1997 Cadillac Catera problems
The Cadillac Catera is a four-door, five passenger, rear-wheel drive luxury sedan marketed from 1996 until 2001 by Cadillac over a single generation in the United States and Canada. As a rebadged variant of the Opel Omega B, the Catera was manufactured by Opel in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and was underpinned by GM's V-body platform. Approximately 95,000 units were built and sold over five model years.
History
The Catera was previewed at the Detroit Auto Show in 1994 as the Cadillac LSE concept, proposed by Cadillac as an entry-level model that would compete with sedans from Acura, BMW, Infiniti, Lexus, Jaguar, Volvo, and Mercedes-Benz.
In 1996, an early-production model was shown at the Detroit, Montreal, Vancouver, and Toronto auto shows. Cadillac began marketing the Catera in the United States in the fall of 1996 as a 1997 model with a base price of $29,995 (equivalent to $58,300 in 2023).
Some of the standard features on the Catera included a cloth interior, front bucket seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player and eight-speaker sound system, airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, keyless entry, security system, alloy wheels, compact spare tire, and full instrumentation. Optional equipment included leather interior, heated seats, cassette player and CD player combination, Bose premium sound system, power sunroof, Homelink, OnStar, and chrome wheels.
A Sport model was offered beginning in 1999 with eight-way power adjustable seats, heated front seats, 17-inch wheels, driver's seat memory, audible theft-deterrent system, three-channel garage door opener, high-intensity discharge headlamps, and a rear spoiler.
The Catera received a facelift in 2000 with revised nose, tail, wheels, interior trim, mirrors, optional HID headlamps, stiffer suspension settings, and side airbags.
The model's engine was a 200 hp (149 kW) L81 54° DOHC V6 manufactured in England at GM's Ellesmere Port facility, using an FR layout. The GM 4L30-E automatic transmission was manufactured at GM's plant in Strasbourg, France.
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Common 1997 Cadillac Catera problems
The Cadillac Catera, produced from 1997 to 2001, was an entry-level luxury car that faced numerous issues, leading to its poor reputation and low sales. The car was based on the Opel Omega, a European executive sedan, but was de-tuned to suit the American market, leading to complaints about its performance and handling.
One of the most significant problems with the Catera was its reliability. The car was plagued with issues from the start, with owners reporting frequent breakdowns and expensive repairs. The timing belt tensioner pulley was a common failure point, causing bent valves and flying rods, which often led to a quick and expensive death for the engine.
The Catera's reputation was further damaged by its poor resale values, which were affected by the car's known issues and the earlier push for leases. Many leased Cateras came back to the dealer with mechanical problems, making them hard to sell off-lease and further depressing resale values.
The car's handling was also a source of criticism, with many reviewers noting its slow and overpriced performance. The Catera was marketed as a more European-like car that could improve Cadillac's image, but its baked-in problems only worsened the brand's reputation.
The Catera's lack of a V8 engine was another issue that frustrated many buyers. The car was initially equipped with a 2.8L V-6 engine, which was later upgraded to a 3.2L V6, but many buyers felt that a Chevy-based V8 would have been a better fit for the car.
Despite these issues, the Catera had some positive aspects, such as its good handling and stylish looks. However, these were not enough to overcome the car's numerous problems, and sales never recovered.
In the end, the Catera's failure was a significant blow to Cadillac's reputation, and the brand took years to recover. The car's poor performance and reliability issues led to a loss of customer loyalty, with many owners turning to competitors such as BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes.
The Catera's legacy is a cautionary tale for automakers, highlighting the importance of building world-class cars that can compete with the best in the market. The car's failure served as a wake-up call for GM, which eventually replaced the Catera with the CTS, a world-class car that Cadillac could be proud of.
Why did the Cadillac Catera fail?
Falling Flat. Great marketing can boost the appeal of a middling product, but bad marketing can kill a car's appeal. The Cadillac Catera was a perfectly fine car that fell victim to a flat-out bad marketing campaign that failed to communicate the origin and benefits of the car in an appealing way.
What is the top speed of the 1997 Cadillac Catera?
CADILLAC Catera 3.0L V6 (200 HP) 4AT
| PERFORMANCE SPECS | |
|---|---|
| Top Speed: | 125 mph (201 km/h) |
| Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph): | 8.9 s |
What engine did the Cadillac Catera have?
| Cadillac Catera | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0 L L81 V6 |
| Transmission | 4-speed GM 4L30-E automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 107.5 in (2,730 mm) |
Is a Cadillac Catera RWD?
Introduced for 1997, Cadillac's entry-level Catera was derived from the European Opel Omega. Equipped with a 3.0-liter V6, this rear-drive sports sedan accelerates smoothly and handles with agility.
Why did the Cadillac Catera fail?
Falling Flat. Great marketing can boost the appeal of a middling product, but bad marketing can kill a car's appeal. The Cadillac Catera was a perfectly fine car that fell victim to a flat-out bad marketing campaign that failed to communicate the origin and benefits of the car in an appealing way.
What is the top speed of the 1997 Cadillac Catera?
CADILLAC Catera 3.0L V6 (200 HP) 4AT
| PERFORMANCE SPECS | |
|---|---|
| Top Speed: | 125 mph (201 km/h) |
| Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph): | 8.9 s |
What engine did the Cadillac Catera have?
| Cadillac Catera | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0 L L81 V6 |
| Transmission | 4-speed GM 4L30-E automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 107.5 in (2,730 mm) |
Is a Cadillac Catera RWD?
Introduced for 1997, Cadillac's entry-level Catera was derived from the European Opel Omega. Equipped with a 3.0-liter V6, this rear-drive sports sedan accelerates smoothly and handles with agility.
1997 Cadillac Catera car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Cadillac Catera problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Cadillac Catera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Cadillac Catera
The NHTSA has received 189 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Cadillac Catera. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Cadillac Catera vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-04
- VIN: W06VR52R1VR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I WAS LEAVING MY HOUSE AND DRIVING OUT OF MY COMPLEX WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP ON ME. I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO TURN IT FOR TWO DAYS. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-08
- VIN: W06VR52R5VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TENSIONER PULLEY LOCKED UP. THE TENSIONER STOPPED TURNING. AS A RESULT OF THIS, THE DRIVE BELT SHREDDED LIKE SPAGHETTI AND THEN MELTED. I AVOIDED AN ACCIDENT BY APPLYING BRAKES AND THEN HAVING THE CAR TOWED. TOTAL REPAIR COST: $729. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: W06VR54R6VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CADILLAC CATERA. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED. THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE HOOD AND ANTIFREEZE LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. ON MAY 2, 2007 THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE ANTIFREEZE LINE, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 80,100, AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,600.*AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-12
- VIN: W06VR52RXVR
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 1997-1999 CADILLAC CATERA DOOR LATCH FAILURES. PER THE YAHOO GROUP WEB SITE I BELONG TO, CATERA OWNERS, THIS VEHICLE SUFFERS CHRONIC DOOR LATCH FAILURES, TRAPPING OCCUPANTS INSIDE OR NOT LATCHING. THIS CAN BE AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION. MY OWN VEHICLE HAS SUFFERED THIS DEFECT. THE LATCHES HAVE PLASTIC THAT BREAKS AND JAMS THE MECHANISM. OR SIMPLY FAIL TO LATCH OR UNLATCH. I HAVE HAD BOTH SITUATIONS. THE DOORS WILL NOT OPEN OR WILL NOT CLOSE (LATCH). I FEEL THIS DEFECT HAS BY PURE LUCK NOT CAUSED (ANY KNOWN) FATALITIES, BUT, ONLY A MATTER OF TIME AND WARRANTS A LOOK. *NM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: W06VR52R3VR
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED AFTER OPENING THE TRUNK OF THE VEHICLE THE TRUNK FELL ON HIM. THE SUPPORTS THAT WERE SUPPOSE TO KEEP THE TRUNK IN THE OPEN POSITION FAILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THE FAILURE WAS WITH THE LIFT SUPPORTS. THERE WERE NO PREVIOUS PROBLEMS WITH THE TRUNK OR SIGNS OF RUST. THE VEHICLE WILL BE TAKEN TO A BODY SHOP FOR REPAIRS. *AK UPDATED 01/11/06. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-14
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY VEHICLE IS A 97 CADILLAC CATERA AND HAS HAD THE STARTER REPLACED AND STILL WILL NOT START. TWO CAR LOTS HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE AT THE CADILLAC DEALERSHIP NOW AND THEY ARE GIVING ME THE RUN AROUND THEY SAY THAT ITS THE MASS AIRFLOW SENSOR BUT STILL HAVE NOT REPLACED IT YET I'M WONDERING WHY CADILLAC HAS NOT NOTIFIED PEOPLE OF THIS PROBLEM WHEN I'M BEING TOLD THAT IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH CATERAS OF THEM NOT STARTING. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-01
- VIN: W06VR52R5VR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DT: CONTACT COMPLAINED ABOUT ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. WHEN THE HAZARD LIGHTS WERE ON, ALL THE GAUGES STARTED JUMPING AROUND, WHEN THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH WAS PUSHED FORWARD THE HEADLIGHTS STAYED ON FOR ABOUT AN HOUR OR LONGER. ALSO, WHEN THE KEY WAS OUT OF THE IGNITION. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND THE CONTROL IS PULLED BACK THE HEADLIGHTS FUNCTIONED NORMALLY, THE AIR CONDITION CONTROLS DID NOT WORK, AND THE O2 SENSOR DID NOT RESPOND. THE SPARK PLUGS AND WIRES HAVD BEEN REPLACED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN AND PULLS TO THE RIGHT. VEHICLE HAS BEEN SERVICED NUMEROUS TIMES, AND PERFORMANCE IS STILL UNSATISFACTORY. CURRENTLY, VEHICLE IS IN THE REPAIR SHOP SINCE SMOKE IS COMING FROM THE ENGINE AND THE REAR TAIL PIPE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-03
- VIN: W06VR52R1VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: -MY 97 CADILAC CATERA STALLED 7/3/04 . -7/6/04 CALLED TRENOR MOTOR COMPANY (SPRINGFIELD, OH). SERVICE MANAGER REFUSED TO LOOK AT CAR. -7/7/04 IT APPEARED AS THOUGH A RECALL ON THE TENSIONER PULLEY HAD NOT BEEN DONE. PULLED RECORD ON CAR AND FOUND THAT THE RECALL INVOLVING THE TENSIONER PULLEY WORK WAS IN FACT ISSUED (AND PAID FOR) BY GENERAL MOTORS TO TRENOR.-7/17/04 DISTRICT SERVICE MANAGER APPROVED TEAR DOWN TIME AT JEFF WYLER, SPRINGFIELD, OH, TO SEE FOR CERTAIN WHETHER THE RECALL HAD EVEN BEEN DONE WITH THE STIPULATION THAT IF THE RECALL HAD BEEN DONE (IMPLYING THAT THE NEW RECALL PULLEY HAD BEEN PUT ON BUT WENT BAD) GENERAL MOTORS WOULD "STAND BEHIND" PRODUCT, PAYING TOTAL REPAIR COSTS. IF PULLEY HAD NOT BEEN REPLACED, "STOP" AND SEND BACK TO THE DEALER THAT WAS PAID TO PERFORM RECALL-- NUMBER 02041A (WHICH WOULD BE TRENOR). -7/20/04 TECHNICIAN AND SERVICE MANAGER AT JEFF WYLER, CAME TO ME AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PULLEY HAD NOT BEEN REPLACED. I WENT TO TRENOR TO SEE MR. ED TEHAN, WHO ADMITTED THAT IF THE PART WASN'T BAD, THE PART WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN REPLACED BY THE TECHNICIAN IN A RECALL! HE ALSO REFUSED TO SHOW A PARTS STAMP ON ORIGINAL REPAIR ORDER. RECALL DIRECTIONS FROM DEALERWORLD.COM (GM'S WEBSITE FOR RECALLS AND VEHICLE HISTORY) STATE "IF TENSIONER PULLEY HAS BLACK BEARING SEAL, THEN REPLACE WITH A PULLEY HAVING BROWN SEALS [GIVEN IN PULLEY KIT FOR RECALL, NEW PART KIT NUMBER 55352000, AND ADDITIONAL PULLEY NEW NUMBER 90573616]". PART NUMBER ON PULLEY FOUND IN MY CAR HAS PART NUMBER 337092CA (THE SEAL IS ALSO NOT BROWN, AS THE NEW ONE SHOULD BE, IT IS BLACK) AND ACCORDING TO NATIONAL TRAFFIC SAFETY ADM. AND GENERAL MOTORS, SHOULD BE REPLACED. TRENOR MOTORS FAILED TO ACTUALLY PERFORM RECALL THEY WERE PAID TO DO. -I HAVE THE ACTUAL (ORIGINAL) PULLEY, PICTURES, NUMEROUS DOCUMENTS, TEN TECHNICIANS TO CORROBORATE ON THESE ISSUES. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-10
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MISALIGNED HEADLAMPS AND FOGLAMPS. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-26
- VIN: W06VR52RXVR
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE STARTING PASSENGER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYED. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC REFUSED TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-13
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE AIMING MECHANISM ON BOTH HEADLIGHTS ON MY 1997 CADILLAC CATERA FAILED AND LEFT ME WITH THE HEADLIGHTS AIMED AT THE GROUND AND UNABLE TO RE-AIM THE HEADLIGHTS. THIS IS EXTREMELY COMMON ON THESE HEADLIGHTS, AND THERE IS NO FIX FROM GM EXCEPT TO BUY ENTIRE REPLACEMENT HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES AT $500 EACH. THE REPLACEMENT UNITS ARE MADE ENTIRELY DIFFERENTLY (AND DO NOT FAIL) SO IT OBVIOUS GM KNOWS THE ORIGINAL DESIGN WAS DEFECTIVE. *NM
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-02
- VIN: W06VR54R2VR
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEAD LIGHT AIMERS BROKE, CAN NOT ADJUST HEAD LAMPS. PLASTIC PARTS BROKE INSIDE HEAD LAMP CAPSULE.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-02
- VIN: W06VR54R2VR
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON, STATING AIR BAG SYSTEM NOT WORKING. *AK
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-11
- VIN: W06VR54R2VR
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THIS CAR WAS TAKEN TO DEALER ON 2/8/04 FOR RECALL 2041, 1037. TWO DAYS AFTER PICKING UP THE CAR, THE LOW COOLANT LIGHT CAME ON MY WAY HOME FROM WORK. MY HUSBAND CHECKED THE COOLANT RESERVOIR AND IT WAS OVER ONE INCH BELOW FULL, HE ALSO CHECKED THE DRIVEWAY FOR ANY ANTIFREEZE AND CHECKED WHERE YOU PUT OIL IN THE ENGINE BUT COULD NOT FIND ANY SIGNS OF EXTERNAL LEAKS, BUT A WHITE MILKY SUBSTANCE UNDER THE OIL CAP. THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING IN MY DRIVEWAY SINCE. I EMAILED GM ABOUT THIS. THIS WAS THEIR RESPONSE! WE HAVE CONTACTED THE SERVICE MANAGER FOR DAN HEMM CADILLAC, MR. CHARLIE CAROLL. HE IS AWARE OF YOUR CONCERNS WITH THE COOLANT LEVEL FOR THE 1997 CADILLAC CATERA. HE IS WILLING TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED IN. DEPENDING ON THE NATURE OF THE CONCERN IT MAY OR MAY NOT BE RELATED TO THE RECALL 02041, AND THEY WILL NEED TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE TO VERIFY. HE HAS ALSO INFORMED US THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IN FOR THE RECALL, THEY DID REPLACE PARTS AS NECESSARY. IF YOU HAVE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS, WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU CONTACT HIM. IF YOU SHOULD NEED TO CONTACT US IN THE FUTURE, SIMPLY REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE OR CALL OUR CADILLAC CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-458-8006. CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGERS ARE AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK. BE SURE TO REFER TO YOUR SERVICE REQUEST NUMBER 1-226247104 IN ALL FUTURE COMMUNICATION. IF I RETURN THIS CAR, LET THE DEALER TOW IT TO SERVICE DEPARTMENT. I WILL BE TOLD THAT THE REASON MY CAR IS NOT DRIVABLE IS MY FAULT, AND WILL BE HANDED A BILL FOR TOWING AND WHATEVER OTHER CHARGES FOR THEM LOOKING AT IT! I HAD THE CAR BACK TWO DAYS, A TOTAL OF 374 MILES. THE CAR HAS 34867 MILES; I HAVE HAD A LOT OF OTHER PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR, FRONT END ALIGNMENT, HEADLIGHT AIMERS, BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH'S, HEADLIGHT SWITCH, IGNITION COIL PACK, AIR BAG SYSTEM. EVEN WITH ALL OF THE OTHER THINGS THAT WENT WRONG, I AT LEAST COULD DRIVE IT, UNTIL I RETURNED IT FOR A RECALL! *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-06
- VIN: W06VR52R2VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING BELT, PULLEY AND WATER PUMP REPLACEMENT COST OVER $3700 TO FIX. BACK IN NOV. 2001, NOW THEIR IS COOLANT LEAKING FROM THE HEAD GASKET 6/04. CADILLAC HAS BEEN MADE AWARE OF THIS SITUATION AND INSISTS THIS HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE ENGINE PREVIOUS OVERHAUL.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-14
- VIN: W06VR54R1VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LOST ALL COOLANT, RADIATOR LIGHT ON, FUNNY BURNING SMELL, CAR TOWED. HEATER VALVE REPLACED, DEX COOL ANTI-FREEZE REPLACED. COOLING FAN ON CAR IS NOW COMING ON WHILE DRIVING, AIR CONDITIONING NOT WORKING, FUNNY MOTOR NOISE, CAR HAS TO GO BACK TO SHOP FOR DIAGNOSTIC TEST. CADILLAC 800# CLAIMS THERE IS NO RECALL ON THIS. SOME GAUGES NOT WORKING PROPERLY. CAR PURCHASED -23,503 MILES- NOW HAVE 40,120 MILES. HAVE HAD TIRES REPLACED TWICE.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: FILLIN
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD. CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-03
- VIN: W06VR52R8VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: AT HIGHWAY SPEED VEHICLE ACCELERATED. CONSUMER PRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR, BUT THERE WAS NO REACTION. THEN, CONSUMER DOWN SHIFTED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE TOWED, AND DEALER DETERMINED THAT ENGINE AND ACCELERATOR CONTROL SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING STEERING WHEEL HAD TO BE STEERED TO THE LEFT TO AVOID VEHICLE FROM GOING AUTOMATICALLY TO THE RIGHT. TOOK VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, AND DEALER DETERMINED THAT SOMETHING IN THE FRONT END WAS BENT. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-06
- VIN: W06VR52R6VR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE ABS AND TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM FAILED ON MY 1997 CADILLAC CATERA IN KINGSPORT, TN DURING A SNOWSTORM. THIS RESULTED IN A LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND UN-DRIVABILITY OF THE CAR DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER. DEALER ATTEMPTS TO CORRECT WITH REPLACEMENT OF COMPUTER MODULE AND VALVE/PUMP HAVE NOT SOLVED THE PROBLEM.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-02
- VIN: W06VR52R7VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 65 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY AND WITHOUT WARNING THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN DUE TO A BELT WHICH HELD THE PULLEY INTO THE ENGINE, MELTING. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR ANALYSIS.*AK THE MECHANIC DISCOVERED WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS AND INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE PART WAS ON RECALL. *JB *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-01
- VIN: W06VR52R7VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PROBLEMS GETTING 1997 CADILLAC CATERA ENGINE REPAIRED.*MR ON 08/01/03, VEHICLE STOPPED ON NEW JERSEY TURNPIKE. VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED. MECHANIC ATTEMPTED TO REPAIR THE ENGINE, BUT NEEDED A PART FROM AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. ON 08/04/03, CUSTOMER WAS INFORMED THE PART WAS RECALLED. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO ANOTHER DEALER. THIS DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE PARTS WERE MISSING/DAMAGED AND WOULD COST THE CONSUMER $100. DOLLARS TO REPAIR BEFORE RECALL COULD BE ADDRESSED. ON 08/06/03, CONSUMER VISITED DEALERSHIP AND SEEN PARTS IN THE TRUNK OFTHE VEHICLE. CONSUME AGREED ALL THE PARTS WERE THERE AND HE WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGED PARTS. AUGUST 14,2003, CONSUMER WAS INFORMED VEHICLE COULD BE REPAIRED BUT HE WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DAMAGED PARTS (VACUUM STORAGE TANK AND WIRE HARNESS COVER). AUGUST 18,2003 CONSUMER RECEIVED INFORMATION THAT ONE OF THE PARTS WERE ORDERED AND CALLED WEEKLY FOR PROGRESS. HE WAS THEN INFORMED THAT CADILLAC DIDN'T HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH INDEPENDENT MECHANICS AND REPAIRS. CONSUMER REQUESTED DOCUMENTATION OF WHAT HE WAS TOLD, BUT WAS DENIED. SEPT. 16,2003, CONSUMER LEARNED VEHICLE WAS READY AND HE WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR $753.46 DOLLARS BECAUSE CADILLAC WOULDN'T COVER SOME OF THE ENGINE REPAIRS. *PH
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-29
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE 97-99 CADILLAC CATERA IN MY OPIONION HAS A BAD HEADLIGHT DESIGN. MY 6 YEAR OLD CAR HAS BROKEN HEADLIGHT ADJUSTORS. THIS MAKES IT BASICALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO AIM (ADJUST) THE HEADLIGHTS. REPLACMENT HEADLIGHTS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE PARTS DEPARTMENT, BUT THE COST ABOUT $340 PER HEADLIGHT. THIS IS AN EXCESSIVE COST TO CONSUMER TO REPAIR. MY UNDERSTANDING IS THIS IS A VERY COMMON FAILURE ON THIS CAR. HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES SHOULD LAST THE LIFETIME OF THE VEHICLE, NOT JUST SEVERAL YEARS. I CONSIDER IT A SAFTEY HAZARD THAT THE HEADLAMPS CANNOT BE ADJUSTED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: W06VR52R2VR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL SMOLDERING FIRE WITHIN THE DASH HARNESS P/N90493373 OF MY 1997 CADILLAC CATERA VIN #[XXX]. NO ACTUAL FLAMES WERE SEEN BEFORE THE 80 AMP MAIN FUSE OPENED. I DID SEE THE ACTUAL HARNESS AT THE CADILLAC DEALERSHIP AND MOST IF NOT ALL THE WIRES IN THE HARNESS HAD THEIR SHIELDING MELTED CLEAN AWAY ABOUT 1/2". THE EXPOSED WIRES SHORTED TOGETHER TO CAUSE THE FUSE TO OPEN. I WAS TOLD THE AUTHORIZED DEALERSHIP WAS THE ONLY PEOPLE ABLE TO DETERMINE IF THIS WAS A MANUFACTURING FAILURE BUT THAT THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO ACTUALLY ABLE TO MAKE THE DETERMINATION. THEY POINTED OUT, ITS POSSIBLE THAT ANYONE COULD HAVE DONE SOMETHING TO CONTRIBUTE TO THIS ISSUE. THEY WOULD NOT SAY IF THERE WAS ANY EVIDENCE OF TAMPERING THOUGH, EVEN WHEN ASKED TO LOOK FOR IT. CADILLAC FACTORY SERVICE REP [XXX] OPENED FILE #[XXX] ON 8-14-03 AND OFFERED TO LOOK INTO ANY POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE, BUT SAID THERE WOULD BE LITTLE TO NONE. WHEN I ASKED IF I SHOULD REPORT THIS TO NHTSA THEY THEN THREATENED TO WITHDRAW THE FILE AND ANY POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE. BY TALKING TO THE MANAGER [XXX], THE FILE I WAS TOLD WOULD REMAIN OPEN BUT NOT AVAILABLE TO ANYONE.*AK THE CONSUMER WANTED TO KNOW THE STATUS OF THE COMPLAINT SUBMITTED. *JB *PH *JB INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Negative 1997 Cadillac Catera car reviews
Positive 1997 Cadillac Catera car reviews
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Great car for anyone with taste!
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The car requires significant repairs and maintenance, which can be costly. For instance, I had to spend $2,100 on motorwork recently, and now, six months later, I am experiencing additional issues.
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I stopped counting Cadillacs at my fifteenth. This Catera I bought used has been very reliable and provided excellent service so far. It has a crisp, tailored feel to it which is nice. The handling, performance, and fuel economy are excellent. I normally use premium, but I have been buying regular gas for it and it has performed well, averaging 24 mpg. There are no squeaks or rattles, and it has a solid quality feel. For a small car, it does not feel cheap. While it is not as luxurious as other Cadillacs I own, it does have all the Cadillac features you would want the car to have. My overall feeling of the car is that it has been very undervalued due to its plain styling.
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We had planned on replacing our Catera with the new CTS until we saw it. However, upon further consideration, we decided to keep the Catera. We prefer the exterior lines of the Catera over the CTS and we are completely satisfied with everything about it. Therefore, we concluded that we had no reason to update.
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I'm so happy with my car! I bought it as a dealer demo with 5000 miles on it and it was delivered to me in mint condition. The dealer even repaired small dings on the doors, which was a really nice touch. I've been driving it for over 20,000 miles a year and it's been a wonderful experience. The timing belt did go out after the suggested 60,000 miles, but luckily it was a covered item under my extended warranty. The dealer was amazing and provided me with the utmost service to take care of both me and my car. With 80,000 miles on it, I haven't had any other major problems with it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Cadillac Catera problems:
Cadillac Catera Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
Top Cadillac Catera Problems · Coolant and Oil Leaks · Engine Performance Problems Due to Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure · Timing Belt and Water Pump · Hot ...
Catera problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Aug 14, 2000 ... I own a 1997 Cadillac Catera and like everyone else was excited at the prospect of owing a Caddy. Well, after numerous problems including two ...
A History & Review of the Cadillac Catera (Revised) | Cadillac ...
Jan 28, 2015 ... Had I known about the Catera's inherent problems ... The '97 - '98 Cateras had the most problems. ... I 1997 Cadillac Catera Two days ago I replaced ...
Cadillac Catera Questions - Mystery Problem (for me), Car ...
Jan 13, 2013 ... Mystery Problem (for me), Car Occasionally Will Not Start - Hi there, I recently received a Cadillac Catera 1998 from my old man, ...
97 Catera rear negative camber..kit avail? | Cadillac Owners Forum
Oct 24, 2006 ... Cadillic made the car to "need no adjustment" of rear camber, either negative--the most common problem--or positive. Great feature and ...
Other years of Cadillac Catera
Are you having problems with your 1997 Cadillac Catera?
Kristofer Franecki 2025-01-04
In the past 2.3 years, I have unfortunately experienced multiple issues with my car, including problems with the water pump, leaky oil cooler, leaky gasket (which resulted in $1200 worth of damage), tire replacements, new front brakes, extensive seat wear, 3 new headlights, and a computer failure. However, I can confidently say that I have addressed each of these issues promptly and effectively.
Monroe Greenholt 2024-11-04
Hey there! I had a bit of a scary experience with my car recently. The engine blew up on the highway and I was stuck in the middle lane with a big truck behind me. Yikes! Even though I had been regularly servicing the car, it had already done 62,000 miles. I made the mistake of replacing the engine, but unfortunately, it froze again at 92,000 miles, just after it had been serviced. In the end, I decided to donate the car to charity. It was tough to see it go, but I'm glad it could still be of use to someone else.
Dusty Fay 2024-10-21
I have a '97 Catera that I bought new. I like it a lot, but unfortunately, it has been in the shop quite often in the past year. Many things have gone wrong that shouldn't have happened at all, or at least not so soon. My first car was a GM ('86 Pontiac Sunbird), and I swore I would never buy another GM car. Now I remember why, and this time I really, really won't buy another GM. Cadillac had a good marketing strategy--build a car for younger buyers and get them hooked on the Cadillac brand--but unfortunately, the strategy has backfired (at least as far as I'm concerned) because of the poor quality of the car.
Dustin Nicolas 2024-10-12
This car was great to drive, but unfortunately, I had to install two timing belts and a transmission. Additionally, the previous owner had already rebuilt the transmission. I also had issues with the driver's side heat and heated seat not working. The price and convenience of repairs were quite ridiculous. It's a shame that the German engineering and quality didn't live up to expectations. I would recommend staying away from this car.
Orin Bruen 2024-08-03
Although this car is a great driver, it's important to note that unscheduled repairs may double the cost of ownership. Unfortunately, this car has had a few problems with failed ignition coils, lost brake lights, and a faulty wheel speed indicator, which have cost quite a bit to repair. Additionally, the timing belt and tensioner required a costly repair of $2600, along with associated damages. If you're considering this car, it may be worth discussing these issues with your dealer and exploring other options. Lastly, it's worth noting that the driver door leaks air, which can be quite annoying at highway speeds.