1985 Cadillac Deville problems
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.
Social links
Common 1985 Cadillac Deville problems
The 1985 Cadillac DeVille is known for a few common problems based on complaints from owners of this car. One of the most frequently reported issues is transmission-related problems, specifically the transmission beginning to slip. This can be a significant issue as it affects the car's drivability and may require expensive repairs.
Another common problem with the 1985 Cadillac DeVille is the rear air shocks blowing out, causing the rear of the car to sag. This can affect the car's handling and ride quality, making it uncomfortable to drive. Additionally, it can lead to further damage to the car's suspension if not addressed promptly.
The power window regulators found in each door can fail, causing the window to fall into the door and not roll back up.
Another issue that can affect the 1985 Cadillac DeVille is problems with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Some of the HVAC door actuators can fail, resulting in the air conditioning or heater incorrectly delivering air or having it be at the wrong temperature. The best way to determine this is with a general diagnosis, with any necessary repairs varying in price.
Finally, the 1985 Cadillac DeVille may have issues with the distributor cap and rotor, causing the car to run rough and stall out. This issue may be related to the timing of the engine, and it may require adjustment or replacement of the timing components.
In summary, the 1985 Cadillac DeVille has several common problems that can affect its drivability, comfort, and safety. These issues include transmission slipping, rear air shocks blowing out, power window regulator failure, HVAC system problems, and distributor cap and rotor issues. Owners of this car should be aware of these potential problems and address them promptly to ensure the car remains safe and reliable.
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.
How long can a Cadillac DeVille last?
On average, a well-maintained Cadillac engine can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles (or more). Proper maintenance, regular oil changes, and addressing any issues promptly can significantly extend the engine's life.
What year was the Cadillac in breaking bad?
1997 CADILLAC DEVILLE
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.
Is a 1985 Cadillac front wheel drive?
In 1985, Fleetwood models used a new front wheel drive C-body platform, sharing the 110.8 inches (2,810 mm) wheelbase with GM's other C-body cars, the DeVille, Buick Electra, and Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight.
1985 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Steering problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Cadillac Deville vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Cadillac Deville complaints
The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Cadillac Deville.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-01
- VIN: 1G6CD6985F4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: - RACK AND PINION STEERING - STUCK IN CERTAIN POSITIONS AND WHEN COLD - DANGEROUS! - REAR LOAD LEVELING SYS. DOESN'T SEEM TO WORK ON ANY CADILLACS OF THIS ERA. I CAN'T PUT A SINGLE BAG OF GROCERIES IN THE TRUNK WITHOUT THE REAR BOTTOMING - WHY HAVEN'T THEY BEEN RECALLED? - HEADLINER CAME LOOSE AND HANGS DOWN. - CASSETTE PLAYS A COUPLE SECONDS THEN EJECTS. - ENGINE SPUTTERS AND MISSES EVEN THOUGH ALL TUNE-UP RELATED ITEMS HAVE BEEN REPLACED. - FRONT BRAKE HOSE CLOGGED AND LOCKED BRAKE OFF AND ON. - DANGEROUS. HIT BRAKES AND PULL HARD TO RIGHT. I OWNED AN 86 CELEBRITY WITH TWICE THE MILES AS THIS CADILLAC YET IT WAS 100 X MORE RELIABLE. CAN'T BELIEVE CADILLAC COULD HAVE STAYED IN BUSINESS AFTER THIS MODEL YEAR. WHO IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD EVER BUY ANOTHER. THIS ONE WAS GARAGE KEPT AND NOT DRIVEN IN SNOW SINCE 1987 AND WAS OWNED BY AN ELDERLY MINISTER. IT WAS VERY WELL MAINTAINED AND LOOKED LIKE NEW WHEN I BOUGHT IT DIRECTLY FROM HIM. IF ONE THAT WAS TAKEN CARE OF THIS WELL WAS SO BAD, WHAT ABOUT THE ONES THAT RECEIVED ONLY NORMAL LEVELS OF CARE AND MAINTENANCE. THIS CAR LOOKS LIKE NEW (EXCEPT HEADLINER) BUT I'VE BEEN TEMPTED TO GIVE IT TO THE JUNK YARD. IT DEPRESSES ME GREATLY. WHEN I FIX ONE THING, OTHER THINGS FAIL TWICE AS FAST AS THE RATE I CAN GET THEM FIXED. I WANT TO TRYTO GET IT REPAIRED TO SELL BUT I CAN'T GET AHEAD OF NEW PROBLEMS.*AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G6CD6982F4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE ATTEMPTING TO TURN RIGHT AT ANY DEGREE GREATER THAN A LANE CHANGE, THE STEERING GIVES THE CONSUMER HIGH RESISTANCE, ESPECIALLY DURING A COLD START. *SLC
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G6CD6982F4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE ATTEMPTING TO TURN RIGHT AT ANY DEGREE GREATER THAN A LANE CHANGE, THE STEERING GIVES THE CONSUMER HIGH RESISTANCE, ESPECIALLY DURING A COLD START. *SLC
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 205-75R14 )
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-18
- VIN: 1G6CD6983F4
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: STOPPED TO OPEN THE GATE. RESTARTED THE CAR AND THE ENGINE BEGAN TO RACE UNCONTROLLABLLY (AS THOUGH ONE HAD THEIR FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND GAS AT THE SAME TIME). HAD MY FOOT THE BRAKE AND SHIFTED BACK INTO PARK, IT STILL RACED UNTIL I SHUT IT OFF. STARTED THE CAR AGAIN TO SEE IF WE COULD GET HOME. PROCEEDED DOWN THE ROAD AND STOPPED TO LET OFF MY FATHER. RESTARTED THE CAR IN OUR PARKING AREA. THIS TIME THE BRAKES DID NOT HOLD AND IT RACED FULL SPEED IN A CIRCLE THAT I WAS STEARING. FINALLY SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AND WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR BEFORE ANY REAL PHYSICAL DAMAGE (OTHER THAN THE SEVERE FRIGHT IT CAUSED ME AND MY FATHER)
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G6CD6982F4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY STEERING WHEEL LOCKS UP WHEN STARTED. WHEN DRIVING, IT FREQUENTLY OFFERS HIGH RESISTANCE TO TURN RIGHT TO ANY DEGREE GREATER THAN A LANE CHANGE. *AK.ET
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- VIN: 1G6CD6986F4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: POSSIBLE BRAKE FAILURE WAS THE CAUSE OF VEHICLE COLLISION RESULTING IN DEATH.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-09-16
- VIN: 1G6CD6980F4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: A FEW MONTHS BEFORE PURCHASE, THE ALTERNATOR/BATTERY HAD BEEN REPLACED. LAST WEEK, I REPLACED THE ALTERNATOR AGAIN.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-26
- VIN: 1G6CD698XF4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE REPLACED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-26
- VIN: 1G6CD698XF4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR REPLACED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G6CD6985F4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: UPPER SEAT BELT IS NOT SNUG AGAINST CHEST, IF DRIVER LEANS FORWARD, BELT DOES NOT RETRACT/SOMETIMES, UPPER BELT STAYS ALL THE WAY OUT AND REQUIRES THAT BELT BE UNBUCKLED. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- VIN: 1G6CD6980F4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: FAILURE ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND COLUMN, THE BOLTS THAT HOLDS THE STEERING WHEEL IS BREAKING AWAY FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-10
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: GAS STRUT ON HOOD FAILED, CAUSING HOOD TO CLOSE ON DRIVERS HEAD WHILE CHECKING OIL. *DH
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-15
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: CONSUMER WHEELS BEND AND TIRES WOBBLES ALL 4 OF THEM. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-07
- VIN: 1G6CD4786F4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE HAS FAILED, NEEDS A NEW ENGINE AFTER 30K MILES. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-01-01
- VIN: 1G6CB6987F4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILURE. *AW
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
- VIN: 1G6CD6980F4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE ENGINE HAS A KNOCK IN IT AND THE HEAD GASKET HAS BEEN REPLACED AND IT HAS ONLY 22,000 MILES ON IT. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-01-12
- VIN: 1G6CB6987F4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: REPLACED ENGINE DUE TO ANTI-FREEZE LEAKAGE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-05-07
- VIN: 1G6CD478XF4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MAIN BEARINGS /BLOWER MODULE FAILED. *TW
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-06
- VIN: 1G6CD4782F4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING FAILURE WHEN STARTING VEHICLE. TT
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-10
- VIN: 1G6CD698XF4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION SUPPORTS/TRANSAXLE FAILED. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-18
- VIN: 106KS6981FE
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL NYLON BUSHING FAILED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-28
- VIN: 1G6CD6981F4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WATER PUMP PULLEY FELL OFF, CAUSING LOSS OF POWER STEERING . *SD
1985 Cadillac Deville recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1985 Cadillac Deville.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: OMISSION OF THE CERTIFICATION LABELS AS REQUIRED BY FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 110 "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS".
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSTALL REQUIRED CERTIFICATION LABELS.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1985 Cadillac Deville problems:
1985-87 FWD Deville/Fleetwood Check in! | Cadillac Owners Forum
Jul 10, 2005 ... IAC problems... common, mostly fixed, but still some problems which we believe are electrical. And at this very moment my mechanic is trying ...
1985 Cadillac DeVille Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Faults: The transmission is about to go it slips badly and can't get out of first gear. Power windows to slow.
2002 Deville common problems??? | Cadillac Owners Forum
Jul 22, 2008 ... Hi I'm looking at a 2002 DeVille DHS PERAL WHITE WITH 90KMS The Car sales guy said there wasn't anything wrong with the new north stars but ...
Cadillac DeVille Steering Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Jan 12, 2006 ... Cadillac DeVille Steering Problems ... Local mechanic says this is a common problem with this car and VERY expensive to correct. ... My 1985 had ...
2005 deville,head gasket problems, how common | Cadillac Owners ...
Mar 1, 2010 ... Have 2005 Deville, 43,000 miles, head gasket problem, would like to know how common this problem is, have heard of quite a few lately in my ...
Other years of Cadillac Deville
Are you having problems with your 1985 Cadillac Deville?
Leave your review of 1985 Cadillac Deville