1998 Cadillac Catera

○ Not enough data
1998 Cadillac Catera
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:55:22.503Z

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.

Complaints
123
Recalls
0

None on file

Investigations
0

None on file

Top problem
Engine and engine cooling

52% of complaints

Complaints per year

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

1998: 123 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

52% · 64 reports

Most commonly citing engine and gasoline.

CRASHINJURY
Show complaint excerpts

Numerous issues with 1998 Catera. Had timing belt tensioner-pulleys/cam drive replaced last year(3-2002) while under warranty.

NHTSA ODI report, 2003-08-28

Also filed under Electrical system and service brakes, air

Electrical system

22% · 27 reports

Most commonly citing switch and 12v/24v/48v battery.

CRASHINJURY

Suspension

18% · 22 reports

Most commonly citing front and lines and fittings.

Service brakes

17% · 21 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic and electric.

CRASHINJURY

Tires

15% · 19 reports

Most commonly citing tread/belt.

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

1998 Cadillac Catera — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Engine and engine cooling: 64 reports on file for this year.
  • Electrical system: 27 reports on file for this year.
  • Suspension: 22 reports on file for this year.

FAQ

Is the 1998 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 1998 Cadillac Catera?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 52% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 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.