1998 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 1998 Cadillac Catera problems
Common Problems with the Cadillac Catera 1998
- Coolant and Oil Leaks:
Owners of the Cadillac Catera 1998 have reported issues with coolant and oil leaks. These leaks can lead to overheating, engine damage, and potential safety hazards. It is crucial for owners to address these leaks promptly to prevent further damage to the vehicle. - Engine Performance Problems Due to Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure:
Another common problem with the Cadillac Catera 1998 is engine performance issues caused by crankshaft position sensor failure. When this sensor malfunctions, it can lead to rough idling, stalling, and overall poor engine performance. Owners should have this sensor checked and replaced if necessary to ensure the engine runs smoothly. - Timing Belt and Water Pump:
The timing belt and water pump in the Cadillac Catera 1998 are known to be problematic. Timing belt failures can result in severe engine damage, including bent valves and broken rods, leading to costly repairs. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of the timing belt and water pump are essential to prevent catastrophic engine failures. - Electrical Problems:
Electrical issues have been reported by owners of the Cadillac Catera 1998. These problems can manifest in various ways, such as malfunctioning lights, power windows, or electrical systems. Diagnosing and addressing electrical issues promptly is crucial to ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle. - Transmission Problems:
Some owners have experienced transmission problems with the Cadillac Catera 1998. Transmission issues can cause gear slipping, rough shifting, or complete transmission failure. Regular transmission maintenance and prompt repairs are necessary to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of the vehicle. - Suspension and Steering Concerns:
Suspension and steering problems have been noted by owners of the Cadillac Catera 1998. Issues with the suspension can lead to a rough ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Similarly, steering problems can affect the vehicle's maneuverability and safety. Regular inspections and maintenance of the suspension and steering components are essential to address these issues.
By addressing these common problems promptly and performing regular maintenance, owners of the Cadillac Catera 1998 can ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicles. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and adherence to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule are key to preventing these issues and maintaining the optimal performance of the Cadillac Catera 1998.
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.
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 does Catera touring sedan mean?
In the Cadillac lineup, “CTS” stands for Catera Touring Sedan. The name is a nod to the Cadillac Catera, a luxury sedan that was sold from 1996 to 2001.
1998 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
- Suspension problems
- Tires problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Cadillac Catera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Cadillac Catera
The NHTSA has received 167 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Cadillac Catera. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Cadillac Catera vehicles.
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-13
- VIN: W06VR52R6WR
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ENGINE HAVE A PROBLEM WITH OIL PRESSURE THAT STAY BELOW MINIMUM AT IDLE WHEN ENGINE IS AT OPERATING TEMP. FRONT CONTROL ARM BUSHING FAIL WITH LESS THEN 90000 MILES. AUTO TRANSMISSION FAIL WITH LESS THEN 90000 MILES. HAVE ENGAGEMENT PROBLEMS AND SHIFTING PROBLEM. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-06
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE WATER PUMP GAVE OUT. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR 1998 CADILLAC CATERA WHEN ANOTHER CAR RAN A STOP SIGN FORCING MY WIFE'S CAR INTO A COLLISION T-BONING THE OTHER CAR. THE APPROXIMATE SPEED OF OUR CAR DURING THE IMPACT WAS AT LEAST THIRTY MILES PER HOUR. OUR CADILLAC WAS WRITTEN OFF IN THE ACCIDENT HOWEVER EVEN THOUGH THIS WAS A HARD FRONT END COLLISION THERE WAS NO AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT IN OUR CAR. MY WIFE SUSTAINED SOME INJURIES HOWEVER BECAUSE SHE WAS WEARING HER SEAT BELT SHE WAS RELEASED FROM THE HOSPITAL 4 DAYS LATER! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-08
- VIN: W06VR52R7WR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 CADILLAC CATERA. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH. THE WARNING LIGHT INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE ENGINE WAS IN SATISFACTORY CONDITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON A SEPARATE OCCASION FOR ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTIC TESTING IN WHICH THE MANUFACTURER WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST. THE FAILURES WERE RELATED TO THE PCS LIGHT AND OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 121,000. UPDATED 06/03/10 *BF THE CONSUMER WANTED TO KNOW THE STATUS OF HIS COMPLAINT. UPDATED 06/07/10*JB
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-20
- VIN: W06VR52R7WR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
- Summary: FAULTY BRAKING. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-23
- VIN: W06VR52R5WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE TENSIONER PULLEY & TIMING BELT WAS A KNOW DEFECT FOR VEHICLE AND WAS RECALLED BUT I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED, AT THE TIME OF FAILURE I LOST ALL POWER & CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE ON AN DECLINE IN A HIGH TRAFFIC LOCATION IN A SERVER RAIN STORM. VEHICLE IS NOW DOA AND GM REFUSES TO REMEDY TUES EVENING 6/23 THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT GOES ON, IN 30-45 SECONDS THE CAR STOPPED RUNNING, EARLIER IN THE DAY I HEARD A KNOCK AND THOUGHT I RAN OVER SOMETHING AS ALL GAUGES INDICATED EVERYTHING WAS RUNNING NORMAL. HAD AAA TOW IT TO MY HOME AND NEXT DAY (WED.) TO THE CADDY DEALER. THEY CHARGE ME $109 TO ASSESS THE PROBLEM, THEN TELL ME THE TIMING BELT BROKE! IT WILL COST ANOTHER $600 LABOR FOR 5 HOURS OF INSPECTION TO CHECK THE PROBLEM AND DEPENDING WHAT THEY FIND $$$$$$ TO FIX, DAAAAA! I CALL THE SERVICE MANAGER HE TELLS ME HE'LL CHECK IT OUT AND CALL ME BACK. OK SO NOW HE CALLS ME AND TELL ME THE REP MISS-QUOTED WHAT THEY WERE GOING TO DO. NOW IT'S THE TENSION PULLEY THAT FAILED CASING THE TIMING BELT TO SNAP, TO REPLACE THE WHOLE SET IS $699 + LABOR AND SUGGESTED I INVEST ANOTHER $150 TO CHANGE THE COOLANT PUMP AS IT'S SHOWING SIGNS OF LEAKAGE AT THE SAME TIME SO IT DOESN'T RUN ME ADDITIONAL COSTS LATER AS IT'S IN THE SAME PART OF THE ENGINE AS THE PULLEY AND BELT. GRAND TOTAL OF $1207 + TAX. "BUT" DEPENDING ON WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THEY REPLACE THE TENSIONER PULLEY & TIMING BELT THERE MIGHT BE ADDITIONAL COST IF THE CAR STILL WILL NOT START. OK SO I TELL HIM TO GO AHEAD. I DECIDED TO GOGGLE THE PROBLEM TO SEE WHAT IT IS I AM PAYING FOR, HELLLLLLO! WHAT DO I FIND BUT A MAJOR RECALL BACK IN 9/2002 ON THE TENSIONER PULLEY FAILURE CAUSING THE TIMING BELT TO SNAP!!!!!!!!! & THE REPLACEMENT OF THE COOLANT PUMP. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OR ADVISED OF THIS RECALL. THEY NEVER TOLD ME ANYTHING EVERY TIME I BROUGHT THE CAR IN FOR SERVICE. I ONLY HAVE ONLY 20,654 MILES ON THE CAR, AS IT'S MY 2ND VEHICLE AND USE IT LOCALLY FOR SHOPPING. NORMAL REPLACEMENT FOR THE TIMING BELT & TENSIONER PULLEY IS 70K MI. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-23
- VIN: W06VR52R5WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 CADILLAC CATERA. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE TENSION TIMING BELT PULLEY FAILED. THE ENTIRE SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT THE ESTIMATED COST OF $1,200. AFTER THE DEALER REPLACED THE PARTS, THEY FOUND THAT THE COMPONENT WAS NOT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE DEALER WILL RE-EXAMINE THE VEHICLE IN A THREE PART ORDER AT THE ESTIMATED COST OF $6,000. A REPORT WAS FILED WITH THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL, BUT THE RECALL WAS FOR SPECIFIC MANUFACTURING PLANTS; THEREFORE, THEY WOULD NOT ASSIST. THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 20,000. UPDATED 08/04/09. *LJ THE WINDSHIELD WIPER DID NOT CLEAN THE WINDOW, THE VEHICLE HAD 4 BATTERIES, THE OXYGEN SENSOR WAS REPLACED
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-06
- VIN: W06VR52R9WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE MOTOR IN THE CAR STARTED CUTTING OUT AND SLOWING DOWN WHEN I WOULD TRY TO ACCELERATE. THERE WAS NEVER A KNOCKING SOUND. THERE WAS NO ENGINE LIGHT AND THE CAR WAS OVERHEATING. FROM READING ABOUT THIS CAR ONLINE IT SOUNDS LIKE A TIMING ISSUE. I TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD HE DID NOT WANT TO WORK ON THE CAR BECAUSE OF THE COMPLEXITY OF THE JOB. FROM WHAT IM TOLD THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ALOT OF THESE CARS AND NO RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED!! WHY NOT! *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-01
- VIN: W06VR52R4WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
- Summary: 1998 CAD. CATERA - NO INCIDENT STARTED THE PROBLEMS - A MECHANIC KNEW IT HAD A BAD HEAD GASKET BEFORE OPENING THE HOOD OR BEING TOLD WHY I WAS THERE BECAUSE HE SAID 9 OUT OF 10 CATERAS HAVE THIS PROBLEM. CONSUMER REPORTS LISTS THIS YEAR AND MODEL AS A MUST TO AVOID CAR. AT 60K MILES HAD A BAD HEAD GASKET, OIL HAD GONE THROUGH THE SYSTEM, CAR OVERHEATS, THE HOSES HAD TO BE REPLACED, IT HAS TO BE FLUSHED REGULARLY, NOW AT 80K MILES, THE POWER STEERING FLUID IS LEAKING, THE COOLANT IS LEAKING, THE BEARINGS AND BRAKES ARE FAILING, THE OIL CANNOT BE CHANGED BECAUSE THE PAN WILL BREAK BECAUSE THE CAP IS WELDED ON BECAUSE OF THE HEAT IN THE ENGINE. WHY WASN'T THERE A RECALL. THIS IS TOO YOUNG A CAR TO BE FAILING LIKE THIS. I WOULD LIKE COMPENSATION! *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-15
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,TIRES
- Summary: FUEL LINE BEHIND PASSENGER FRONT TIRE WAS DAMAGED BY AN OBJECT IN THE ROAD THAT THE DRIVER RAN OVER. THE FUEL LINE IS NOT PROTECTED IN ANYWAY ON THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE WELL. THIS INCIDENT LEAD TO A MAJOR GAS LEAK AND THE ENGINE SHUTTING DOWN ON A BUSY HIGHWAY. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A VERY SERIOUS SITUATION. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-23
- VIN: W06VR52R8WR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: A/C COMPRESSOR LEAKING AND A/C COMPRESSOR NOT CYCLING AND LEAKING FROM THE CHASE VALVE SYSTEM. COMPRESSOR HAD TO BE REPLACED. *JB UPDATED 01/11/08. *LJ THE HEATER COOLANT VALVE HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE FRONT BRAKE PADS AND SENSOR WERE REPLACED AND THE ROTORS HAD TO BE RESURFACED. UPDATED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-30
- VIN: W06VR52R2WR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I OWN A 1998 CATERA. WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH ON A CURVED ROAD THE ENGINE AND POWER CUT OFF . I LOST POWER STEERING AND HAD TO STRUGGLE TO STOP. THE CAR ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. IT HAPPENED IN A MATTER OF SECONDS. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE CADDY DEALER, AND THEY SAID THE CRACK SENSOR WENT BAD. I REVIEWED THE INTERNET AND SAW THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM. I WAS NOT HURT, BUT I WAS VERY CONCERNED. IF MY SON WAS DRIVING I BELIEVE WE BOTH WOULD NOT BE HEAR AND NO ONE WOULD KNOW WHY WE CRASHED HEAD ON. THIS WAS THE SECOND TIME I HAD TROUBLE WITH THIS CAR. THE FIRST TIME THE CAR STARTED TO SPUTTER AND SMOKE CAME OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I PULLED OVER AND HAD IT TOWED. THE VALVE COVER WAS LEAKING INTO THE SPARK PLUG HOLE AND BURNING THE RUBBER BOOT. IT GOT SO HOT THE PLUG MELTED, CAUSING THE SMOKE TO COME OUT. ALSO, I FOUND OUT IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM. THIS CAR NEEDED SOME IMMEDIATE ATTENTION BEFORE SOMEONE WAS SERIOUSLY HURT OR KILLED. I WA TRYING TO GET RID OF THE CAR. IT DROVE IT TO THE DEALER, WHO TOLD ME THEY DIDN'T WANT TO HELP. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-20
- VIN: W06VR52R9WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I'M REPAIRING THE BLOWN HEAD GASKET ON THE SAME ENGINE FOR THE THIRD TIME IN LESS THAN 50000 MILES, 100000 TOTAL MILES. THESE CARS WERE LEMONS! CADILLAC KNOWS IT, BUT DOES NOT FEEL THE NEED TO RESPOND TO THE THOUSANDS OF CATERA OWNERS WHO HAVE SUFFERED THE EXPENSE OF REPEATED REPAIRS, TOTALING $10,000 WITH TRANSMISSION REPLACEMENT, MAJOR ENGINE REPAIR, TIMING BELTS, COOLING SYSTEMS, WATER PUMPS,AND OH YEAH...ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILURE!!! GIVE ME A BREAK! AND ANY ADVICE BESIDES THE OBVIOUS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-06
- VIN: W06VR52R0WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE I WAS MAKING A WIDE TURN, THE TIMING BELT OF MY 1998 CATERA BROKE AND DAMAGED THE ENGINE HEAD OF MY CAR. THE PULLEY WAS BENT IN THE PROCESS. THIS IS A MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT ASSOCIATED WITH THE CATERA. NOW THE MANUFACTURER HAS REFUSED TO FIX MY CAR. IT WILL COST $5000.00. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-29
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, THE ENGINE STALLED AND THERE WAS A LOSS OF ALL VEHICLE POWER WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO PULL THE VEHICLE OVER WITHOUT INCIDENT. THE ENGINE WOULD NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHO DETERMINED THE TIMING BELT SEPARATED INTO AND DAMAGED THE ENGINE. DUE TO THE BELT SEPARATION, THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-09
- VIN: W06VR52R8WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FAULTY HEAD GASKET FAULTY WARNING LIGHTS. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- VIN: W06VR52R2WR
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED BEFORE PULLING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. UPON INSPECTION THE DEALERSHIP DETERMINED THAT THE AIR BAG MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. AFTER THE AIR BAG MODULE WAS REPLACED THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT NO LONGER ILLUMINATED. UPDATED 7/3/2006 - *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-10
- VIN: W06VR52R7WR
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY RECENT PROBLEM IS I CAN'T TAKE THE CAR OUT OF PARK. I TRY FOR MORE THAN 30 TIME AND YES, I HAVE MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE. THIS CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP MORE THAN 35+ TIME SINCE 1999 AND ITS NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS. *NM
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-10
- VIN: W06VR52R9WR
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: CAR OVER HEATING, SMOKING, STEAMING. TOOK TO MECHANIC, WAS TOLD THAT ENGINE BLEW, LATER TO FIND OUT OIL COOLER WENT. ALSO JUST FOUND OUT MY TRANSMISSIONS NEEDS OVER HAULED, NO WARNING, NO LEAKS. HEAT REGULATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE, IGNITION COIL HAS BEEN REPLACED, ALL WIRES HAVE TO BE REPLACED. ENGINE HAS AND STILL DOES RUN TOO HOT, CAUSING CONTINUOUS PROBLEMS WITH ENGINE PARTS. ETC. I PURCHASED THE CAR IN 2001, PURCHASED EXTENDED WARRANTY, THAT HAS SINCE WARE OUT. MY SUN ROOF DOES NOT WORK, MY KEYLESS ENTRY DOES NOT WORK, HERE IT IS 2005 AND THE CAR ONLY HAS OR AROUND 65,000 MILES ON IT, WHEN PURCHASED ONLY HAD 23,000, I ONLY DRIVE THE CAR TO WORK AND BACK, AND TOO RUN ERRANDS. WHY AM I HAVING SO MANY PROBLEMS WITH IT, I CAN'T EVEN GET A DEALER TO TAKE IT AS TRADE IN. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-15
- VIN: W06VR52R6WR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: MID-JUNE ABS TC WARNING LIGHTS APPEAR IN 1998 CADILLAC CATERA. EBTCM DIAGNOSED AS FAILED. DEALER ORDERED NEW EBTCM, NOT AVAILABLE. CADILLAC CUSTOMER SERVICE CONFIRMS "NATIONAL BACKORDER" NOT A SINGLE ONE OF THESE PARTS IN GM WAREHOUSE SYSTEMS, DEALER SYSTEM, ETC. TOOK CAR TO CHEVY (GM) DEALER (7/9/05) TO DIAGNOSE. CONFIRM FAILURE OF EBTCM; PART NOT AVAILABLE. CALLED CADILLAC CUSTOMER SERVICE, E-MAILED MULTIPLE TIMES. RESPONSE REMAINS CONSTANT...NATIONAL BACK ORDER, NO KNOWLEDGE WHEN PART WILL BE AVAILABLE. WE MUST DRIVE CAR WITH NO ABS, TC, OR SPEEDOMETER (WHICH DOESN'T WORK WHEN ABS TC ARE NONFUNCTIONAL) AND STIFF POWER STEERING WHICH IS ALSO A RESULT OF NO ABS TC. NEITHER CADILLAC NOR GM CAN SPECIFY WHEN SUCH PART WILL BE AVAILABLE, NOR HAVE THEY PROPOSED A LOANER CAR TO DRIVE UNTIL PART ARRIVES. WE ARE DRIVING A CAR THAT, IN MY OPINION, IS UNSAFE SHOULD WE FIND OURSELVES IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES THE ABS OR TRACTION CONTROL. THE SPEEDOMETER IS NON-FUNCTIONAL AND STEERING BECOMES STIFF DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THIS MODULE. GM NEEDS TO REMEDY THIS SITUATION. HOW CAN THEY SELL CARS THAT THEY CANNOT PROVIDE PARTS FOR. SAFETY SEEMS TO BE MY PROBLEM, NOT THEIRS AS IT IS "MY" EBTCM THAT HAS FAILED NOW THAT IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-14
- VIN: W06VR52R0WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A COMPLAINT ON RECORD ABOUT THE POOR QUALITY OF THE CADILLAC CATERA. THESE VEHICLES SHOULD HAVE ALL BEEN BOUGHT BACK BY GM TO PROTECT THE AMERICAN PUBLIC FROM THEIR POOR QUALITY. I HAVE A 1998 CADILLAC CATERA ,WELL CARED FOR. OVER THE PAST YEAR THOUGH THE CAR HAS BEGUN TO LEAK OIL HEAVILY,TO THE POINT OF ACTUALLY BEING AN ENVIROMENTAL HAZARD. THE OTHER DAY I TOOK IT TO A LOCAL CADILLAC DEALER ONLY TO BE TOLD THE CAR HAS LEAKING VALVE COVER GASKETS,CAM COVER GASKETS AND AN OIL COOLING LINE. THEY SAY $1200 WILL SEAL UP MOST OF THE LEAKS. THE CAR ONLY HAS AN ORIGINAL 65,000 MILES ON IT. UPON HEARING THIS I DID AN INTERNET SEARCH ON CATERAS AND THE HORROR STORIES ARE ENDLESS. IT SEEMS THEY ALL INCLUDING MINE HAVE BROKEN HEADLIGHT ALIGNERS. THIS IS APPARENTLY CAUSED BY HEAT AND CHEAP MANUFACTURING. THIS OFF COURSE MAKES THE HEADLIGHTS IMPOSSIBLE TO ALIGN AND AIM.IT ALSO SEEMS THAT ALL CATERAS WEAR OUT TIRES IN A VERY RAPID TIME FRAME DUE TO POOR FRONT END DESIGN. MY 1998 HAS ALL THESE PROBLEMS PLUS ALL FOUR RADIO SPEAKERS HAVE BLOWN ALTHOUGH THEY WERE NEVER PLAYED LOUDLY. THE HEADLIGHT LENSES HAVE HEAVILY YELLOWED OVER THUS REDUCING GREATLY THE HEADLIGHT POWER. I WOULD STRONGLY SUGGEST YOU REVIEW ACCIDENTS INVOLVING CATERAS AS THEY COULD EASILY RELATE TO THE ALL TO COMMON HEADLIGHT ADJUSTMENT PROBLEM ON THESE CARS NOT TO MENTION THE OIL BLOW BY FROM THE ENGINE ONTO THE FRONT BRAKE ROTORS. PLEASE HELP GET THESE CARS OFF THE ROAD.
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,TIRES,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-20
- VIN: W06VR52RXWR
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,TIRES,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 1998 CATERA PROBLEMS: TRANSMISSION FAILED 3 TIMES CAUSED BY ELECTRONIC PART MAL FUNCTION; ALTERNATOR FAILURE; BATTERY HAS BEEN REPLACED 3 TIMES; HEATER AND A/C INOPERATIVE-BURNED HARNESS AND ELECTRONIC COMPONENT; DOOR HINGES FAILED; ENGINE OIL LEAK; VEHICLE CRANKS BUT WILL NOT START; PREMATURE TIRE WEAR; VEHICLE WANDERS; FRONT END ALIGNED 3 TIMES IN ONE YEAR; WARPED DISC ROTORS TWICE IN TWO YEAR PERIOD; DIFFERENTIAL SEALS LEAK; VAOLTAGE METER AMBIGUOS READING; SIDEMARKERS INOPERATIVE AND CORRODED; HIGH UNDERHOOD TEMPERATURE; REMOTE KEYS FILED; REAR VIEW MIRRORS DO NOT ADJUST TO NIGHT DRIVING.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE,TIRES,SEATS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: W06VR52R7WR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE,TIRES,SEATS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CADILLAC CATERA 1998, DRIVER SEAT BECAME EXTREMELY HOT THAT CONSUMER BACK WAS BURNED. *BF THE CONSUMER FIRST HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE SEAT NOT HEATING WAS BACK IN DECEMBER OF 2000 WHICH WAS REPAIRED. ON PREVIOUS OCCASION THE CONSUMER HAD WORK DONE. THE MOLDING AROUND THE WINDSHIELD WAS LOOSE, THE CONSUMER REPORTED A WOBBLE IN THE TIRE, ONE MONTH LATER THE CONSUMER HAD A FLAT TIRE, HE WAS THEN TOLD THE TIRES NEEDED TO REPLACED, THERE WAS STATIC FROM THE RADIO, THE FRONT PADS WERE REPLACED AND THE BRAKE SENSOR WAS REPLACED TWICE. *JB
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-02
- VIN: W06VR52R7WR
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: NO DESCRIPTION GIVEN. *AK *NM
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-01
- VIN: W06VR52R3WR
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CADILLAC CATER 1998 EXPERIENCED MULTIPLE FAILURE THAT CAUSED ENGINE DAMAGE. *BF THE TRUNK LIGHT BULBS FAILED. THE TRUNK LIGHT BAR FAILED. THE KEY FOB FAILED. THE CD PLAYER FAILED. THE WINDOW WASHER HOSE FAILED. THE SWITCH FOR HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE BOTTOM GEAR OF THE CRANKSHAFT BROKE CAUSING ENGINE DAMAGE. THE FRONT AND REAR END HAD TO BE ALIGNED DUE TO THE VEHICLE PULLING TO THE RIGHT. THE CENTER LINK WAS ALSO REPLACED. *NM
Negative 1998 Cadillac Catera car reviews
Positive 1998 Cadillac Catera car reviews
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The car yields a solid ride with a big car feel. It has a usefully tight radius of turn and always feels under control. It does well with regular fuel, with a feeling of plentiful power. Cruising at highway speeds is deceptive, easily achieving high speeds. The cruise control is accurate, easy to use, and very worthwhile at all speeds
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The car is really fun to drive! It passes better than any other vehicle I've driven, and I've had goats and 5L Mustangs. I always use Mobil1 oil in everything I drive, and all my vehicles are super trustworthy.
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You've got yourself a solid feeling car that handles extremely well. The sound system is great and the car is well crafted. The conservative style is classy and understated. It completely overshadows the 1998 ES300 Lexus or Camry in terms of luxury and feel, but that's not saying much considering the boring Japanese cars in this price range. If you're looking for a nice car to own and you drive responsibly, the Catera is a great choice and a great value in the used market.
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The Catera is such a great car! It's reliable, cute, luxurious, and has a smooth ride. It fits like a glove and has an automatic transmission, which is so convenient. It's a shame they don't make them with automatics anymore, just sticks. But don't worry, my Catera has never had any mechanical problems!
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I've only had the car for a short time, but so far I haven't had any problems. As someone who typically drives European cars, I'm pleased with how it feels. The handling is solid, and I particularly enjoy turning off the traction control and going into sport mode. I noticed that there was water on the floor, but it turned out to be a simple fix that anyone can do. The drain in front of the passenger side for the air intake was clogged with leaves and debris, causing the water to fill up and spill into the fresh air intake. Once I removed the plastic grate just behind the hood and cleared out the basin underneath, the problem was solved. Other than that, the car has been great!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Cadillac Catera problems:
1998 Cadillac Catera Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
Problem with your 1998 Cadillac Catera? Our list of 14 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Cadillac Catera.
1998 Cadillac Catera Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
This car is very un reliable. Do not waste time on this car. Engine issues, smog issues, seats are not comfortable. Car costs a fortune for repairs. Ebtcm ...
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Aug 14, 2000 ... fault! Thanks in advance! Tagged: Cadillac · Cadillac Catera · Sedans · Repairs & Maintenance · Transmission & Driveline · General · 1998.
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Are you having problems with your 1998 Cadillac Catera?
Dion Adams 2024-10-27
I have experienced numerous problems with my Honda since purchasing it from the dealership. Within the first 2-3 months, I thought I had gotten a great deal, but since then, I have had issues with the interior lights behind the panel going out, the cruise control failing, the transmission starting to slip, and the AC dying at only 59K miles. Although I would love my car if it were more reliable, I am afraid it will break down on a daily basis. Additionally, I have recently discovered a small oil leak and the engine will occasionally smoke.
Dane Murphy 2024-10-24
The Cadillac Catera has a smooth drive and a sleek, sexy body, but unfortunately, it requires frequent and expensive repairs. I highly recommend considering a dependable Honda, Acura, or Toyota instead. Please don't make the same mistake I did by investing in this poorly made car.
Jean Prosacco 2024-10-12
At 5'3
Travis Mann 2024-08-19
My dealership had done a recall on the water pump and pulleys of my vehicle when it had only 44,000 miles. Unfortunately, the failure occurred again at 61,000 miles and Cadillac informed me that it was only warranted for 12 months. Although I believe that the 'fix' may have caused the issue, I understand that it is not a good marketing strategy. My wife was interested in purchasing a new Caddy, but we are now considering an import. Thank goodness for Japanese automakers!
Irwin Pacocha 2024-08-08
After many visits to the shop and a blown head gasket, I decided to send this car to the junk yard. The mechanic at the dealer mentioned that this car was not the best they had ever made, especially with a German Opel engine.