1989 Cadillac Eldorado problems

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The Cadillac Eldorado is a luxury car manufactured and marketed by Cadillac from 1952 until 2002 over twelve generations.

The Eldorado was at or near the top of the Cadillac line. The original 1953 Eldorado convertible and the Eldorado Brougham models of 1957–1960 had distinct bodyshells and were the most expensive models that Cadillac offered those years. The Eldorado was never less than second in price after the Cadillac Series 75 limousine until 1966. Starting in 1967 the Eldorado retained its premium position in the Cadillac price structure, but was manufactured in high volumes on a unique, two-door personal luxury car platform.

The Eldorado carried the Fleetwood designation from 1965 through 1972, and was a modern revival of the pre-war Cadillac V-12 and Cadillac V-16 roadsters and convertibles.

1989 Cadillac Eldorado

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Common 1989 Cadillac Eldorado problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 1989 Cadillac Eldorado, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

  • Electrical System Malfunctions: Owners have experienced various electrical system malfunctions in the 1989 Cadillac Eldorado. These issues can range from faulty wiring to malfunctioning components, affecting the car's overall performance and reliability.
  • Mechanical Issues with the 4.5-Liter V8 Engine: The 4.5-liter V8 engine in the 1989 Eldorado has been known to have mechanical issues, although specific details are not provided in the search results. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to address any potential engine problems.
  • Interior Wear and Tear: Due to the age of the vehicle, owners have reported interior wear and tear, especially on the seats. The original leather upholstery may show signs of aging and require restoration or replacement to maintain the car's aesthetic appeal and comfort level.
  • General Wear from Age and Mileage: Given that the 1989 Eldorado is an older vehicle, general wear from age and mileage is a common issue. Components such as suspension, brakes, and transmission may require attention due to wear and tear accumulated over the years.
  • Minor Mechanical Issues: Some owners have mentioned minor mechanical issues that need attention, such as those related to the engine, transmission, or other mechanical components. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to address these issues promptly and prevent further damage.
  • Potential Cooling System Problems: While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, cooling system problems can be common in older vehicles like the 1989 Cadillac Eldorado. Issues such as radiator leaks, thermostat malfunctions, or overheating can arise and should be addressed to prevent engine damage.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, timely repairs, and thorough inspections to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of the 1989 Cadillac Eldorado. Owners should address these issues promptly to maintain the car's reliability and driving experience.

1989 Cadillac Eldorado engine

What years of Eldorado to avoid?

Worst Issues

  • rear oil seal leak in the 1994 Eldorado. 1 complaints.
  • ac went out in the 1998 Eldorado. 1 complaints.
  • dead battery in the 2002 Eldorado. 1 complaints.
  • engine uses excessive oil in the 2001 Eldorado. 1 complaints.
  • engine runs rough in the 1993 Eldorado. 1 complaints.

What engine does a 1989 Cadillac Eldorado have?

Specifications for Cadillac Eldorado 4.5 V8 Automatic, 157hp, 1989 4-speed.

How fast does a Cadillac Eldorado go?

1997 Cadillac Eldorado Specs, Features & Options

Torque
7.4 seconds7.1 seconds
Top Speed
112 mph150 mph

What was the last year Cadillac made Eldorado?

2002

A true driver's luxury coupe, the Cadillac Eldorado (discontinued in 2002) integrated not only the best in performance and handling characteristics, but also outstanding comfort and convenience.

What years of Eldorado to avoid?

Worst Issues

  • rear oil seal leak in the 1994 Eldorado. 1 complaints.
  • ac went out in the 1998 Eldorado. 1 complaints.
  • dead battery in the 2002 Eldorado. 1 complaints.
  • engine uses excessive oil in the 2001 Eldorado. 1 complaints.
  • engine runs rough in the 1993 Eldorado. 1 complaints.

What engine does a 1989 Cadillac Eldorado have?

Specifications for Cadillac Eldorado 4.5 V8 Automatic, 157hp, 1989 4-speed.

How fast does a Cadillac Eldorado go?

1997 Cadillac Eldorado Specs, Features & Options

Torque
7.4 seconds7.1 seconds
Top Speed
112 mph150 mph

What was the last year Cadillac made Eldorado?

2002

A true driver's luxury coupe, the Cadillac Eldorado (discontinued in 2002) integrated not only the best in performance and handling characteristics, but also outstanding comfort and convenience.

1989 Cadillac Eldorado car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Tires problems
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Cadillac Eldorado vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Cadillac Eldorado complaints

The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Cadillac Eldorado.

2006-05-25

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: 1989 ELDORADO HAS ENGINE BLOCK PROBLEMS. *TS COOLANT LEAKED THROUGH ALUMINUM ENGINE BLOCK. THE COOLANT FAN MODULE WAS REPLACED THREE TIMES.*JB
2003-09-04

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G6EL1153KU
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: BOTH FRONT TIRES EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION, AND THE REAR TIRES DEVELOPED A BUBBLE IN THE SIDEWALL. *AK NEW TIRES WERE PURCHASED ON FOUR OCCASIONS. *SCC *JB
1998-06-22

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-06-11
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: THIS INFORMATION IS BEING SENT IN CONJUNCTION WITH A HOT-LINE CALL MADE THIS DATE. THE PROBLEM IS SUDDEN UNEXPECTED LOSS OF HEADLIGHTS WHICH CANNOT BE TURNED ON. GIVEN A SMALL AMOUNT OF TIME (10-20 MINUTES) HEADLIGHTS BECOME OPERABLE AGAIN. VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH LIGHT SENTINAL.
1997-10-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THERE IS A SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE HEAD LIGHTS, CAUSING THE HEAD LIGHT NOT TO STAY ILLUMINATED, MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO SEE AT NIGHT. CONSUMER HAS CALLED DEALER, PARTS HAS BEEN REPLACED. *AK
1996-12-27

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-06-01
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE AUTOMATIC LAP/SHOULDER BELT WILL NOT RETRACT, RED RELEASE BUCKLE WOULD NOT HOLD IF PULLED ON WILL NOT LATCH PROPERLY. *AK
1996-11-15

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: ONE OF THE FUEL LINES IS LEAKING. *AK *SLC
1996-08-13

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-08-09
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 TO 40 MPH, STARTED BRAKING, ENGINE STARTED SPEEDING UP ON ITS OWN, APPLIED BRAKES, KEPT GOING, SHIFTED FROM DRIVE TO 1ST GEAR ATTEMPTING TO SLOW DOWN, STILL WOULD NOT STOP, SHIFTED TO PARK/ TURNED OFF IGNITION TO STOP. *AK
1995-09-13

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-05-14
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION REPLACED. *SD
1995-09-13

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1989-09-28
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: STARTER REPLACED 3 TIMES. *SD
1995-09-13

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1989-09-28
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: BATTERY REPLACED 4 TIMES. *SD

1989 Cadillac Eldorado recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1989 Cadillac Eldorado.

2006-05-19
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
1989-04-05
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK
  • Summary: ONE OR BOTH ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT MOUNTING BOLTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SEATED AND COULD LOOSEN.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD LEAD TO SEPARATION OF THE ABSHYDRAULIC UNIT FROM THE MOUNTING BRACKET AND RESULT IN LOSS OF BRAKE FUNCTIONAND A CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
  • Remedy: REPLACE BOTH ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT MOUNTING BOLTS.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1989 Cadillac Eldorado problems:

Help, reliability of a 1989 Eldorado | Cadillac Owners Forum
Help, reliability of a 1989 Eldorado | Cadillac Owners Forum
https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/help-reliability-of-a-1989-eldorado.1098080/

Jun 7, 2020 ... A location would be helpful. Save Share.

1989 Cadillac Eldorado Reviews - Carsurvey.org
1989 Cadillac Eldorado Reviews - Carsurvey.org
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/cadillac/eldorado/1989/

Jan 12, 2015 ... Faults: Ignition switch had to be replaced at 98,000 miles. Power steering hoses replaced. Radiator repaired. Starter replaced at 103,000 miles.

4.5 Reliability | Cadillac Owners Forum
4.5 Reliability | Cadillac Owners Forum
https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/4-5-reliability.179250/

Sep 6, 2009 ... I want to make a general inquiry about the 4.5 engine. I found an absolutely beautiful 1990 coupe deville with 81k. What kind of issues or ...

Cadillac Eldorado Problems and Complaints - 37 Issues
Cadillac Eldorado Problems and Complaints - 37 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/cadillac/eldorado

Problem with your Cadillac Eldorado? Our list of 37 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your Cadillac Eldorado.

Common 1999 Cadillac Eldorado Problems: Expert Q&A
Common 1999 Cadillac Eldorado Problems: Expert Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/cadillac/2fcn0-1999-cadillac-eldorado-just-changed-alternator.html

Aug 16, 2009 ... What can cause the problem with a 1999 cadillac eldorado? - Answered by a verified Cadillac Mechanic.

Other years of Cadillac Eldorado

cadillac eldorado 1990 photo
Eldorado 1990
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4

5

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cadillac eldorado 1991 photo
Eldorado 1991
Cadillac

13

1

11

  • 5
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cadillac eldorado 1992 photo
Eldorado 1992
Cadillac

32

1

11

  • 5
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  • 1
cadillac eldorado 1993 photo
Eldorado 1993
Cadillac

48

2

9

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  • 1
cadillac eldorado 1994 photo
Eldorado 1994
Cadillac

39

2

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
cadillac eldorado 1995 photo
Eldorado 1995
Cadillac

74

2

19

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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1989 Cadillac Eldorado photo