MYRModel Year Report

1997 Cadillac Catera

○ Not enough data
1997 Cadillac Catera
RENDERED 2026-11-01T14:46:23.723Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints
163
Recalls
0

None on file

Investigations
0

None on file

Top problem
Engine and engine cooling

47% of complaints

Complaints per year

1997: 163 complaints 1997 163 1998: 123 complaints 1998 1999: 80 complaints 1999 2000: 67 complaints 2000 2001: 30 complaints 2001 2002: 2 complaints 2002 2003: 3 complaints 2003
1997: 163 complaints 1997 163 1998: 123 complaints 1998 1999: 80 complaints 1999 2000: 67 complaints 2000 2001: 30 complaints 2001 2002: 2 complaints 2002 2003: 3 complaints 2003
1997: 163 complaints 1997 163 1998: 123 complaints 1998 1999: 80 complaints 1999 2000: 67 complaints 2000 2001: 30 complaints 2001 2002: 2 complaints 2002 2003: 3 complaints 2003

1997: 163 complaints

View as data table
YearComplaints
1997163
1998123
199980
200067
200130
20022
20033

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Engine and engine cooling

47% · 77 reports

Most commonly citing engine and gasoline.

FIRE

Electrical system

18% · 29 reports

Most commonly citing interior/under dash and 12v/24v/48v battery.

CRASHFIREINJURY
Show complaint excerpts

Electrical smoldering fire within the dash harness p/N90493373 of my 1997 Cadillac Catera VIN #[xxx]. No actual flames were seen before the 80 amp main fuse opened.

NHTSA ODI report, 2003-08-14

Suspension

14% · 23 reports

Most commonly citing front and control arm.

Exterior lighting

12% · 19 reports

Most commonly citing headlights and switch.

FIRE

Service brakes

11% · 18 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic.

CRASHINJURY

Safety timeline

No recalls on file for this model year.

0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

Buy-smart checklist

1997 Cadillac Catera — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Engine and engine cooling: 77 reports on file for this year.
  • Electrical system: 29 reports on file for this year.
  • Suspension: 23 reports on file for this year.
Inspected by ______________ Date ______________

FAQ

Is the 1997 Cadillac Catera reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1997 Cadillac Catera?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 47% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1997 Cadillac Catera have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.