2001 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 2001 Cadillac Catera problems
The 2001 Cadillac Catera has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include a fuel pump problem, transmission shifting issues, low oil pressure, and a burnt transmission fluid.
Firstly, some owners have reported that their 2001 Catera would not start 5% of the time, waiting around 20 minutes would resolve the issue. Research suggests that this issue is likely to be caused by a faulty fuel pump. The car cranks but doesn't start, indicating that the fuel pump is not delivering fuel to the engine, which is essential for the car to start.
Secondly, transmission shifting issues have also been reported by owners of the 2001 Catera. The car would randomly switch into sport mode without engaging the button, and when not in sport mode, it would change gears at incorrect times. This issue can be caused by a faulty transmission control module (TCM), which is responsible for controlling the transmission's shifting points.
Thirdly, some owners have reported low oil pressure in their 2001 Catera. This issue can be caused by a faulty oil pump or a clogged oil filter, which can prevent oil from flowing to the engine's components, leading to low oil pressure. This issue can be dangerous as it can cause the engine to seize, leading to expensive repairs.
Lastly, burnt transmission fluid has been reported by owners of the 2001 Catera. This issue can be caused by a faulty transmission or by overloading the vehicle, exceeding the trailer towing limit, or towing in overdrive events. Burnt transmission fluid can cause the transmission to shift poorly, leading to a loss of power and a decrease in fuel efficiency.
In conclusion, the 2001 Cadillac Catera has several common problems that can be expensive to repair. These issues include a faulty fuel pump, transmission shifting issues, low oil pressure, and burnt transmission fluid. It is essential to address these issues promptly to avoid further damage and to ensure the safety of the vehicle's occupants.
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 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 replaced the Catera?
The replacement for the unloved Catera would be the CTS in 2002.
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 replaced the Catera?
The replacement for the unloved Catera would be the CTS in 2002.
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.
2001 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
- Tires problems
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Cadillac Catera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2001 Cadillac Catera
The NHTSA has received 30 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Cadillac Catera. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Cadillac Catera vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-20
- VIN: W06VR54R01R
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CADILLAC CATERA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE WAS LEAKING OIL PREMATURELY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHERE THE ENGINE GASKETS, BELTS AND THE WATER PUMP WERE REPLACED. HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 89,000. UPDATED 01/09/14*LJ
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-14
- VIN: W06VR54R91R
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CADILLAC CATERA. WHILE TRAVELING 15 MPH AND ATTEMPTING A RIGHT TURN, THE FRONT DRIVER AIR BAG INDEPENDENTLY DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED AND THERE WERE NO PRIOR WARNINGS OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-14
- VIN: W06VR54R91R
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CADILLAC CATERA. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH , THE CONTACT WAS MAKING A TURN WHEN THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT A CRASH OCCURRING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT IT WAS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM AND TO STOP DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY WOULD NOT OFFER HER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED NOR WAS THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED BY CADILLAC. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 26000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-22
- Crash: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK WHEN THE ACCELERATOR "TOOK OVER" AND WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. HE APPLIED THE BRAKES BUT THEY DID NOT WORK. AT SOME POINT THE FRONT WHEEL OF THE VEHICLE SHEARED OFF AND FLEW OFF THE CAR CAUSING COMPLETE LOSS OF CONTROL. MY HUSBAND, A FORMER NAVY SEAL, MANAGED TO "MANHANDLE" THE STEERING WHEEL ENOUGH TO AVOID A LONG LINE OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC, BUT CLIPPED THE TAIL END OF A TRAILER BEING PULLED BY A TRUCK. HE SURVIVED. WE HAD ONLY BOUGHT THE CAR 5 MONTHS PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT WHERE IT WAS TOTALED. IT HAD BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR 3 OF THE 5 MONTHS OF OWNERSHIP FOR COMPUTER PROBLEMS. NO ONE WOULD TAKE RESPONSIBILITY. GEICO PAID OFF THE LOAN AND WE GOT NOTHING. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-03
- VIN: W06VR54RX1R
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CADILLAC CATERA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ODOMETER STOPPED WORKING WHEN THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT AND THE ABS LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE ALSO LOST POWER WHEN THE WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON. THE GEARS THEN STARTED TO SHIFT VERY SLOWLY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,484. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,486.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-28
- VIN: W06VR54R81R
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CADILLAC CATERA. SINCE MAY OF 2009, THE VEHICLE STALLS WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OR GREATER. INITIALLY, THE STALLING OCCURRED OCCASIONALLY. EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ON JUNE 28, 2009, THE STALLING OCCURS EVERY OTHER DAY. THE CONTACT FEELS THAT THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 92,000. UPDATED 08/04/09 *BF THE MECHANIC STATED THE CRANKSHAFT SENSOR WAS CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SHUT DOWN. UPDATED 08/05/09.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-24
- VIN: W06VR54R41R
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CHRONIC FAILURE OF GM PN# 90566947 CAUSING LOSS OF COOLANT AND POSSIBLE FIRE DAMAGE DUE TO PROXIMITY OF EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND CATALYTIC CONVERTER. THERE HAVE BEEN 3 REPLACEMENTS IN 62,580 MILES. THE FIRST @ 16,586 MILES, SECOND @ 34,503 MILES, AND THE LATEST AT 62,580 MILES. THE LEAKS BEGIN AS AN ODOR OF COOLANT, THEN SPOTS BEGIN ON THE PAVEMENT, THEN FINALLY THE COOLANT RESERVOIR EMPTIES ITSELF. THE VALVE IS LOCATED AT THE REAR OF THE ENGINE BLOCK UP AGAINST THE FIREWALL, AND ADJACENT TO THE EXHAUST PIPE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE PART HAS BEEN REPLACED ALL 3 TIMES, ONCE UNDER WARRANTY AND TWICE AT MY EXPENSE. GM REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE A DESIGN PROBLEM, EVEN THOUGH THIS IS NOT A MAINTENANCE PART. IT IS CONSTRUCTED FROM PLASTIC AND DOES NOT WITHSTAND THE HOT ENVIRONMENT OF THE APPLICATION. IT IS USED ON THE 3 LITRE 6 CYLINDER ENGINE OF THE CADILLAC CATERA AND CTS, AND THE SAAB 9-5. DEALER USE RECORDS SHOW A VERY HIGH INCIDENCE OF FAILURE EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE NOT THAT MANY VEHICLES USING THIS ENGINE. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF FIRE DUE TO THE COOLANT SPRAYING ON THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER WHEN MOVING, AS WELL AS DISABLING THE ENGINE DUE TO THE LOSS OF COOLANT. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-22
- Crash: 1
- VIN: W06VR54R51R
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT APPROX. 55 MPH, CAME UPON DRIVER MOVING SLOW, HAD TO BRAKE, THEN BEGAN TO PASS, FRONT END MADE A LOUD, HORRIBLE NOISE, AND WITHIN SECONDS THE FRONT WHEEL FLEW OFF THE VEHICLE, CATERA STRUCK ANOTHER PERSON'S TRAILER AND THE CATERA WAS A TOTAL LOSS. DEALER HAD CAR FOR REPAIRS ABOUT 3 OF THE 5 MONTHS I'VE OWNED THE CAR. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-08
- VIN: W06VR54R51R
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: PURCHASED 4 PIRELLIE TIRES (PR00523457V) - PIR P6 FOUR SEASONS P235/45R17 ON 2/18/05 WITH LIFETIME ROAD HAZARD WARRANTY. REPLACED 2 TRES 04/08/05 - IMPACT BULDGE ON OUTER EDGE OF TIRES. REPLACED ANOTHER TIRE (TIRE WAS RIPPED/CUT COMPLETELY AROUND THE TIRE WHILE TRAVELING OUT OF STATE, WITH TWO SMALL CHILDREN) ON 11/27/05. AGAIN ON 08/19/06 HAD TO HAVE ANOTHER TIRE REPLACED RIP COMPLETELY AROUND THE TIRE. ON 12-05-07 ANOTHER RIP IN TIRE WAS TOLD THAT TIRES WERE WORN, NEEDED TO BE REPLACED (ALL 4). *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-03
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF A 2001 CETERA. MY CAR NOW HAS 42,000 MILES. AT APPROXIMATELY 22000 MILES , HAVING ROTATED THE TIRES FAITHFULLY EVERY 3000 MILES, I WENT TO A TIRE DEALER TO HAVE THEM ROTATED, AND WAS TOLD NOT TO DRIVE ON THEM ANYMORE AS THE EDGES WERE TOTALLY WORN OUT, EXPOSING THE CANVAS. I HAD BEEN TOLD ALL ALONG THAT THEY WERE WEARING UNEVENLY, BUT CHALKED IT UP TO THE ORIGINAL TIRES ,SOMETIMES NOT BEING AS GOOD AS THEY SHOULD BE. REPLACED WITH ORIGINAL , VERY EXPENSIVE TIRES. NOW AT 42,000 MILES, HAVING FAITHFULLY ROTATED EVERY 2 TO 3000 MILES , I AM TOLD THAT THEY NEED REPLACEMENT AGAIN, HAVING BEEN TOLD AT EVERY ROTATION THAT THEY WERE WEARING UNEVENLY EVERY MILE THAT I DRIVE, I FELT AS IF I WAS LEAVING MONEY ON THE PAVEMENT. THE DEALER SAID THAT IT' WAS THE TIRES THEMSELVES , $160 EACH, AND BECAME VERY IRRITATED AND INDIGNANT WHEN I TOLD HIM THAT THE TIRE DEALER SAID THAT EVERY ONE OF THE CATERAS ATE TIRES. ONE OF THE SERVICE ADVISORS AT THE DEALERSHIP TOLD ME THAT IT WAS A PROBLEM ON CATERAS, BUT THE SERVICE MANAGER QUICKLY JUMPED IN AND TOLD ME AGAIN THAT IT WAS THE TIRES THEMSELVES AND NOT THE CAR. HE WAS VERY UNHAPPY THAT ONE OF HIS EMPLOYEES TOLD ME THE TRUTH. NOW THAT I SAW THAT OTHERS WERE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS, JUST AS THE TIRE DEALER HAD TOLD ME, I WAS VERY IRRITATED THAT THE CAR DEALERSHIP HAS BEEN COVERING IT UP ALL OF THIS TIME. I SPOKE TO GM HEADQUARTERS, BUT THEY ALSO DENIED KNOWING ANYTHING ABOUT THERE BEING A DESIGN DEFECT. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-21
- VIN: W06VR54R11R
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE PURPOSE OF THIS MEMO IS TO REQUEST NHTSA TO EVALUATE AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION TO HAVE THE MANUFACTURER CORRECT DESIGN DEFECT IN THE HOT WATER VALVE OF THE 2001 CADILLAC CATERA COOLING SYSTEM. *AK RECENTLY THE HOT WATER VALVE, FP NUMBER 90566947, IN THE COOLING SYSTEM OF MY 2001 CATERA FAILED FOR THE SECOND TIME. THE FIRST FAILURE OCCURRED IN 2005 WITH LESS THAN 50,000 MILES ON THE CAR AND WAS REPAIRED UNDER WARRANTY. THE SECOND FAILURE OCCURRED LAST MONTH WITH LESS THAN 75,000 MILES ON THE CAR AND WAS REPAIRED AT MY EXPENSE. BOTH REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED BY VAL WARD CADILLAC, FORT MYERS, FLORIDA, WHERE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. I HAVE OWNED MANY CARS, INCLUDING FOUR GENERAL MOTORS (GM) CARS, AND THIS COOLING SYSTEM PROBLEM HAS NEVER OCCURRED ON ANY OF THEM. ON JUNE 5, 2007 I SENT A LETTER TO GM ASKING THAT THEY ISSUE A RECALL OF THE 2001 CATERA TO CORRECT THIS DESIGN DEFECT. I WAS ADVISED, VIA A TELEPHONE CALL FROM MS. JOLENE BLAZUKIEWICZ, IN THEIR EXECUTIVE OFFICE, THAT GM DOES NOT BELIEVE THIS IS A DESIGN DEFECT OR SAFETY HAZARD AND NO RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED. SHE WENT ON TO SAY THE FAILED PART IS MADE OF PLASTIC, AS THOUGH THIS WAS A REASON FOR THE FAILURE. I SUGGESTED THEY MAY WANT TO CONSIDER MAKING THE PART FROM A STRONGER MATERIAL, SHE SAID SHE WOULD FORWARD MY LETTER TO THE DESIGN DEPARTMENT. I LIVE IN A RELATIVELY RURAL PART OF CENTRAL FLORIDA AND SUDDEN LOSS OF COOLING FLUID ON A ROAD FAR FROM A TOWN OR SERVICE STATION, COULD PRESENT A VERY REAL AND SIGNIFICANT SAFETY HAZARD AND RESULT IN SEVERE ENGINE DAMAGE. THE FACT THAT THIS VALVE HAS NOW FAILED TWICE INDICATES IT IS A DESIGN DEFECT. IT WOULD SEEM APPROPRIATE FOR GENERAL MOTORS TO ISSUE A RECALL AND REPLACE THE VALVE WITH A MORE ROBUST PART. I THEREFORE REQUEST THE NHTSA TO EVALUATE THE PROBLEM AND, IF APPROPRIATE, DIRECT GM TO ISSUE A RECALL FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE DEFECTIVE PART. SINCERELY, TORSTEN ROTHMAN
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-30
- VIN: W06VR54R71R
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: TL*- WHILE DRIVING THE 2001 CADILLAC CATERA WITH 76000 MILES FAILURE FOR 15 MILES HE TURNED THE SEAT HEATER ON. THE CONTACT HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR A HALF HOUR WHEN HE TURNED THE SEAT HEATER OFF BECAUSE IT FELT HOT AND HE SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING. THE CONTACT STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THE BACK OF THE PASSENGER'S COAT WAS BURNED, AND THAT THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE BACK. THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT HAD A BLACK BURN MARK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SEAT, NEAR THE DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT IT HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 76882. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-16
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: PURCHASED 2001 CATERA NEW FROM SIOUX FALLS CAD., SIOUX FALLS, SD. WITH LESS THAN 12,000 MILES ON CAR, TIRES WERE COMPLETELY WORN. CAD. REPLACED TIRES, ALIGNED THE WHEELS WHICH WERE WITHIN CAD. GUIDE. WITH LESS THAN 15,000 MILES ON THE REPLACED TIRES, TIRES WERE IRREGULARLY WORN OUT, REPLACED AT HAMIL MOTORS OF SHELDON, IA. WHICH I PAID FOR. CAR ALIGNED AND ALIGNMENT WAS WITHIN CAD. GUIDE. BOTH ALIGNMENTS WERE COMPLETED BY CAD. DEALERS. REPLACED TIRES WORE OUT WITHIN 15,000 MILES AND WERE REPLACED BY ME FROM OK ONE STOP IN HOSPERS, IA. CAR TAKEN TO SIOUX FALLS CAD FOR ANOTHER ALIGNMENT WHICH WAS WITHIN CAD. GUIDE. WITH LESS THAN 10,000 MILES TIRES WERE AGAIN IRREGULARLY WORN, REPLACED AT MORGAN TIRE CO. AND WITH LESS THAN 15,000 MILES BLOWOUT WHILE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING CAUSING MUCH EMOTIONAL STRESS FOR MY WIFE. TIRES REPLACED AT MORGAN TIRE, ALIGNMENT COMPLETED WITH MORGAN CALLING CAD FOR CORRECTION. STATED THAT IT WAS A DESIGN FLAW IN THE CATERA AND NOTHING COULD BE DONE TO CORRECT THIS SITUATION. FILED A COMPLAINT WITH GMAC - 800-458-8006 4 WEEKS AGO, WAS ASSIGNED FILE #1-431277521, WAS INSTRUCTED TO HAVE TIRES BROUGHT TO CAD DEALER WHICH WAS COMPLETED BY MORGAN TIRE CO. TO HAMILL MOTORS OF SHELDON. DEALER WAS TO CALL CAD. WITH RESULT OF TIRE INSPECTION AND I HAVE HEARD NOTHING FROM CAD. SINCE.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,WHEELS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-20
- VIN: W06VR54R91R
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,WHEELS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: ON 8/20/05, I HAVE FILED A COMPLAINT (FILE # 1-357-445-124) WITH CADILLAC CUSTOMER RELATIONS, IN ORDER TO REQUEST FULL REIMBURSEMENT FOR REPAIR OF TWO SAFETY-RELATED ISSUES AND ONE SERVICE-RELATED ISSUE THAT HAVE COME TO MY KNOWLEDGE RECENTLY. I BELIEVE THESE ISSUES DID NOT HAPPENED OVERNIGHT AND HAVE BEEN DEVELOPING PRIOR TO THE EXPIRING OF THE WARRANTY IN DECEMBER 2004. CAR HAS ONLY 35K MILES AND IS DRIVEN AVG OF 4K MILES PER YEAR. COMPLAINT IS AS FOLLOWS: 1) DEFECTIVE ORIGINAL FACTORY CHROME RIMS: AS PER TIRES PLUS AND LINDSAY CADILLAC SERVICE SHOP TECHNICIANS, THE CHROME IS PEELING FROM INSIDE RIM, CAUSING TIRES TO CONSTANTLY LOSE AIR (DEFLATE), WHICH AT ANY TIME MAY BE A HAZARD TO MY SAFETY, AS WELL AS FOR OTHER PASSENGERS). I HAVE ASKED CADILLAC TO REPAIR/REPLACE 4 RIMS; 2) DEFECTIVE CAR JACK: ALTHOUGH NOT PREVIOUSLY USED, ON 8/19/05 THE NEW JACK SLID AND BENDED WHEN I USED IT ACCORDING TO INSTRUCTIONS TO REPLACE A FLAT TIRE, ALMOST CAUSING PERSONAL INJURY AND CAR DAMAGE). I HAVE ASKED CADILLAC TO REPLACE DEFECTIVE JACK; AND, 3) LEAKING ENGINE COOLANT: ACCORDING TO LINDSAY'S CADILLAC DEALERSHIP DIAGNOSIS, ENGINE COOLANT IS LEAKING THROUGH WATER HEATER CONTROL VALVE (AS PER ARCHIVES FROM WWW.CADILLACFORUMS.COM, THIS SEEMS TO BE A KNOWN AND RECURRING ISSUE REPORTED BY CADILLAC CATERA OWNERS, AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED UNDER CADILLAC'S WARRANTY AND THEY SHOULD ASSUME THE COST OF REPAIRS). CADILLAC PRESSURED ME OVER THE PHONE TO TAKE 50% COST ASSISTANCE ON REPAIRS (APPROX $3,500.00 ESTIMATED), AND WHEN I REFUSED, OFFER WAS WITHDRAWN FROM THE TABLE. I COMPLAINED THAT PROCESS WAS NOT TRANSPARENT, AND WHEN I REQUESTED THAT CADILLAC'S OFFER AND CLAIM INFORMATION BE IN WRITING, REPRESENTATIVE REFUSED TO PROVIDE ME WITH COPIES OF CASE FILE. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-10
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY VEHICLE'S SPORT SHIFTING INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON ABOUT A WEEK BEFORE THE TRANSMISSION FAILURE. MY CAR WOULD REFUSE TO SHIFT OUT OF FIRST GEAR UNTIL I DROVE IT FOR A FEW MILES AND/OR TURNED THE CAR OFF AND RESTARTED IT. I WAS IN A LOCAL TOWN WHEN THE FRONT END STARTED TO SHUDDER AND MAKE NOISE. I TOOK IT TO A AUTO TRANSMISSION SHOP WHO STATED THE SENDING UNIT FOR THE FLUID FAILED AND IT HAD BURNED OUT THE FIRST GEAR. HE STATED THAT THIS WAS MOST LIKELY A MANUFACTURE DEFECT. I CONTACTED GM HEADQUARTERS AND WAS REFUSED ANY HELP IN FIXING THE ISSUE OR RESOLVING THE ISSUE. THEY STATED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS BECAUSE IT HAD NOT HAD A SUFFICIENT HISTORY WITH GM DEALERSHIPS GETTING MAINTENANCE, AND THAT I WAS THE THIRD OWNER. KEEP IN MIND, THIS TRANSMISSION WENT OUT AFTER MY OWNING THE VEHICLE FOR ONLY 9 MOS, PAID 14,000.00 FOR THE CAR AND ONLY HAS 73,000 MILES ON IT. I NOW AM UNABLE TO DRIVE MY CAR UNTIL IT IS FIXED, WHICH I AM QUOTED 1500.00 FOR A REBUILD AND A YEAR WARRANTY THAT I CANNOT AFFORD AT THIS TIME AND HAVING TO DRIVE A VERY UNRELIABLE AND VERY UNSAFE VEHICLE IN THE MEANTIME. I JUST WANT MY CAR BACK.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-03
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRONT TIRES WORE OUT PREMATURELY. CONSUMER HAD TO REPLACE THE FRONT TIRES ON 3 OCCASIONS. VEHICLE ONLY HAD 40,501MILES. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE 1% NEGATIVE CAMBER WHICH INVOLVED THE ALIGNMENT WAS CAUSING THE PREMATURE WEAR OF THE INNER TIRES. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-30
- VIN: W06VR54RX1R
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: NO MONEY HAS CHANGED HANDS YET. 2001 CADILLAC CATERRA IS UNDER WARANTY. FUEL LINE RUPTURED FROM HIGHWAY DEBRIS. PARTS WERE DIFFICULT TO GET. I AM A MECHANICAL ENGINEER BY SCHOOLING AND PROFESSION. THE LOCATION OF THE FUEL LINE IS OF A BAD DESIGN, EXPOSED TO HIGHWAY DEBRIS. IT IS NOT COMPLETELY ARMORED OR SHIELDED. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING, I WAS OUT OF TOWN ON BUSINESS. SHE WAS NOT SURE WHAT SHE HIT, BUT SMELLED GASOLINE IMMEDIATELY, PULLED OVER AND STOPPED. APPROX. 1/2 TANK FULL OF GAS WAS QUICKLY PUMPED TO ATMOSPHERE AND TO THE GROUND, DUE TO THE TUBING FAILURE. I HAVE ALSO CONTACTED THE CADILLAC CORPORATION, SPOKE WITH A MS. STACY ADAMS, MANAGER CUSTOMER RELATIONS, SHE STATED THAT THE WARANTY WILL NOT COVER THIS DAMAGE. I DISAGREE. THE CADILLAC FILE NUMBER IS 1-255444062. THE ROOT CAUSE OF THE DAMAGE WAS DUE TO FAULTY DESIGN PLACEMENT OF THE GASOLINE SUPPLY LINES, 3-LINES, SUPPLY, RETURN AND VAPOR. THE SUPPLY LINE RUPTURED. I AM REPORTING THIS DUE TO THE SAFETY IMPLICATIONS INVOLVED. HAD MY WIFE NOT BEEN AWARE OF THE GASOLINE SMELL, THE VEHICLE WOULD HAVE BURST INTO FLAMES IF IT CONTINUED RUNNING. THIS WAS ALSO EVIDENCED BY THE MECHANIC WHO CAME TO TOW THE VEHICLE TO DEMONTROND CADILLAC. I AM ALSO REPORTING THIS INCIDENT TO THE TEXAS ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY AT DEMONTROND CADILLAC, 888 I-45 SOUTH, CONROE, TX 77304. AS OF THIS DATE IT IS STILL NOT REPAIRED. THIS VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED NEW ON 9/8/01. MY WIFE IS THE PRIMARY DRIVER, I DRIVE IT SOMETIMES. I REVIEWED THE INCIDENTS / COMPLAINTS YOU HAVE LISTED ON THIS MAKE/MODEL VEHICLE. MY WIFE'S VEHICLE HAS SUFFERED MOST OF THE PROBLEMS LISTED, THE MAJORITY.*AK
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: W06VR54R41R
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: THE DESIGN OF THE FRONT WHEELS WAS CAUSING PREMATURE WEAR OF THE TIRES BECAUSE THE TIRES CAME IN CONTACT WITH THE ROAD AT AN ANGLE WHILE DRIVING. *AK BASED FROM INVOICE FROM DEALER, THE FRONT WHEELS OF THE CATERA ARE DESIGNED TO PITCHED SLIGHTLY INWARD, WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FRONT TIRES TO WEAR FASTER. ALSO, IT WAS RECOMMENDED THAT TIRES HAVE TO BE ROTATED REGULARLY. *LA
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-22
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED GOODYEAR, EAGLE TIRES, SIZE# P255/55R16, DOT UNKNOWN BLEW OUT. DEALER HAS REPLACED TWO SET OF TIRES. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: W06VR54R81R
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THERE WAS A RECALL REGARDING A DEFECTIVE WATER PUMP, TIMING BELT AND ENGINE PULLEY, HOWEVER THE DEALER ONLY REPLACED THE WATER PUMP.*JB *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: W06VR54RO1R
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT IN A FRONTAL COLLISON THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY ON IMPACT. CAUSING INJURIES DRIVER. MR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: W06VR54RO1R
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT IN A FRONTAL COLLISON THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT DID NOT RETRACTAND DRIVER WAS THROWN THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD CAUSING INJURIES. MR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: W06VR54R01R
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD HAS AN ORANGE PEEL PATTERN AND IS DISTORTING DRIVER'S EYE SIGHT WHILE DRIVING. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED, HOWEVER UNABLE TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM.*AK *YH
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-01
- VIN: W06VR54R31R
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRONT DRIVERS AND PASSENGER DOOR SWINGS OPEN WITH SO MUCH FORCE THAT IT KNOCKED DRIVER UNCONSCIOUS. DOORS ARE VERY DANGEROUS. PLEASE PROVIVE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION VEHICLE STALLED. VEHICLE WAS SERVICED BY DEALER, AND TECHNICIAN NOTICED COMPUTER CHIP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Negative 2001 Cadillac Catera car reviews
Positive 2001 Cadillac Catera car reviews
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This car is the perfect vehicle for my wife and me. As senior citizens who are retired, we find driving it to be very comfortable and enjoyable. It has lots of pep and is truly a fun car to drive.
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I see that you have owned a Cadillac before, but this is your first time with a smaller model. I'm glad to hear that you are impressed with the great handling, ride, performance, and reliability of this car. It's great to know that you have only had one warranty repair of a radiator hose in two years. While the body styling may be a bit non-distinctive, it is still good looking. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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I'm glad to hear that you recently purchased a used car and found it to be a great buy! It sounds like you got a fantastic deal on a car that has a lot of features. It's great to hear that you haven't had any problems with it, and I think it's important to take care of our vehicles to keep them running smoothly. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!
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The motor was installed in July 2013 with 43,000 miles and has been replaced since then, with less than 79,000 miles on it. I have all the documentation and receipts showing that we spent $3,000 on replacing the motor, timing belt, radiator, and other parts. The fan belt broke and my mother-in-law accidentally ruined the motor, but we loved the car so much that we decided to replace it. We replaced the tires in September 2016 and repaired the AC. The car is very clean, with a great interior and paint job, and the air conditioning works very well. The radio can be a bit glitchy, but the sound system is phenomenal with a CD player, MP3, or cassette. I plan to replace K134 to fix the radio sound.
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What a checkered past this car has had! However, GM has been forced to give them away - mine was a little over $10,000 off list. So any problems pale in comparison. It's a real joy to drive, with really pleasantly stiff steering. Everything has that satisfying German
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Cadillac Catera problems:
2001 Cadillac Catera Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
Problem with your 2001 Cadillac Catera? Our list of 14 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2001 Cadillac Catera.
2001 Catera Myriad of Issues | Cadillac Owners Forum
Jul 11, 2011 ... Stop being stubborn and change the CPS. It's just a short cable assembly. The sensor mounts next to the oil filter and the connector lives ...
Catera problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Aug 14, 2000 ... Home › Cadillac › Cadillac Catera. Edmunds ... many Catera had issues ... When you put these problems with a car along with the apathy of Cadillac ...
2001 Sport: My Problems, And How I Fixed Them! | Cadillac Owners ...
Nov 7, 2012 ... About 20 months ago I bought a 2001 Cadillac Catera Sport with all of the upgrades (except the rear CD changer). Below is the list of issues and ...
2001 Cadillac Catera Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2001 Cadillac Catera? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Other years of Cadillac Catera
Are you having problems with your 2001 Cadillac Catera?
Dino Vandervort 2024-11-17
Although the Range Sensor has been a challenge for me, I have found ways to address the issue and keep it running smoothly. While it has required some maintenance, I have been able to keep it on the road and it has proven to be a reliable car overall.
Quincy Ruecker 2024-09-17
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with this car. I bought it for several reasons, including the 0% interest and the great deals available since it was discontinued. So far, I've driven 7000 miles and haven't had any major problems. It's really fun to drive, although it could use a bit more off-the-line acceleration. I think it's the 'Caddy that Ziggs'! If you have the chance, I would definitely recommend testing one out for yourself, especially the Sport model. The larger wheels and stiffer suspension make it perfect for the open road.
Jerald Ernser 2024-08-13
I upgraded from an Elantra to a larger family car. Despite being a Korean car, I have not experienced any issues with the key or battery.
Francesco Corkery 2024-02-17
I bought this car new and kept it for 19 years. Unfortunately, I had to spend half again +++$ for repairs. The car was built by Opal. While I've owned cars, some new and mostly used, this car was not the best fit for me. I had a negative experience with it and it has made me hesitant to purchase another GM product in the future.
Marcelino Wolf 2024-01-28
Our experience with this car has been less than satisfactory. Despite purchasing it only 6 months ago, we have already had to replace several parts, including the spoiler, headlights, front tires, idle arm, and coolant system. While we paid $6000 for the car, we have already spent over $2600 on repairs. As a Cadillac, we expected better quality and reliability. However, we do appreciate the car's excellent performance in winter conditions with over 6 inches of snow. Moving forward, we hope to see improvements in the car's maintenance and reliability. Thank you.