1996 Cadillac Catera review from North America
"Not the best in its class!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Windshield washer pump replaced at 40K.
Uneven tire ware due to incorrect alignment specs from factory. I was able to get 2 free tires through the GM goodwill program - 60K.
Coolant and oil leaks due to faulty gaskets at 70K and 90K.
Tie rod ends replaced at 80K.
Recall associated with one of two water pump failures.
Very difficult to replace headlight bulbs.
Dealership experience at RoyFoss is somewhat mixed. The technicians are great, unfortunately I can't say the same for the service advisor's!
General comments?
The car is definitely not your average Cadilac. Made by Opel, GM's European subsidiaray, for high speed travel on the Autobahan's. Decent mix of sport and confort. Handles well on dry pavement, however, if you experience snow, snow tires are a must.
Draw backs are: it's a heavy V6 in a segment that offers V8s. I suspect the Omega (the European Catera) gets much better 0-60 times as it is not outfitted with all the heavy creature comforts. Parts are also too expensive - wiper blades are $70 a pair. Air filter $50 etc.
Recommended reviews
| This car should not exist, given a few more years of breakdowns and none will remain on the road |
|
| An amazing vehicle - regardless of what people say |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 24000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 100000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mazda 323 |
| Date of Entry | 10th February, 2003 |