2003 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 2003 Cadillac Catera problems
The 2003 Cadillac CTS is known for several problems that affect its performance and safety. One of the most common issues is the engine burning oil and producing smoke, which is caused by the use of cheap pistons. This problem can result in the car consuming a lot of gas and wanting to cut off after a few days of normal operation. Additionally, the battery may drain overnight if it is not unhooked, and the radio may quit working.
Another issue that affects the 2003 Cadillac CTS is the suspension, which needs to be worked on constantly. The mirrors and seats may also move on their own, and the car may require frequent repairs to keep it running smoothly. Despite these problems, many owners of the 2003 Cadillac CTS appreciate its stylish design and smooth ride.
The 2003 Cadillac CTS has also been subject to several recalls by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These recalls include issues with the brake hose-tube interface, which may rupture suddenly without warning and increase the vehicle's stopping distance, increasing the risk of a crash. Another recall is related to the steering system, where an improperly tightened bolt could loosen, resulting in separation of the upper and lower steering shafts, causing a loss of vehicle control.
The 2003 Cadillac CTS is also known for electrical system problems, with 14 NHTSA complaints for the electrical system at an average of 86,487 miles. These problems can result in crashes, fires, and injuries or deaths.
Finally, the 2003 Cadillac CTS may have starting problems, which can be caused by a loose wire on the sending unit or connection to the fuel pump. This issue can be resolved by checking the relay and fuses for the fuel pump and replacing the fuel filter.
In summary, the 2003 Cadillac CTS has several common problems that affect its performance, safety, and reliability. These issues include engine problems, suspension issues, electrical system problems, and starting problems. While many owners appreciate the car's stylish design and smooth ride, frequent repairs and maintenance may be required to keep it running smoothly.
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) |
Why won't my Cadillac Catera start?
The most common reasons a Cadillac Catera won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
What replaced the Catera?
The replacement for the unloved Catera would be the CTS in 2002.
Is a Cadillac Catera rear-wheel drive?
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.
How reliable is a Cadillac Catera?
Mechanic's Nightmare
If it hasn't been maintained, everything suffers, paint being the exception. The engine is solid, but one thing goes wrong, and the whole engine degrades. In 2016, I can't recommend buying a used Catera. Rating breakdown (out of 5):
What kind of car is a Catera?
luxury sedan
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.
Why won't my Cadillac Catera start?
The most common reasons a Cadillac Catera won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
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.
2003 Cadillac Catera complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Cadillac Catera.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Cadillac Catera problems:
NorthStar reliability? | Cadillac Owners Forum
Aug 5, 2005 ... NorthStar reliability? Tags: 335i audi caddy cadillac catera ... common problems with it? ... 2003. Add to quote · Only show this user · #2 · Aug 5, ...
Common Cadillac Shift Lock Release Issues: Q&A for 2000-2014 ...
Apr 11, 2010 ... Problem - shifter will not shift out of park - 2000 cadillac D · I have a 2006 Cadillac DTS my car is running I can't get it ... · Have a 2003 ...
Catera transmission problem | Cadillac Owners Forum
Jun 5, 2013 ... Even with the gas pedal floored, I was accelerating at a snails pace. I wanted to check the tranny fluid but found out its not possible unless ...
GM transmission in BMW?
Nov 27, 2006 ... One popular misconception is that the E46 shares the same transmission with the Cadillac Catera, which is not the case. See the link below ...
Speedometer quits working | Cadillac Owners Forum
May 15, 2004 ... Your problem is probably the Electronic Traction & Brake Control Module, ETBCB. This is a common Catera fault. The speed signal comes ...
Other years of Cadillac Catera
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