2002 Cadillac Eldorado problems
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.
Social links
Common 2002 Cadillac Eldorado problems
Common Problems with the Cadillac Eldorado 2002
1. No-Start Problem Due to Theft System
A common problem with the Cadillac Eldorado 2002 is that the car won't start due to the anti-theft system being activated. This can occur even if the key fob battery is dead and hasn't disabled the system. To bypass or disable the unit, you may need to find a dealer's manual, such as a Chilton or Hemmings manual, at a local library or technical school library. Additionally, you can search Cadillac discussion boards for advice. It's important to note that there can be up to 50 problems that can cause this symptom.
2. Short Circuit in the Electrical System
Another issue with the Cadillac Eldorado 2002 is a short circuit in the electrical system. This problem can occur when the car has been standing for a long period, such as 9 years. When connecting the battery, the electrical system may not react at all. The ignition key may be turned on, but there may be no power in the car. The electrics may not respond, and the cable (+) may get very hot and turn red. This issue can be caused by a short circuit, but it's unclear where to look for the problem.
3. Rubber Transmission Cooler Lines Can Leak Fluid
A third problem with the Cadillac Eldorado 2002 is that the rubber transmission cooler lines can leak fluid. This issue is one of the most common problems based on car owner complaints.
4. Overheating
Another issue with the Cadillac Eldorado 2002 is overheating, which can warp the aluminum heads and require a new engine. It's essential to ensure that the car doesn't overheat to avoid this problem.
In summary, the Cadillac Eldorado 2002 has several common problems, including no-start problems due to the theft system, short circuits in the electrical system, rubber transmission cooler lines that can leak fluid, and overheating. It's essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the car's longevity and safety.
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.
How many 2002 Cadillac Eldorados were made?
But, this car has become incredibly scarce. Only 2,638 will leave the factory in 2002. Only 7,713 were built last year. So, despite its familiar styling, my bright red test car turned quite a few heads.
What motor is in a 2002 Cadillac Eldorado?
4.6 L V82002 Cadillac Eldorado / Engine
What year was the last Cadillac Eldorado made?
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.
How many 2002 Cadillac Eldorados were made?
But, this car has become incredibly scarce. Only 2,638 will leave the factory in 2002. Only 7,713 were built last year. So, despite its familiar styling, my bright red test car turned quite a few heads.
What engine did the Cadillac Eldorado have?
Under the hood, Cadillac installed a huge, 500 cu-in engine (8.2-liter), which was later replaced by a smaller 425 cu-in powerplant. The only available transmission was a three-speed automatic. For enhanced comfort, the Eldorado sported coil-springs in the back.
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.
How fast does a Cadillac Eldorado go?
1997 Cadillac Eldorado Specs, Features & Options
| Torque | |
|---|---|
| 7.4 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | |
| 112 mph | 150 mph |
2002 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:
- Structure problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Cadillac Eldorado vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2002 Cadillac Eldorado complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Cadillac Eldorado.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-17
- VIN: 1G6EL12Y62B
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CADILLAC ELDORADO. THE CONTACT STATED THE OVERHEAD EYEGLASS COMPARTMENT DETACHED AND BLOCKED THE VIEW OF THE REAR VIEW MIRROR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN THE DEALER WHO STATED THE LATCH FOR THE OVERHEAD EYE GLASS COMPARTMENT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 87,757. UPDATED 07/19/12 *BF UPDATED 07/23/12
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-13
- VIN: 1G6ET12962B
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I WAS AT DON MACKEY CADILLAC SHOWING THE SERVICE ADVISER A PROBLEM UNDER THE HOOD WHEN I NOTICED THAT THE FIREWALL HAD A HOLE IN IT. IN THE PRESENCE OF THE ADVISED I POINTED OUT THE OPENING AND WHEN I TOUCHED THE FIREWALL A PIECE OF THE PL ASTIC BROKE OFF IN MY HAND. I ASKED THE SERVICE ADVISER IF THIS WAS TYPICAL AND HE STATED THAT IT WAS NOT. HE ALSO STATED THAT TO REPLACE THE PART WOULD BE PROHIBITIVELY EXPENSIVE. I FEEL THAT THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD. THE FIREWALL IS SUPPOSED TO PROTECT THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE OR ACCIDENT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-01
- VIN: 1G6EC12982B
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CADILLAC ELDORADO. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE CONTACT HEARD A CLINKING NOISE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VALVE SOLENOID AND TORQUE CONVERTER CAUSED THE FAILURE AND THEY MADE THE REPLACEMENT. APPROXIMATELY FOUR MONTHS LATER, WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED DIFFICULTY SHIFTING GEARS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND LOWER VALVES CAUSED THE FAILURE AND THEY MADE THE REPLACEMENT. APPROXIMATELY ONE MONTH LATER, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT UPSHIFT. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE SPACER PLATE AND GASKET ASSEMBLY CAUSED THE FAILURE AND MADE THE REPLACEMENT. APPROXIMATELY A YEAR AND A HALF LATER, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE SOLENOID CAUSED THE FAILURE AND THEY REPLACED THE SOLENOID, VARIABLE PRESSURE SOLENOID, AND FILTERS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,215 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 60,500. UPDATED 12/27/07 *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-05
- VIN: 1G6KY54912U
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I OWN A 2002 CADILLAC STS AND JUST HAD THE BRAKES FAIL , BUT FORTUNATELY NOT IN A WAY THAT THERE WAS A CRASH. I WAS TOLD BY THE SERVICE WRITER AT SAINT CLARE CADILLAC IN SANTA CLARA, CA THAT THE BRAKE LINE FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE FRONT BRAKES FAILED DUE TO A DEFECTIVE CLIP. HE STATED THAT THIS WAS THE FOURTH CAR THIS MONTH THAT HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM. THE PLASTIC CLIP COMES LOOSE AND THE BRAKE LINE RUBS AGAINST THE TRANSMISSION HOUSING AND EVENTUALLY FAILS. I WAS VERY LUCKY THAT THIS FAILURE HAPPENED IN MY DRIVEWAY AS I LIVE IN A MOUNTAIN AREA OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA. THE BRAKE FAILED BY PUMPING FLUID OUT OF THE HOLE EVERY TIME THE BRAKE WAS DEPRESSED UNTIL THERE WAS INSUFFICIENT FLUID TO KEEP THE PEDAL FROM GOING TO THE FLOOR. THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED TO ME. SHOULD NOT THIS BE AN IMMEDIATE RECALL ITEM BY GENERAL MOTORS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-11
- VIN: 1G6EC12972B
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DT CONSUMER STATES WHEN THE BRAKES ARE PRESSED, IT DOESN'T STOP THE VEHICLE. IT HAPPENS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS MOVING SLOWLY. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT SAYS THEY CAN'T FIND OUT WHAT IS WRONG WITH THE BRAKES. *TT
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-10
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2002 CADILLAC DEVILLE, CLICKING IN RIGHT REAR WHEEL BEARING. DEALING CHECKED BEARING, FOUND IT TO BE BAD, AND NOTED THAT LEFT FRONT WAS ALSO GOING BAD. REAR BEARING REPLACED, FRONT BEARING TIGHTED, DEALER SUGGESTED PERIODIC CHECKS, MAY NEED REPLACEMENT IN FUTURE. THIS CALL IS LESS THAT 3 YEARS OLD, 60K MILES, BEARING SHOULD NOT BE GOING BAD. THIS CAR WAS NOT IN AN ACCIDENT, NOR CURBS STRUCK, NOT WAS IT SETTING UN-USED FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME. THESE ARE SCENARIOS THE DEALER TRIED TO EXPLAIN TO ME WHY WHEEL BEARING WENT BAD WITH 60K MILES. I EXPLAINED THAT NEITHER OF THOSE SCENARIOS WERE EXPERIENCED BY ME/THIS CAR.L *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-22
- VIN: 1G6EC12932B
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR INTO CAR DEALERSHIP FOR THE FIFTH TIME DUE TO SAME SAFETY PROBLEM--CAR, WITHOUT WARNING GOES INTO PASSING GEAR CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL, WITH RPM'S GOING TO 6000 & SPEEDOMETER GOING TO 0-- HIGH PROBABILITY OF A CRASH. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-29
- VIN: 1G6KD54Y81U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE CRANKSHAFT SENSOR FAILED WHICH CAUSED THE ENGINE TO TURN OFF. *PH THE DEALER REPLACED BOTH CRANK SENSORS. *NM (NAR)
STEERING,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-01
- VIN: 1G6EL12Y82B
- Components: STEERING,TIRES
- Summary: WARRANTY AND SAFETY ISSUE * CADILLAC MARKET IMAGE.*MR (NAR) THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED STEERING PROBLEMS CAUSED BY FAULTY VOGUE TIRES. *CB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-15
- VIN: 1G6DM57N230
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHT LOW BEAM ON THE CADILLAC CTS 2000 HAS A BLACK BAR THAT REDUCES VISION TO ABOUT 75 FT AND ON DARK COUNTRY ROADS, THIS SHORTENED VISION IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. THE HEADLIGHT SHOULD BE A RECALL BEFORE SERIOUS ACCIDENTS OCCUR AS A RESULT OF THIS CONDITION. WHAT WAS CADILLAC THINKING? CADILLAC DOESN'T SEEM TO THINK THERE IS A PROBLEM BUT OBVIOUSLY THEY DON'T EVER DRIVE THEIR PRODUCT ON DARK ROADS AT NIGHT. THIS HEADLIGHT PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE CORRECTED!! IT IS AWFUL! *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-01
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FRONT TIRES WORE OUT PREMATURELY, CAUSING THE SIDEWALL TO CRACK. DEALER RECOMMENDED TIRE REPLACEMENT. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6ET129128
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE HIT SEVERAL OBJECTS BEFORE HITTING A TREE HEAD ON AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.*MR THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE HIT THE BACK OF A CONCRETE TRUCK, A DITCH AND A TREE. THE DEALER STATED THE CONSUMER DIDN'T HIT THE OBJECTS AT THE RIGHT ANGLE, WHICH CAUSED THE AIR BAGS NOT TO DEPLOY. *PH *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD-ON ACCIDENT. UPON IMPACT THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. *AK *NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN SEVERAL TIMES WHILE EXITING A RAMP. *AK *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: FRONT GLASS BLOW OUT AT 75MPH. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-08
- VIN: 1G6KF5795ZU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING TRANSMISSION BURNED UP, AND WHEN PUTTING VEHICLE INTO ANY GEAR, IT WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE FORWARD. CONTACTED DEALER, AND THE DEALER REPLACED TRANSMISSION. *AK CADILLAC DTS 2002 *YH
Negative 2002 Cadillac Eldorado car reviews
Positive 2002 Cadillac Eldorado car reviews
-
This car is not only comfortable and quiet, but also sporty and powerful. It has proven to be very reliable and still looks great after seven years. We are especially happy with the 28 MPG it gets on long trips.
-
I owned this car for 20 years and loved it every minute. Till the day I sold it, I was receiving compliments on it. If GM still made the Eldorado, I would have bought another one.
-
I had a Crimson 2002 Eldorado while living in Italy and had the pleasure of visiting the Ferrari Museum and factory. Unfortunately, parking was limited and only Fiats were allowed, so I had to park on the sidewalk in front of the entrance. The museum was very nice and after finishing my visit, I noticed about 20 workers in Ferrari coveralls admiring my Caddi and taking pictures. It was truly the best car I ever owned!
-
I traded my late model corvette for this fine used automobile because I wanted something more comfortable and better designed for everyday driving, yet still retaining a distinctive and sporty look. I am most impressed! The Northstar engine is very quick and responsive, the ride is excellent, and the stylish look is an eye-catcher. I took my first road trip and achieved 25mpg, which is excellent. Although three years old, the ETC is very tight with no rattles.
-
I'll be happy to restore your 2002 etc. I understand how attached you are to your 2001 etc, but it might be time for an upgrade.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Cadillac Eldorado problems:
2002 Eldorado Northstar Engine Problems? | Cadillac Owners Forum
Dec 8, 2009 ... GM lengthened the head bolts in 2000 so you are much less likely to suffer a failure. A coarser thread was used in '04 to further strengthen it.
2002 Cadillac Eldorado Problems and Complaints - 24 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Cadillac Eldorado? Our list of 24 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Cadillac Eldorado.
2002 Eldorado Issues, Heater. | Cadillac Owners Forum
Aug 24, 2023 ... It's a common problem in the Eldo's and I replaced both of mine. One is accessible above the footwell by removing the cover above where your ...
Cadillac Eldorado Questions - What are Common Problems with ...
Feb 9, 2010 ... What are Common Problems with 1974 Eldorados? - I am looking at buying at buying at Caddy and I dig the style of 74 Eldorados.
Common 2002 Cadillac Eldorado Problems: Expert Q&A
Jan 7, 2021 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Other years of Cadillac Eldorado
Are you having problems with your 2002 Cadillac Eldorado?
Solon Jones 2024-11-26
This product did not meet my expectations. The headbolts were too short and caused the aluminum heads to warp. The design needs improvement.
Keith Renner 2024-08-21
It sounds like you've found a versatile car that suits your needs! With its great fuel mileage of 23 to 26 mpg, it's perfect for those long drives out of town. And not only is it practical, but it also looks and feels great to drive. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Fritz Hills 2024-05-28
It's great to hear that your wife enjoys driving a full-size two-door luxury coupe! However, it seems like the Eldorado may not be the most reliable option, as it has had to be towed twice. Additionally, it's worth noting that the car hasn't changed much since the 1992 model. Have you considered looking into other options that may better suit your needs?
Cullen Bechtelar 2024-04-21
I really like this car, but unfortunately, it has not been very reliable. I had some trouble with it when it died on the interstate with only 1,400 miles on it. Since then, I have had to spend over $2,000 on electrical repairs and have had four dead batteries. Currently, it has been in the shop for over 7 days with 24 indicators in the computer, and even the GM tech center is unsure of what the problem is. Despite all of this, I have never owned a foreign car before, but I am now considering a nice Japanese vehicle. This will be my last Cadillac, though (remember those engines that blew up in the '84 model?).
Eusebio Walter 2024-02-08
Sorry to hear that you've been experiencing nothing but problems since getting your new car. Despite its great looks, it seems like the quality is not up to par. Hopefully, we can find a solution to these issues and get you back on the road with a reliable vehicle.