Here’s Why Your 2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade Rear Window May Not Open

Some Cadillac Escalade customers may notice that the rear window glass in the liftgate will not open as expected. Luckily, a possible cause for this issue has been identified, as has a potential fix.

As published by GM TechLink, the rear window glass in the liftgate of some 2021 Cadillac Escalade and 2022 Cadillac Escalade units may not open when using the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter (or key fob), or when pressing the appropriate switch in the liftgate. The cause of this issue may be down to the positioning of the rear wiper arm, which may not be in the fully locked parking position. Even if the rear wiper arm looks like it’s in the fully locked parking position, it may in fact be out of position, thus preventing the rear glass from opening.

To fix this issue, it’s recommended that the rear wiper is removed, followed by activation of the rear wiper motor. After the rear wiper motor has been allowed to fully cycle, it should then be turned off and the rear wiper reinstalled. Make sure to doublecheck that the rear wiper arm is in the full park position and that the arm is situated on the park ramp.

After these steps are completed, the rear window glass should then open as expected. However, if the rear glass still does not open after cycling the rear wiper motor as described above, it’s possible that the rear wiper motor may need to be replaced.

To note, a similar issue and fix have also been identified for the 2021 through 2022 GMC Yukon, Chevy Tahoe, and Chevy Suburban.

As a reminder, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade introduced a brand-new fifth generation for the full-size luxury SUV, with the subsequent 2022 model year introducing only a handful of updates and changes. Engine options include the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 L87 gasoline engine and 3.0L I6 LM2 turbodiesel Duramax engine, while under the skin is the GM T1 platform. Production takes place at the GM Arlington plant in Texas.

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