button for approximately four seconds. When auto is selected, the air conditioning operation and air inlet will be automatically controlled. The air conditioning compressor system. Outside air will still enter the vehicle, and will be directed to the floor. This - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 167
regulate. Turn the driver's or passenger's side temperatureknob to adjust the air temperature based on sun load, and also turns on your headlamps. To avoid blowing cold air in cold weather, the system will delay turning on the fan until warm air is available. The length of delay depends on the engine - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 168
driver temperature setting and the selected mode. Whenever you press AUTO, the display will change to show the following: 0 t g (Floor): This setting will deliver air to the floor . If you select recirculation while in defrost, defog or floor, the light on the button will flash and go out to let - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 169
conditioner to work its best. On cool, but sunny days while using manual operation of the automatic system, use bi-level to deliver warm air to the floor and cooler air to the instrument panel outlets. To warm or cool the air delivered, turn the temperature knob to the desired setting. In AUTO mode - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 170
to turn the rear window defogger on or off. An indicator light in the button will come on to let you know that the mirrors this button will activate them. Outlet Adjustment Use the air outlets located in the center and on the side of your instrument panel to direct the airflow. Your vehicle has air - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 171
the front or rear passengers can control the air temperature, air flow and fan speed for the rear seat passengers. The climate control has an overhead control near the driver and a control on the back of the center console. AUX: Turn the knob, located on the left side of the control panel, to this - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 172
Control To control the rear climate control from the rear passenger seat position, use the rear passenger console control. The driver overhead control fan knob must be set to the AUX position. The rear seat controls have the following settings: (On/Off): Press this button to - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 173
the climate control settings for temperature, air delivery mode and fan speed for two different drivers. The personal choice settings recalled are of the identified driver. The settings can also be changed by pressing one of the memory buttons (1 or 2) located on the driver's door. When adjustments - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 174
with your vehicle. When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this manual's advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly - and even dangerous - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 175
cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You'll know how fast you're going, about how much fuel you have and many other things you'll need to know to drive safely and economically. United States version shown, Canada similar. 3-32 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 176
people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver's safety belt is already buckled. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for several seconds, then it will flash for several more. Tachometer Your tachometer displays the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). Notice: Do - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 177
should go out. This means the system is ready. If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the vehicle or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away. If the r bag readiness _Iht stays on after you start your vehicle - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 178
Bag Status Indicator - United States Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator - Canada When the ignition key is turned to RUN or START, the passenger air bag status indicator will light ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, for several seconds as a system check. Then, after several more seconds, the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 179
front passenger seat may not have the protection of the frontal air bag. See "Air Bag Readiness Light" in the Index. ~ It should go out once the engine is running. If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with the charging system. It could indicate that you have - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 180
zone. If you must drive, turn off all unnecessary accessories. Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible. Brake System Warning Light With the ignition on, the brake system warning light will flash when you - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 181
, have the vehicle towed for service. Canada BRAKE United States This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If it doesn't come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there's a problem. If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 182
the gage reaches the 260°F (125°C) mark, it indicates that the cooling system is working beyond its capacity. See Engine Overheating on page 5-28. If the light doesn't come on then, the system may require service; have it fixed so it will be there to warn you if the system is turned off. For - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 183
Driver Information Center(DIC) on page 3-47 for further information. If the transmission fluid reaches temperatures of approximately 275°F (135°C) or greater, the DIC will display a TRANS HOT IDLE ENGINE brake, place the transmission in PARK (P) and allow the engine keep driving your air temperatures, - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 184
is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction. Notice: If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 185
10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see "If the Light I s On Steady" following. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or qualified service center for service. fuel cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 186
Check Engine light driving. If you have done this and your vehicle still does not pass the inspection for lack of OBD system readiness, see your dealer or qualified service center to prepare the vehicle for inspection. Qil Pressure Gage United States Canada The oil pressure gage shows the engine - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 187
will stay on until the engine starts. 1 Don't keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. If the light flashes, the Passlock@ system has - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 188
Signal/lVultifunction Lever on page 3-7. Fuel Gage Tow/HauI Mode Light United States Canada 1 -ab This light is displayed when the tow/haul mode has been activated. When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left in your tank. The gage will first indicate - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 189
or less than half the tank's capacity to fill the tank. The gage goes back to empty when you turn off the ignition. Low Fuel Warning Light The light next to the fuel gage will come on briefly when you are starting the engine. This light comes on when the fuel tank is low on fuel. To turn it off - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 190
trip odometer, fuel economy and personalization features. DlC Operation and Displays The DIC comes on when the ignition is on. After a short delay the DIC will display the current driver (1 or 2) and the information that was last displayed before the engine was turned off. If a problem is detected - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 191
. BUSINESS: XX.X MPG - This shows the amount of fuel used for the business trip. BUSINESS: AVG ECONOMY - This shows how many miles per gallon of fuel your vehicle is getting for the business trip based on current and past driving conditions. BUSINESS: AVG MPH - This shows the vehicle's average - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 192
number of hours the engine has run. Pressing the reset stem on the instrument cluster will also display the hourmeter after the season odometer is displayed. Fuel Information Button Use the fuel information button to scroll through the range, average fuel economy, instant fuel economy and the GM - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 193
your engine. So, be sure to check your oil level often. See Engine Oil on page 5- 13. Average Fuel Economy Press the fuel information button until AVG ECON appears in the display. Average fuel economy is how many miles per gallon your vehicle is getting based on current and past driving conditions - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 194
LOCKING AUTOMATIC UNLOCKING SEATPOSITIONRECALL PERIMETER LIGHTING REMOTELOCKFEEDBACK REMOTEUNLOCKFEEDBACK HEADLAMPSON AT EXIT following, but may have been changed from their default state since then. The driver's preferences can be recalled by pressing the unlock button on the remote keyless entry - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 195
shifted into PARK (P). UNLOCK ALL AT KEY OUT: All of the doors will unlock when the key is taken out of the ignition. UNLOCK DOORS MANUALLY: The doors will not be unlocked automatically. UNLOCK DRIVER IN PARK: The driver's door will be unlocked when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P). Choose one - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 196
come on for 40 seconds, if it is dark enough outside, when you unlock the vehicle with the remote keyless entry transmitter. PERIMETER LIGHTING OFF: The perimeter lights will not come on when you unlock the vehicle with the remote keyless entry transmitter. Choose one of the two options and press - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 197
Remote Unlock Feedback Press the personalization button until REMOTE UNLOCK FEEDBACK appears in the display. To select your personalization for the feedback you will receive when unlocking the vehicle with the remote keyless entry transmitter, press the select button while REMOTE UNLOCK FEEDBACK is - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 198
will be tilted down when the vehicle is shifted into REVERSE (R). CURB VIEW: DRIVER: The driver's outside mirror will be tilted down when the vehicle is shifted into REVERSE (R). CURB VIEW: BOTH: The driver's and passenger's outside mirror will be tilted down when the vehicle is shifted into REVERSE - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 199
will be displayed in English units. For example, distance in miles and fuel economy in miles per gallon. Choose one of the two options and press the DIC to notify the driver that the status of the vehicle has changed and that some action may be needed by the driver to correct the condition. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 200
possible and do not operate it until the cause of the low oil pressure has been corrected. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. ENGINE OVERHEATED If the engine cooling system reaches unsafe temperatures for operation, this message will appear in the DIC and you will - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 201
system is working to maintain braking power. If you are braking lightly, you may not notice any difference in the operation of your brakes. This message may also be displayed for brief periods if you are driving at higher elevations and are pumping your brakes or braking hard. The message may clear - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 202
on again when you are driving, there is a problem with your brake system. If you continue to drive with this message displayed it can lead to an accident. You should have the vehicle towed for service. Also, see Brake System Warning Light in the Index. Your brake system may not beworki,,, properly - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 203
check for the message on the DIC display. If the message is still displayed, or appears again when you begin driving, the four wheel drive system needs service DIG display. SERVICE RIDE CONTROL If a problem occurs with next ignition cycle. The low fuel light near the fuel gage will still remain on - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 204
center IDLE ENGINE If air flow to the radiator. DRIVER DOOR AJAR If the driver's door is not fully closed and the vehicle is in a drive gear, this message will appear on the display and you will hear a chime. Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door for obstacles, and close the door again. Check - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 205
a vibration in the brake pedal. This is DOOR AJAR If the driver's side rear door is not fully closed and the vehicle is in a drive gear, this message will appear on the display and you will hear a chime. Stop and turn off the vehicle, check the door for obstacles, and close the door again. Check - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 206
displayed if the brake system warning light is on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-37. The message could be displayed if the stability system takes longer than usual to complete its diagnostic checks due to driving conditions. Also, if an engine or vehicle related problem has been detected - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 207
equipment that has been added improperly. So, before adding sound equipment, check with your dealer and be sure to check federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone units. Your vehicle may have a feature called Retained Accessory Power (RAP). With RAP, you can play your audio system even - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 208
Radio with Cassette and CD With RDS, your radio can do the following: Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type of programming, receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies, display messages from radio stations, and * seek to stations with traffic announcements. This - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 209
based satellite radio service that offers 100 coast to coast channels including music, news, sports, talk and children's programming. XMTM provides digital quality audio and text information, including song title and artist name. A service noise as you drive. Set the volume at the desired level. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 210
, RDS station frequency, PTY and the name of the program (if available). For XMTM(USA only, if your radio is equipped with XMTMSatellite Radio Service), push this knob while in XM mode to retrieve various pieces of information related to the current song or channel. By pressing ancl releasing this - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 211
stations (six AM, six F M l and six FM2, or six XMI and six XM2 (USA only, if your radio is equipped with the XM Satellite Radio Service), by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press BAND to select AM, FM1 or FM2, or XM1, XM2. 4 3. Tune in the desired station - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 212
will switch to one of the present settings listed below. Your audio system allows you to choose from four different equalization settings: normal, driver, rear and spacious. These settings can be used while listening to the radio, a cassette or a CD. NORMAL: This setting enhances the stereo effect - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 213
display and the radio will return to the last station you were listening to. 3. Press wither SCAN arrow again to stop scanning. BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. Press and hold BAND for two seconds to turn - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 214
tape or compact disc is playing. If the cassette tape or compact disc player is playing, play will stop during the announcement. You will not be broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations. If the whole message is not displayed, parts of it will appear every three seconds - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 215
on the display while the announcement plays. If the cassette tape or compact disc player was being used, play will stop during the announcement. This function does not apply to XMTMSatellite Radio Service. Traffic Interrupt Feature: Your radio can interrupt the play of a cassette, CD, or XMTM - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 216
Required These channels: or any others, can be blocked at a customer's request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696). Updating The encryption . This message should disappear shortly. This channel is not currently in service. Tune to another channel. This previously assigned channel is no longer - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 217
, check with the servicing facility. No Text/lnformational No channel available for the chosen category XM Locked Radio ID Radio ID label (channel 0) Radio ID not known (should only be if hardware failure) Hardware failure If you tune to channel 0, you will see this message alternating with - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 218
minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. The longer side with the tape SEEK and a negative number will appear on the display while the cassette player is in the previous mode. Pressing this pushbutton multiple times will increase the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 219
): Press this pushbutton to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press this pushbutton again to side of the tape. SEEK b : The right arrow is the same as the NEXT pushbutton, and the left arrow is the same as the PREV pushbutton. If the arrow is held or pressed more than once, the player - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 220
Cassette Tape Messages CHK TAPE (Check Tape): If CHK TAPE appears on the radio display, the tape won't play because of one of the following errors. CD Adapter Kits It is possible to use a portable CD player adapter kit with your cassette tape player after activating the bypass feature on your tape - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 221
Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in and the disc should begin playing appear on the display. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc. 3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 222
playing. The CD will stop but remain in the player. TAPE DISC: Press this button to play a tape could be for one of the following reasons: You're driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes The disc is dirty, scratched, wet or upside down. The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 223
RSE system is for rear seat passengers. The driver cannot safely view the video screen while driving and should not try to do so. DVD Player The DVD player is located in the overhead console. The DVD player can be controlled by the buttons on the DVD player and by the buttons on the remote control - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 224
within a menu. Playing a Disc To play a disc, gently insert the disc with the label side up into the loading slot. The DVD player will continue loading the disc and the player will automatically start, if the vehicle ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY, or when RAP is active. If a disc is already in the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 225
Error: This message will be displayed if the disc is not properly loaded or ejected. Disc Play Error: This message will be displayed if the DVD player can not play the disc. Severely damaged discs will cause this error. Region Code Error: This message will be displayed if the region code of - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 226
on the front of the DVD console, behind the video screen, near the driver of the vehicle. Press this button while a DVD or CD is playing to freeze the video and mute the audio. The video screen will display Parental Control ON and the power indicator light on the DVD player will flash. It will also - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 227
or the previews. G . Source: Press this button to toggle between the DVD player and an auxiliary source. H. Stop: Press this button to stop the play of a DVD or CD. Press this button twice to return to the beginning of the DVD. I. Previous TracWChapter: Press this button to return to the start of - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 228
the DVD player on, to start play of a DVD or CD and to toggle between play and pause of a DVD or CD. S. Next TracWChapter: Press this button to advance to the beginning of the next track or chapter. This button may not work when the DVD is playing the copyright or the previews. Battery Replacement - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 229
that are located below the video display screen. Battery Replacement To change the batteries, do the following: 1. Loosen the screw on the battery compartment door located on the left side of the headphone earpiece. 2. Replace the two AAA batteries in the compartment. Make sure that they are - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 230
's instructions for proper connection of your auxiliary device. To use the auxiliary inputs on the RSE system, connect an external auxiliary device to the color-coded RCA jacks and turn both the auxiliary device and the RSE system power on. If the RSE system had been previously in the DVD player - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 231
Audio Output Audio from the DVD player or auxiliary inputs may be heard through the following possible sources: Wireless Headphones Vehicle Speakers Vehicle wired headphone jacks on the Rear Seat Audio system ( - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 232
ir t was pulled back into the the DVD player. Press the eject button again to eject DVD player. the disc. Recommended Action The ignition might not be in on or accessory. The parental control biitton might have been pressed. (The power indicator light will flash.) The system might be off. The - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 233
. Turn the power off, then on again, then press the Load/Eject button on the DVD player. Do not attempt to forcibly remove the disc from the DVD player. This could permanently damage the DVD player. Problem Recommended Action Sometimes the wireless This could be caused by headphone audio cuts out - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 234
listen to any of the audio sources: radio, cassette tapes, CDs, DVDs, XMTM (if equipped) depending on your vehicles options. However, the rear seat passengers may listen to a cassette tape through headphones while the driver listens to the radio through the front speakers. The rear seat passengers - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 235
than eight seconds have played. If the CD player on the front radio is in use, you button to select an audio source: radio, cassette tapes, CDs, DVDs, XM (if equipped) depending on your vehicles options. v SEEK playing, press this button to go to the other side of the tape. When a CD is playing in - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 236
pressing the desired numbered button with the amber blinking light. If a button is not pressed within five seconds from any position. amber. An internal door will open allowing a single CD to be inserted must load CDs with the label side up. If you do not, the player will automatically eject the CDs. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 237
track. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the CD. To eject all CDs, press : With the radio on, press the desired numbered button with a green indicator light on the CD changer. 0 3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 238
Compact Disc Changer Errors CHK CD (Check): If this message appears on the display, it could be for one of the following reasons: You are driving or, 2 very rotlgh road. The are turned off, the blinking red light indicates that THEFTLOCK@is armed. With THEFTLOCK@activated, your radio will not operate - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 239
the buttons on your steering wheel. SOURCE Press this button to . See the Onstar@manual provided with your vehicle for more information. DVD Distortion You may experience or walkie talkies. It may be necessary to turn off the DVD player when operating one of these devices in or near the vehicle. * - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 240
noise if you ever get it. Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined FM signals, causing the sound to come and go. XMTMSatellite Radio Service XMTMSatellite Radio gives you digital radio reception from coast to coast. Just - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 241
is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced. 1. Turn the ignition on. 2. Turn the clean it, wiping from the center to the edge. Be sure never to touch the side without writing when handling discs CD mechanism. Care of Your CD and DVD Player The use of CD lens cleaner discs is - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 242
sure that the XMTMsatellite antenna is not obstructed. Diversity Antenna System Your AM-FM antennas are located in the rear side windows. Be sure that the inside surfaces of the rear side windows are not scratched and that the lines on the glass are not damaged. If the inside surfaces are damaged - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 243
- 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 244
Control of a Vehicle ...4.5 Braking ...4.6 Road Sensing Suspension ...4.9 Stabilitt-aka System ...4-9 Steering ...4-12 Off-Road Recovery ...4.14 Passing ...4.14 Loss of Control ...4.16 Operating Your All-Wheel-Drive Vehicle Off Paved Roads ...4.17 Driving at Night ...4-31 Driving in Rain and on Wet - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 245
. You never know when the vehicle in front of you is going to brake or turn suddenly. Defensive driving requires that a driver concentrate on the driving task. Anything that distracts from the driving task - such as concentrating on a cellular telephone call, reading, or reaching for something - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 246
the adult population - choose never to drink alcohol, so they never drive after drinking. For persons under 21, it's against the law in problem. The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone who is drinking depends upon four things: The amount of alcohol consumed 0 The drinker's body weight - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 247
man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in an increasing number of U.S. states, and throughout Canada, sets the legal limit the driving skills of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All drivers are - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 248
can have a serious-or even fatal-collision if you drive after drinking. Please don't drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. Ride home in a cab; or if you're with a group, designate a driver who will not drink. Sometimes, as when you're driving on snow or ice, it's easy to ask - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 249
one driver and as long as two or three seconds or more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination and eyesight all play a part. So braking. That means better braking and longer brake life. If your engine ever stops while you're driving, brake normally but don't pump your brakes - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 250
skid. When you start your engine and begin to drive away, your anti-lock brake system will check itself. You may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while this test is going on. This is normal. If there's a problem with the anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on. See Anti - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 251
slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. Using Anti-Lock Don't pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down firmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel the brakes vibrate, or you may notice some noise, but this is normal - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 252
it to initialize [email protected] either message appears on the Driver Information Center (DIC), and your vehicle hasn't gone through hard acceleration, braking or multiple turns in the first two miles of driving, your vehicle should be taken in for service. RSS also interacts with the tow/haul mode - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 253
ACTIVE message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) if it senses that any of the wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction while driving. If you turn off Stabilitrak@, only the brake-traction control portion of traction control will work. The engine speed management will be disabled - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 254
, engine power is not reduced automatically and the driven wheels can spin more freely. This can cause the brake-traction control to activate constantly. For more information on the traction active message, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-47. Notice: If the traction off light comes - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 255
engine ACTIVE message on the message center. See "Stability System Active , the posted speeds are based on good weather and road front wheels are straight ahead. Try to adjust your speed so you can "drive" Driving on Curves It's important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the "driver - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 256
. See Braking on page 4-6. It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or right depending on the space available. An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 257
find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you're driving. Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass. A broken center line usually indicates it's all right to pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 258
check the blind spot. Check your mirrors , glance over your shoulder and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror mirror the brake lamps are not - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 259
surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited. While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 260
all-wheel drive - help service work done. Check to make sure all underbody shields (if so equipped) are properly attached. Is there enough fuel? Is the spare tire fully inflated? Are the fluid levels up where they should be? What are the local laws that apply to off-roading where you'll be driving - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 261
floor and forward of your rear axle. Put heavier items as far forward as you can. Be sure the load is secured properly, so driving on the off-road terrain doesn't toss things around. Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle's center important information in this manual. See Loading Your Vehicle - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 262
new and different driving skills. Here's what we mean. Tune your senses to different kinds of signals. Your eyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrain for unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listen for unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms, hands, feet and body, you'll need - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 263
drive over obstacles. you'll need more distance for braking, especially since you're on an unpaved surface. Scanning the Terrain Off-road driving you may experience slipping, sliding, wheel spinning, delayed acceleration, poor traction and longer braking distances. Surface Obstacles: Unseen or - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 264
have a serious - or even fatal - accident if you drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. See Drunken Driving on page 4-2. Driving on Off-Road Hills Off-road driving often takes you up, down or across a hill. Driving safely on hills requires good judgment and an understanding of - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 265
Approaching a Hill When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it's one of those hills that's just too steep to climb, descend or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. On a very small hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant incline with only a small change in elevation where you can - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 266
up the hill and try to maintain your speed. Don't use more power than you need, because you don't want your wheels to start spinning or sliding. Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible. If the path twists and turns, you might want to find another route. 0 Ease - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 267
you back down the hill with your wheels straight rather than in the left or right direction. Turning the wheel too far to the left or right the parking brake, put your transmission in PARK (P) and turn off the engine. Leave the vehicle and go get some help. Exit on the uphill side and stay clear - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 268
Driving braking when going down a hill can cause your brakes to overheat and fade. This could cause loss of control and a serious accident. Apply the brakes lightly headed straight down, and use a low gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes and they won't have to do all the work. Descend slowly - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 269
, here's what to do. e Stop your vehicle by applying the regular brakes. Apply the parking brake. Shift to PARK (P) and, while still braking, restart the engine. Shift back to a low gear, release the parking brake, and drive straight down. e If the engine won't start, get out and get help. 4-26 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 270
) may not prevent the vehicle from tilting and rolling over. Also, driving across an incline puts more weight on the downhill wheels. This could cause a downhill slide or a rollover. Surface conditions can be a problem when you drive across a hill. Loose gravel, muddy spots, or even wet grass can - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 271
passengers) get out on the uphill side, even if the door there is harder to open. If you get out on the downhill side and the vehicle starts to roll will take if it does roll over. Gettmg out on the downhill (low) side of a vehicle stopped across an incline is dangerous. If the vehicle rolls over, - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 272
drive in mud, snow or sand, your wheels won't get good traction. You can't accelerate as quickly, turning is more difficult, and you'll need longer braking and braking. You may want to reduce the air pressure in your tires slightly when driving on sand. This will improve traction. Drive at - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 273
. Check the body structure, steering, suspension, wheels, tires and exhaust system for damage. Also, check the fuel lines and cooling system for any leakage. Your vehicle will require more frequent service due to off-road use. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule for additional information. Driving - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 274
we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light to see the same thing at night as a 20- are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you're driving, don't wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 275
headlamps should be checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night blindness - the inability to see in dim light - and aren't even aware of it. Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 276
from the inserts. Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won't work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. 4-33 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 277
can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road Driving Through Deep Standing Water Notice: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 278
cities. You'll save time and energy. See Freeway Driving on page 4-36. Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it. When a light turns green, and just before you start to move, check both ways for vehicles that have not cleared the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 279
traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat at close to the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as necessary. Try to - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 280
Blades: Are they in good shape? Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? 0 e e Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 281
eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your mirrors and your instruments frequently. Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or rolling terrain. e I f you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service or parking area and take a nap, get some - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 282
and more enjoyable. See Operating Your All- Wheel-Drive Vehicle Off Paved Roads on page 4-17for information about driving off-road. Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. Know - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 283
red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle. Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 284
1 you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface brake while you're actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers. I I I What's the worst time for this? "Wet ice." Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 285
wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats - anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep been stopped by the snow. 4-42 You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 286
Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow doesn't collect there. __._ ..-. Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 287
vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or otherdamage. When you're stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don't spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the speedometer. Notice: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 288
Using the Recovery Hooks I , ., *.., - - I _ -... Your vehicle may be equipped with recovery hooks. The recovery hooks are provided at the front of your vehicle. You may need to use them if you're stuck off-road and need to be pulled to some place where you can continue driving. 4-45 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 289
These hooks, when used, are under a lot of force. Always pull the vehicle straight out. Never pull on the hooks at a sideways angle. The hooks could break off and you or others could be injured from the chain or cable snapping back. Notice: Never use recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your vehicle - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 290
professional towing service if you need to have your disabled vehicle towed. See Roadside Service on wheel-drive vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, or even with only two of its wheels on the ground, will damage drivetrain components. Don't tow an all-wheel-drive vehicle if any of its wheels - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 291
on both sides of the driver's door. The label shows the size of your original tires and the inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of your vehicle. This is called the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel parts - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 292
exhaust (lower vehicle height) for up to 10 minutes after the ignition key has been turned to OFF. You may hear the air compressor operating when the height is being adjusted. If a weight driving in this manual. See "Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving" under Operating Your All- Wheel-Drive - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 293
the weight of your load the right way, and if you choose the correct hitch and trailer brakes. For more information, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-50. Towing a Trailer If you don't use e correct equipment a..-. drive correctly, follow the advice in this part, and see your dealer for - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 294
heavier trailers. Buttrailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That's the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 295
haul when lightly loaded or with no trailer at all will not cause damage. However, there is no benefit to the selection of tow/haul when the vehicle is unloaded. Such a selection when unloaded may result in unpleasant engine and transmission driving characteristics and reduced fuel economy. Tow/haul - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 296
much your vehicle can weigh, based upon your vehicle model and options. Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only the driver is in the tow vehicle Booklet. In Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 297
tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you will tow - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 298
weight-distributing driving instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Since your vehicle is equipped with Stabilitrak@,your trailer brake system cannot tap into the vehicle's hydraulic brake system. Will you have to make any holes in the body - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 299
you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 300
guide you. you are seeing your signal when they are not. It's important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working. Driving engine off. If you do get the overheat warning, see Engine strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, flash, telling other drivers you're about to - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 301
. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don't overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belts, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you're trailering, it's a good - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 302
trailer circuits: 0 Yellow: Left Stopnurn Signal Dark Green: Right Stopnurn Signal Brown: Taillamps White: Ground Light Green: Back-up Lamps Red: Battery Feed Dark Blue: Trailer Brake e 0 0 0 I Your vehicle is equipped with the seven-wire trailer towing harness.This harness with a seven - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 303
.ED NOTES 4-60 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 304
a Portable Fuel Container ...5-9 Checking Things Under the Hood ...5.10 Hood Release ...5-10 Engine Compartment Overview ...5.12 Engine Oil ...5.13 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ...5.19 Automatic Transmission Fluid ...5.21 Engine Coolant ...5.24 Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap ...5-27 Engine Overheating - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 305
(VIN) ...5.98 Service Parts Identification Label ...5.98 Electrical System ...5.99 Add-on Electrical Equipment ...5.99 Windshield Wiper Fuses ...5.99 Power Windows and Other Power Options ...5.99 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ...5.100 Capacities and Specifications ...5.109 Capacities and Specifications - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 306
best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you'll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You'll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you'll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 307
service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 7-IO. Your vehicle has an air . Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 308
A little pinging noise when you accelerate or drive uphill is considered normal. This does not indicate a problem exists or that a higher-octane fuel is necessary. If you are using 87 octane or higher-octane fuel and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. If your vehiclehas the 6.0L HO - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 309
. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on. If this occurs, return to your authorized GM dealer for service. Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 310
Filling Your Tank I-- violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don't smoke if you're near fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from fuel. The fuel cap is located behind a hinged door on the driver's side of the vehicle. 5-7 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 311
indicator lamp to light and maydamage your fuel tank and emissions system. See "Malfunction Indicator Lamp" in the Index. II j o u get fuel on yourself ,hen something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Fuel can too spray out on you if you open the fuel cap cIllu CAUTION: (Continued - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 312
Filling a Portable Fuel Container Do not f a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the fillingis complete. Don't smoke while pumping gasoline. Never fillaportablefuel C I 1er while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 313
wheel. Things tl.-- bL...cz.. 3---.I hot -..gine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 314
2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release, located near the center of the grill. 3. Lift the hood. 5-11 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 315
Ingine Compartment Overview Yhen you open the hood on the 6000 H.O. engine (5300 similar), you will see: 5-12 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 316
A. Engine Air CleanedFilter B. Coolant Surge Tank C. Air Filter Restriction Indicator (If Equipped) D.Engine Oil Fill E. Engine Oil Dipstick F. of View) K. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir L. UnderhoodFuseBlock M. Battery N. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir Engine Oil If the CHECK OIL LEVEL message - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 317
Checking Engine Oil It's a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick has a yellow loop handle and is located in the engine compartment on the passenger's side - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 318
must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications on page 5- 109. The engine oil fill cap is located on the valve cover on the passenger's side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 319
by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this starburst symbol. If you choose to perform the engine oil change service yourself, be sure the oil you use has the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. If you have your oil changed - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 320
change the engine oil and filter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the ENGINE OIL message will come on. Change your oil as soon as possible within the next two times you stop for fuel. It is possible that, if you are driving - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 321
the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it bytaking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help. If the OIL LIFE RESET message flashes - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 322
more information on location. See Part B: Owner Checksand Services on page 6- IO to determine whento check the air filter restriction indicator. 1 The service window (A) with the percentage scale shows the amount of engine air cleanedfilter life used. Your engine air cleaner/filter is located in - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 323
. 3. Clean the filter sealing surface and the housing. 4. install the new engine air cleaner/filter. 5. Install the cover and tighten the screws. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the engine air cleanedfilter. See Part B: Owner Checks and Services on page 6- 10. 5-20 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 324
000 miles (1 66 000 km). See Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4. How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 325
50°F (lO"C), drive the vehicle in THIRD (3) until the engine temperature gage moves and then remains steady for 10 minutes. A cold fluid check can be made place. Keep the engine running. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). With your foot on the brake pedal, move the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 326
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-16. Add fluid only after checking the transmission fluid while it is hot. (A cold check is HOT area for a hot check. It doesn't take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Don't overfill. 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 327
and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating on page 5-28. A 50150 mixture of clean, drinkable water and against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights and gages work as they should. 5-24 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 328
covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system. Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 329
Checking Coolant The coolant surge tank is located in the engine compartment on the passenger's side of the n the surge tank pressure cap - even a little - when the engine and radiator are hot. The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the FULL - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 330
, add the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture at the surge tank, but only when the engine is cool. Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap You can be burned if youspillcoolat In t engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hat - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 331
in the DIC on the instrument panel. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-47. Notice: After driving in the overheated engine protection operating mode, to avoid engine damage, allow the engine to cool before attempting any repair. The engine oil will be severely degraded. Repair the cause - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 332
if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool. See "Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode" in the Index for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency. Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 333
message, but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high-speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic. Tow a trailer. See "Driving on Grades" under Towing a Trailer on page 4-50 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 334
you may have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system. I A. Coolant Surge Tank B. Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap C.EngineFan Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don't touch them - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 335
mark, add a 50150 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL@ coolant at the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it. See Engine Coolant on page 5-24 for more information. If no coolant is visible in the surge - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 336
50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX COOL@coolant. -. Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper cool-+ r i x t l Y. Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 337
Park the vehicle on a level surface. You can remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise (left) about one full turn. If you hear a hiss, wait - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 338
the FULL COLD mark. 4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower. If the level is lower - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 339
air to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions, the fan is spinning slower and the clutch is not fully engaged. This improves fuel economy start the engine. It will go away as the fan clutch partially disengages. I 5. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the pressure cap is hand- - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 340
Steering Fluid How to Check Power Steering Fluid Turn the key off, let the engine compartment cool down, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 341
of the vehicle on the driver's side. Notice: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer's instructions for adding water. Don't mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 342
engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. See "Checking Brake Fluid" in this section...~ . I Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to check your brake fluid. See Part - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 343
Fluid You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap. What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-16. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 344
Notice: Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of in your mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they'll have to be replaced. Don't let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid. If you spill - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 345
could be a sign of brake trouble. Battery Your new vehicle comes with a maintenance free ACDelco@ battery. When it's time for a new battery, get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery's label. We recommend an ACDelco@ battery. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5- 12 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 346
drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, remove the black, negative (-) cable from the battery. This will help keep your battery from running down. Jump Starting If your battery use the following steps to do itsafely. Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 347
an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission in NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake. 4. Open the hoods and locate the positive the terminals on the battery. The remote positive (+) terminal is located under a red plastic cover near the engine accessory drive bracket. To access - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 348
The remote negative (-) terminal is located on the engine accessory drive bracket and is marked GND. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don't need to add water to the ACDelco@ battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 349
can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running. 7. Don't let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 350
black negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. Don battery and run the engine for awhile. 11. Try to start the vehicle that had the dead battery. If it won't start after a few tries, it probably needs service - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 351
black negative (-) cable from the vehicle that had the dead battery. 2. Disconnect the black negative (-) cable from the vehicle with the good battery. Jumper Cable Removal A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part or Remote Negative (-) Terminal. B. Good Battery or Remote Positive (+) and Negative (-) - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 352
All-Wheel Drive Lubricant checks in this section also apply to these vehicles. However, Check Lubricant Front Axle When to Check and Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 353
How to Check Lubricant If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-16. To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 354
Lubricant Refer ts the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services on page 6-4. The proper level is from 5/8 inch to 1 5/8 inch (15 mm to 40 mm) below the bottom of the filler plug hole. Add only - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 355
read all the instructions before beginning. Failure to follow these instructions could cause damage to headlamp parts. Your vehicle has The vehicle should be normally loaded with a full tank of fuel and one person or 160 Ibs. (75 kg) on the driver's seat. Tires should be properly inflated. Start the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 356
Headlamp aiming is done with the vehicle low beam lamps. The high beam lamps will be correctly aimed if the low beam lamps are aimed properly. The headlamp aiming devices are under the hood near the headlamps. Adjustment screws can be turned with an E8 Torx@ socket or T I 5 Torx@screwdriver. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 357
low-beam headlamps and place a piece of cardboard or equivalent in front of the headlamp not being aimed. This should allow only the beam of light from the headlamp being aimed to be seen on the flat surface. 2. Measure the distance from the ground to the aim dot on each low - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 358
5. Turn the vertical aiming screw (V) until the headlamp beam is aimed to the horizontal tape line. The top edge of the cut-off should be positioned at the bottom edge of the horizontal tape line. 6. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 for the opposite headlamp. 5-55 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 359
have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. The low beam high inl-..sitJ , . : h a . , e lighting system operates at a very high voltage. If you try to service any of - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 360
Headlamps 1. Open the hood of the vehicle. 1 2. Pry up the eight fastener plugs on the radiator cover and pull the fasteners out. 3. Lift off the radiator cover. A. Low-BeamHeadlamp (HID) B. DaytimeRunningLamp C. SidemarkerLamp D. High-BeamHeadlamp E. Front Parking and Turn Signal Lamp 5-57 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 361
. 5. Remove the horizontal pin from the headlamp assembly by lifting the end of the pin upward until it unsnaps and then pulling it toward the center of the vehicle. 5-58 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 362
9. Remove the rubber, circular-shaped bulb cap of the affected bulb from the headlamp assembly. 6. Remove it clockwise until it is tight. 14. Reinstalltherubber, circular-shaped bulb cap onto headlamp assembly. 15. Reconnect the electrical connector to the lower corner of the headlamp assembly. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 363
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and Daytime Running Lamps I 16. Place the headlamp assembly back into the vehicle, being sure to align the lower locator tab with the pocket on the vehicle (see arrow). Push the headlamp assembly straight in and then down into position. 17. Install the two pins and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 364
1. Remove the headlamp assembly as described previously. 2. Remove the rubber, circular-shaped bulb cap for the affected bulb from the headlamp assembly. Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) It is recommended that this component be replaced as a unit. 3. Press the locking release lever, turn the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 365
1. Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws from the lamp assembly. 2. Remove the lamp assembly. 3. Press the release tab and turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove it from the taillamp housing. (The sidemarker lamp does not have a release tab.) 5. Press a new bulb into the socket, - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 366
Replacement Bulbs I Exterior LamD Low-Beam Headlamps (HID) Hiah-Beam HeadlamDs d I I Bulb Number * I I Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) Marker Front I Lamp I 9005 or 9005 LL 4157K (Preferred) or 3157KX 194 I 5-63 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 367
twice a year for wear and cracking. See Wiper Blade Check under At Least Twice a Year on page 6-11 for ways. For proper type and length, see Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 5-1 11. Here's how to remove the the driver's side of the vehicle. 3. Install a new blade by reversing Steps 1 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 368
have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your C a d i l k Warranty booklet . Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when You could have an air-out anda serious accident. See "Loading Your Vehicle" in the Index - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 369
handling Bad fuel economy If your tires have too much air (overinflation), you can get the following: Tire Inspection and Rotation Tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles (12,500 km). Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 370
all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation is the most important. See "Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services," in Section 6, for scheduled rotation intervals. , i l .i= . 7 that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See "Wheel Nut Torque" under Capacities and Specifications on page 5-109. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 371
it's time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle. If your tires have an control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types (radial - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 372
not affect vehicle handling or cause damage to your vehicle. If you use bias-ply tires o - lr vehicle, the wheel rim flanges could develop cracks after many miles of driving. A tire and/or wheel could fail suddenly, causing a crash. Use only radial-ply tires with the wheelson your vehicle. 5-69 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 373
Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road While the tires available on General Motors passenger cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these grades, they - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 374
specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. failure. Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The wheels on best overall performance. Scheduled wheel alignment and wheel balancing are not needed. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 375
, make your tires lose air and make you lose control.You could have a collision in which you or others could be injured. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for replacement. Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or odometer - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 376
vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer's instructions. To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the device if it's contacting your vehicle, and don't spin your wheels. If you do find traction devices that will fit, install them - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 377
driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers. If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 378
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The following steps will tell you how to use the jack ancI change a tire. Escalade (Rear Access Panel) A. Tool Kit with Jack Tools and Gloves B. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut C. Wing Nut Holding Tire Blocks D. Tire Blocks E. Bottle Jack 5-75 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 379
Unlatch the release lever to open the trim panel door. Skip the first step and follow the last three. For Escalade ESV, the equipment you'll need is under the The wheel blocks and the wheel block retainer can be removed by turning the wing nut counterclockwise. Escalade ESV A. Bottle Jack B. Wheel - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 380
a hoist lock (J), open the spare tire lock cover on the bumper and use the ignition key to remove the lock. 2. Assemble the wheel wrench (H) and the two jack handle extensions (I) as shown. A. Spare Tire (Valve Stem Pointed Up) B. HoistAssembly C. Hoist Cable D. Tire Retainer E. HoistShaft F. Hoist - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 381
spare tire. t 5. When the tire has been lowered, tilt the retainer (D) at the end of the cable so it can be pulled up through the wheel opening. Be sure the hoist end of the extension connects into the hoist shaft (E). The ribbed square end of the extension is used to lower - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 382
Tire and Installing the Spare Tire Use the following pictures and instructions to remove the flat tire and raise the vehicle, 1. Remove the center cap by placing the chisel end of the wheel wrench in the slot on the wheel and gently prying the cap out. The tools you'll be using include the bottle - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 383
Jack Positions (overall view) 2. Use the wheel wrench to loosen all the wheel nuts. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to loosen the wheel nuts. Don't removethe wheel nuts yet. These locations are the general area of jack placement. See text and art following for the exact jack placement. 5-80 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 384
you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle whenit is supported only by a jack. _,p"i m , . Raisingyour vehi ? w thejack in jack. Position the jack on the frame behind the flat tire where the frame sections overlap. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the vehicle. Raise - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 385
the flat tire is on a rear tire of the vehicle, you'll need to use the jack handle (C) and both jack handle extensions (D). Attach the wheel wrench to the jack handle extensions. Attach the jack handle to the jack. Use the jacking pad provided on the rear axle. I 4. Remove all the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 386
nuts back on with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each wheel nut by hand. Then use the wheel wrench to tighten the nuts until the wheel is held against the hub. 7. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the vehicle. Lower the jack completely. Never use oil or grease - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 387
brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. See "Capacities and Specifications" in the index for the wheel nut torque specification. When you reinstall the regular wheel and tire, you must also reinstall the center cap. Place the cap - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 388
the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. Notice: An aluminum wheel with a flat tire should always be stored under the vehicle with the hoist. However, storing it that way for an extended period of time - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 389
hole (G) in the rear bumper and into the hoist shaft. 5. Raise the tire part way upward. Make sure the retainer is seated in the wheel opening. 6. Raise the tire fully against the underside of the vehicle by turning the wheel wrench clockwise until you hear two clicks or feel it skip twice. You - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 390
the mounting bracket. Be sure to position the holes in the base of the jack onto the pin in the mounting bracket. For Escalade ESV, do the following: PUSH & PULL 1. Return the tool kit (jack tools and gloves) to the tool bag. 2. Assemble wheel chocks and bottle jack together with the wing nut and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 391
Jack Tools and Gloves B. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut C. Wing Nut Holding Tire Blocks D. Tire Blocks E. Bottle Jack Escalade ESV A. Bottle Jack B.Wheel Blocks C. Wing Nut Holding Tire Blocks D. Mounting Bracket E. RemovableTray F. Retaining Hook G. Retaining Bracket and Wing Nut H. Tool with - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 392
air over time, so check its inflation pressure regularly. See inflation -- Tire Pressure on page 5-66 and Loading Your Vehicie on page 4-48 for information regarding proper tire inflation and loading your vehicle. For instruction wheels in size and type, do not include the spare in the tire rotation - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 393
burst into flames if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed your vehicle, be sure to follow the manufacturer's warnings and instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you're cleaning the inside. They can - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 394
. See your dealer for this product. Never use oils, varnishes, solvent-based or abrasive cleaners, furniture polish or shoe polish on leather. Soiled or to work into the finish^ it can harm the leather. 0 Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. Clean up stains as soon as you can - before - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 395
or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six months. During very cold, damp weather more frequent application may be required. See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6- 16. 5-92 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 396
finish. The clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that are non- Materials on page 5-96. Don't use cleaning agents that are petroleum based, or that contain acid or abrasives. All cleaning agents should be instructions under "Washing Your Vehicle." - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 397
parts. Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels Your vehicle may be equipped with either aluminum or chrome-plated wheels. Keep your wheels Then rinse the blade with water. Check the wiper blades and clean them as body or wheels of the vehicle. Petroleum-based products may damage the paint finish and tires. - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 398
body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan and exhaust system service outlets. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in your - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 399
Chemical Paint Spotting Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted surfaces on your vehicle. This damage can take two forms; blotchy, ringlet-shaped discolorations, and small irregular dark spots etched into the paint - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 400
black marks from whitewalls. ~ GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials kont'd) ~~~~ White Sidewall Tire Cleaner Vinvl Cleaner Glass Cleaner Chrome and Wire Wheel and Wash Wax Concentrate lightly waxes. Biodegradable and ohowhate Motors parts department for these products. See Part D: Recommended - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 401
The 8th character in your VIN is the engine code. This code will help you identify your engine, specifications and replacement parts. Service Parts Identification Label You'll find this label located in the glove box. It's very helpful if you ever need to order parts. On this label is: yourVIN - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 402
system. Before attempting to add anything electrical to your vehicle, see Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-86. Windshield Wiper Fuses The windshield wiper motor is protected by an internal circuit breaker and a fuse. If the motor overheats due to heavy snow, etc., the wiper will - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 403
as soon as you can. Instrument Panel Fuse Block The fuse block access door is on the driver's side edge of the instrument panel. Pull off the cover to access the fuse block. You can remove fuses with a fuse extractor which is mounted to the fuse block access door. To remove fuses if you don't have - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 404
UNLOCK RR FOG LP BRAKE DRIVER UNLOCK IGN 0 TBC IGN 0 VEH CHMSL LT TRLR ST/TRN m~ I ~ I Windshield Wirsers Truck Body Controller Accessorv Ignition, Heated Seats Four-wheel Drive Svstem LT TRN VEH STOP RT TRLR ST/TRN TBC ACCY IGN 3 4WD Usaae Climate Control Svstem Power Door Lock Relay (Lock - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 405
2C FLASH I I Right Turn Signals and Sidemarkers I Harness Connector Driver Door Module Rear Cargo Area Power Outlets Power Door Lock System Rear Electronic Climate Control Truck Bodv Controller Flasher Module Fuses CB LT DOORS Controller Body TBC Truck 2B Left Power Window Circuit Breaker Truck - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 406
Panel Fuse Block The center instrument panel utility block is located underneath the instrument panel, to the left of the steering column. Device SEO Usage Special Equipment Option [ S I[ ] I [ " ] (A) -[ CRM (D) (0) GRY BLK (A) BRN CRM (D) n FRT HDLNR 1 (A) 12-WAY HDLR 2 BODY Headliner - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 407
Underhood Fuse Block The underhood fuse block in the engine compartment on the driver's side of the vehicle near the battery. Lift the cover for access to the fusehelay block. ..., To remove fuses, hold the end of the fuse between your thumb and index finger and pull straight out. See Engine - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 408
place. en Bi ':----- ... 87 d' :.:.::.:.:... ... ... .. r NOTE: The function and FUNCTION/AMP-GAS amperage ofmese fuses FONCTION/INTENSITE-ESSENCE are for different 2/15A gas INJ and See engines. fueled diesel Manual Owners studs of functions #I and #2. FUNCTION/AMP-qlESEL FONCTION/INTENSITE - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 409
Fuel Injection Rail # I . *3 - Gasoline Engine; Oxygen Sensors. *4- Gasoline Engine; Oxygen Sensors. *5 - PCM Ignition RR PARK Fuses GLOW Not PLUG CUSTAccessory FEED Power STUD #I MBEC I Usaae 1 I LR PARK PARK LP .. STARTER INTPARK STOP LP . . Used Auxiliaw Power Mid Bussed Electrical Center - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 410
Truck Body Controller Ignition High Beam Headlamp-Left Left Hand High Intensity Discharqe - Lamps Daytime Running Lamps Instrument Panel CIuster/Driver Information Center HDLP-LOW A/C COMP Air A/C COMP RR WPR RADIO Headlamp Low Beam Relay Conditioninq Compressor Air Conditioning Compressor Relav - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 411
Window Washer Pump Relav WIS WASH Windshield and Rear Window Pumr, Washer - - -,OnStarIRear Seat INFO Entertainment RADIO AMP Radio Amplifier Right Hand High Intensity RH HID Discharae Lamp ~~ ~ ~ I 1 I EAP TREC SBA Electric Adjustable Pedals All-Wheel Drive Module Supplemental Brake Assist - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 412
refill, the level must be rechecked. See Cooling System on page 5-31. Crankcase Capacity VORTECTM 5300 V8 (T) VORTECTM 6000 H.O. V8 (N) 6.0 quarts 6.0 quarts 5.7 L 5.7 L After refill, the level must be rechecked. Add enough engine oil so that the fluid is within the proper operating range. See - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 413
I Application Fuel Tank Capacity Escalade Escalade ESV Air Conditioning Refrigerant Capacity Escalade Escalade ESV English 26.0 gallons 31 .O gallons CaDacities Metric 98.0 L 117.0 L 2.71 Ibs 3.0 Ibs 1.23 kg 1.36 kg Wheels and Tires Capacities Application Wheel Nut Torque Tire Pressure English - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 414
built, or if you have any questions, please contact your GM dealer. These specifications are for information only. If you have any questions, see the service manual. lade Wiper Length (Rear) *ACDelco@ Part No. **GM Part No. tNGK I 18.0 inches (45.0 cm) 5-1 11 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 415
- 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 416
14 Steering and Suspension Inspection ...6.14 Exhaust System Inspection ...6.14 Fuel System Inspection ...6.14 Engine Cooling System Inspection ...6-14 Transfer Case and Front Axle (All-Wheel Drive) Inspection ...6.15 Brake System Inspection ...6.15 Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ...6-16 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 417
Introduction IMPORTANT: KEEP ENGINE OIL AT THE Improper vehicle maintenance can even affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid levels or the wrong tire Maintenance intervals, checks, inspections and recommended fluids and lubricants as prescribed in this manual are necessary to - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 418
you should let your dealer's service department or another qualified service center do these jobs. If you want to get the service information, see Sewice Publications Ordering Information on page 7-10. "Part B: Owner Checks and Services" tells you what should be checked and when. It also explains - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 419
trained and supported service people will perform the work using genuine GM parts. The proper fluids and lubricants to use are listed in Part D. Make sure whoever services your vehicle uses these. All parts shouldbe replaced and all necessary repairs done before you or anyone else drives the vehicle - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 420
Part B: Owner Checks and Services on page 6- IO and Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections on page 6- 14. Engine Oil and Chassis Lubrication Scheduled Maintenance Change engine engine oil and filter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 421
, odometer reading and who performed the service on the maintenance record pages in Part E of this schedule. footnote t.) 6.0 L Engine: See Part Br Owner Checks and Services on page 6- 70. 0 Check readfront axle fluid level and add fluid as needed. Check constant velocity joints and axle seals for - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 422
information. (See footnote +.) 0 Replace fuel filter. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote f.) 0 5.3 L Engine Only: Replace engine air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. 6.0 L Engine: See Part B: Owner Checks and Services on page 6- 10. 0 Check readfront axle fluid level and add - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 423
additional information. (See footnote +-) 0 Replace fuel filter. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote t.) 0 5.3 L Engine Only: Replace engine air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. 6.0 L Engine: See Part € 3 : Owner Checks and Services on page 6-10. U Inspect Evaporative Control - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 424
velocity joints and axle seals for leaking. Replace fuel filter. An Emission Control Service. (See Footnote t.) 5.3 L Engine Only: Replace engine air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. 6.0 L Engine: See Part € 3 : Owner Checks and Services on page 6-10. D Rotate tires. See Tire lnspection - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 425
tire. See Tires on page 5-65 for further details. Engine Oil Level Check Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if necessary. See Engine Oil on page 5-73 for further details. Cassette Tape Player Service Clean cassette tape player. Cleaning should be done every 50 hours of tape play - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 426
does not need regular maintenance.) Engine Air Cleaner Filter Restriction Indicator Check 6.0 L Engine Only: Your vehicle has an engine air cleaner filter restriction indicator located on the air cleaner in the engine compartment. The indicator lets you know when the air cleaner filter is dirty and - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 427
with the lubricant specified in Part D. Body Lubrication Service Lubricate all hood latch assembly, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release pawl, rear compartment hinges, outer tailgate handle pivot points, latch bolt, fuel door hinge and folding seat hardware. Part D tells you what to use - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 428
, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and transmission in NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 429
the body near the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged, missing or out-of-position parts as well as open seams, holes, loose connections or other conditions which could cause a heat build-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes into the vehicle. See Engine Exhaust on page 2-28. Fuel - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 430
All-Wheel Drive) Inspection Every 12 months, or at engine oil change intervals, check front axle and transfer case and add lubricant when necessary. A fluid loss could indicate a problem Check and have it repaired, if needed. Check vent hose at transfer case for kinks and proper installation. Brake - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 431
Piece Propshaft Spline (Two-Wheel Drive with Auto. Trans.) Fluid/Lubricant DEXRON@-Ill Automatic Transmission Fluid. Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in Canada 10953474, or equivalent). Chassis Lubricant (GM Part No. U.S. 12377985, in Canada 88901242, or equivalent) or - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 432
-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in Canada 10953474, or equivalent). Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. U S . 12346241, in Canada 10953474, or equivalent). Body Door Hinge Pins, Tailgate Hinge and Linkage, Folding Seat and Fuel Door Hinge Outer Tailgate Handle - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 433
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service and any additional information from "Owner Checks and Services" or "Periodic Maintenance" on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 434
Maintenance Record (cont'd) 6-19 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 435
Maintenance Record (cont'd) 6-20 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 436
Assistance Information ...CustomerSatisfaction Procedure ...Online Owner Center ...Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users ...Customer Assistance Off ices ...GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities ...Roadside Service ...Courtesy Transportation ... Reporting Safety Defects - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 437
level. If the matter has already been reviewed with the sales, service or parts manager, contact the owner of the dealership or the general contact the Cadillac Customer Assistance Center, 24 hours a day, by calling 1-800-458-8006. In Canada, contact GM of Canada Customer Communication Centre - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 438
vehicle information all in one place. The Owner Center allows you to: Get e-mail service reminders. Access information about your specific vehicle, including owner's manual. Keep track of your vehicle's service history and maintenance schedule. Find GM dealers for service nationwide. Receive - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 439
Cadillac has TTY equipment available at its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with Cadillac by dialing: 1-800-833-CMCC (2622). (TTY users in Canada Business Unit. United States Cadillac Customer Assistance Center Cadillac Motor Car Division P.O. Box 33169 Detroit, MI 48232- - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 440
and for a nominal charge if the Cadillac is no longer under warranty. Roadside Service is available only in the United States and Canada. ~ I I This program can also provide you with free resource information, such as area driver assessment centers and mobility equipment installers. The program - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 441
(TTY) in the Roadside Service Center. Any customer who has access to a (TTY) or a conventional teletypewriter can communicate with Cadillac by dialing from the United States or Canada 1-888-889-2438 - daily, 24 hours. Roadside Service Availability Wherever you drive in the United States or - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 442
vehicle cannot be scheduled into the service department immediately, keep driving it until it can be scheduled for service, unless, of course, the problem is safety-related. If it is, please call your dealership, let them know this, and ask for instructions. If the dealer requests that you simply - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 443
to a maximum of $37.00 per day supported by receipts. This requires that you sign and complete etc. You are responsible for fuel usage charges and may also be but it is not part of the New Vehicle such as shuttle service, may not be of Canada New Vehicle Limited Warranty, alternative transportation - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 444
may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer or General Motors. To contact NHTSA, you may either call to the Canadian Government If you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehicle has a safety defect, - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 445
French). Or, write: Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 General Motors of Canada Limited 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L I H 8P7 Service Publications Ordering Information Service Manuals Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information on engines, transmission, axle, suspension - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 446
cars and trucks. Each buiietin contains instructions to assist in the diagnosis and service of your vehicle. In Canada, information pertaining to Product Service Bulletins can be obtained by contacting your General Motors dealer or by calling 1-800-GM-DRIVE (1-800-463-7483). Current and P rder - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 447
b NOTES 7-12 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 448
- 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 449
1. Check under the vehicle to see if the Gable end is visible. 2. If the cable is not visible proceed to Step 6. If it is visible, first try to tighten the cable by turning the wheel wrench clockwise until you hear two ciicks or feet it skip twice. You cannot overtighten the cable, 3. loosen - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 450
- 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 451
P - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 452
1 CY &. tl, x n 4 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 453
) ...1-73 Air CleanedFilter, Engine ...5-19 Air Conditioning ...3-26 All Overseas Locations ...7-4 All-Wheel Drive ...5-49 Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels ...5-97 AM ...3-97 3-21 Analog Clock ...Antenna,Diversity ...3-99 Antenna, XMTMSatellite Radio System ...3-99 Anti-lock Brake System ...4-7 Anti - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 454
6-12 Backing Up ...Battery ...BATTERY NOT CHARGING ...Battery Replacement ...Battery Run-Down Protection ...Before Leaving on a Long Trip ...Before You Drive ...Before You Go Off-Roading ...Bench Seat ...Bench Seat Split (50/50) ...Bench Seat, Split (60/40) ...Body Lubrication Service ... 4-57 5-42 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 455
103 Center Passenger Position, Safety Belts ...1-39 Chains, Tires ...5-73 CHANGE ENGINE OIL ...3-57 Charging System Light ...3-36 Check Engine Light ...Check Engine Light ...CHECK OIL LEVEL ...CHECK WASHER FLUID ...Checking Brake Fluid ...Checking Coolant ...Checking Engine Oil ...Checking Things - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 456
Net ...2-43 Coolant Engine Temperature Gage ...3-39 Heater, Engine ...2-21 Surge Tank Pressure Cap ...5-27 Cooling System ...5-31 Cruise Control ...3-10 I ...3-45 Cruise Control Light ...Cupholder(s) ...2-41 Current and Past Model Order Forms ...7-11 Customer Assistance Information Courtesy - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 457
and Other Power Options ...5-99 Windshield Wiper Fuses ...5-99 Electrochromic Mirror Operation ...2-30 Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs ...3-43 Engine 5-19 Air Cleaner/Filter ...Battery ...5-42 Check and Service Engine Soon Light ...3-41 5-24 Coolant ...Coolant Heater ...2-21 Coolant - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 458
Check ...6-10 Engine Oil Additives ...5-17 Engine Oil and Chassis Lubrication ScheduledMaintenance ...6-5 Engine Oil Level Check ...6-10 ENGINEOVERHEATED ...3-57 Entering or Exiting the Third RowSeats ...1-7 Entertainment System Cleaning the VideoScreen ...3-99 DVD Distortion ...3-96 Entry Lighting - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 459
...Glove Box ...GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities ... 5-5 5-5 2-39 4-19 5-92 2-41 7-5 Gage Engine Coolant Temperature ...3-39 Fuel ...3-45 Oil Pressure ...3-43 Speedometer ...3-33 Tachometer ...3-33 Transmission Temperature ...3-40 Voltmeter Gage ...3-37 Garage Door Opener ...2-37 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 460
34 Ignition Transmission Lock Check ...6-13 Illuminated VisorVanity Mirrors ...2-15 Infants and YoungChildren,Restraints ...1-50 Inflation -. TirePressure ...5-66 Inspection Brake System ...6-15 Engine Cooling System ...6-14 Exhaust System ...6-14 Fuel System ...6-14 Part C - Periodic Maintenance - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 461
Leaving YourVehicleWith the Engine Running ...LEFT REAR DOOR AJAR ...Liftgate/Liftglass ...LiftglasdLiftgate ...Light Air Bag Readiness ...Anti-LockBrakeSystem Warning ...Brake System Warning ...Charging System ...Cruise Control ...Low Fuel Warning ...MalfunctionIndicator ...Passenger Air Bag Status - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 462
Parts ...5-111 Odometer ...3-33 Off-Road Recovery ...4-14 Oil Engine ...5-13 Pressure Gage ...3-43 OIL LIFE RESET ...3-57 OIL PRESSURE LOW ...3-57 ...1-48 Older Children, Restraints ...Online Owner Center ...7-3 Onstar@Personal Calling ...2-36 Onstar@Services ...2-35 Onstar@Steering Wheel - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 463
Part A - Scheduled Maintenance Services ...6-4 Part B - Owner Checks and Services ...6-10 Part C - Periodic Maintenance Inspections ...6-14 Part D - Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ...6-16 Part E . Maintenance Record ...6-18 Passenger Air ...3-66 Power Accessory Outlets ...3-20 Door Locks ...2-9 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 464
Your CD and DVD Player ...3-98 Care ofYour CD Changer ...3-98 Care ofYour CDs and DVDs ...3-98 CD Changer ...3-93 Radio with Cassette and CD ...3-65 Rear Seat Audio ...3-91 Setting the Time ...3-64 Theft-Deterrent ...3-95 Understanding Reception ...3-97 RDS Messages ...3-71 Reaching Roadside Service - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 465
Availability ...7-6 Roadside Service for the Hearing or Speech Impaired ...7-6 Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out ...4-44 Running Your Engine While You Are Parked ...2-29 S Safety Belt Reminder Light ...3-33 Safety Belts 5-92 Care of ...Center Passenger Position ...1-39 1-30 Driver Position ...How - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 466
Doing Your OwnWork ...5-4 EngineSoon Light ...3-41 Publications Ordering Information ...7-10 SERVICE 4WD ...3-60 SERVICE AIR BAG ...3-58 SERVICEBRAKEBOOSTER ...3-59 SERVICEBRAKESYSTEM ...3-58 Service Bulletins ...7-11 Service Manuals ...7-10 SERVICE RIDE CONTROL ...3-60 SERVICESTABILITY ...3-63 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 467
Steering Wheel Controls, Audio ...StereoRCAJacks ...Storage Areas Center Console Storage Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle ...How DoesanAirBag Restrain? ...PassengerSensingSystem ...Servicing Your Air Wheel ...Tilting the 50/50 Split BenchSeat ...1-13 Tilting the Full BenchSeat ...1-18 Tire Inflation Check - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 468
Light ...3-39 Road Sensing Suspension ...4-9 Stabilitrak@System ...4-9 3-63 TRACTION ACTIVE ...4-10 Traction Control Operation ...Trailer Recommendations ...4-50 Trailer Brakes ...4-55 Trailer Wiring Harness ...4-59 TRANS HOT IDLE ENGINE Underbody Flushing Service ...6-13 Underhood Fuse Block ...5- - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 469
...iv Vehicle Identification 5-98 Number(VIN) ...Service Parts Identification Label ...5-98 Vehicle Personalization Memory Seat Your Vehicle ...5-93 Weatherstrip Lubrication ...6-11 Weight of the Trailer ...4-53 Weight of the Trailer Tongue ...4-54 What Kind of Engine Oil to Use ...5-16 5-40 What - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 470
Engine Oil ...When to Change Engine Oil (GM Oil Life System) ...When to Check ...When to Check and Change ...When to Check Lubricant ...When to Check Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ...5-64 Fuses ...5-100 3-9 Windshield Wipers ...Winter Driving ...4-40 Wiper Blade Check ...6-11 Wood Panels ...5-91 - 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV | Owner's Manual - Page 471