1996 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 1996 Cadillac Seville problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1996 Cadillac Seville, several common problems have been reported:
- Head Gasket Issues: One of the most significant problems with the 1996 Cadillac Seville is head gasket issues on the Northstar engine. This can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Electrical System: The car is known for various electrical issues, particularly with the electrical road sensing suspension, which is prone to failure. Finding replacements for these parts can be challenging due to discontinued production.
- Taillight Problems: Owners have reported issues with taillights fogging up due to poor seals, leading to condensation and potential cracking. Checking the taillights for these issues is crucial.
- Trunk Leaks: Water leaks in the trunk area are common due to poor rubber seals. This can lead to mold problems and corrosion if not addressed, so ensuring the trunk is dry, including the spare wheel area, is essential.
- Third Brake Light Strip: The third brake light strip commonly breaks and is no longer manufactured by GM. Rebuilding this component can be costly and is only available in the US.
- Power Windows: Owners have experienced power window failures, often caused by window regulators breaking. Checking that all windows are functioning properly is recommended.
- Interior Wear: High mileage cars may exhibit wear and cracks on the driver's seat leather and center armrest. While these issues are cosmetic, they can affect the overall aesthetics of the interior.
- Shift Knob: The plastic mechanism of the shift knob is known to be brittle and prone to breaking, especially in models up to 1996. Finding replacements in the correct color can be challenging.
- Climate Control Unit: Ensuring that the climate control unit, including the heater, is functioning correctly is important for overall comfort and convenience.
- Horn Functionality: Checking that the horn is working is essential for safety on the road.
These common problems highlight areas where owners of the 1996 Cadillac Seville may encounter issues and need to be vigilant about maintenance and repairs to ensure the longevity and performance of their vehicles.
How many miles per gallon does a 1996 Cadillac Seville get?
Fuel & MPG
300.0/480.0 mi.
How much is a 1996 Cadillac Seville?
The value of a used 1996 Cadillac Seville ranges from $71 to $316, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
What happened to the Cadillac Seville?
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.
Does the 1996 Cadillac DeVille have a Northstar engine?
With its eggcrate grille, slab-sided flanks and long, thin, horizontal tail lamps, the De Ville is unmistakably a Cadillac. The big news for 1996 is the addition of the Northstar 4.6-liter V8 to the De Ville.
What happened to the Cadillac Seville?
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1996 Cadillac Seville get?
Fuel & MPG
300.0/480.0 mi.
How much is a 1996 Cadillac Seville?
The value of a used 1996 Cadillac Seville ranges from $71 to $316, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Does the 1996 Cadillac DeVille have a Northstar engine?
With its eggcrate grille, slab-sided flanks and long, thin, horizontal tail lamps, the De Ville is unmistakably a Cadillac. The big news for 1996 is the addition of the Northstar 4.6-liter V8 to the De Ville.
1996 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Cadillac Seville vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Cadillac Seville
The NHTSA has received 131 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Cadillac Seville. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Cadillac Seville vehicles.
2022-12-16
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-16
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owned a 1996 Cadillac Seville. The contact stated while parked, the contact noticed smoke coming from the vents. The contact was able to exit the vehicle, and once the contact exited the vehicle, the vehicle burst into flames. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire. The contact was unsure if a police report was filed. No one was injured. The vehicle was towed and deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000. The VIN was not available.
2017-01-06
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-05
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y3TU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS SUDDENLY DEPLOYED WITHOUT IMPACT OR WARNING. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN NOTICED WATER LEAKING FROM THE AIR CONDITIONING UNIT INTO THE AIR BAG COMPUTER SYSTEM, WHICH CAUSED THE AIR BAGS TO FAIL. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE AIR BAGS AND OTHER UNKNOWN PARTS RELATED TO THE COMPUTER SYSTEM AND AIR CONDITIONING UNIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 183,000.
2016-10-31
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-02
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A FUEL LEAK. ALSO, WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE PASS KEY LOCK WARNING INDICATOR FLASHED. THE KEY WOULD NOT TURN OVER TO START THE VEHICLE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN EACH TIME THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 95V224000 (EQUIPMENT) AND 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND RECOMMENDED THAT THE VEHICLE BE TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR FURTHER DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,000.
2016-06-06
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y3TU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. WHILE APPROACHING A STOP, THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED INDEPENDENTLY AND WITHOUT IMPACT. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED ABRASIONS TO THE RIGHT ARM, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A BODY SHOP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 156,000.
2014-03-21
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-28
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y0TU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD INTERMITTENTLY STALL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE DEALER STATED THE CRANK SHAFT SENSORS, SPARKS PLUGS AND IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. . THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE CRANK SHAFT POSITION SENSORS,WIRING, SPARKS PLUGS AND IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE. HOWEVER THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CONTACT STATED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V047000 (AIR BAGS , ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) IS THE SAME FAILURE HE EXPERIENCED. HOWEVER, THE RECALL DID NOT INCLUDE THE CONTACT'S YEAR MAKE OR MODEL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. UPDATED 07-23-14 *BF UPDATED 7/31/14*CN
2012-12-03
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-02
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y0TU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL WENT BLACK WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE RADIO COMPONENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 95V224000 (EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2012-07-19
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-12
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y2TU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE SLS. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 30 MPH WHEN AN ERROR MESSAGE APPEARED INDICATING THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. THE VEHICLE THEN STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT A GROUNDED FUSE CAUSED A FAILURE TO THE WIRING HARNESS IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.
2012-02-27
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-06
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS) FOR A FUEL LEAK BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING GASOLINE ONTO THE GROUND FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, WHICH THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE A FIRE. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT DENIED ANY ASSISTANCE WITH REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2011-12-05
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G6KY5299TU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE STS. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND SMELLED A STRONG BURNING ODOR OF FUMES INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE ENGINE BEGAN TO OVERHEAT, CAUSING THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE TO INCREASE RAPIDLY TO HOT. THE CONTACT MANEUVERED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED A SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNT OF COOLANT LEAKAGE UNDERNEATH THE DASHBOARD AND THE FRONT PASSENGER FLOOR AREA. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000.
2011-03-11
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-01
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y2TU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: GM HAS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THE CADALLIC NORTHSTAR 4.6L HEAD GASKETS. THEY BROKE DOWN BETWEEN 70,000 AND 140,000 MILES GM WILL NOT ASSIST IN THE REPAIR OF THE HEAD GASKETS. OUR CADILLAC IS A 1996 WITH 72,000 MILES AND HAS HAD THE LEAKING SINCE 40,000 MILES. THE DEALER WAS AND IS WILLING TO REPAIR FOR APPROX. $3500.00. WE HAVE NEVER BEEN TOLD ABOUT THE LAWSUIT THAT WAS FILES AND THE DEALER HAS KNOWN ABOUT THE DEX COOLANT PROBLEM. THE DEALER WILL NOT GUARANTEE THE HEAD GASKET THEY SAID WAS NEEDED . I DID NOT KNOW THAT THERE WERE SERVICE BULLITTINS ON PUTTING INSERTS IN THE BLOCK FOR THE HEAD BOLTS. I THINK OVER 50% OF THESE ENGINES HAVE HAD THE GASKET REPLACED. THIS WAS A PROBLEM, BUT I KNOW THAT THEY LIKE THE MONEY THAT IT BRINGS IN TO THEM.
2010-04-10
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G6KD52Y0TU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: MY 1996 CADILLAC SEDAN DEVILLE CAUGHT ON FIRE ON 3-20-10 AFTER I STARTED THE ENGINE. I HAD IT TOWED TO A LOCAL DEALERSHIP WHICH INFORMED ME THAT THERE WAS AN OPEN RECALL ON THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL WHICH I WAS NOT AWARE OF. I CONTACTED GENERAL MOTORS AND INFORMED THEM OF THE DAMAGES TO MY CAR AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THE STATUE OF LIMITATION HAD EXPIRED ON MY CAR. MY PROBLEM IS HOW COULD THEY HAVE FORSEEN THAT THIS WAS GOING TO HAPPEN UNLESS THEY KNEW THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM. I WAS INFORMED THAT THE STATUE OF LIMITATION EXPIRED ON 2-13-02 AND THE RECALL WAS ISSUED UNTIL 4-16-04 WHICH DOES NOT MAKE SENSE UNLESS THEY KNEW THERE WAS A PROBLEM AND JUST DIDNT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. MY QUESTION IS DID I HAVE TO GET BURNT OR LOSE MY LIFE IN THAT CAR FOR GENERAL MOTORS TO TAKE RESPONSIBILTY FOR WHAT HAPPENED TO MY CAR. NOW I HAVE NO TRANSPORTATION AND GENERAL MOTORS WONT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR WHAT HAPPENED. AN EMPLOYEE FROM GERALDS TIRES HAD TO RUN AND GET A FIRE EXTINGUSHER TO PUT THE FIRE OUT BEFORE ANY OF THERE CUSTOMERS OR EMPLOYEES GOT HURT WHEN THE FIRE IGNITED. WHO IS GOING TO HOLD THESE MANUFACTURES LIABLE FOR THERE NEGLIGENCE. IF I HAD RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE I WOULD HAVE HAD THE FUEL LINE REPLACED BECAUSE THATS SOMETHING VERY SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS AND I DRIVE MY KIDS AND GRANDKIDS IN THAT CAR BECAUSE THATS MY ONLY VEHICLE AND I FEEL THAT GENERAL MOTORS SHOULD STAND UP AND TAKE RESPOSIBILITY FOR THERE NEGLIGENCE IT IS SOMETHING THAT THEY MANUFACTURED AND ALSO DANA THE MAKER OF THE FUEL LINE. *TR
2009-12-18
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-16
- VIN: 1G6KY5292TU
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE STS. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH THE LIGHTS ON THE INSTRUMENT CONTROL PANEL FAILED. HIS VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS EXCLUDED FROM RECALL CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 95V224000 (EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL). HE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF HAVING THE VEHICLE REPAIRED AT HIS EXPENSE. HOWEVER, THE FAILURE OCCURRED TWICE IN THE PAST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 94000.
2009-04-14
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G6KY5295TU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE DROVE OVER A SLIGHT BUMP IN THE ROAD AND THE AIR BAGS SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE COMING OUT OF THE AIR BAGS. THE VEHICLE BECAME ENGULFED WITH SMOKE AND WAS VERY HOT. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN BACK TO HIS RESIDENCE AND THE AUTO CLUB CAME OUT TO CUT THE AIR BAGS. THE DEALER DENIED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE VEHICLE. THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS VEHICLE, BUT ONLY FOR THE 1995 SEVILLE (NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 98V115000 (AIR BAGS)). ANOTHER DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND THEY ALSO DENIED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A SPRAINED THUMB AND BRUISES ON BOTH HANDS. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WAS ONLY SMOKE INHALATION FROM THE AIR BAGS. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY AT THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED, ALTHOUGH IT WAS INSPECTED AND APPEARS TO HAVE A DEFECT. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 125,000.
2009-01-24
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-15
- VIN: 1G6KS52YXTU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NORTHSTAR ENGINE PROBLEM - THE HEAD BOLTS PULLED LOOSE CAUSING ENGINE COOLANT TO LEAK INTO THE EXHAUST. HAD INSERTS PUT IN BY LOCAL MECHANIC WHO HAD PREVIOUSLY DONE TWO SUCH REPAIRS (CADILLAC ADVISED THAT IT ONLY HAD A 60% CHANCE OF FIXING THE PROBLEM IF THEY DID THE WORK AND THE COST WOULD BE $3,000 - $4,000). CAR HAD ABOUT 70,000 MILES ON IT AT TIME OF FAILURE. CAR RAN WELL UNTIL OCTOBER 2008 WHEN COOLANT LOSS STARTED AGAIN. HAVE TRIED VARIOUS SEALANT BUT IT IS LIKELY THE HEAD BOLTS AGAIN. AN ALUMINUM BLOCK WITH ALUMINUM HEADS AND HIGH COMPRESSION APPEARS TO BE COMBINE WITH A WEAK DESIGN OF THE HEAD BOLTS. FROM WHAT I HEAR ALL NORTHSTAR'S OF THIS ERA WILL HAVE THIS PROBLEM AT SOME POINT AND THE PROBLEM WAS NOT FIXED UNTIL 2001 OR SO. IT IS SAID THAT A JEG'S MOTOR HAS ADDRESSED THIS PROBLEM BUT AT A COST OF WHAT, $3,000 PLUS INSTALLATION? I LIKE THE CAR BUT IT IS HARD TO WORK ON AND HAS ITS SHARE OF ISSUES. *TR
2008-04-18
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-01
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y1TU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I JUST RECENTLY NOTICED A FUEL ODOR FROM CAR. WHEN FILLING UP WITH GAS I NOTICED A SMALL AMOUNT OF FUEL ON THE FILLER TUBE. UPON INSPECTION THE TUBE IS RUSTED AND NEEDS REPLACEMENT FOR ABOUT $400.00. I AM SURPRISED THAT THE FILLER TUBE WOULD RUST THROUGH. IS THERE A POSSIBLE DEFECT IN THE DESIGN OR THICKNESS OF THE FILLER TUBE? *TR
2007-12-18
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-18
- VIN: 1G6KS52YXTU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I OWN A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V110000 NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA04003 MY GM SERVICE REQUEST NUMBER: 71-584885453 ISSUE: MY CADILLAC'S FUEL RAIL HAS A LEAK (IN FACT 3). I FOUND THE RECALL ON-LINE, AND CALLED CADILLAC. THEY STATED THEY INSPECTED THE VEHICLE ON 9/13/2004 AND AT THAT TIME, THERE WAS NO LEAK. THEY DID NOT REPLACE THE FUEL RAIL WITH THE STAINLESS STEEL RAIL. THEY TOLD ME YESTERDAY (LIN FOSTER AT GM CORPORATE 800-333-4223) THAT THEIR DUTY WAS TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. AND AS THEY HAD INSPECTED IT IN 2004 AND THERE WERE NO ISSUES THEN, THEY HAD NO DUTY NOW. I TOOK THE CADILLAC TO MY CADILLAC DEALERSHIP THIS MORNING (BOB ALLEN CADILLAC IN DANVILLE, KY). THEY CONFIRMED THAT THERE WAS NO STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAIL ON THE CAR. I CALLED GM CADILLAC AGAIN (800) 458-8006. SPOKE WITH JILL THIS TIME. SHE STATED SHE COULD NOT PULL UP THE NHTSA INFORMATION TO READ IT HERSELF... SO I READ IT TO HER. SHE HAD MY VIN, AND TO ME, THE RECALL INFORMATION IS QUITE CLEAR. THE 8TH DIGIT OF MY VIN IS "Y", AND AS I READ THE RECALL INFORMATION, GM IS SUPPOSED TO INSTALL THE STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAIL. GM/CADILLAC STATE THEY HAVE NO DUTY WHAT-SO-EVER. THAT THEIR OBLIGATION WAS PERFORMED IN FULL WITH THEIR 9/13/2004 INSPECTION (IN WHICH THEY ALSO CONFIRM THEY DID NOT REPLACE THE FUEL LINE). THEY WILL NOT ASSIST IN ANY WAY. THEY DEALER IS READILY WILLING TO DO THE REPAIR, IF I PAY FOR IT. HELP PLEASE!! STEPHEN MARK HILLIS *TR
2007-12-17
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-16
- VIN: 1G6KS52YXTU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V110000 FUEL RAIL LEAK CADILLAC REFUSES TO REPLACE THE LEAKING FUEL RAIL. THEY INSPECTED THE CAR ON 9/13/2004, AND AT THAT TIME THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF A LEAK. NOW, THERE IS A LEAK, AND THEY REFUSE TO REPLACE THE FUEL RAIL WITH THE NEW STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAIL. THEY HAVE STATED THEY HAVE NO OBLIGATION TO REINSPECT THE VEHICLE. I READ LIN FOSTER (FROM CADILLAC AT 800-333-4223) THE NHTSA BULLETIN "THE RECALLED CADILLACS WILL RECEIVE THE NEW STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAILS," AND HE CONTINUED TO STATE THAT CADILLAC HAD NO RESPONSIBILITY TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE TWICE. THE DEALERSHIP WILL NO REPAIR THE VEHICLE UNLESS THERE IS AN OPEN "SERVICE CAMPAIGN" AND CADILLAC REFUSES TO OPEN A SERVICE CAMPAIGN STATING THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN LOOKED AT ONCE, AND THAT IS ALL THAT THEY HAVE A DUTY TO DO. THE RECALL HAS NOT BEEN PERFORMED AND THE FUEL RAIL IS LEAKING. *TR
2007-07-12
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G6KD52Y8TU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. AFTER BEING PARKED FOR MORE THAN A WEEK, THE VEHICLE'S DRIVER SIDE DOOR CONTROL BOX CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DAMAGED THE DOOR, DASHBOARD, AND CEILING OF THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND PROVIDED A REPORT. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 131,000.
2007-05-12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-11
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: GM HAS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THE CADALLIC NORTHSTAR 4.6L HEAD GASKETS. THEY BROKE DOWN BETWEEN 70,000 AND 140,000 MILES GM WILL NOT ASSIST IN THE REPAIR OF THE HEAD GASKETS. AT THE DEALER BY MY HOUSE THERE WERE 3 OF THESE VEHICLES IN THE SHOP IN THE LAST WEEK THEY CLAIMED THAT THEY DID 2 A MONTH. THIS WAS ONLY ONE DEALER YES THIS COULD BE ON A CAR THAT WAS A 1994 OR UP THAT I KNOW OFF. THIS WAS A $3500-$6500 REPAIR THEY WILL NOT GUARANTEE THE REPALACMENT OF JUST THE HEAD GASKET THEY SAID WAS NEEDED . I KNOW THAT THERE WERE SERVICE BULLITTINS ON PUTTING INSERTS IN THE BLOCK FOR THE HEAD BOLTS. I THINK OVER 50% OF THESE ENGINES HAVE HAD THE GASKET REPLACED OR A NEW ENGINE PUT IN FROM THE LITTLE BIT OF RESEARCH I HAVE HAD A CHANCE TO DO, AND THE DEALER HAVE CALLED A FEW . THIS WAS A PROBLEM, BUT I KNOW THAT THEY LIKE THE MONEY THAT IT BRINGS IN TO THEM. I THINK SOME ONE NEEDS TO INVESTAGE THIS, AND I DON'T KNOW WHERE TO GO. I HOPE YOU CAN HELP WITH ALL THE TALK OF PEOPLE BUYING OVERSEAS CARS I DO NOT WANT TO BUY ONE MYSELF BUT WITH THE INPUT FROM GM ON THIS THEY ARE FORCING PEOPLE TO DO THIS. *AK
2006-03-08
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-08
- VIN: 1G6KY5296TU
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE INSTRUMENT PANEL GAUGES INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATE. THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL, # 95V224000, REGARDING THE EQUIPMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS SEEN BY A DEALER, BUT NO REPAIRS WERE MADE. THE VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL; HOWEVER IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN.
2005-12-07
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-02
- VIN: 1G6KS52YXTU
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE STREET THE DASHBOARD EXPLODED, AND THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THEN , HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP WHERE IT IS CURRENTLY. REPAIRS WILL BE DONE AT THE CONTACT'S EXPENSE.*AK
2005-11-17
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-15
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y9TU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SMOKE CAME OUT OF THE STEERING COLUMN WHEN I TOOK OFF FROM A STOP LIGHT. IT WAS NOT A GREAT DEAL OF SMOKE BUT ENOUGH FOR ME TO QUESTION THE PROBLEM. I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC AND HE CHECKED ALL THE WIRING IN THE COLUMN AND DID NOT FIND ANY BURNED WIRES. WHEN HE REMOVED THE AIR BAG PACKAGE HE FOUND WHAT APPEARED TO BE BURN MARKS ON AIR BAG ASSEMBLY. HE RECOMMENDED THAT I TAKE IT TO DEALER AT THIS TIME. *NM
2005-09-01
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-06
- VIN: 1G6KY5299TU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE SMELL OF GASOLINE IN THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE BECAME OVERWHELMING. DRIVER PULLED OVER AND NOTICED GAS STREAMING FROM THE FUEL RAIL. FUEL RAIL WAS REPLACED WITH UPDATED VERSION BY MECHANIC. *NM
2005-08-15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-01
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y9TU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DT: 1996 CADILLAC SEVILLE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE IGNITION CUT OUT WHILE DRIVING. THIS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO LOSE POWER STEERING. THE VEHICLE THEN SLOWED DOWN, AND HE TURNED OFF THE IGNITION, AND THEN TURNED IT ON AGAIN. THIS HAPPENED APPROXIMATELY ONCE EVERY COUPLE OF MONTHS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP, NOR HAD ANY OTHER MECHANIC INSPECTED THE VEHICLE. . THE CONSUMER STATED THIS HAPPENED SINCE PURCHASING THE VEHICLE. *AK
2005-06-10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-14
- VIN: 1G6KS52Y2TU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DT: THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE HAD PROBLEMS WITH IT'S INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. THE CONSUMER SEARCHED THE INTERNET FOR A INSTRUMENT CLUSTER RECALL. HE FOUND A RECALL BUT WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURE THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE SPEEDOMETER WOULD WILL GO FROM 10MPH TO 140 MPH AND THE TACHOMETER WOULD GO FROM NORMAL TO 0. SOMETIMES THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. REFR# CADILLAC 1-333-062133, CAMPAIGN # FROM RECALL 95V224000. *NM OCCASIONALLY ALL ENGINE POWER IS ABRUPTLY LOST WITHOUT WARNING AT LOW SPEEDS OF 10-30 MPH RESULTING IN LOSS OF CONTROL WITH POWER STEERING FUNCTION LOST. ON 2 OCCASIONS THE CAR STEERED ITSELF INTO AN OPPOSING TRAFFIC LANE. NO COLLISION OCCURRED BECAUSE THE OPPOSING TRAFFIC LANE WAS FREE OF TRAFFIC. STEERING CONTROL WITHOUT POWER STEERING WAS IMPOSSIBLE AFTER ENGINE FAILURE. *TT
1996 Cadillac Seville recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1996 Cadillac Seville.
2004-03-04
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L V8 ENGINES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE NYLON TUBING USED IN THE FUEL RAIL CONSTRUCTION MAY DEGRADE AND CRACK. ADDITIONALLY, THE 1995 MODEL YEAR USES A UNIQUE UNDERHOOD FUEL RETURN LINE THAT MAY CRACK. CRACKING OF THE FUEL RAIL OR RETURN LINE TUBING CAN RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL WITH A NEW STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAIL. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSTALL A REVISED CHASSIS FUEL RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 2, 2004, FOR 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA VEHICLES. OWNERS OF 1995 CADILLACS AND 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA WERE SENT LETTERS ON AUGUST 6, 2004. ADDITIONAL LETTERS TO OWNERS WILL BE FORTHCOMING. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
1995-11-30
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
- Summary: THE ANALOG INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER ON THESE VEHICLES COULD HAVE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT DISRUPTING THE PASS KEY SYSTEM, CAUSING FAILURE OF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL GAUGES AND TELL-TALES, AND A POSSIBLE NO-START CONDITION. THIS DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 101, "CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS;" NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT;" AND NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
- Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: IF THE SHORT CIRCUIT OCCURS WHILE DRIVING, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER WILL GO BLANK, CAUSING LOSS OF GAUGE FUNCTION AND ALL TEEL-TALE INDICATORS EXCEPT FOR ABS, SIR, PARK BRAKE AND SERVICE ENGINE SOON. THE LOSS OF ALL TELL-TALES FOR SEAT BELTS, TURN SIGNALS, HIGH BEAM, HAZARD, OIL PRESSURE, COOLANT TEMPERATURE, AND OTHERS RESULT IN NONCOMPLIANCE WITH THESE SAFETY STANDARDS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER.
Negative 1996 Cadillac Seville car reviews
Positive 1996 Cadillac Seville car reviews
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Bought used, already had the A/C compressor and one strut changed. It's been great to me so far, and it's definitely the best ride and motor I've ever owned!
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It's great fun to drive and has plenty of pickup. Plus, the heated seats are just what you need after a round of golf and a sore back.
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Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to let you know that we have a fantastic large car available with a really smooth ride. Let me know if you're interested in taking it for a spin!
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This 96 Cadillac SLS has only been to the shop twice, both times under warranty. One of the visits was for the transmission, but the other was insignificant. On a recent road trip, it achieved a mileage of 25.5, which is impressive for its size. It is also quiet and comfortable to ride in. However, there are some drawbacks, such as difficult-to-read instruments in daylight, high initial price, and high depreciation.
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This car has everything that most people look for in a car - style, a great sound system, and impressive performance!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Cadillac Seville problems:
HELP: 1996 Cadillac Deville PROBLEMS (luxury car, gasket, SUV ...
https://www.city-data.com/forum/chevrolet-cadillac-buick-gmc/158812-help-1996-cadillac-deville-problems-luxury.html
Head gasket failures, early transmission failures, and broken timing chains are common. Not only that, when the timing chain breaks, the whole ...
1996 Cadillac Seville Problems and Complaints - 69 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1996-cadillac-seville/problems
Problem with your 1996 Cadillac Seville? Our list of 69 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Cadillac Seville.
Problems to be expected with 1996 SLS | Cadillac Owners Forum
https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/problems-to-be-expected-with-1996-sls.166784/
Apr 11, 2009 ... The half case on the N* motor is known to leak oil, and the TCC solenoid is known to go out in the trannys both things require the motor to be ...
1996 Cadillac DeVille: Q&A on MPG & Common Problems
https://www.justanswer.com/cadillac/7f33c-cadillac-deville-1996-cadillac-deville-runs-rough-cold.html
Dec 18, 2012 ... Hello and welcome to just answer.I suspect the engine may have two problems.First the cold start roughness is likely sticking fuel injectors.Try ...
Cadillac DeVille Steering Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/16219/cadillac/deville/cadillac-deville-steering-problems
Jan 12, 2006 ... My 2002 Deville has very stiff low speed steering. Worse when it is cold. Local mechanic says this is a common problem with this car and ...
Other years of Cadillac Seville
Are you having problems with your 1996 Cadillac Seville?
Arthur Abbott 2025-01-08
I've always had a soft spot for Cadillacs, especially since I used to work for a dealership. Recently, I was lucky enough to get my hands on a used STS that was in great shape. It's a gorgeous car with all the luxury features you could want, and it rides like a dream. However, it's important to be aware that there are some little things that can go wrong and end up being quite expensive to repair. For example, I had to replace the water pump the day after I bought it, which cost me $250 at the Caddy dealer. And now, after only 250 miles and three weeks of ownership, I'm looking at a $1900 repair for a half block seal. There are also issues with the rack and pinion, struts, power window switch, and antifreeze leaks, not to mention the check engine light that's now on for emissions. As much as I love this car, I would recommend avoiding it due to these known problems. And that's coming from an ASE Master Tech who used to work at a Cadillac dealership!
Cornell Romaguera 2024-10-06
Despite the challenges I have faced with my car's electronic system, I am confident in my ability to find a solution. Although the service engine light has been on for 3 years and the air conditioning is not working, I have invested significant resources into resolving these issues. While one mechanic suggested that the 1996 Cadillac computer systems were problematic, I am determined to find a solution that works for my car.
Emmett Graham 2024-06-21
I bought the car used in '98 with 35k miles and now it has 72k. The car looks great and runs well, but I had to replace the struts at 65k miles which cost $3k. Unfortunately, the battery also went bad and the dealership charged us $100 to read the computer. It was our fault for not dealing with them anymore. Additionally, the car depreciates more than average.