1998 Cadillac Catera Sedan from North America - Comments

22nd Feb 2006, 13:14

"Do not buy this car"

What things have gone wrong with the car?

Radiator Leak - replaced radiator

Battery died - replaced

Water Pump - replaced with recall

Serpentine Belt - recall

fuel filter - replaced

brake pads - replaced

rotors- replaced

calipers- replaced

spark plugs- replaced

tires- replaced

oxygen sensor- replaced

electronic control module

speedometer

odometer

cruise control

oil leak in main seal

turning control sensor

ABS sensor

Check Engine sensor.

General comments?

Not reliable like you might expect from a Cadillac. I have three sensors on in the dash. This is not the first time as I have always had something on in the dash. Last time it was the check engine light because of an oxygen sensor. Now the Turning Control light, ABS brake light and check engine lights are on. I spent over 200 dollars to have Cadillac determine what was wrong. It took them two days to figure out. It is an Electronic Control Module that causes the cruise control, odometer, and speedometer to fail. I am not replacing this because it will cost 1100 dollars. Piece of junk Cadillac with suspension that makes the care feel like it is made of lead. Potholes make this car slam against the ground. If you have a back problem this car is definitely not for you. It handles like an RV - I have seen reviews that say it handles well but it does not.


23rd May 2006, 09:07

I couldn't believe cadillac would even put there name on such a vehicle. I've had mine for a year, I've replaced the alternator, my radiator light stays on, the supension is crappy and guess what I'm still paying on it.

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10th Oct 2006, 13:47

I recently purchased a 1998 Catera. It is leaking oil from the front end, I was told that it is probably the front crankshaft seal. It has 88k miles. I'm thinking on having the timing belt replaced along with the crank & camshaft seals. I've run across information on tensioner pulley, water pump and I'm thinking a couple of other items that were said to have had a recall on them. Does anyone know where I can find out exactly what item had been recalled on the 98 Catera and make sure the dealer is aware of them so I will not be charged for the repairs.

Thank you.

Rob Patino.

rob.patino.ctr@brooks.af.mil

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1st Jan 2008, 04:44

Well Most of the Police drivers of europe (where real roads are) will disgaree with you on the handling, and they have driven it a little faster than you have I suspect. Its generally held as one of the finest persuit cars of all time handles well, better than most BMWs. Have a look for Vauxhall or Opel OMEGA which is the cars real name

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19th Feb 2008, 21:07

I think all the owners who spent good money on this car should get together and higher a lawyer and sue cadilac for selling us a defective product. I can't even trade the 98 catera in on another car there are some many proplems w/it. I put in over 3k in the car the past 3 years and it's a piece of junk. I like to see cadilac step up to the plate and come take this car and give me another use car because I can't afford to purchase anything right now. no car means no job ceo of cadilac if you have a heart you would step up to plate you can call me at 330 727 4488 ask for ed.

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20th Feb 2008, 10:42

It's a 10 year old car. I don't think the "ceo of Cadillac" is going to be concerned about his job over your problems with it.

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4th Jun 2008, 14:41

I purchased my 98 Cadillac Catera last October... the radio does not work... quoted at $99-$999 to fix... what a quote! I had to replace the air shocks...$1000.00. Put new rotors and brakes in the whole thing! I also had to replace the sway bar link. The sides of the seats where the power seat buttons are located is falling apart. I live in Wisconsin and at least 5 times this winter my car was unable to drive through the snow... while my 93 Grand Am made it just fine. Not a car for winter! Also when put the brakes on the car jerks to the left. What a pile!!! I'm selling mine, however, I feel bad for the poor sucker that thinks it looks good!

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27th Jul 2008, 23:03

I don't think that the catera is a warm weather car either. I've had my 1998 catera for three years and have only put 3k miles on it because it stays broken down. Overheating, oil in the radiator, transmission replaced, warning lights staying on, and headlights out of alignment. Right now it is broken down because the ignition key will not turn and the steering column stays locked. It rides and drives very good but it seldom runs. I'm extremely frustrated and broke!!!

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