Cadillac Recall 02V-224: Electrical system – cables

Affected: 2003 Cadillac Escalade. Filed with NHTSA on August 12, 2002, covering about 649 vehicles.

The problem

Certain all-wheel drive sport utility vehicles were built without a power steering bracket to secure the positive battery cable, allowing the cable to come in contact with the steering shaft.

The risk

This contact could cause a wear-through of the cable insulation, exposing the wire core and result in intermittent electrical shorting. If enough current is discharged at the point of contact, an engine compartment fire could occur.

The fix

Dealers will inspect the positive battery cable routing and re-route, if necessary. No owner notification will take place since all vehicles were captured at the dealers.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign02V-224 (02V224000)
Manufacturer number02036
ManufacturerGeneral Motors, LLC
ComponentElectrical system › 12V/24V/48V battery › Cables
Report dateAugust 12, 2002
Owners notifiedAugust 6, 2002
Vehicles affected649
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the electrical system

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 02V-224 repair free?

Yes. Cadillac dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the positive battery cable routing and re-route, if necessary. No owner notification will take place since all vehicles were captured at the dealers.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 649 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.