GM Releases Fix For Defective 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Rear-Seat Headrests

GM has issued a new Service Update describing a remedy now available for certain 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ units with second- or third-row headrests that don’t lock in the upright position or may be stuck in the upright position.

Affected Cadillac Escalade IQ SUVs need defective headrests replaced, according to Service Update number N252492830.

The service update does not indicate any symptoms or consequences resulting from the missing wiring harness cavity plugs. However, it contains a fix that dealership service personnel must apply to any Cadillac Escalade IQ unit brought to the dealer for any reason or currently in inventory.

Service technicians are instructed to inspect the vehicle. They’re to actuate the left and right third-row folding seats through their entire stage and ensure nothing blocks the seats during travel. Then, they need to verify that the head restraints easily lock back into the upright position after they’re folded and automatically drop down when folded again. This should happen with no excessive force or additional attempts to lock them in.

If either or both headrests fail to lock into the upright position or won’t release from the locked position, both head restraints must be replaced. If there are no problems after three attempts, no further action is required. The technicians will then repeat this process for the second-row process, so long as the SUV isn’t equipped with the Executive Seating Package (RPO ABV), which puts different seats with different headrests in the second row.

This fix is available free of charge to owners through the end of the specific Cadillac Escalade IQ unit’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty Period.

Pricing for the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ starts at $130,090 MSRP for the entry-level Luxury 1 trim and ranges up to $150,590 starting MSRP for the top-level Sport 2 trim level. A destination freight charge of $2,390 is included in these prices. The official online configurator for the Escalade IQ is currently live, enabling trying out various builds and options for its four trim levels.

Front and rear GM electric drive motors provide an all-wheel drivetrain with standard four-wheel steer, giving the luxury SUV a 39.4-foot turning diameter. According to GM estimates, the 24-module, 205 kWh GM battery pack provides 450 miles of range on a single charge.

The luxury sport-utility EV rides on the GM BT1 platform while the vehicle rolls off the assembly line at the GM Factory Zero plant in Detroit, Michigan.

George is an automotive journalist with soft spots for classic GM muscle cars, Corvettes, and Geo.

George Barta

George is an automotive journalist with soft spots for classic GM muscle cars, Corvettes, and Geo.

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