1998 Cadillac Catera
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 PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1997 | 163 |
| 1998 | 123 |
| 1999 | 80 |
| 2000 | 67 |
| 2001 | 30 |
| 2002 | 2 |
| 2003 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
16% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 20 distinct reports on file.
14% of complaints: tires — 17 distinct reports on file.
INJURY13% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 16 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow 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, 20030828
11% of complaints: suspension — 13 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 10 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 Cadillac Catera — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (20 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for tires issues (17 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (16 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:engine, accounting for 16% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 Cadillac Catera have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.