1990 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 1990 Cadillac Seville problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1990 Cadillac Seville, several common problems have been identified:
- Electrical System: The Cadillac Seville is known to have issues with its electrical system, including problems with wires in the steering column that connect to the ignition lock cylinder breaking, triggering the anti-theft system and causing the vehicle to fail to start. These electrical issues can be complex and may necessitate diagnosis and potentially costly repairs.
- Cooling System: Another common problem reported by owners is related to the cooling system. The water pump or radiator in the Cadillac Seville may develop leaks, leading to coolant loss, engine overheating, and potentially a blown head gasket. Addressing cooling system issues promptly is crucial to prevent engine damage and costly repairs.
- Crankshaft Position Sensor: Owners have experienced problems with the crankshaft position sensor in the Cadillac Seville, causing the engine to stall intermittently. This issue can be disruptive while driving and may require replacement of the sensor to ensure the engine operates smoothly.
- Power Window Regulators: Devilles dating back to the 1991 model year, including the Cadillac Seville, have been known to face power window regulator failures, causing windows to fall into the door and not roll back up. Repairing or replacing these regulators is essential to maintain the functionality of the power windows in the vehicle.
These common problems with the 1990 Cadillac Seville highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and longevity.
What is the value of a 1990 Cadillac?
1990 Cadillac DeVille Value - $1,449-$9,221 | Edmunds.
What engine is in a 1990 Cadillac Seville?
Third generation (1986–1991)
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.1 L LT8 V8 4.5 L HT4500 V8 4.5 L LW2 V8 4.9 L L26 V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 108.0 in (2,743 mm) |
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.
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 is the value of a 1990 Cadillac?
1990 Cadillac DeVille Value - $1,449-$9,221 | Edmunds.
What engine is in a 1990 Cadillac Seville?
Third generation (1986–1991)
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.1 L LT8 V8 4.5 L HT4500 V8 4.5 L LW2 V8 4.9 L L26 V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 108.0 in (2,743 mm) |
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.
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.
1990 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
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Visibility problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Cadillac Seville vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Cadillac Seville complaints
The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Cadillac Seville.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-01
- VIN: 1G6KS5339LU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I BOUGHT A NEW 1990 CADILLAC FROM CADILLAC DEALER IN 1990 THAT I HAVE DRIVEN ONLY 53,678 MILES, WELL CARED FOR AND GARAGED. .THE ABS MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER HAS BEEN LEAKING FOR SOME TIME AND I HAVE CONTACTED NUMEROUS CADILLAC DEALERS AND BRAKE MECHANICS AND CANNOT FIND ANYONE TO REPAIR LEAK. I HAVE LEARNED THAT MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER (COMBINED PUMP BOOSTER AND ABS MASTER CYLINDER WAS ONE UNIT MFG BY ATE FOR CADILLAC AS PER CADILLAC'S SPECIFICATIONS AND PLANS AND WAS USED IN 1989 AND 1990 CADILLACS AND DISCONTINUED THEREAFTER) ADDITIONALLY I HAVE LEARNED THAT CADILLAC MADE CHANGES/REPAIRS OF SOME KIND TO ABS BRAKE SYSTEM, UNANOUNCED PUBLICALLY, WHEN SEVILLES WERE BROUGHT TO CADILLAC FOR OTHER SERVICING. MY PRESENT AUTO MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT PART OF THE MASTER CYLINDER IS NEWER THAN THE REST OF THE UNIT. CADILLAC NEVER OBTAINED MY CONSENT TO MAKE CHAGES TO MY CAR NOR WAS I EVER INFORMED BY CADILLAC OR CADILLAC DEALER OF SUCH WORK. THE DEFECT IN THE ABS MASTER BRAKE SYSTEM IS A LATENT DEFECT AND THE OBLIGATION AND WARRANTY BY GM OF THE SERVICABILITY OF THEIR PRODUCTS NEVER EXPIRES. I RESPECTFULLY REQUEST THAT CADILLAC, NOTWITHSTANDING THE CAR'S AGE OF 21 YEARS BE INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE DEFECTIVE LEAKY ABS MASTER BRAKE SYSTEM. THIS LEAK HAS NOT RESULTED FROM USE AND WEAR IT IS THE RESULT OF A INHERENT LATENT DEFECT IN THE MANUFACTURE OF THE CAR. *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-17
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE DRIVERS INFORMATION SCREEN IS INOPERATIVE. NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-17
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: GEAR SHIFT FAILED. NLM
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-17
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: A/C INOPERATIVE. NLM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-17
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE POWER WINDOW INOPERATIVE. NLM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, RIGHT REAR FIRESTONE TIRE P205/70R15 DOT VD080A1124 EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. *SLC
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-19
- VIN: 1G6KS53381U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON THREE DIFFEERENT OCCASIONS VEHICLE HAD SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEED OF 45-50 MPH. CRUISE CONTROL WAS ONLY USED ON ONE OCCASION. DEALER / MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED, AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT BECAUSE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY NOTHING ELSE COULD BE DONE. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-30
- VIN: 1G6KS5333LU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE WILL ACCELERATE. WHEN THE FOOT IS OFF THE GAS PEDAL IT KEEPS ACCELERATING, AND RPMS GO UP. BRAKING SYSTEM DOES NOT WORK. ONCE ALMOST RESULTED IN A CRASH. HAD TO TURN OFF THE VEHICLE IN ORDER TO STOP. DEALER COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM, BUT THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE A FAULTY GROUND STUD AT THE STARTER. OWNER HAD THEN REPAIR IT AND THERE HAVE BEEN NO PROBLEMS SINCE. *AK.ET.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-21
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ACCELERATOR ARM GOT STUCK CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SUDDENLY ACCELERATE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-12
- VIN: 1G6KS5337LU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRONT PASSENGER'S AND THE REAR PASSENGER'S SEAT BELTS DO NOT OPERATE CORRECTLY. WHEN PUTTING THE SEAT BELT INTO THE BUCKLE, THE BELT WILL COME BACK APART, CAUSING THE PASSENGER TO BE FREE OF SEAT BELTS. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-28
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6KS5331LU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THROTTLE STUCK OPEN, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-15
- VIN: 1G6KS333LU8
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON DUE TO CONTAMINATION OF THE AIR PUMP WITHIN THE EXHAUST SYSTEM.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G6KS5332LU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: VEHICLE PULLS SEVERELY TO THE LEFT WHEN ANTI LOCK BRAKES ARE APPLIED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-21
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: SLAMMED ON BRAKES, VEHICLE STARTED SLIDING, CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE, HAPPENED AGAIN, MAY 29, 1997, NOT CHECKED BY DEALERSHIP. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G6KS533X1U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE DSECRIBE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-09
- VIN: IG6CD5331L4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS
- Summary: ENGINE STALLED AND WHEEL LOCKED UPON TURNING. DIAGNOSIS: COMPUTER CHIP CAUSING ENGINE IDLE SPEED TO BECOME LOW. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-12
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLS. ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS CAUSES CAR TO SHUT DOWN. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-29
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G6KS5330LU
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT HEAD REST BROKE WHILE INVOLVED IN REAR END COLLISION. TT
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-01
- VIN: 1G6KS5334LU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CARBON WAS STUCK IN THROTTLE AND VEHICLE ACCELERATED AT HIGH SPEED AND COULD ONLY BE STOPPED BY PUTTING IT IN PARK. TT
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G6KS5334LU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ACCELERATOR PEDAL STUCK WHILE DRIVING. FOUND CARBON IN THROTTLE WHICH MADE IT STICK. TT
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G6KS5334LU
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: PARKING EMERGENCY BRAKE FAILED TO RELEASE WHEN ENGAGED OUT OF PARK. FINGER SMASHED BETWEEN (2) GEARS W/PART GOING THROUGH FINGERNAIL. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-18
- VIN: 1G6CD5337L4
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL WAS STUCK IN OPEN, CAUSING ENGINE TO SURGE. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-22
- VIN: 1G6CD5337L4
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: CENTER WIRE REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER MALFUNCTIONED. *AK
1990 Cadillac Seville recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1990 Cadillac Seville.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: THREADED INFLATOR COMPONENTS MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY WHICH MAY ALLOW COMPONENTS TO SEPARATE WHEN INFLATOR RECEIVES A SIGNAL TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAG.
- Consequence: INFLATOR COMPONENT SEPARATION ALLOWS HOT COMBUSTION GASESTO ESCAPE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURIES TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy: REPLACE AIR BAG MODULES CONTAINING POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE INFLATORS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT
- Summary: TRANSAXLE SHIFT CONTROL CABLE MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE FROM THE FLOOR SHIFT CONTROL WITH LOSS OF GEAR INDICATOR REFERENCE AND SHIFT SELECTOR OPERATION.
- Consequence: DRIVER WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO DETERMINE ACTUAL GEARPOSITION THE TRANSAXLE IS IN, WHICH COULD RESULT IN UNEXPECTED VEHICLE MOVEMENTAND AN ACCIDENT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: INSTALL A TRANSAXLE SHIFT CONTROL CABLE RETAINING CLIP TO PREVENT CABLE DISENGAGEMENT.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
- Summary: MISALIGNED REAR SEAT SAFETY BELT SHOULDER RETRACTOR ASSEMBLIES COULD CAUSE PENDULUM INTERFERENCE, CAUSING THE BELT TO REMAIN IN LOCKED POSITION OR TO TRAVEL FREELY WITHOUT LOCKING.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A PANIC STOP OR ACCIDENT, IF THE BELT RETRACTOR INERTIA LOCK DOES NOT ENGAGE, THE REAR SEAT OCCUPANT WOULD HAVE AN INCREASED LIKELIHOOD OF INJURY.
- Remedy: REALIGN REAR SHOULDER BELT RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY.
Negative 1990 Cadillac Seville car reviews
Positive 1990 Cadillac Seville car reviews
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If your Cadillac is 10 years or older and you are experiencing issues with the transmission, electronics, or body, it may be time to consider selling it. While it is disappointing to encounter problems, it is important to make a decision that is best for you and your vehicle. Remember that there are many options available to you when it comes to finding a reliable and high-quality car. Stay confident in your ability to make the right choice.
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The 1990 STS continues Cadillac's commitment to excellence. It departs from the old-fashioned connotation of the Cadillac name and boasts a spacious and comfortable interior, as well as a sporty exterior design. It drives very smoothly and handles well. My car has just turned 170,000 miles and is still running strong, a testament to the value of preventative maintenance and the quality of Cadillac and GM automobiles.
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I recently purchased this car from its original owner who kept it garaged and well-maintained. Although I got it for a great price of $900, I did encounter some unexpected repairs due to its long period of inactivity. Despite having to replace the transmission for $1800 and fixing the Cruise, blinker, A/C, and rear shocks, the car's performance and ride are still tight and squeak-free. I am currently working on fixing the heater core, which is believed to be clogged. Overall, I am happy with my purchase and excited to continue restoring this classic car.
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I loved this car. Nice power and ride. Loved the style. BUT it has as many electrical problems as it has electrical things. After a while, you just live with the problems as long as it will drive (which it does nice).
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I can see that you had a lot of experiences with your first car, and it sounds like it was quite a journey! Although it gave you some trouble, it seems like you really loved it. It's understandable that you needed something more reliable for college, but it's always hard to say goodbye to a car that has been a part of your life for so long. Thank you for sharing your story!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Cadillac Seville problems:
1990 Cadillac Seville Problems and Complaints - 44 Issues
Problem with your 1990 Cadillac Seville? Our list of 44 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1990 Cadillac Seville.
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Other years of Cadillac Seville
Are you having problems with your 1990 Cadillac Seville?
George Oberbrunner 2024-10-08
I bought this Seville three months ago with only 49k miles on it. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with it and have already spent over $3000 on repairs. The A/C leaks, the heater core is shot, the rear shocks rattle and leak, the transmission is shot, the cruise control is broken, the turn signal return is broken, the alternator is shot, and the power lumbar on both sides is broken. Additionally, the leather is cracking. Although the car looked to be in decent shape when I bought it, I have learned that appearances can be deceiving. It has been in the garage more than in my driveway, and the gas mileage is not great. I paid $950 for it, thinking I was getting a great deal, but unfortunately, it has turned out to be a bit of a money pit. I would caution against buying a used caddy, but I hope that my experience can help others make an informed decision.