1972 Cadillac Fleetwood problems
The Cadillac Fleetwood was a full-size luxury sedan that was marketed by Cadillac from the 1976 to 1996 model years. Taking its nameplate from a coachbuilder historically associated with the General Motors division, the Cadillac Fleetwood became a stand-alone model line in 1985.
The first generation of the Fleetwood was introduced as Cadillac converted its C-body platform to front-wheel drive. Serving between the Sedan deVille and the Sixty Special in the front-wheel drive Cadillac line, the Fleetwood also filled the gap between the deVille and the rear-wheel drive Fleetwood Brougham (Cadillac Brougham from 1987-1992). The second generation moved to the D-body platform, serving as the replacement of the Brougham (the Fleetwood Brougham returned as a trim option).
Following the 1996 model year, Cadillac retired its Fleetwood line as GM ended production of its full-size sedan lines in North America. Within Cadillac, its large sedan lines were consolidated solely to the deVille series (later the Cadillac DTS).
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Common 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood problems
Common Problems with the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood
The 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood is known for its luxurious features and spacious interior. However, like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems. In this article, we will discuss the most frequently reported issues by owners of this car, based on complaints and recalls.
1. Transmission Issues
One of the most common problems with the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood is transmission-related issues. The car's transmission was bolted on the frame, oil line connected, oil filled and linkage connected. This design made it prone to leaks and malfunctions. The inner tie rod, outer tie rod, and pitman arm were also known to cause problems. In some cases, the transmission would make an intermittent knocking sound, which could indicate a more serious issue.
2. Steering Issues
The 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood also had steering issues, with the steering system being the cause of one of the largest recalls in the model's history. The recall affected over 388,000 cars and involved the steering system, which could fail and cause a loss of steering control. The problem was caused by a defective steering gear housing that could crack and leak steering fluid.
3. Fuel System Issues
Fuel system issues were also common in the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood. The car's fuel system was prone to leaks, which could cause a fire hazard. In some cases, the fuel system would also fail, causing the car to stall. The fuel system was the cause of several recalls, including one that affected over 400,000 cars.
4. Seats Issues
The seats in the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood were also known to cause problems. The seats could become loose or damaged, which could cause them to fail. The seat belts were also known to malfunction, which could cause a safety hazard. The seat issues were the cause of several recalls, including one that affected over 1.3 million cars.
5. Suspension Issues
The 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood's suspension system was also known to cause problems. The suspension system could become worn or damaged, which could cause the car to handle poorly. The suspension was the cause of several recalls, including one that affected over 388,000 cars.
6. Engine Issues
The 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood's engine was also known to cause problems. The engine could overheat, which could cause it to fail. The engine was the cause of several recalls, including one that affected over 400,000 cars.
7. Other Issues
Other common issues with the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood included electrical problems, lighting problems, air bag problems, brake problems, and visibility problems. These issues were the cause of several recalls, including one that affected over 388,000 cars.
In conclusion, the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood is a luxurious car with a spacious interior. However, it is known for several common problems, including transmission issues, steering issues, fuel system issues, seats issues, suspension issues, engine issues, and other issues. If you own a 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood, it is important to be aware of these common problems and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.
Are Cadillac Fleetwoods reliable?
The 1996 Cadillac Fleetwood receives an average consumer rating of 4.9 overall and a 4.9 for reliability, which means owners consider its reliability to be above average.
How many miles per gallon does a 1972 Cadillac get?
I had a '72 CDV. 472. In general, it got 8 MPG. Now, if you were on the highway and really, really careful and didn't go over 55, you could get maybe 14.
Are older Cadillacs reliable?
Older Cadillacs generally didn't have overly complex engines. Sure, some were ahead of their time with unique features, but for the most part, the engine itself was straightforward. So, it's fair to say that classic Cadillacs tend to be reliable.
How much did a Cadillac cost in 1972?
Base price for the coupe was $7380 and the convertible cost $7681, though it was easy to option either model past $11,000. Cadillacs changed little this year. Some grille patterns were altered and bumpers were beefed up to withstand 5 mph front impact with no damage, and 2.5 mph at the rear.
Are Cadillac Fleetwoods reliable?
The 1996 Cadillac Fleetwood receives an average consumer rating of 4.9 overall and a 4.9 for reliability, which means owners consider its reliability to be above average.
How many miles per gallon does a 1972 Cadillac get?
I had a '72 CDV. 472. In general, it got 8 MPG. Now, if you were on the highway and really, really careful and didn't go over 55, you could get maybe 14.
How much did a Cadillac cost in 1972?
Base price for the coupe was $7380 and the convertible cost $7681, though it was easy to option either model past $11,000. Cadillacs changed little this year. Some grille patterns were altered and bumpers were beefed up to withstand 5 mph front impact with no damage, and 2.5 mph at the rear.
Are vintage Cadillacs reliable?
A premium American brand, Cadillacs are built to last, as proven by these classic models that will practically run forever. One of the most famous American luxury car brands on the planet has to be Cadillac.
1972 Cadillac Fleetwood car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Cadillac Fleetwood problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Wheels problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1972 Cadillac Fleetwood complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-08
- VIN: 6F33R2Q1763
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: 235 / 75R-15 AMERICAN CLASSIC TIRE - COKER 700219 ORDERED A SET OF FOUR TIRES, ONE TIRE ARRIVED WITH A SIDE WALL BUBBLE MANUFACTURING DEFECT. DEFECT WAS NOT NOTICEABLE UNTIL TIRE WAS MOUNTED AND PRESSURIZED. RETAILER REPLACED THE TIRE FREE OF CHARGE.
1972 Cadillac Fleetwood recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:ARM:IDLER AND ATTACHMENT
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood problems:
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Cadillac Fleetwood Problems and Complaints - 35 Issues
Problem with your Cadillac Fleetwood? Our list of 35 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your Cadillac Fleetwood.
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