What are the most common Cadillac Catera problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Cadillac Catera has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Coolant Loss, Low-Coolant Warning, or Overheating (GM Bulletin 010602009), Timing-Belt Idler, Tensioner, or Water Pump May Fail (Customer Program 02041A), Crankshaft Harmonic-Balancer Bond Can Fail (GM Program 00042A). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Cadillac Catera reliable?
The 1998 Cadillac Catera has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Coolant Loss, Low-Coolant Warning, or Overheating (GM Bulletin 010602009) and Timing-Belt Idler, Tensioner, or Water Pump May Fail (Customer Program 02041A) and Crankshaft Harmonic-Balancer Bond Can Fail (GM Program 00042A). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
What is the 1997-2001 Cadillac Catera Coolant Loss, Low-Coolant Warning, or Overheating (GM Bulletin 010602009)?
GM bulletin 010602009 covers 1997-2001 Catera owner reports of coolant loss, a low-coolant warning, and/or engine overheating. The bulletin record confirms the symptom path but not a single universal failed component. Severity: high.
What is the 1997-2001 Cadillac Catera Timing-Belt Idler, Tensioner, or Water Pump May Fail (Customer Program 02041A)?
GM customer-satisfaction program 02041A covers 1997-2001 Catera 3.0L V6 vehicles because the cam-drive timing-belt idler pulleys, tensioner pulley, and water pump may fail. Severity: high.
What is the 1997-1999 Cadillac Catera Crankshaft Harmonic-Balancer Bond Can Fail (GM Program 00042A)?
GM program 00042A covers certain 1997-1999 Catera 3.0L V6 vehicles in which the adhesive bond between the rubber hub and metal rim of the crankshaft harmonic balancer can fail, potentially resulting in engine failure. Severity: high.
What is the 1997-2001 Cadillac Catera Temperature Gauge May Read Red With Overheat Light On When Engine Is Not Overheating (GM Bulletin 010602005)?
GM bulletin 010602005 covers 1997-2001 Catera vehicles where the temperature gauge may read in the red zone and/or the overheat light may illuminate even though the vehicle is not actually overheating. Severity: medium.
What is the 1997-2001 Cadillac Catera Coolant Can Leak at the Engine Oil-Cooler Cover (GM Bulletin 200601)?
GM bulletin 200601 identifies coolant leaks at the engine oil-cooler cover on 1997-2001 Catera vehicles. The primary record does not support the former universal crossover-pipe and thermostat-housing diagnosis. Severity: medium.
