1985 Cadillac Seville problems
The Cadillac Seville is a mid-size luxury car manufactured by Cadillac from the 1976 to 2004 model years as a smaller-sized, premium model. It was replaced by the STS in 2004 for the 2005 model year.
Origin of the name
The name of "Cadillac's first small car" was selected over a revival of LaSalle or the GM design staff's preference, LaScala, primarily because, as noted by GM Marketing Director Gordon Horsburgh, "It had no negatives." The initial suggestion was "Leland" in honor of one of the make's founders but it was rejected because most buyers wouldn't understand the reference and Henry Leland had also founded rival Lincoln.
Hundreds of suggestions were considered: after extensive research, LaSalle was the top pick with St. Moritz a distant second, trailed further by Seville. A troubled past (LaSalle) and difficult pronunciation (St. Moritz) led to the eventual selection of the Seville nameplate.
Seville is the name of a Spanish province and its capital, renowned for its history and treasures of art and architecture. Cadillac had first used the nameplate for a two-door hardtop version of the 1956 Eldorado. 1960 was the last model year for the Eldorado Seville, returning in 1967 under a different name.
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Common 1985 Cadillac Seville problems
The 1985 Cadillac Seville is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners of this car. These actuators control the temperature and direction of airflow within the car's cabin. Over time, they can wear out or fail, leading to inconsistent or inadequate heating or cooling. Replacing these actuators can be a complex and costly repair, but it is necessary to maintain the comfort and functionality of the vehicle.
Another common problem with the 1985 Cadillac Seville is related to the engine, specifically the 4100 V8. This engine is known for cavitation issues, which can lead to reduced performance and fuel efficiency. Cavitation occurs when the fuel pump is unable to deliver a consistent flow of fuel to the engine, causing the fuel to vaporize and create cavities in the fuel lines. This can result in engine misfires, rough idling, and decreased power. While regular maintenance and replacement of worn or faulty fuel system components can help prevent cavitation, it can still be a persistent issue in the 4100 V8 engine.
The front-wheel drive system in the 1985 Cadillac Seville is also known to cause problems. This system uses a complex network of drive shafts, axles, and differentials to deliver power to the wheels. Over time, these components can wear out or become damaged, leading to issues such as vibrations, noise, and reduced traction. Regular inspections and maintenance of the front-wheel drive system can help prevent these issues, but repairs can be costly and time-consuming.
The early throttle body computer-controlled fuel injection system in the 1985 Cadillac Seville is another common source of problems. This system uses a computer to control the fuel injection process, ensuring optimal performance and fuel efficiency. However, over time, the computer can become outdated or fail, leading to issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, and decreased fuel efficiency. Replacing or upgrading the computer can be a complex and costly repair, but it is necessary to maintain the performance and reliability of the vehicle.
In addition to these common problems, the 1985 Cadillac Seville is known for having a small trunk and being slow and underpowered. These issues are not necessarily mechanical in nature, but they can still impact the functionality and overall satisfaction of the vehicle.
In summary, the 1985 Cadillac Seville is known for several common problems, including issues with the heating and AC temperature and air delivery mode door actuators, the 4100 V8 engine, the front-wheel drive system, the early throttle body computer-controlled fuel injection system, and the size and power of the vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues, but repairs can be costly and time-consuming. Despite these issues, the 1985 Cadillac Seville remains a popular choice for those seeking a classic and stylish vehicle.
What engine is in a 1985 Cadillac Seville?
Engines
| Year | Engine | Power |
|---|---|---|
| 1980–1985 | 5.7 L LF9 Diesel V8 | 105 hp (78 kW) |
| 1980 | 5.7 L L49 Oldsmobile V8 | 180 hp (130 kW) |
| 1981 | 6.0 L L62 V8-6-4 V8 | 145 hp (108 kW) |
| 1981–1982 | 4.1 L LC4 Buick V6 | 125 hp (93 kW) |
When did Cadillac stop making the Seville?
2004
The Cadillac Seville (discontinued in 2004) was a full-size performance sedan that combined responsive Northstar V8 engine power with advanced driving technology.
What replaced the Cadillac Seville?
The STS
The STS was the successor to the Cadillac Seville, which beginning in 1987 was available as an upscale performance-oriented STS (for Seville Touring Sedan) version.
Why won't my Cadillac Seville start?
The most common reasons a Cadillac Seville won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
What engine is in a 1985 Cadillac Seville?
Engines
| Year | Engine | Power |
|---|---|---|
| 1980–1985 | 5.7 L LF9 Diesel V8 | 105 hp (78 kW) |
| 1980 | 5.7 L L49 Oldsmobile V8 | 180 hp (130 kW) |
| 1981 | 6.0 L L62 V8-6-4 V8 | 145 hp (108 kW) |
| 1981–1982 | 4.1 L LC4 Buick V6 | 125 hp (93 kW) |
When did Cadillac stop making the Seville?
2004
The Cadillac Seville (discontinued in 2004) was a full-size performance sedan that combined responsive Northstar V8 engine power with advanced driving technology.
What replaced the Cadillac Seville?
The STS
The STS was the successor to the Cadillac Seville, which beginning in 1987 was available as an upscale performance-oriented STS (for Seville Touring Sedan) version.
Who designed the Cadillac Seville?
Bill Mitchell
The Seville's "statement" styling was one of the last vehicles designed by GM's Bill Mitchell, appointed by Harley Earl in 1936 as the Chief Designer in the then newly created Cadillac design studio.
1985 Cadillac Seville car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Cadillac Seville problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Cadillac Seville vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Cadillac Seville complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Cadillac Seville.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-30
- VIN: 1G6KY5296SU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I HAVE A 1985 CADILLAC STS WITH ONLY 70,000 MILES ON IT. IT IS HOUSED IN A GARAGE AT ALL TIMES AND IN VERY GOOD CONDITION. I HAVE IT AT MY MECHANIC'S AS I WRITE THIS. I WAS INFORMED THAT THE HORRIFIC GAS SMELL I WAS EXPERIENCING IS A BIG PROBLEM. ACTUALLY, IT SUPPOSEDLY WAS A RECALL ON THE TUBING/FUEL LINES. I CALLED THE GM 1-800-222-1020 PHONE NUMBER ABOUT THE RECALL. I WAS INFORMED THAT THIS WOULD NOT BE COVERED. I ALSO DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND OUT THAT I SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED A LETTER STATING THIS RECALL. I NEVER GOT ONE....I ALSO FOUND IN MY RESEARCH THAT THERE IS A RECALL/PROBLEM WITH THE AIRBAG GOING OFF WITHOUT PROVOCATION....I NEVER RECEIVED ANYTHING ON THAT EITHER. I AM GOING TO HAVE PAY OVER $300 TO GET THIS REPAIRED, AS WE WERE TOLD THAT THE FUEL LINE RECALL IS "NOT AN OPEN RECALL." WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? IT IS BEING FIXED FOR THE EXACT PROBLEM OF RECALL??!!! I WOULD APPRECIATE YOU CHECKING INTO THIS RECALL PROBLEM AND THE AIRBAG PROBLEM, AS I AM SURE I WILL HAVE TO DEAL WITH THAT AND PAY FOR THAT TOO! I AM QUICKLY LOSING MY LIKE FOR GM VEHICLES AND THAT IS ALL I HAVE EVER BOUGHT. DO I NEED TO GO FOREIGN? DO I HAVE TO CONTACT AN ATTORNEY REGARDING THIS MATTER, AS I OR SOMEONE ELSE COULD HAVE SERIOUSLY BEEN INJURED. YOUR PROMPT RESPONSE TO THIS MATTER WOULD BE APPRECIATED. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-11
- VIN: 1G6KS698XFE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE BLOCK CORROSION. (1ST VEHICLE ON 602403)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-22
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G6KS6986FE
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE ENGINE ACCELERATES ALL BY ITSELF WHICH COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT IF ANOTHER AUTOS IN FRONT OF YOU. TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-01
- VIN: 1G6KS6983FE
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING FAILED. *DH
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-05-18
- VIN: 1G6KS698XFE
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: INTERIOR DESIGN OF DOOR LATCH PROHIBITS OCCUPANTS FROM EXITING THE VEHICLE/ONE CANNOT OPEN DOOR FROM INSIDE. TT
1985 Cadillac Seville recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1985 Cadillac Seville.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
- Consequence: SERVO ROD ASSEMBLY COULD CATCH ON ENGINE COMPONENTS ANDRESULT IN A STUCK THROTTLE WITH POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: INSTALL A NEW BUSHING IN CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1985 Cadillac Seville problems:
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Other years of Cadillac Seville
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