15th Mar 2003, 20:44

I own an 88 Sedan De Ville. I have had it for a few years now and have taken it to almost 200k (Before the end of the year for sure).

I knew about and watch the sealant, keep up on constant oil changes, and I watch my coolant carefully - as I do currently have a hole in the inlet.

My De Ville is a great car and I plan on a second engine coming sooner or later. I can't see why anyone would think that this DeVille is bad. Far from it.

Also, if anyone else ever reads this, and has one of these beautiful cars: Get a performance ignition module that addresses the rpm fault. Replace the cap and rotor with performance upgrades and a high energy super coil with the best saturation you can find. If you can find a decent fuel control module (The external block kind made for injected vehicles) and performance injectors, and retard the timing just enough to hear the exhaust and give a little extra punch; You will have powerful beast with an awsome ride.

Also, if you don't like how low the car sits (Which by the way is very level.) then consider larger wheels and not trying to adjust the rear end - keep the car level!

The A/C problems are extremely common. My suggestion: Have someone install a custom built system (Custom in lines - not hardware.).

Phoenix, AZ.

14th Aug 2003, 21:11

My comment is for the people who have an A/C service light problem, I have had a couple of Cads, and also the same problem. It is a very easy prob to fix, codes can be pulled from the Climate control head by holding off and hot buttons at the same time. this enters the diagnostics mode. once codes are retrieved problems are easily narrowed down. A GM shop service manual is also VERY VERY helpful. Not to trash them, but after market manuals are a waste of paper Money and time.

12th Sep 2003, 19:49

Hey I bought a 89 caddy and the fuel gage is out Can anyone help ME. Thanks e-mail me wildweed5@yahoo.ca.

26th Mar 2004, 08:17

I just recently purchased a 1988 Cadillac DeVille by accident while visiting my daughter in Pa. I was going to head back to Upstate NY where I live the day before. Due too bad weather conditions further upstate I decided to postpone. Glad that I did, for it was that day that I come upon this Cadillac DeVille that was just put up for sale by a private individual.

I found it hard to believe to be able to come upon a vehicle in such a fine condition. Even the actually stickers where still on the fenders.I knew that it was meant for me to come upon this car.Interior and exterior not to far from excellent condition. I have to say I fell in love with the car and bought it with in a couple hours. It was bought new one time owner, the person I bought it from only had it three months. Only reason he put it up for sale was to get money for repairs needed on his home.I was twenty dollars short and down to my last three dollars in being able to buy the car. He could tell that I was sincere about getting the car. Said don't worry about the last twenty and keep the the eighty, couldn't see me going back to NY with just three bucks.I'm thankful for his kindness and have a car to be well proud of. I will leave it at my daughters till winter is over.

Glad that I was able to run upon your Website. I read all the reviews which gave me a positive look on the purchase of this car. Any ideal on the average gas consumption per mile. Glad to read the review about the sealer additive when changing anti-freeze.Over all how is the engine rated in dependability. Thank you for posting my comment.

1st Mar 2005, 17:39

I am currently in the process of buying a 1988 Cadillac De Ville 2 door it's silver and it's the only one like it in the town I live in. My friend bought it new in 88 and it has had a lot of recent work done to it. One of the power windows don't work and the radio's dead, but for $300 whose going to care about that. I have been driving this car for a long time (I even learned to drive in it) and have always loved it now it is going to be mine. I can hardly wait. And yes A/C problems are common this one has them too and another commen problem is the electronic fuel gage not working. Not a big deal just make sure you track you mileage. Love to all the caddy owners out there as I will soon join you.

28th Sep 2005, 20:59

I own a 1988 Cadillac De Ville 4 door and it is the best car I have ever had. I have put some money into it fixing common problems. Even having 200,000 miles on it you wouldnt think that driving it. I'm having the same problems though with the check engine light and A/C light. I guess there pretty common on the 88's. Also the passenger window stopped working. But other than all that the car is awesome and I recommend everyone getting one.

1st Feb 2006, 13:08

I just purchased a 1988 Cadillac Coupe De Ville with 99,000 miles on it from a California Dealer. Red with Red and white Cabriolet Top. Car fax and Auto Check certified, two senior owners, the usual options. This is one of 7 cars so it will used on a very limited basis. It appears to be maintained beautifully and the dealer has assured me that the records are available and they have performed a 140 point inspection of the usual stuff.

I am looking for suggestions from other Cadillac owners of this model on what I should do immediately to insure success in ownership.

If you have any suggestions please send them to me at grandlapaloma@cox.net-Curt-Phoenix, AZ. and thank you.

17th Feb 2006, 19:05

My 1988 Cadillac De Ville has the same problems with the AC system light as indicated above. I will try the recommendation shown earlier about getting the codes from the Climate Control Head, but I'm not very hopeful.

Another problem is the front passenger seat. The driver's seat has extensive controls for tilting and raising the seat and moving it forward or back. The back of the front passenger seat is tilted uncomfortably back and there appear to be no controls to adjust it. There is nothing on the armrest, as is there for the driver's seat, and nothing that I can find underneath the seat or on the side, front, or rear "kick" panels of the seat. The manual that came with the car also does not indicate any location for adjustments for the passenger seat.

3rd Mar 2006, 14:35

My family recently purchased an 88 Cadillac DeVille and at first it was the car of our dreams. Now, as mentioned above, the passenger window is broken and the car has pretty much stopped running altogether. A few months ago it started acting up and needed a jump every once in a while, but this is the second time it's just stopped working and the mechanics can't find anything obviously wrong with it. If anyone has any info on computer problems or anything that could help please email me at HalyceVR22@aol.com. Thanks a lot, I really appreciate it.