1982 Cadillac Deville problems

General information about Cadillac-Deville
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Cadillac DeVille is a model name used by Cadillac over eight generations, originally used to designate a trim level of the 1949 Cadillac Series 62 and later to designate a standalone model in the brand range. The last model marketed specifically as a DeVille was the 2005 full-size sedan, at the time, Cadillac's largest model.

For 2006, the Deville nameplate was retired, when the model line was carried forward (with minor revisions) as the Cadillac DTS, using a nomenclature adopted by the Cadillac STS and CTS.

Early history

The name "DeVille" is derived from the French de la ville or de ville meaning "of the town". In French coach building parlance, a coupé de ville, from the French couper (to cut) i.e. shorten or reduce, was a short four-wheeled closed carriage with an inside seat for two and an outside seat for the driver and this smaller vehicle was intended for use in the town or city (de ville). An (unshortened) limousine or (in the United States) town car has a division between the passenger and driver compartments and if the driver's seat is outside it may be called a sedanca de ville or town car.

The first Cadillac "Coupe de Ville" was shown during the 1949 Motorama. It was built on a Cadillac Sixty Special chassis and featured a dummy air-scoop, chrome trim around front wheel openings, and a one-piece windshield and rear glass. The interior was black and trimmed in gray leather, including the headliner, to match the roof color. It was equipped with a telephone in the glove compartment, a vanity case and a secretarial pad in the rear armrest, power windows and highly decorative chrome interior trim. The prototype "Coupe de Ville" was used by GM President Charles E. Wilson until 1957 when he presented it to his secretary. At some time during this period it acquired a dark Vicodec roof. The prototype "Coupe de Ville" was found and restored in the 2010s; it was in a private collection in London, Ontario, Canada as of 2017.

The Cadillac Series 62 Coupe de Ville was introduced late in the 1949 model year. Along with the Buick Roadmaster Riviera, and the Oldsmobile 98 Holiday, it was among the first pillarless hardtop coupes ever produced. At US$3,496 ($44,768 in 2023 dollars ) it was only a dollar less than the Series 62 convertible, and like the convertible, it came with power windows standard. It was luxuriously trimmed, with leather upholstery and chrome 'bows' in the headliner to simulate the ribs of a convertible top. In its first year the Series 62 Coupe de Ville only sold 2,150 units. But 1950 sales more than doubled to 4507, and in 1951 sales more than doubled again to 10,241 exceeding the sales for the Series 62 Club Coupe that year. Also, in 1951, Coupe de Ville chrome script appeared on the rear roof pillar for the first time, to further distinguish it from the Series 62 Club Coupe.

In 1956 the Series 62 Coupe de Ville was joined by the Series 62 Sedan de Ville, Cadillac's first standard production 4-door hardtop. Similarly to the Coupe de Ville, it was also more expensive and more luxuriously trimmed than the standard 4-door Series 62. With 41,732 sold, it also easily outsold the Series 62 sedan in its very first year. Given their sales success, it was only natural that the Coupe de Ville and Sedan de Ville were moved to their own separate series in 1959, the Series 6300, being joined by a DeVille convertible in 1964.

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Common 1982 Cadillac Deville problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Cadillac DeVille 1982, common problems reported include:

Engine Noise: Some owners have experienced engine noise, particularly a small noise coming from the back of the passenger side of the engine when starting from a standstill with light throttle. This noise tends to disappear when the gas is pressed harder.

Clear Coat Cracking: Another common problem noted is the clear coat cracking all over the car's exterior. While this doesn't affect the car's performance, it can impact its aesthetic appeal and potentially lead to further deterioration if not addressed.

HVAC Door Actuator Failure: Owners have reported issues with the HVAC door actuators, leading to problems with the heating and air conditioning systems. This can result in incorrect air delivery or temperature control, affecting the comfort of the vehicle's interior.

Power Window Regulator Failure: Devilles dating back to the 1991 model year have been known to experience power window regulator failures. When these regulators fail, the window can fall into the door and may not roll back up, posing an inconvenience and potential safety hazard.

These problems highlight some of the key issues faced by owners of the Cadillac DeVille 1982, ranging from mechanical concerns like coolant leaks and engine noise to cosmetic issues such as clear coat cracking. Addressing these problems promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the performance, safety, and overall condition of the vehicle.

What years of DeVille to avoid?

Overheating and cracked engine blocks in Cadillac DeVilles

The popular 2000 and 2002 Cadillac DeVilles are prime casualties, with the engine tending to overheat due to a leaking head gasket. Alternatively, a water pump leak could be preventing your coolant circulating freely through your engine.

What engine is in a 1982 Cadillac?

In 1982, the HT4100 debuted as the standard engine for all Cadillac models except the new compact Cimarron, and the Fleetwood limousines, which continued to carry the variable displacement V8-6-4 engine until 1984.

How long can a Cadillac DeVille last?

How Many Miles Does a Cadillac Last? A new Cadillac typically drives between 150,000 and 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. This translates to about 10 to 13 years for an average driver clocking 15,000 miles per year.

What year was the Cadillac in breaking bad?

1997 CADILLAC DEVILLE

Saul Goodman's famous car with the “Lwyrup” number plate was his most famous car. It first appeared in Breaking Bad and then became a trademark for the fan-favourite lawyer. The 4-door sedan had 4-wheel drive(4WD) and an automatic 4-speed gearbox.

What years of DeVille to avoid?

Overheating and cracked engine blocks in Cadillac DeVilles

What engine is in a 1982 Cadillac?

How long can a Cadillac DeVille last?

Is a Cadillac DeVille fast?

Is the 2003 Cadillac DeVille a powerful car? It depends on your definition of powerful. The 2003 DeVille ranges in power from the Sedan 4D with 275 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 7.8 seconds to the DTS Sedan 4D with 300 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 7.3 seconds.

1982 Cadillac Deville car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Cadillac Deville problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Vehicle speed control problems
Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems
Structure problems
Visibility problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1982 Cadillac Deville vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1982 Cadillac Deville complaints

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1982 Cadillac Deville.

1998-08-30

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1998-08-20
Number Of Injuries: 1
VIN: 1G6AB4788C9
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: THE DRIVER PUT THE VEHICLE IN REVERSE AND STEPPED ON ACCELERATOR AND CAR SPED UP AND WENT OUT OF CONTROL. BRAKING WOULD NOT STOP VEHICLE.

Add Complaint

1996-05-10

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-05-10
VIN: 1G6AD6985C9
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION/LOSS OF CONTROL. *SD

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCKS FAILED.

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Fire: 1
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: RIGHT FRONT POWER WINDOW FAILED TO GO UP, ALSO WINDOW CAUGHT FIRE.

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

SEATS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Components: SEATS
Summary: DRIVER'S/PASSENGER'S POWER SEATS FAILED.

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Components: STEERING
Summary: POWER STEERING PROBLEMS, CAUSING VEHICLE TO TURN HARD TO LEFT OR RIGHT.

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: CRUISE CONTROL FAILED.

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON.

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: HEADLIGHTS STAY ON HIGH BEAMS.

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: TRANSMISSION SLIPS.

Add Complaint

1995-08-25

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Summary: RIGHT REAR DOOR LOCK FAILED. *SKD

Add Complaint

1982 Cadillac Deville recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1982 Cadillac Deville.

1993-06-04

Manufacturer: PUROLATOR PRODUCTS, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
Summary: THE FUEL FILTERS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN INCORRECT THREADED FITTING. THE INCORRECT FITTING IS SIMILIAR ENOUGH IN SIZE THAT THE FUEL FILTER MAY APPEAR TO BE CORRECTLY THREADED ONTO THE FUEL LINE.
Consequence: REPLACE THE FILTERS WITH THE CORRECT FILTERS.
Remedy: THE IMPROPER THREADING COULD CAUSE A GASOLINE LEAK WHICH MAY RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE WHEN EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.

1982-01-03

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
Summary: UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT RETAINER IN THE INJECTION PUMP MAY FAIL. THE THROTTLE VALVE COULD STICK, PREVENTING RETURN TO IDLE AND SHUT DOWN OF THE ENGINE BY THE DRIVER.
Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT ASSEMBLY IN THE INJECTION PUMP AT NO COST TO OWNER.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1982 Cadillac Deville problems:

1982 Cadillac DeVille Q&A: Troubleshooting and Expert Advice

https://www.justanswer.com/cadillac/2ny3z-1982-cadillac-deville-4-1-liter-v8-4100-dfi.html

Oct 16, 2009 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.

Cadillac HT4100 In Depth Problems and Reliability. | Bob Is The Oil ...

https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/cadillac-ht4100-in-depth-problems-and-reliability.133626/

Jun 10, 2010 ... ... problems and reliability of the Cadillac HT4100 V8 made from 1982 ... common with GM engines in that era) added to the coolant as well. Mom's '83 ...

4.1 v6, 4.1 v8-- What's the differance? | Cadillac Owners Forum

https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/4-1-v6-4-1-v8-whats-the-differance.49919/

Aug 25, 2005 ... bls brougham buick caddy cadillac chevy computer d'elegance deville eldorado engine ... problems are with these engines. ... 1980 - 1982 Cadillac ...

1982 Cadillac DeVille Reviews, Page 2 of 3 - Carsurvey.org

http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/cadillac/deville/1982/page-2/

Dec 19, 2007 ... The car is extremely comfortable and has an incredible ride. It seats 6 comfortably. It is very reliable and at 20 years old, it still gets 17 ...