1986 Cadillac DeVille review from North America
"This year and model did not live up to Cadillac's reputation for excellence!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Engine Belt tensioner excessive tension resulting in an audible knock (relaxed tension & knock went away!).
Engine overheating - replaced everything (radiator, engine temp sensor, thermostat, fans), and finally located fan control module which when replaced solved the problem (Fan control module was not located per manual!!).
Water pump replaced 2X.
Alternator replaced, starter replaced, fuel pump, drive axles (due to wear), shocks & shock towers (due to rust), metal bracket securing front seat to floor.
Cruise control stopped working, likely due to something in the steering column (replacing everything else didn't correct the problem).
Replaced rear wheel bearings (due to wear). Master cylinder replaced, but later learned that the constant vacuum pump was at fault - no vacuum boost to master cylinder.
Interior heater fan replaced. Radio replaced with after market unit.
Replaced bushings between oil filter housing bracket and engine block, which had resulted in serious oil leak.
General comments?
Best winter driving car owned to date (in serious snow country), never been stuck! However wouldn't recommend unless you're mechanically inclined!
Recommended reviews
| A great car that is very smooth |
|
| Oh, woe is me! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1986 |
| Year of manufacture | 1986 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.1 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 110000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 172000 miles |
| Previous car | Chrysler Newport |
| Date of Entry | 24th December, 2006 |