Just bought this car over the weekend with only 40000 miles on it. Its pity that I didn't came across this board earlier. So, I wonder if 2000 catera's have lots of problems as well. The first thing that I noticed in this car is weird shifting I am not sure its just me or it really is, as I am too spoiled driving those japanese vehicles. Jeff, Can you please advise what to look for and make sure car doesn't have any problems? I can take it to cadillac but they charge around $125 for that.

:welcome:

1. Check the oil filler valley for white/brown gooey substance.

2. Check the oil. (on dipstick). Id get the oil changed just so you know whats in the engine.

3. Check the coolant reserve for a peanut butter like substance and/or discoloration of the coolant.

4. Viewing the bottom of the vehicle, before the front wheels there's what looks like two bolts comming down from a bellhousing on the transmission. Check to see if oil is on the bolts. This may signify a valve cover gasket or bad valve cover.

5. Look for dried or still wet oil paths near the valve covers on the sides of the engine.

6. Check for proper tyre wear on each wheel.


And finally, step 7... Enjoy your Catera. :) They dont have many problems, certainly not as much as the older versions do. 2000-2001 are by far the best years.

"Too spoiled by Japanese cars"???? They may be reliable but they certainly are not any fun to drive. I can’t imagine ever saying that I was spoiled by driving a Japanese car.

"Too spoiled by Japanese cars"???? They may be reliable but they certainly are not any fun to drive. I can’t imagine ever saying that I was spoiled by driving a Japanese car.
That was in context of smooth shifting of japanese cars. When I noticed shifiting in catera i felt it weird because, when you expect somthing to happen and doesn't happen right away you feel weird don't you?