How many in this Cadillac forum own a Catera (or Omega for that matter) ?

I own a 1997, that just developed a power steering leak. I put some Lucas stop leak in, that seemed to slow it if not fix it. I cannot tell if it is still leaking as it is too damn cold to be out there playing with a car :D. But occasionally i still smell the fluid burning but everything looks pretty dry. I think it is just burning the remainer off of it. Have to see. But, um yeah I own a Catera, lol

I own a 1997, that just developed a power steering leak. I put some Lucas stop leak in, that seemed to slow it if not fix it. I cannot tell if it is still leaking as it is too damn cold to be out there playing with a car :D. But occasionally i still smell the fluid burning but everything looks pretty dry. I think it is just burning the remainer off of it. Have to see. But, um yeah I own a Catera, lol

Count on it, when it's cold like this, my cars leak everything but applejuice! :D I had to snug up 2 rad hose clamps today, never leaked a month ago!

I have to admit I'm a little disappointed that there isn't more traffic on this site, especially compared to the Yahoo site. I get tired of all the intrusive ads on that site, and yes, I realize that is what Yahoo is all about. Oh, yeah, we have a 2000 Sport and I think the Catera is the best kept secret in the automotive world. Then again, we traded a 95 Transport on the Caddie, so maybe that explains some of my enthusiasm?

I traded a '95 Mercury Villager for mine. Kinda miss it. Chrome rims, leather, huge sunroof.....

I got an 98...

Live in Minneapolis

use the forums, prolly not enough

but will make a point of dropping by more often

i've got a 'project' 97 catera.....just got in from the freezing weather after cleaning off the battery terminals and trying to get the rear seat all hooked up and back in.....right now the battery is charging.....
gotta replace the valve cover gasket on the left hand side this spring/summer...that will be a treat :-/ lol

Hey jester, I just moved from a suburb of Minneapolis/ Hennepin county.. not too long ago. Im in florida now.


2000 Catera
Rainforest Green
Luxury Pkg
Aluminium Wheels
Neutral Interior

I find it hard to believe only 5 people own Cateras in this group (including me). I donno, maybe its the truth.. i just hope not :crying: .

i got a 2000 catera sport

hey i heard that the timing belt/tensioner problem was resolved for the 2000 model, is that true or not??

I've an Omega MV6 (same as Catera) 1997.
I only have a problem with the automatic trans. (with the 3rd gear), but the car is excelent, specialy on the highway. 90 mph with an incredible mileage.

Thats not alot of people...lol
i think most of the problem is that alot of the people who own these cars arent like interested in being part of a community of users..if they just use the car to get to and from work or school, then why look for and be part of a forum unless you have problems with the car (which actually should mean that there would be tons of users here! lol)

On a side note, a friend of mine whos a mechanic, also in a cooking class here at school, took a look at some pics of the engine i took.....may not be the valve cover gasket, he pointed out how the oil APPEARD to be coming from the filler cap, so that might save me alot of time and work. I'll post some more when i get home, gotta finish some history HW now. lol

i got a 2000 catera sport

hey i heard that the timing belt/tensioner problem was resolved for the 2000 model, is that true or not??

Yep it was resolved :cool:

Hi all Im new to the forum.
I have a 99 Catera Sport

erm... well, I did own one, that is up untill I killed it a few months ago. :cry: 60mph and a tree is not a good combonation, especially when your upside down :eek: .

but I still know quite a bit about the catera and will continue to try and help out answering any questions about them here on the forums :)

I have one. It's a 98; all stock except DVD player.
While it's kinda nice to have one stock vehicle that always works, with few problems, I plan on all forged low compression internals and boosting the hell out of it after my house in Ohio sells, but so far it's taking forever :yawn: so we'll see, i guess. Anybody want a house in Ohio? I know I don't.

I own a 99 and love it. I was wondering what the differences in 99 are between a regular Catera and the sport model??

Harder suspension settings, bigger wheels/tyres, race seats (recaro) and brushed aluminium dash.

New Member from Espanola New Mexico

We own a 1998 Catera, purchased new, approx. 100K miles. I found this site while exploring a fix to our problem. The car shuts down, seems to be a lack of fuel, restarts in a few minutes, runs for a while and then shuts down again. The Cadillac Dealer diagnosis was low fuel pressure no trouble codes - needs a fuel pump. I'm not sure if that is really the problem. I would like to know if anyone has had similar problems and could help.
Miguel
The only problems I have had in the past were:

Replacement of a Gear Selector Switch - covered under warranty
Battery Replacement
Eats up front tires every 15-20K miles

I havn't experienced a problem such as this in my Catera, but I had a similiar problem in my Bonneville. I replaced the fuel filter and the car ran great. I would recommend trying this first as it is fairly easy. If that doesn't work the pump might be the next thing to try, but fuel filter would be much cheaper. Good luck

I own a 97 Catera it's a nice ride, although i have had some problems with it. The price for fixing them are very high unfortunatly, so if anyone can help me with my current problems on it it would be appreciated. The problems are posted on another thread.:annoyed:

New Member from Espanola New Mexico

We own a 1998 Catera, purchased new, approx. 100K miles. I found this site while exploring a fix to our problem. The car shuts down, seems to be a lack of fuel, restarts in a few minutes, runs for a while and then shuts down again. The Cadillac Dealer diagnosis was low fuel pressure no trouble codes - needs a fuel pump. I'm not sure if that is really the problem. I would like to know if anyone has had similar problems and could help.
Miguel
The only problems I have had in the past were:

Replacement of a Gear Selector Switch - covered under warranty
Battery Replacement
Eats up front tires every 15-20K miles


I just had a similar problem - if not the same problem. After 4 service shops it turned out to be the crank sensor.

I hope this helps, just like you said it's very expensive to fix this damn car. I'm in Northern California - the total for the repair was close to 600.00 (part 120.00). I doubt if your labor cost are as high as mine.

I just had a similar problem - if not the same problem. After 4 service shops it turned out to be the crank sensor.

I hope this helps, just like you said it's very expensive to fix this damn car. I'm in Northern California - the total for the repair was close to 600.00 (part 120.00). I doubt if your labor cost are as high as mine.Well i sure the hell hope it's not that either :bonkers: i had AAA come and get it yesterday so it's in the shop getting estimates. There's another thing it might be, there's a sensor that regulates the fuel intake kinda like a choke so it may be that. If it's the sensor it shouldn't be to bad and may even be covered under warranty if im lucky... if not then one way or another of course my Catera must live on so i will have to pay if it's the alternative.:worship:

I just had a similar problem - if not the same problem. After 4 service shops it turned out to be the crank sensor.

I hope this helps, just like you said it's very expensive to fix this damn car. I'm in Northern California - the total for the repair was close to 600.00 (part 120.00). I doubt if your labor cost are as high as mine.Sounds like your front-end needs aligned at the very least, I would have the front end checked out if i where you.

I have a 1999 that we bought with 25K miles on it. Have had only minor problems so far that are warranty related. Did have a problem with the Check Engine light coming on at odd times, and the oil light, but every thing checked out OK.
Drives like a dream and is a really nice ride for me.
:halo:

caty

I own a 1997 Catera and have been quite pleased with its performance.

I found this site white researching a problem I just discovered. I spent a couple hours reading through all of the old posts to determine if my problem was covered already, so it wouldn't need to be readdressed. I have not joined nor looked through the Yahoo! equivalent of this group, I beg forgiveness in advance if my topic has already been covered there.

My radiator idiot light has been coming on and staying on for about 3 minutes after I start my Catera in the morning. Once it goes off, it doesn't come on again until another cold start. The Catera doesn't seem to be running any differently nor is the temperature gage reading too high at any time. When I took it into the dealership for diagnosis, they told me my engine oil cooler needed to be replaced for $860. Now I have a fairly all-inclusive extended warranty, but they are refusing to cover it. Here's my question......has anyone had any success in convincing a warranty company this is indeed an internally lubricated part or that it is actually part of the radiator? Of course, I am not mechanically inclined and don't even fully understand how ALL the parts under the hood work, but I'm hoping for some advise on sounding like I know what I'm talking about.

Short of convincing the warranty company to cover it, I may have to nurse my baby along until I can save up the bucks to pay for the repair. Should I keep my eyes open for something other than water in the oil or oil in the radiator as signs that its catastrophically too late to get the repair work done on it?

I love this forum as I've learned a whole lot about my fabulous car reading older posts. I hope it stays alive and I plan to continue reading and writing in the future. Many thanks to the hosts providing this site!

Shelly

I just had a similar problem - if not the same problem. After 4 service shops it turned out to be the crank sensor.

I hope this helps, just like you said it's very expensive to fix this damn car. I'm in Northern California - the total for the repair was close to 600.00 (part 120.00). I doubt if your labor cost are as high as mine.
Do you recall where the crank sensor was located on the engine? I have the catera manual, but it really does not give me a clue as to where to locate the sensors (crank or cam sensors).
Miguel

On a V6 engines, the crank sensor is located near the oil filter. Cadillac Cartera was sold in Europe as an Opel/ Vauxhall Omega MV6. Following link might be useful: www.topbuzz.co.uk (http://www.topbuzz.co.uk) --> Information --> Technical Guides --> Reading ECU Fault Codes and form the list, select engine code X30XE. A new crank sensor costs about 50 - 60 $ in Europe.

FCI
Finland

Shelly: Check out this oil cooler for the catera.


I think it may be what you are looing for at a fraction of what the dealer is charging.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2470023112&category=46095


Also, there are lots of parts for sale on ebay.de in Germany listed under opel omega. Some ship to US, and some don't. I hope that this helps.

John
01 catera sport

Jeff, I have a '99 Catera. It's a beautiful car but questionable problems.. You can count on hearing from me at least once a month!! Just found this site~ I'm sure we will chat again.

Did you get it fixed? I just had a similar problem which is posted on another thread & i was told it was the crank sensors. In the past, my car used to idle BADLY & found it was the O2 sensors. I can't remember correctly but the car has either 4 or 6 of them~ which have all gone out at different times! You are definetly right on the cost of repairs!

I own a 2001 Catera Sport!

I love it, everything about the car I find amazing and I have always wanted a car that has leather, xenon headlights, BOSE with 2 subs!! and so much more including recaro seats.. I think this european built caddy is amazing and a great sports sedan. I mostly use if for trips as its a dream on the highway. I also own a new beetle and I find my Catera Sport more german than the beetle LOL. Heck the beetle was made in mexico and my caddy was built in GERMANY!

Its still under warranty and havent had any problems yet, I assume there wont be much as the 2000 and 2001s had everything resolved that was a problem in the past.

I also love how the ZJ1 suspension handles, one article said it is one of GMs best handling vehicles ever.

Is it true that out of the 25000 manufactured every year in 2000 and 2001 that only 2000cars were the sport models. I rarely see a car just like mine!

Dave,:lildevil:

Jeff I recently bought a 1997 Catera with 79000 miles. It's a nice looking car, rides and handles great, but came with some common problems. I noticed an oil leak first. I took it to a Caddy dealer and was told it was a rear main seal. $654.00 later and repair done, there was still leaking oil. I took the car back to the Caddy dealer and was told that there was another leak from the oil pan gasket, and guess what....... that would cost another $600.00 plus to fix! I said no thank you and went to my local repair shop. I got the oil pan gasket replaced at a cost of $260.00, only to find there was still an oil leak! :banghead: Now I'm told I need valve cover gaskets....... and I haven't even gotten up the courage to ask what that's going to cost, and who knows if that will even fix the oil leak!!!! Besides the oil leak I have occasional antilock brake/traction control light that stays on at times for awhile. After reading these forums I'm thinking "what have I gotten myself into"???? Is there anyway I can tell if the timing belt/tensioner problem has been taken care of, or do I just have to worry about blowing the engine at anytime? Just to put the iceing on the cake, I had one of the wheel center caps come off today, can't wait to see what one of those cost to replace!:rant2: A new fellow Catera owner, Vic

Catera97 guy... heres the rundown:

1. As for the oil leak, it may just be the valve covers... all i can say for now.


2. That maybe a fault in the module that controls the ABS and/or Traction Control (they are the same unit). Best bet is to go get it the car scanned for codes. You could try disconnecting the battery for a while and connecting it back up, that may clear some faults.


3. The wheel center cap... go to Ebay or see if you can inquire this website about getting just the center cap instead of the wheel (they sell your wheel style there pictured with a center cap on it); hopefully it shouldnt be anymore than 40 dollars: http://www.aaarims.com/


4. Also, reguarding the timing belt situation; if it was fixed by a Cadillac dealer then it should be on their network of systems. SO when you show up to get it checked out, they will look it up. Since it was and still is a very big problem. Plus there might be documentation (a sticker) saying that a recall was done or a sticker relating to it- you could try looking around the engine compartment.


Dont give up hope yet!!!

own a 97 just bought it a week ago. 73000 miles, seems very nice right not, had a few minor problems. seems to have a driver side vavle cover gasket leak, will fix in time. anyone had to do that? if so how much $. am considering a extended service plan, 1575.00 suposedly bumper to bumper. would yall advise doing so?

I own one. A '98 Catera (obviously) with 66xxx miles on it. Black with black leather interior, Bose stereo, sunroof.

yeah i just bought my 98 catera in sept. so far i have had ony misfire issues but i still love the car. mmmmmm leather heated seats....:)

Just got an 01 Catera, with everything but a sunroof. I love this car, after driving it for 2 weeks I told the wife I was keeping it and I'd get her another one, after I sell my Firebird. I traded her Caviler in for this one with 60K miles.

I love this car, now to work on making it better.

I hear alot about the valve covers leaking, I'll take a look at this on mine but it doesn't look like anything is leaking or has leaked, the engine looks brand new.

Has anyone tried just using RTV on the valve covers? I've built racecars for awhile and that's all I use.
Also on that subject is there anything stopping you from changing the oil cooler to a better one, I but them on my race cars and they cost like $50 for a great one. I'll have to look to see if there is room to mount it but should be an easy swap.

I'll put the catera up on the rack and get some pictures,
Does anyone have a performace webpage about doing mods to the Catera?
If not I may start one.
I'll start a new thread to ask what all people have done to theres and where we can get some more performance out of these.

Just to let you know, I've looked at the Omaga S/C that they have in Germany, but at close to $4000 it's a bit much. I may tear it down and build the bottom end so I can Turbo charge it.:lildevil:

I'm sick like that.
Matt

Ive posted other things on here about performance parts... and just recently ive found that because Saab uses the same engine, their's is turbocharged and i bet if you used the same turbo setup it would work. Maybe then change out the turbo for a higher performing one if you wanted.

General Catera info:
http://media.gm.com/division/cadillac/products/00cadillac/catera/catera00.html

General Performance parts from Europe:

http://www.mantzel.co.uk/omega/index.htm (most parts)

Info on what this engine can really do! :D

http://www.valvers.com/v6/x30xe.html

Apparently weak spots are the rods, bearings and cooling. Shouldnt take much for it to be ready for extreme stuff like superchargers etc. Yes you can have it be cooled externally for the oil. As for there being no superchargers available at the moment, there is one company making (not out yet) one for the CTS and that might fit if they make it for its base 3.2 engine which is just a larger version of our 3.0. On that site they say that the engine could handle up to 400 hp... hmmm.

Im not willing to do anything to mine yet since its in warranty and because of the models history it may be worth it to wait. IF i did, you bet there would be documentation up here on stuff. Then theres also the fact that money is going to soup'ing up the family truck.

Hey do you know which Saab uses the same engine, maybe a good place to get turbo pistons and crank and rods to make it work.

I have a buddy that proto-types turbo setups on cars, he was 5 turbo cars and all are very fast.

Im gonna be safe (with the year) and say that its anything 1999 and up... Saab 9-5 SE. Oh and these are FWD cars... modifying will have to be done. (im not saying the catera, but the saab that is FWD... as you know by now the cat is RWD :D )

From what I've found, it look like the 01 has the 3.0L turbo but it only makes
200HP and 219TQ

Ours is close to that.

May be time to upgrade and put a bigger turbo on.


The only thing I need now is more info on this multi ram system, what crazy dope smoker came up with this idea.

From what I've found, it look like the 01 has the 3.0L turbo but it only makes
200HP and 219TQ

Ours is close to that.

May be time to upgrade and put a bigger turbo on.


The only thing I need now is more info on this multi ram system, what crazy dope smoker came up with this idea.

Well... it may help make more if its already At 200hp (non-aspirated).

The Multi-ram system... its actually benificial and allows the engine to breathe its best at various rpm's:

"It has a special "multi-ram" induction system that works like the valves on a trumpet. By opening and closing a trio of valves in various combinations, the oncoming rush of air takes a shorter, or longer, path through the intake tubing creating shorter or longer pulses of air. This also "times" the air's arrival very closely to the opening of the intake valves. The flow of air is smoothed out and more air is packed into each ignition cycle. More air equals more power."

Heres a PDF showing the setup of the ram system and other things related.
http://www.pagegroupinc.com/images/samples/catera.pdf (may load very slow . poss server problems)

http://www.kempower.be/opel/omega.htm


Stage 2 kits, also seems to have ECM, camshafts, exhust, and other stuff.

The stage 2 kit seems to be a little pricey, I converted from EU to USD and it's like $2700 not including shipping.
but the Stage 1 is not that much differece in HP/TQ but it's like $1000

Will try to find more.

Theres really not that much out there, aside from general parts that fit basically any car... and so this is why were in a low spot. Ive looked a lot and they are all comming from the same spots/companies.

This weekend im going to be making a custom strut tower for the cat though :D. (there are some sold, but $$)

Ill give you some specs on it when its all done, if you want... should help some fluttering felt when doing hardcorners in the front.

cool I was looking at that too, with the setup on these cars, it looks like I may with a lot of work be able to make me a fun little rally car.

That would be cool.

Wow ... I just joined the forum and was hoping to find a community of avid helpers ... is your 6-month-old post an indicator that this may not be the case? :disappoin

So what sort of challenging questions do you want? I've got a list of eight topics that have been languishing in my mind ... I've been driving this car for 60,000 miles (bought it with 20K) and really like it ... very few problems. :) But lately silly little things have been breaking and I'm wondering if I can find some folks who can give me pointers on fixing them.

You still looking for challenges?

Sure... lol

Welcome to the Catera section of CadillacForums.com :welcome:

I bought a 97 catera with 58.000 miles for $5.900, i tought it was a good deal, it was hard for me to leave my 98 dodge intrepid behind but after 168.000 miles it was time for him to rest, or so i tought, my frined is driving and he looks happy, no complains so far.
Im happy too, i love the way my "new" car looks and how it drives too, im just dying to get a white guage, i dont even know if they make any for this car, anything, let me know.

I have owned a 97 Catera since last November. I hadn't had any problems till now. Right now it is misfiring on cylinders 1, 4 and 6. As of this past weekend it changed the spark plugs. Which was not easy. Of course that didn't fix the problem. When replacing them I did notice that all my spark plug chambers were full of oil and from what I've read I guess that is not normal. I was told it was probably my valve cover gaskets and today I called the Cadillac dealer and they told me it was my oil cooler. So now I really don't know what to but to fix both.
Maybe even my spark plug wires, which by the way are pretty expensive.
Even though it sounds like I am complaining I still love the car.
When it runs good. :)

Ive got a 2000 Catera Sport, just replaced the front tires, wearing them down to the strings. Waiting to get GM approval on the oil coolant prob.....hopefully after that no more problems...but the grill makes it all worth it !...how bout hearing posts of catera drivers with NO PROBLEMS.

2001 Catera with Lingenfelter 427 and 6 speed.

Havent had any abnormal problems yet!



As for you Fred, (catera-v) ... :tease: hehehe... thats one rockin' Catera you have there :D

i do
97 dark red all options minus heated seats
i noticed some1 else had a valve cover gasget leak, mine does 2,
however mine is on the passenger side. It stinks cus the oil leaks onto a hot pipe. It then steams up my engine and it starts smokin. could i fix that myself, help me out! is that hard nuff jeff g , i also had put a new aem cone air filter on and when i did it leaked and smoked up much worse(probably bc of the xtra pressure on the engine) THANX IN ADVANCE

I have a '97. Had it a little over a month now. The original owner had some of the major problems fixed under warranty so hopefully I won't have that same problem again. So far I like it. It still turns heads 7 years later.

I have an adapter that will let you use a PF47 or a PF52 oil filter. They are $25.00 shipping included. just e-mail me for information.

i just bought a 1997 catera about a week ago, has 100k miles on it but its decked out with an alpine cva 1005 fold out tv, 700w X 4 rockford amp with alpine type R component speakers all around and a kamelion paintjob (red to blue with an orange underlay)
its pretty nice, has some minor problems im working to get fixed now
i have enjoyed it so far and i only paid 4400$ for it so i cant bitch too much
http://www.cardomain.com/id/bluntdajuggalo

97 catera that is beige (oh sorry Catera Green) LOL!
75000 miles. From Boston but living in Toronto right now!
Change of scenery.

Got all the problems and a bag of chips!

One question:
How do I find out which relay is bad can I do that or do I have to go to a shop for them to tell me?
thanks!!!

I have a 1998 Catera. Yeah, I am not happy. I have had the car for about one and a half years. Not many problems except expensive tires, oil filters, and gas.
In the past month I have had to pay $2300 dollars for 2 different problems. Problem #1 Head Gasket leaked into the spark plugs damaging the boot and the wire and shorting out the Ignition coil. :mad:
Problem #2 Entire car turns off while driving. No power, No steering, radio, electronics, nothing at all. Took it to Firestone they could not find a problem with the car even when it turned off on them. The car gave no reason. Took the car it worked for a couple of days no problems, it died again. We then had it towed to the Cadillac Dealer where it the was discovered that the Crankshaft and rear oxygen sensors were bad. This cost $1063 to fix.
I am scared that this is not the end of problems for this car. This car is nice that it didn't cost a lot to buy, but the repair cost are out ragious. :banghead:

I have a 97' Cat... about to sell it. Had to fix a couple of things on it, and this cars not cheap to get fixed. Just put in a Kenwood cd player(touch screen lcd) and 10" Rockfords with a punch 500. :lildevil: Angel

I have a 1998 Catera, Sage, 82000 miles

I like it allot, love the ride, just wish there was more of an aftermarket here for it.

Problems:
Front Main seal replaced with timing chain, and tensioner: 68k
Cruise Control stopped working, all gauge lights died: 70k
Tie Rods: 79k

This is actually my second one, and I love it! I had a '98 Catera that I had to get rid of during my divorce, and now I've gotten a 2001 Catera Sport. Once you've driven one, nothing else compares.

Hi,
I have a '99 Catera, jet black. Smooth, comfortable, powerful, and CLASSY. I fell in love with it the first time I drove it. Usually I'm very cool headed about buying cars, check out the Lemonade book, etc.; but this one took me by surprise. I didn't even check out it's reputation. It's by far the nicest car I've ever driven. I've seen about 5 around here, Markham Ontario. I think the person who said that most owners don't belong to a forum, is right. I don't log on very often, mostly when I have a problem and want help. I appreciate the support.
Thanks,
John

New Member from Espanola New Mexico

We own a 1998 Catera, purchased new, approx. 100K miles. I found this site while exploring a fix to our problem. The car shuts down, seems to be a lack of fuel, restarts in a few minutes, runs for a while and then shuts down again. The Cadillac Dealer diagnosis was low fuel pressure no trouble codes - needs a fuel pump. I'm not sure if that is really the problem. I would like to know if anyone has had similar problems and could help.
Miguel
The only problems I have had in the past were:

Replacement of a Gear Selector Switch - covered under warranty
Battery Replacement
Eats up front tires every 15-20K miles


Well I seam to find another person with the same problem CAR SHUTS DOWN
"My car shuts down many times" posted 11-11-04 They say at the dealership
It's the Crank sensors or do they even know. My 98 Catera is a great driving car. But...I had to have the tires replaced when I purchased it with 10k Miles.
700.00 with new brakes. the pads ate right though the sensors, that's why I did not know the brakes were gone. I never heard of changing out tires this soon. The tires were bald on the inside of all four tires.

I just bought a 2001 Catera about 2 weeks ago and love it.

Jeff

Hello folks! I'm catscnfly and am only a couple of weeks into being an owner of a 2000 Catera S. Thanks to all who have assisted me in my quest to create the perfect Cat, and an additional thanks to (The Pres.) JefferyG for his consistantly helpful advice or info to us members who dunno nuthin! (yet)

I have one and until today loved it. I found this forum a little to late. I'm showing the signs of bad valve covers. I also have a coolant leak that I can't figure out. My Catera is lowered with the Eibach Pro kit. I also added EBC sloted and dimple rotors with green pads. My car handles and stops. Now if only I could get it to go fast with out any engine problems.

I own a 99 with everything except for OnStar and the CD rack in the trunk. Love it. It's coming off warranty in February, though!! John

I'm pretty new here and have only posted a few times. Despite the fact that the is board may seem a bit slow, I check it regularly. I have a '99 that we bought in August. We traded a '00 Pontiac Montana for it. Despite the quirks we've experienced (leaking oil cooler cover, burned out dash lights, faulty coolant level sensor, possible faulty park/nuetral safety switch), we absolutly love the car. Even though we never had a problem with the Montana, we will never, ever, own a minivan again. :boring:

I checked the VIN with a dealer and it had the timing belt recall performed at 49,000. It has 71,000 right now. I'm fully expecting to get 130,000+ before we get rid of it.

The one thing I see is many people complaining about the high cost of repair. Isn't just about everything expensive these days? My '95 Surburban is the shop right now for $1250 transmission replacement. Anyhow, I do most of my own work, and I'm finding that many things are not all that hard to work on, on the Catera.

i have a 97 that ive had for over a year. its a good car. i replaced the alternator myself, talk about job. but it saved me about $350. i just developed a small leak from my valve cover. i still wouldnt trade it for the world.

I just got a new 97 catera about a month ago , and i have no complain, best car fot the value, i also own a 2000 maxima and that is another great car...
Does anyone know if the catera has a body kit i can purchase? or any other GM kit that will fit on the catera with some custom work.

I've been lurking around here for a while. My wife has a thing for Caddies and I end up fixing them. She trashed her STS and not has a 98 Cat. Not too bad in terms of problems. The standard stuff. Heater Control Valve, tire wear, timing belt was replaced by recall, and last night I finished up the valve cover gaskets. It's still missing though. I'm afraid the wires need to be changed. Lowest price I found was $140 for the set at Carquest. Ouch. :(
If I can make a suggestion, it's search the archives. I'm constantly amazed at people who post stories of going to the dealer for an oil leak (obviously the valve covers 9/10 times) and end up replacing oil pan, head gasket, etc. and finally the valve covers. If you're a member of this forum and the Yahoo group, you can save yourself thousands of dollars. :hmm:

I have a '99 Cranberry Catera, a picture of it is used for my icon, have only had it for about 3 months, has 49k, fun car to drive ....

I own a 98 Catera. The car has had a host of problems, mostly electrical. A portion of the trunk brake light went out, it cost $200. The airbag light came on one day, had to go in to be reset. Just had a remote starter put in, now I need a new radio. The horn fuse keeps blowing. The heated seats don't work right. After the timing belt recall work was done it smells like it's burning antifreeze all the time. I can't believe that there wasn't a total recall of this model. I am not the only one who has had this many problems with this "lemon mobile".:helpless:

bought one on ebay. flying out at 7 am to drive it home. i found this website full of complaints after i made my non-refundable deposit:rolleyes:


i have a 7 and a half hour drive tomorrow morning to get my catera (97) home. only good thing is that with 119k, hopefully all of the problems have occurred and been addressed already. we shall see. :confused:

Hey Fellow Caddy Lovers
Well I guess that I am very lucky I started in the Cadillac Family 30 years ago and I 39 years young I have been lucky enough to own about 25 Cadillacs thoughout these years My best one was A New 1980 Cadillac Deville Black on Black she was a beauty I have had so many of the beauties that I really can't tell you guys about eveyone of them Do you Guys Collect Cadillac Memorbilia Boy I do Have just about everything that you can think of let me hear form some of you I drive a 1999 Deville d"elegance All Factory color White Diamond I really can't get ready for the new Bodystyles I am of the old Cadillac Family where these beauties were Big Fat Long and Low Now thats a CADILLAC!!!!!:)

Please don't take offense Joel, but could you use punctuation? Your post is very hard to read. Thanks!

I have a 1998 with everything except seat heaters and rear curtain. The Boze system is awesome. Love it. Bought it with 58,000 miles on it a couple of months ago. Oil cooler had been replaced in Jan. 2003 at 51,000 miles. Timing belt, tensioner, water pump campaign done in 2002. New battery Jan. 2002. Camshaft covers and gaskets replaced Jan. 2002 at 39,000 miles. SAI hose campaign done July 2001 at 32,000 miles. Harmonic balancer campaign done Sept 1999. I have the original owners manual and both key FOD's. Clean Carfax. I have the dealer's warranty records. The one owner before me bought the car from the Cad dealer she worked for. All the service was done by them. I use all synthetic oils - Mobil 1 0/40 for engine, Mobil 1 synthetic ATF in tranny and power stearing, and Mobil 1 75/90 synthetic gear oil in differential. I get about 19 to 20 MPG in the city. The only problem I have is fueling. It likes to shut the pump off frequently. Have to fillup manually - slowly. It's handles like a dream, is quiet, and responsive.

I have had my 97 Catera for 4 days. 119K and runs/drives great. I do need a lower ball joint. I have the gas pump problem as well. I guess it is just the design of the filler tube???

Couple probably silly questions:
It didn't come with an owner's manual
I changed my oil. It took 6.5 quarts. Is that correct?
It looks like my front transmission seal may be leaking a little, but where/how do you check or change transmission fluid? I couldn't find a dipstick or filler tube. Is it underneath the car? I have ordered an owners manual and repair manuals, but I am curious

I got the car off of EBAY for $3400. It is the nicest car I have ever owned including brand new cars and a truck.

Even if I need to have some engine work done, I don't mind, I'll still have a real nice car for about $5000, but there is no antifreeze in my oil.

I own a 2000 catera ,,,,,,and believe you me its a lemon,mass air flow changed,secondary antifreeze pump changed,crank sensor,twice the valve cover's and gaskets changed,pcv seperator also !!!etc!!! whats gonna be next ???only has 122000 km to it,runs on sythetic oil,filters (air,oil and fuel) are changed every 5000 km,new brake disks and pads,exaust line,,, no lady could ask for more ,,,and what about 5x110 bolt pattern does not leave mutch choice for mags,,,,,,

5 x 110 means you have to go to Europe for wheels.
Good thing is, if they're ever stolen, the moron that takes them will find a hard time dumping them.

Maybe its because people never really considered a Catera to be a "real" Cadillac??

I had a 1997 Catera. Liked the car but had problems. Ran hot but dealer said they all ran hot. Found out after the warranty had expired that several of the vertical tubes in the radiator were clogged and had been that way from day one. Later had some problems with the braking systems and the cost to repair was about what the car was worth. They do not have good resale. All parts are very expensive vs other Cadillacs. Cadillac does not have good luck with rebadging models. See the old Cimarron.

I no longer have the car and due to lack of communication with Cadillac Division, probably would not purchase another Cadillac.

Maybe its because people never really considered a Catera to be a "real" Cadillac??

Because it's not a Cadillac. It's an Omega with a Cadillac badge on it.

And you don't have to go to Europe for 5x110 wheels. I got mine custom machined here in the US. They're for sale, check my thread out.

I own a 2001. Bought it in bebruary 2004. It had 9,300 miles on it. I love the car. Well worth the $15,000 I paid for it....

98' sand catera 52,000 miles :D

I got a Black 2000 Catera...I will be in the poorhouse with all the repairs but at least I'm pushing a Caddy....

I got a Black 2000 Catera...I will be in the poorhouse with all the repairs but at least I'm pushing a Caddy....

An Omega with a Caddy badge* :coolgleam

I just got a 2001 with 50,000 miles on it. Its been great so far...does anybody know where I can get the factory Xenon Headlights? If so, how much and do I have to make mods? Thanks!!

(You'll probably have more success finding the lights if you post this as a new thread.) You can get a good price on the OEM versions from GMpartsdirect.com. However, be prepared to invest over $1K between the bulbs themselves and the electronics to run them. Keep in mind that the headlight assemblies themselves really don't do a lot to make the HID lamps really perform. Frankly, you can get just as good results IMHO using one of the higher-performing aftermarket halogen bulbs such as the Eurolite Xenon Super Plasma. If you really want the HID lights, look into one of the aftermarket conversions. You can get away for less than $300. I've seen them for $200 on eBay (but I have no idea of the quality). Hope this helps.

Thanks, that does help!!

I have a 1998 Catera. I love my car. It does not seem to have as much issues as some of the other owners. (except for the rocker cover gasket issue)

But in my area where the temperature is real real cold i keep having to replace body mouldings. (they curl and break when i open the doors)

I have a 2000 cartera, so far i tinted the windows installed a spoiler Put on custom duel exhaust, and a cold air intake with pure white headlights

I have a 1998 Catera. I love my car. It does not seem to have as much issues as some of the other owners. (except for the rocker cover gasket issue)

But in my area where the temperature is real real cold i keep having to replace body mouldings. (they curl and break when i open the doors)

Unfortunately this forum is where the Cadillac owners with problems normally arrive looking for answers to their delemma. The forum was built and is supported by Cadillac "lovers".

You may find more negative Catera statements than positive only because the majority of posters are suffering with payments and unresoved problems with their Catera.

The truth is, the Catera is no more prone to problems than any other vehicle without proper maintenance. There are more detailed problem resolutions available from your local Cadillac or General Motors dealership network. All you have to do is ask (in person) at the service desk. If you do not get the information you are looking for, or get snubbed, go to another dealer and ask. Report the lazy dealers to your local Cadillac district office. You are entitled to information pertaining to your Cadillac, especially recall information. All dealerships, Cadillac or not, should be more than happy to provide you with answers to questions pertaining to proper maintenance, pertinent service bulletins, or recall information. If they are less than happy to accomodate you, or want you to bring the car into the service bay to have a "look", report them. It is NOT customary to have a "look" without first asking the customer's permission. If all you want is information, then that is your request, nothing more.

Trim curling and breaking off is a production flaw that has been addressed in a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) as are other customer complaints.

I did all the proper maintenance and still had problems. The original salesman told me that their dealership would no longer sell the Catera because of the problems. He advised me to get the extra warranty. One of the service advisors called my car a piece of crap. Part of the problem was it being the first year model (1997).

Hi Everyone,


I own a 1998 Catera. I have had it only about two months. My husband bought it from a salvage business who had bought it from an insurance company. All we had to do was replace the front bumper and fog lamps and have the bumper and hood painted. We deep cleaned it ourselves top to bottom. Under the hood was nearly immaculate. It's book value is two and half times what we paid for it.

I have to say so far I love it, especially the heated seats, sun roof and bose stereo. Oh, and it rides and drives like a dream.

Of course, I hope not to experience any of the 'horror stories' I have read on here! My husband knows vehicles inside and out, but I welcome any tips on taking care of it!:)

Cheryl

New to Forum... just purchased a 1997 Catera for my son for $5,000 and and has just rolled to 90K miles since purchase. When he drove it home (he lives 2 hours away with his mother) He called me from the highway. The "CHECK ENGINE" linght had come on and when he slowed to go through a toll booth, the car ran VERY rough. He shut it off for about 5 minutes, restared and the roughess went away, but the light stayed on. Any ideas?

Everything else on the car seems fine, it is his first car, and he is VERY excited.

That happened to me once. It was one or more of the spark plug wires but they replaced all of them and solved the problem. That should be checked first.

If you purchased the car from a dealer, then head back to them. The Check Engine light can indicate any number of problems for very simple (cheap to fix) items to much more expensive things (such as an ignition coil). If you purchased it from a private party, contact them and see if they have the service records. Reading those might give you a hint. The 97s have some reliability issues but can be very good cars. You should contact a Cadillac dealer and verify that all of the recalls have been done (most likely so, but it doesn't hurt to be safe). The roughness coming and going could be a number of things. If you can get the dealer to read the engine codes, that will give you a lot of information. Or if your son is a mechanical type, he can get a cheap code reader (<$100) and a set of service manuals on eBay (<$50) and then he can begin to waste his afternoons and weekends keeping his new car in top shape. :) Tell him "welcome to the club" :welcome:and have him read through the old posts on this site. There is a ton of good information and a lot of very helpful people here. Also, there is a Catera user's group on Yahoo that has some very smart people. Good luck.

yeah i own a 98 catera.. white.. i havent ran into any problems, i must be the lucky one that actually gets one that doesnt fail..
of course.. i did buy it used, so.. the other owner may have had these problems:lildevil: .. oh well.. :2thumbs: goodie for me..

all stock.. sadly.. but hopefully not for long...

I had a '97 :canttalk: Catera but it got the best of me. Loved the way it drove and handled but couldn't deal with the possibility of a break down since I drive 200+ miles per day. Traded it for a '99 Cadillac DeVille and love it. :bouncy:

My Catera is a 97 with 106K miles on it.

I replaced the timing belt, pulleys & water pump 6K miles ago, and spark plugs with Bosch +4, paper filter element with K&N filter, and added oil cooler to solve heating and oil pressure problems (worked just great), also upgraded the already fine looking original wheels with 17" ATS Planet wheels.

Yes, she is a problematic car but I like maintaining her :o

Just got my 99 ;) ;)

Just got my 99 ;) ;)

:welcome: How would you compare your Catera to your eldo so far? Handling, comfort, style, quallity.. ETC....

Hello everyone, 97 Catera owner here and of course and I started to regret it about 6 months after I bought it. I hate it because of all the problems but the wife loves it, or it would be gone , gone , GONE!! Owned it for 4 years and now its paid for so I can put lots of money into it each month for repair. Im glad I can do a lot the minor repair myself. Right now Im replacing the radio and two left speakers and the right rear window motor. :banghead:

I just bought a 2000 Catera Sport. I haven't even seen it yet. A friend in Dallas got it for me. Wife and I are headed down Monday night to pick it up.

I bought my '97 in Dec. w/ 74k and just hit 80k miles this month. Only problem I have had with it is the battery and other than that, I'm loving every mile of it!

Hey

I have a 98 catera wit luxary pack. bought it in december was marked up at 8500 with 62,000 on it. I got it for 6k cash with some extras ( car detailed)

as of now no problems :yup:

I bought my 1998 last November with 38K miles for $5,300, tax included. Has all options except the moonroof and Bose. Had just had new tires and brakes installed, so I was happy.

The only major problem I've encountered was the driver's side headlight with a loose reflector assembly. Stuffed it with foam (per someone on this forum) and finally replaced it with a new one last week. Had a minor oil drip from the valve covers, but I tightened the hold-down bolts and it no longer drips - lucky me :D Had some very minor problems that ate some time, but no money - a broken wire in the harness going into the trunk lid, for example.

Installed an aftermarket radio, CD changer and Sirius satellite and all is good. Love the car.

Had a 2005 Chrysler 300C Hemi for 6 months prior - loved that one too, but had to give it back when I quit my job. Needed a car quick and found the Catera on the web. Miss the 300C, but the Catera is as much fun in its own way. :coolgleam

I've owned a 1998 catera for six years and I was told the oil leak I
recently developed is from a blown head gasket.
How bad is this problem? :confused: I like the car but I dont want a headach

Wait - let me guess - you have oil in your coolant and/or coolant in your oil, right? And the mechanic thus claims it is a blow head gasket. :coolgleam

Before you pop for a head gasket, read all of the threads on this forum related to bad oil coolers. Many mechanics who are unaware of the Catera's coolant/oil heat exchanger make an unwarranted jump to the bad head gasket conclusion. If you have not had the oil cooler replaced, look there first. It's somewhat time consuming to replace, but not beyond the capabilities of most mechanically-inclined persons. One of the threads on this subject has a link to a collection of photos showing the step-by-step procedure. You can judge for yourself if this is too large of a task.

I have a 97, that I bought new in 2000. It has 40,000 miles on it now. It has been a pretty good car. Problems - it doesn't seem to hold wheel alignment very well, and eats tires like crazy. I'm on my third set. And, there there is trying to replace a headlamp! You pretty much have to remove the grill! It cost me $137 to replace a headlight, and I provided the bulb. Otherwise, it's comfortable, fairly quiet, and (so far!) more-or-less trouble free.

You bought a new '97 in 2000? How did you do that????

I have a 1997 Catera with approx 75,000 miles on it. She has been in the shop all winter getting a whole new look. NOS was installed, a killer Alpine sound system, paint job, rims, some body work, new custom exhaust, the list goes on and on. As soon as she rolls out of the shop, I will take lots of pictures. I can't wait! :thumbsup:

Talking about paint jobs, any one knows any good paint shop here in New York. Sorry for the interruptions. Anyway, my Catera is a 97, i had the timing belt recall done after i got it.It had 78000 miles then. It seems that the previous owner already had some of the more common problems because there is not much left for me, well except for some minor ones that I did the fixing myself, like the Heater control valve leak, no heat in passenger side, a very noisy blower when it's switched to 3rd speed setting and loud in 4th, the possessed sunroof which acted on me during a winter morning when snow is actually falling and I am in the middle of a 65 mile trip, and the secret of the foglight relay which until now I haven't discovered yet which i probably won't anymore since i installed a new set of HID foglights, so far the car is running fine and the last thing i will do i guess is get it a fresh job paint. The only thing that worries me is that i have no choice but to street park which is not paint friendly specially when you are in a busy corner where cars come and go. Maybe one day, i'll get the Catera a good house to go home to. Hmmm, this is sounding like a soap opera already. Anyways, this site has been so helpful and to the moderators and to those who are always willing to share their experiences, my hats off.

Last month i bought one (Even after reading and going through almost this forum)just couldnt resist the looks and nice ride of the car .Mine is dreaded 97 black with 110ks on it ,this weekend i am getting valve cover gaskets,plugs,serpentine belt and will have timing belt looked at.Already got the motor oil changed (regular oil) and in few days will get the tranny fluid and filter changed too .I hope i be alright after all this
Cheers

Not to mentioned that i am glad that i found this forum with very nice people onboard and if i can help anybody with Pc hardware or software problems i be more than happy because my knowledge in cars is very very limited

I have a 1997 Catera with approx 75,000 miles on it. She has been in the shop all winter getting a whole new look. NOS was installed, a killer Alpine sound system, paint job, rims, some body work, new custom exhaust, the list goes on and on. As soon as she rolls out of the shop, I will take lots of pictures. I can't wait! :thumbsup:

:want: Looks like I have some competition! :coolgleam :welcome:

Well I guess I should have posted here a while ago. This is the kewilst forum I have ever seen! Everyone is so helpfull & I have saved a ton of $$$ from all of your help many Kudos all, epsecially Jeffery....aka (Crazzzzy Train). 2001 Catera Sport Blood-red /Marron 67K miles been a good ride so far with just a few probs. that this forum helped solve. I love the ride, lotz of zip & zing. Everyone loves to ride in this cat. Got it in Nove 04 for $9,795.00 w/ 60k miles. (bought it from a Ford dealer, one owner lease return) Klean Karfax. Hunted 2 yrs. for the right one @ the right price.

Got the car no t shirt. Had it a couple of years. Never left me stranded, but has made me late a few times. The car does not start for 20 min or so after stopping or when hot. But in the winter it starts every time. Has check engine light on. Dealers can't figure it out. They even kept it overnight 2 times. Love the car hate the price of parts/repairs. Any one have a clue what my car issue might be?

I have a 98 Catera and have same problem, just started happening. Dies after up to temp and will start after a little while. No codes and otherwise runs great. Did you resolve your problem? Or has anyone ideas as this appears to be common and should have a known solution. I do not want to let the dealer experiment at my expense.
My email is Noakes.HM@telus.net if anyone is interested. ZigZag

New Member from Espanola New Mexico

We own a 1998 Catera, purchased new, approx. 100K miles. I found this site while exploring a fix to our problem. The car shuts down, seems to be a lack of fuel, restarts in a few minutes, runs for a while and then shuts down again. The Cadillac Dealer diagnosis was low fuel pressure no trouble codes - needs a fuel pump. I'm not sure if that is really the problem. I would like to know if anyone has had similar problems and could help.
Miguel
The only problems I have had in the past were:

Replacement of a Gear Selector Switch - covered under warranty
Battery Replacement
Eats up front tires every 15-20K miles


I have a 1998 Catera. Yesterday, it just died at a red light. No warning, no previous problems. had it towed to the dealership. They told me today, it is the crankshaft sensor. Not covered under warranty!:annoyed: It will start, but immediately when it heats up a little bit, it dies. They tried to charge me $564 (that would include the crankshaft sensor, and one oxygen sensor). But I have a mechanic that found the C.S. for $41. It is on national backorder, though. will take about 3 days to get it. Needless to say, the dealership won't be doing the repairs.

have meny catera's come through my hands i work at a used car lot and the boss likes them so we buy alot of them we have 4 right now as of this post i find that where i am we can get them whole sale for around $3500 to $4000 US at first i did not like this car very picky car kinda like a women got to touch them just the right way lol
the ones we have now are 2 96 models and 2 97's all are undert 90,000 miles my boss has spent alot of money on scaners and other eq for the shop just for these cars if i can be of any help to any one please feel free to ask me. i'm located in middle tn oh and by the way any one want to sell there catera i promise to give it a good home

I have a 2000 Gold Catera. I have owned this car for two year purchased with 26k, now has 56k. I have only recently started to have minor issues with this car. I love it. I usually trade in every few years - not this time, hopefully I can keep this one going for a few more.

I have a '97 Catera that I have had for the past three years. I have heard the horror stories that seems to come along with these cars and luckily I haven't had any major issues. In three years the only major problems I have really had to deal with was the ignition locked up on me and I had to replace the ignition cylinder. I try to keep a close eye on the oil cooler problem and I guess the tire wear is just something everyone has to deal with. I finally broke down and ordered some rims for the summer.

The problem with shutting down appears to be the crankshaft position sensor which is beside the oil filter. It's wir runs too close to the manifold connection to the exhaust and starts breaking down so that it builds more electrical resistance when car warms up . This causes a bad voltage pulse to the computer which shuts down your fuel relay. When it cools somwhat it will start. I have a 98 and had same problem. ZigZag (email Noakes.HM@telus.net)

i own a 99 catera with a beautifull green paint job and the corme factory wheels, the front tires to seem to wear a lil fast, the car is awsome tho, for every prob people might have with these cars its made up when your crusing the highway enjoying such a unique vehicle, im proud to drive a catera
that god for america <germany to>

Hi Jeff,

I've had my 99 for about two years. I like it a lot. I happened to mention to a friend, a while ago, about the track record for Catera's. Ever since that time he's got something to say about Catera's just about everytime I see him.

Such as:

"Want me to follow you home in my car just to make sure your car makes it?"

"Are you going to look into a another extended warrenty after yours runs out?"

"I saw a guy along side the freeway kicking his Catera the other day, wonder if something was wrong?" etc.

My Catera was coming off of a lease when I bought it. I had some problems the first year. Every third time I'd start the engine the windshield wipers would turn on for one swipe. The sun roof would open a few inches by itself. I had a coolant leak once, it wasn't a hose but some mechanical thing under the engine. The warrenty covered everything. For the last year everything's been perfect.

I asked a couple of questions lately on your forum and got really fast responses, which I want to thank you for again.

Jerry

Thanks. Im glad to see this forum getting more traffic and new members who stay around. I try to do my best; and staying on here almost all the time helps deliver great service & results.

Reguardless, Cadillacforums is just a great forum overall. :thumbsup:

I have a 99 Catera at the milage of 75,000. I replaced the O2 sensor, MAF and the CKP. It runs as she supposed to be.

Jerry - I have similar experiences with people having bad things to say about the Catera... Not my friends though, just random people.. and they aren't nice.

They ask why I put a Cadillac badge on a Saturn/Nissan... They ask why I even wasted my money buying a Catera.. They say it's the biggest POS. They say it's a woman's car..

Overall, I like the car and how it drives... But I'm not gonna lie, I get extremely angry when people have nothing but negative input on my car; especially when they're driving a Geo Metro.

Jerry - I have similar experiences with people having bad things to say about the Catera... Not my friends though, just random people.. and they aren't nice.

They ask why I put a Cadillac badge on a Saturn/Nissan... They ask why I even wasted my money buying a Catera.. They say it's the biggest POS. They say it's a woman's car..

Overall, I like the car and how it drives... But I'm not gonna lie, I get extremely angry when people have nothing but negative input on my car; especially when they're driving a Geo Metro.

Tell them its based on an Opel Omega (because it is). The Catera is the closest thing to a BMW or a Mercedes-Benz for the price. Its a German car. What more could anyone want? This car is more unique than just some plain Metro (or cimarron which most compare it to :want: :mad: ) and certainly has more class- heck its not even IN the same class. Most of the time people rank on something they heard was bad but in reality know nothing about it.

Agree with JefferyG. This based on Opel but looks and drives much better. Love mine Caddie

1st time owning 98' Catera/1st cadi
I just got it 2 wks. ago with 110 k. in it.So far it has been a great ride especially with handling and performance. These forum has been very helpful in saving me $$$ from menbers helpful tips for any weekend mechanic
Thanks !!!

I got me a '97 Catera

Hey, I've been around here a couple months, but this is the first time I've read this thread.

1997 Catera. 2000$. 101k miles, some problems, need to changed some fluids, but its pretty nice. I'll still probably get an e30 or e36 BMW next year, just to have another car, but for 2 grand, its really hard to go wrong with this car. (Hopefully I won't be editing this in a couple months after I've had to replace everything twice). I just need two new tires and an alignment, and oil change, and tranny fluid exchange, and possibly a valve cover gasket, and some spark plugs (probably). Still...2000$ for one with 95,000 miles when I bought it... not bad at all.

**BRENT**

Hi
Gm fans.
Im Francesco from modena italy.
im buy opel omega 2.5 td (6 cilinder bmw engine turbodiesel) new in 98
it's seconds engine i change
i give ower 500.000 km (450.000 whit first engine)
i use car for work
is the happyness of customers from usa!
lot of space, future design ,and funny to drive sport.
(in europe petrol is expansive 1.2 € for liter. and is obbligatory to use diesel but gm hawe not cts diesel )
only problem in my car is the 4 stellmotor of ewery door
is plastic and we broken easly.
100 € for one!)
sorry me for bad language.
hawe nice km..... sorry miles !

ciao
francesco

I have a Burgundy '97 with biege leather interior. Everything is stock. Once I get some things fixed and the engine running like it should, I plan redoing the interior and replacing the stereo and wheels.

Hi, I own a 1998 and I have enjoyed it. Of course, I have been pretty meticulous about preventive maintenance. It has 68,000 miles. I keep reading I should sell or trade it while the going is good, plus the expense of replacement parts is outrageous I think. Should I continue to keep and do all the maintenance or look to get rid of?


Dale

I found a little old man who was getting rid of his. It had 53,000 miles...all the options but the CD-Changer and Sunroof (which is okay b/c I heard that Catera sunroofs are posessed). Its that "Desert Silver" or old lady tan! Everything works and I only gave $5,000!

I have a 97 catera w/ 73,000miles on it.
I have 18" wheels and a K&N intake.
yes, I had problems with it but later fixed.
I'm wondering what other upgrades can i find that will give me more boost in hp...:lildevil:

My friend always wanted a Catera, and he's finally got his own. It's a 99 and only have about 60K miles in it. The car failed emission test already and the owner not wanting to spend money on the car ditched the car to my friend for $500.00. It's not a mistype. It's $500.00 and the owner said he can pay it installment if he likes. Anyway, my friend is a mechanic and he's got smiles all around his face because he has worked with about a hundred Catera's in the past during the time when a lot of recalls are being done on the car. Anyway, he said that it will be for keeps, well, unless a reasonable offer comes along. I told him, if he sells the car now that it's running already, its like winning in a casino and for some reason you came back in and lost all the money he won and then some.

I have one, 98 Catera
New to forum, having minor problems with ABS, TC and engine light.
Replaced the brakes and still have ABS light on.

have a 98

today the engine decided to do the old disco smoke machine. Car has been nothing but problems. Hell my 87 toyota has not given me this much headaches in the 12 years i have owned that car!!!

May cadillac burn in hell for all i care.

I recently purchased a 2001 Catera Sport. I am currently deployed overseas and I am looking to buy some rims but I don't know the bolt pattern. I won't even see my vehicle until September but I want to have everything ready for me. Can anyone help me out? Also, I would like to see if anyone is selling rims. Thanks

I am in the very last stages of purchasing a used 2000 Catera(54000 mi). I understand that older cars often cost money as I have owned an 87 mercedes diesel for 5 years. I drive 32miles round trip to work and 20 miles round triip to help my 91 year old Mom about 4 days a week. Will this car serve me well?

I recently purchased a 2001 Catera Sport. I am currently deployed overseas and I am looking to buy some rims but I don't know the bolt pattern. I won't even see my vehicle until September but I want to have everything ready for me. Can anyone help me out? Also, I would like to see if anyone is selling rims. Thanks

5x110 is the bolt pattern and I wouldnt go anything bigger than 19 x 8 wheel size.

Keep up the good fight.

I am in the very last stages of purchasing a used 2000 Catera(54000 mi). I understand that older cars often cost money as I have owned an 87 mercedes diesel for 5 years. I drive 32miles round trip to work and 20 miles round triip to help my 91 year old Mom about 4 days a week. Will this car serve me well?

Shouldnt be too much of a hassle.. especially if its an 2000 or 2001 Catera. I donno, they can be great cars but if you're really worried get out of the deal. I do 40 miles r/t to and from work.

Id get an inspector/mechanic to inspect the car though :)

JeffreyG,

Thanks for the help and we'll keep doing what we have to do over here!!

jesse

I recently purchased a 2001 Catera Sport. I am currently deployed overseas and I am looking to buy some rims but I don't know the bolt pattern. I won't even see my vehicle until September but I want to have everything ready for me. Can anyone help me out? Also, I would like to see if anyone is selling rims. Thanks

I have 19x8 wheels on my Catera... That's the biggest you can go without modification. I'm selling them to get 20x8.5, so let me know if you're interested and I'll give you some pics and a price :thumbsup:

I am very interested in the rims. Please send me the pics to:
BrownJR@acemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil
I apprecaite the offer too!

Hey jeff i meant to ask you do you know where i can find a 98 catera owners manuel and all of the papers that come with this vehicle.. Just got this vehicle in a action about 1 month ago... Trying to put it together and fix it up for the road.. Reading these make me question was the buy a good choice.. But i like the vehicle and i intend to work with it a little before i give up....Also getting some good ideas from this site.... I notice that you helped someone with a 97 owners manuel.. i just need all of the books and papers for a 98.. thanks again... snow...

I purchased an almost "dead" '97 Catera. Cost me a "little" to get it back on the road. Still does, but i like it a lot.
And figgie, if you're losing coolant, that might be the heater control valve, whick cost me almost $200 (including labor) a couple weeks ago.
Good luck to y'all.

I own a 98 catera love my car when it runs

when it runs?... :histeric: Yeah, me too :p

New Member from Espanola New Mexico

We own a 1998 Catera, purchased new, approx. 100K miles. I found this site while exploring a fix to our problem. The car shuts down, seems to be a lack of fuel, restarts in a few minutes, runs for a while and then shuts down again. The Cadillac Dealer diagnosis was low fuel pressure no trouble codes - needs a fuel pump. I'm not sure if that is really the problem. I would like to know if anyone has had similar problems and could help.
Miguel
The only problems I have had in the past were:

Replacement of a Gear Selector Switch - covered under warranty
Battery Replacement
Eats up front tires every 15-20K miles

Hello Did you ever figure out why the front tires are being worn down every 15-20k miles? please let me know if you found the solution to the problem.. thanks Sherman

I have a 1998 Catera with 94000 miles on it, It leaks some oil but I cant figure out where its comong from. Its a rather small leak so I am threating it as a non-issue at this point.


Mike

Just got a 1997 Catera w/77,000 miles from my son-in-law who'd had a lot of work done (thank goodness). Everything works but the lumbar adjustment and the rear windows (at least they're closed). BTW, does anyone know the number for the light bulbs for the gauges in the instrument panel? I'd appreciate any info.

I own a 1999 Catera. My Transmission Just went out again for the 2 time. My exhause manafold is leaking antifreeze. My tires were shot after 20,000 miles, My front end suspention rattels, My O2 sensors have falty wiring, my check engine light will not go off. Has anyone had any luck with contacting a GM Factory rep.



Thanks Todd

JefferyG,

I have a question for you. When I turn right my Catera makes a loud almost moaning sound. Do you have any idea what it is?

Jesse

Try adding some power steering fluid :yup:

Orginally I had a '98 Catera. I hated vehicles and driving until Dad had me sit in that one. I fell in love instantly. :-) It ran for three months perfectly, no problems, until something happened (frayed wires to the traction control or hydroplaning... not sure) so that I couldn't control the steering and ended up rolling down a steep embankment. Was heartbroken that my classy little Caddy was ruined.

We did more research before buying the second time and specifically looked for a '99 or newer, so that's what I have now. Despite a few problems, I wouldn't trade it for anything. There is nothing like its perfect fit for me. And the comfort. And cool ride!

By the way, thank you everyone who is part of this forum. Living in northern Minnesota I don't know anyone else who has a Catera.

1998 Cranberry Cat

Had it a month and aready put 2500.00 into it. - New: Fuel Pump and filter, battery, front-end s/a bushings, resevoir(sensor failed, rad flush)- Rear caliper service. Check engine light was on number 5 cylinder miss fire. Cleared code- it's fine now, plug was ok.

Still love the car though
:hmm:

I own a '98. Only problem with mine is the check engine light likes to turn on when it rains.

Hi Everyone....

I have been lurking on here since I bought my 97 Catera on 7-20... I figured I would share some thoughts.

I happened to be looking at various dealers for a CAR... My 95 Taurus was getting old and tired. For some reason this 97 Catera with 40K on it came up 4 different times so I went and looked at it. Never saw a Catera before... and definately never drove one so I went to the dealer and drove it and bought it! I was home in a couple hours!

I have to tell ya - I was a little nervous after I looked at the online reviews for a 97 Catera ( 2 notes... #1 what the hell am I doing that for I thought...never did this with any of my other cars and #2 Maybe next time I read the reviews BEFORE I write the check :)) Anyhow - after getting over my paranoia of turning the key and finding out I have been periled by one of the numerous catastrophic failures that I have read about- I REALLY love this car!

So I am taking a different approach to all the negativity that I have read about the car:

#1 - Sounds to me like the little sport button on the shifter gives some people a license to pound on their catera and make it what it wasnt designed to be. It isnt a street racer.... it will never dust a vette off the line - and I am ok with that.

#2 - Sure there are alot of negative reviews about the car online. So where are the 54,000 people that like their 97 Cat? Why arent they compelled to write raving reviews about the car? Not many people do... Its human nature that when something pisses a person off they go and tell the masses. You never hear about something that got done right. Here is an example of that - Have you ever been pulled over and thanked for driving the speed limit??? yeah - me neither :)

#3 - Maintenance - I drive 12 miles a day RT to work and home.. and maybe 50 miles on the weekend. I figure if I keep up the maintenance I should be generally safe. I have to remember that most of the problems that I am reading about are happening from 80-100,000+ miles! It may take a looooong time to get there at my pace!

Anyway - I am rambling on and on and on and on and.... well you get the idea. I love my car and quite frankly I have tired of trying to talk myself into or out of it. It is what it is... if it breaks down I will have it fixed.

One last question... Of all the Cateras I have checked out online and all of the pics I have seen on e-bay I have not seen one of them with a feature that mine has. Was the imitation convertible top a really expensive option? It doesnt seem to be very popular. Do any of you have this option?

Thanks for listening to my rambling... I look forward to leaning more about this car!

Geo

Geo, I bought my '97 a few weeks ago with 77,000 on the clock and really like the car overall. It does have it's challenges: rear windows are stuck closed, the coolant keeps disappearing into another dimension, have a little oil leak I understand may cost an arm and/or a leg to fix, and my power seat works when it decides it wants to. But it came with almost all the options available for that year, except for the sunroof (which I understand can also have a mind of its own).

You're right, the car is not a racing car - it was meant for the "aging" boomers who were buying Beemers, Mercedes', Lexus', etc., and GM was losing a big share of that market.

As to your "faux" convertible top, I saw another Catera like yours on Ebay, and it was described as the Presidential Package. Very expensive, I believe. You have a rarity.

Take it out on the highway and rev it up, if you haven't already. You'll hear a nice little roar coming from under your hood as you open the throttle. That's all I need for my "fix". Just my 2 cents.

Oh yes, my sunroof does possess its own mind. Sometimes sweetly obliging. Now and then, quite contrary. :rolleyes2 At the moment, it's discombobulated and in need of reprogramming.

Despite the different problems, which I know would drive me mad if they happened on any other sort of car, I still love my Catera! Was cleaning it out yesterday and loving all the little things and extras which are perfect. The carpet even! I could vacuum Mom's LeSabre or Dad's Chevy Cheyenne all day, and the carpets wouldn't look as clean and luxurious as a Caddy's. Silly, maybe, but true.:)

That's a good point, Sarah. The "feel" of the interior is unlike any car I've owned before. It's quieter, for one thing, and feels more expensive. It's also roomier than I'd expect from a car this size. I'm lovin' the audio controls on the steering wheel!
:dance:

And the power seats and mirrors. I'm kind of a little girl, and hate feeling hidden being the dash. In every other vehicle driven, I have struggled with seeing over the dashes and getting the mirrors adjusted to be able to see where things are behind me. Sat down in the Catera at the dealer's and first thing I easily backed out of a very tight parking spot. Perfect fit for me. :thumbsup:

Then there is the exterior... sporty class any way you look at it!

Hi,

after 3 Saabs which I really liked, I decided to buy a 2000 Opel Omega B 3.0 rebadged Catera in this country.:o

First thing, I removed the Cadillac badge from the trunklid, replacing it with
an Opel badge and I ordered a new Opel frontgrill from Germany. Now I have
to find an emblem for the steering wheel.

The car is silver with black leather, sunroof, Bose and Sportpack.
It has 33.000 miles and is very well maintained. I paid $ 6.500.-- for it.

It drives like an Opel is supposed to drive. It does not have the floating
mushy feel of a Cadillac. Not quite like my last Saab 9.5 Aero, but nevertheless so far I really like this car.

Hopefully I will still like it after a year or so of driving.

Greetings!

I am looking for smoked tail lights and head lights, does anyone out there know of a website or a place I can find them? I found a few places that sell the plastic film to cover the light but I want the whole light assembly. Any help would be great.

Jesse

The heading of "who owns a Catera?" ,should be who wishes they didn' own the piece of garbage. That would be me.

This car has spent more time with the dealer than it has me. :bomb:

There are two Catera's at the local dealer right now waiting on the same part for over 6wks. This just the latest in a nightmare from hell (G>M>) If someone out there in the formum that would like to trade stories about this lemon let me know!

Greetings!

I am looking for smoked tail lights and head lights, does anyone out there know of a website or a place I can find them? I found a few places that sell the plastic film to cover the light but I want the whole light assembly. Any help would be great.

Jesse


they dont sell covers you got to get the orginal housing painted look at mine i got the "CHERRIED" www.cardoamin.com/id/baggedcatera let me know and i can give you the shop that did them i see your in cali too

Im new here. I have a 97. It's having major trans probs. Changed the fluild and filter but it gets stuck in 3rd, light comes on and I have to turn the car off to reset it. Any ideas? Hoping I don't need a new one!!:eek:

I purchased a 2000 Catera about a month ago. I LOVE IT!!! It had 46,383 when I picked it up in Houston, TX and drove it back home to Nashville, TN. Drives like a NEW car. Getting the windows tinted this weekend.

rbanda,

I just got a chance to look at your Catera, man that is nice! I would like to get the name of that company off of you! It looks like you put a lot of work into the vehicle. Nice Job!

Jesse

Got a 98 for my wife's first car (2nd owner); like a little STS (the Sport model with the Bose) :thumbsup:. Alas, just got the new STS for me, and she decided on a Malbu Maxx (pretty nice).....anyone interested, the 98 is now up for sale.

rbanda,

I just got a chance to look at your Catera, man that is nice! I would like to get the name of that company off of you! It looks like you put a lot of work into the vehicle. Nice Job!

Jesse


Jesse,

i used Nicks Car Audio in whittier Ca, i dont have their number ill look for it or you can try 411 they are on Lambert and Painter. let me know

I own one too! Up in Ontario. I'm totally in love with mine too. Great to know that all major problems were ironed out by '00 & '01. A true joy to drive. If its true only 2000 were manufactured in the sport model, they'll be quite the collector's item, eh! Hang on to her!I own a 2001 Catera Sport!

I love it, everything about the car I find amazing and I have always wanted a car that has leather, xenon headlights, BOSE with 2 subs!! and so much more including recaro seats.. I think this european built caddy is amazing and a great sports sedan. I mostly use if for trips as its a dream on the highway. I also own a new beetle and I find my Catera Sport more german than the beetle LOL. Heck the beetle was made in mexico and my caddy was built in GERMANY!

Its still under warranty and havent had any problems yet, I assume there wont be much as the 2000 and 2001s had everything resolved that was a problem in the past.

I also love how the ZJ1 suspension handles, one article said it is one of GMs best handling vehicles ever.

Is it true that out of the 25000 manufactured every year in 2000 and 2001 that only 2000cars were the sport models. I rarely see a car just like mine!

Dave,:lildevil:

:thumbsup: Just brought home our new '00 Cat with 40k miles. Drove it home from Scottsdale, AZ to Albuquerque, NM. Man, what a great car to drive! I can't believe it, we drove home doing 80 mph, with the A/C, and got 28 mpg! This car is sweet. It was a one owner car, and they took care of all the maintenance issues. The dealer I bought it from gave me the GM service log. Very happy.


Andergar:thumbsup:

I've been finding that the best MPG I've gotten is between 75-85 MPH driving on the highway. Driving in town is certainly making her a lot more thirsty! Being a german, she must have been produced with the Autobon in mind. LOL. Its by far the best handling car I've ever own though (The 17"ers probably help a lot though). By the way, if anyone wants a visual, she's ivory metallic with a charcoal interior. I'll have pics soon.

I just bought my Catera yesterday. I love it so far. I need to take it back to have a fog lamp replaced and a front end alignment. The car pulls to the right when driving. Other than that I hope all the good things I ave heard about these little beauties is true and all the negative did not plague the 2001 model year.

Just got my '01 two weeks ago. Happy thus far, just enough pep to make it fun to drive and enough toys that I don't feel like I lost much in my trade.:D

We're the second owners on "Felix" and we got him with 23k miles, seems to have a moderate level of options, though no sunroof or heated seats. Sadly no Sport option :crying2:

I've had a few concerns with it, but nothing big thus far. I think it'd be neat to have this group do a Trouble Data Base that cross references typical problems and years. Or at least a poll (though I suspect these may already be done - newbie).

Jeff

Just bought my 2001 Catera Sport White with 32K on the clock. This was a downgrade to get rid of a car payment, but ended up not being such a downgrade after all.... really nice car, I'm loving it more and more each time I drive it.

Here is a pic of her. I have the license plate fill piece on order with Cadillac so the front bumper will look right....

We have the identical car, right down to the colour! First one I've ever seen exactly like mine.

i own a 1998 catera. I love this car, but it seems like i have nothing but trouble with it.

Just bought a 2001 Sport so far so good, only had it 2 days....lol

Low miles 9700km/6000mi

I own a 2001 which will soon be getting 10,000 miles. Thats no typo its still smells new. It is one of the finest euro sedans ever made. I have only special cars in my stable and this is one of them. Being an auto industry expert affords me this opportunity. By the way, CTS stands for Catera Touring Sedan. We just happen to have the German originals.

Frank

I have a 2000 catera,love it! tinted windows,sports rims very nice, hot weather here in California.:welcome:

It has 10,000 miles on it now. The BOSE is awesome, chrome wheels are TYTE, and it has had no problems. However, it reeks of new car/fresh leather. Think its time to break - in the back seats. :D That means I'll be doing some test driving. Texas Frank

My first day of Cadillac ownership but at least it's a Catera:lildevil: .
Just picked up a 97 with milage to the moon and back(125K), with a damaged drivers door, broken drivers window, cracked front bumper, broken searpentine belt, an oil leak from one of the rocker covers, worn out leather on the drivers seat,........................
But heck, I payd $1000 for it so I can't complain.:sneaky:
I have owned an Omega A before and a VN Commodore so I am familiar with this beast.

JeffreyG

Do you know of any place I can find parts? I have looked on EBay with no luck. I am looking for the ashtray below the stereo and the stereo volume knob itself which should be easier to find but yet I am still searching. Any help would be great.

I have been driving my 01 Sport for about 3 weeks since I got back from Iraq and am in love with everything this car has to offer. I bought it for 10 grand with 54k on it. It has every possible luxury you can think of too!
Thanks
Jesse

Hi, I have a 1998....bought it used and have been pleased overall. Haven't had too many repairs...in fact fewer than my 1985 Olds 88. Have had to have crankshift position sensor replaced and I had a coolant leak which was difficult for the mechanic to find but he did and was able to fix it. Meticulous maintenance is key. For example, I use the BG44K product in the fuel system and that seems to work really well. I am now at 72,000 miles and have not every 7,500 miles. I have not had the timing belt replaced. Should I or wait until 100,000 like the manual says? All in all, this has been a good car and being tall I always liked the comfort inside. Car will do 80 with no problem at all. Thing I hear is when you need parts, count on spending a bundle. I also hear that once things start to go, look to trade or open up your wallet. Is that true? Also hear about all of the electronic problems but I have experienced none for the most part. Good chatting with you folks.


Dale

You should read the manual about the "check engine" light. I read the entire thing and it is very helpful. You would be surprised how intricate the car is. Also, if something doesn't work (sunroof, windows, stereo, keyless entry, etc.), there is a good possibility that it just needs to be reprogrammed.

Chaney L. Dupre'
2000 Catera Sport
Black on Black leather
"RIP sweet Cadi... it died last week"

I have a 98 Cat. Just got it about 1 month ago now. Love it all stock plan to keep it that way. NO OPTIONS no sunroof , noheated seats, no cd player:o . I use my mp3 player with a fm transmitter. Yes i am a dinosaur . What can i say. No immediate plans to change anything either. One comment though. The car bumps when changing gears at lower speeds and thoughts? Love it so far.

I own 2 cateras had 1 for 30 days exactly, hadnt even made my first payment, and wrecked it(TOTAL) but it just needs a little work. Then I went rite out and bought another one. (THE NEW ONE SEEMS TO BE DISEASED) I hope its not catchy. The threads and the people on this forum have helped me SOOOOOOOOOOO much...hopefully someday soon I can get its bugs fixed and enjoy having it.THANKS

1999 Catera

North Carolina here

I bought a 1998 Catera, but was told it was a 1999 :lies: from Plaza Motors with 35,000 miles pre-certified in 11-2000 :canttalk: I love the interior, exterior and handling of the car. It drives great when I'm not having mechanical problems :hide: . I started having minor problems when I drove it off the lot :eek: . Fog lights were broken, glove box wouldn't close in cold weather, idling was too high, tires needed to be replaced when I looked at the tires and was told they were new :thepan: and alignment was needed. The summer of 2000' ac was warm, but Plaza claimed there were no codes and found nothing wrong :yawn: .
:mad2: Since the year of 2000 starting with 2001 these are the following repairs that's been done. Thank God for the pre-ceritified warranty which covered some the the things, but other problems I had to pay for because the warranty had expired). You pay to own a Cadillac:
AC problems-compressor not coming on, recently 8/5/05 radiator replaced, water pump, timing belt & tensioner replaced, crank sensor replaced, rear air shocks replaced, voltmeter/oil pressure gauge in ipc replaced, valve covers left & right replaced, replaced leveling system shocks & compressor, replaced vaccum hose and lastly, replaced leaking water control valve.:want:
I love the car so much and had search high and low for one I just couldn't depart from it. I guess I'm hooked :cookoo: . I had heated seats installed in my Catera, which is great in the weather. The car came with of course Bose stero system, alloy wheels, leather seats which are tan, powered sunroof, windows, dvd and tape. It is fully loaded and the color is sage.
It drives like a new car since all problems (I think) has been repaired :thumbsup: .

I own a 99 Catera. I have loved it, until 2 days ago. It died. I was told the timing belt broke. Is there a recall for this? does anyone know??

I bought a "98 Catera last night, after the first ride it wouldn't crank, until,maybe 1 hour later (maybe cool down?), did it twicw, I went to return it, the guy (at the dealer) told me they will take it to the mechanic and getting the started replaced, the more I think about it tha more I want to return the car.:helpless:

I bought a 1997 catera for 1500.00 and it had no problems when i bought it.
KNOW I HAVE ISSUES> the recall for the timing belt was done and new heads
at 95000k it got 98565k and guess what it broke and cadillac is giving me the run around :bomb: :helpless: :crying2: and now i dont know what to do there is good and bad
very bad 2,300 takes to replace engine and labor, but the interior and style is
sporty for a family sedan. LOST. IS there a better replacement or different
engine to put in it

I just had a similar problem - if not the same problem. After 4 service shops it turned out to be the crank sensor.

I hope this helps, just like you said it's very expensive to fix this damn car. I'm in Northern California - the total for the repair was close to 600.00 (part 120.00). I doubt if your labor cost are as high as mine.

Yeah...the Craptera's eat tires for breakfast...we've gone thru 2 sets in less than 40,000 miles...and two sets of brakes too...and a myriad of other problems...it has a nice ride but it's not worth it for the amount of maintenance and down days one has. There are plenty of other cars wit hnice rides out there too, without the amount of headaches the Craptera gives.

I bought a 1997 catera for 1500.00 and it had no problems when i bought it.
KNOW I HAVE ISSUES> the recall for the timing belt was done and new heads
at 95000k it got 98565k and guess what it broke and cadillac is giving me the run around :bomb: :helpless: :crying2: and now i dont know what to do there is good and bad
very bad 2,300 takes to replace engine and labor, but the interior and style is
sporty for a family sedan. LOST. IS there a better replacement or different
engine to put in it

From my experience, you're best off counting your blessings that you only paid $1500., and now cut your losses. You need to replace more than the engine...we have only 40,000 miles and we've replaced our battery 6 times, 2 sets of tires, 2 complete sets of brakes, gas tank problems, the mirror mechanics broke, the wiring harness went bad (which was causing the batterys to fail fast, but Cadillac never reimubursed us, even though it was under warranty), the timing chain went, coolant problem leaks - repeatedly, lots of electircal bugs, and more...not to mention the problems that the DexCool creates in eating up the engine...refer to the Yahoo site other owners who have had that unpleasant experience (basically as soo nas you're doen with your warranty, switch your anti-freeze to regular anti-freeze, not the GM DexCool, which liteally eats away the engine in many cases). If I was you, I'd repair your Catera enough to get it running, and dump it...or be a good citizen and consider scraping it so someon else doesn't inherit the problem

I own a 99 Catera. I have loved it, until 2 days ago. It died. I was told the timing belt broke. Is there a recall for this? does anyone know??

Yes, there is a recall for Catera '99 timing belts...check with your dealer. Good luck!

We use to call them Cateribles.... We started calling the CTS Cadillac's Third Strike until they turned out to be pretty decent cars:thumbsup:. Still don't like what they've done to the new STS. Like the '06 DTS though

I have not bought one yet and now that i have read it has a lot of problems i am thinking i should not get one. I have a Eclipse GSX that i was going to trade or sell to get one. I like the way they look. I thought it would be a great sporty car for a young adult.

I have a 99 Cat with remote starter/pager and are looking for some wheels for it. Any suggestions would be great.

Hi folks, chris here from the UK, i have had 4 omegas so far,1999 2.5V6elite(top spec), 2000 3.0V6 MV6 police spec (sport), 3.0V6elite estate(wagon) and now