1997 Cadillac Catera from North America - Comments

OK, the Catera sounds like trouble, and I had just bought one. Runs like brand new with 51000 miles. Every so often, maybe once a day or once a week, it throws a fit.... a low rough idle and stalls when you slow down. I THINK IT IS A VACUUM LEAK. Can't find it.. Does anyone know in what fashion do you check for leaks? Vacuum gage look for drop? Spray soapy water maybe? You can email answers to jandjtoday@aol.com

Nope! Sorry, I don't know anything about the vacuum but have you changed your fuel filter lately?

Different problem,

I have 1998 and It sometimes won't let me move the gear stick (stuck in park) and before anyone ask. Yes, I did apply pressure to the brakes first.

If I let it sit awhile or beat on the gear stick it usually starts functioning again; it's getting worse though.

My wife has a 97 catera. It used to run like a dream but once we hit the 100,000 mile point it just turned to crap. We have done many things to it but all in all it seems to have just been a lost cause. We don't even drive it anymore. It shakes really bad when you slow down and even when your just driving it normal its got a pretty good shake to it. I would never ever recomend anyone buying one. If it would just run like it did in the begining it would be great. It used to drive smooth and was very comftorble and even the speakers sounded great. But that's all in the past.

Hey just recently obtained a 98 Caddi Cat. Totally love it.

To the person with the gear shifter that doesn't change, happened to myself, cause well... I spilled Coke by the gear shifter. Regardless, if you remove the cover you'll see a lock that engages when you press the brake. Usually that gets sticky. If so, it's a cheap fix with wd40. Otherwise... well I'm sorry cause that's another problem that will cost ya.

I recently purchased a 97 Cadillac Catera and my Lord what did I do that for. It had to be the worst investment in the history of Cadillac. The parts are German and very expensive. The car use to run great, now I had to replace the transmission, ignition switch, and timing belt. All which cost a fortune. I can't wait to get rid of it. I will never get a Cadillac and I would not advise anyone to get one.