Just FYI for anyone driving a pre-2000 Catera...

My '99 had an oil cooler leak at 52,000. This cooler is located under the intake manifold and is water cooled. It looks like a small radiator. When this unit gets even hariline cracks, the engine's oil gets sucked into the radiator / coolant system. Luckily, I was able to shut mine down immediately and have it serviced (as soon as engine oil light came on). The coolant overflow tank was oozing what looked like hot carmel. :mad: The oil cooler is a $250 part, but you will be out of at least a grand after the installation, thermostat replacement, gaskets / seals, and flushing.

This happened due to corrosion on the oil cooler. Please flush your Catera's coolant system and add a PH balance additive to the new fluid. This will save you from a costly repair.

I have a 1998 Catera. I have had persistent coolant leaks. I have taken it back to the dealer for the same problem 5 times. I finally had it and went to an attorney re: Lemmon Law. Since I bought it as "used certified" I will not get much help. My warranty is expiring in March and I still do not feel confident that the item is fixed. I drive around with a gallon of coolant in my trunk. The last time they "fixed" it, they said the oil cooler was the problem. I brought it in again and it was another item. I am smelling the coolant again, gassing off, when I open my window or car door when it is running. I am really fed up with this. I had a 91 buick that had no problems, and this is suppose to be a Cadillac.
Anyone have a persistent problem like this??

That engine is also used in the L Series Saturn and they also leak.

I have a friend that has a 98 catera , im trying to help him with his oil cooler, but I cant find the part for less than $549.00. If some one can help as to where to get it cheaper it would be great. CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP..... THANKS NJPETE

Enter in your catera model, and either search for "Oil Cooler" or go to Engine>Lubrication>Oil Cooler

http://www.cadillac-parts-dealer.com/parts.htm

$409.73

A lil bit of an improvement... all i can find for now.