1999 Cadillac Catera

○ Not enough data
1999 Cadillac Catera
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:55:51.727Z

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
80
Recalls
0

None on file

Investigations
0

None on file

Top problem
Engine and engine cooling

39% of complaints

Complaints per year

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

1999: 80 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

39% · 31 reports

Most commonly citing gasoline and engine.

FIREINJURY
Show complaint excerpts

After the recall was performed, 30 days later the vehicle caught fire in the engine. Consumer put the fire out and took the vehicle back to the dealership.

NHTSA ODI report, 2003-03-25

Tires

15% · 12 reports

Most commonly citing tread/belt and sidewall.

Electrical system

15% · 12 reports

Most commonly citing module and wiring.

Show complaint excerpts

Car shuts down when driving.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-09-10

Also filed under Steering

The running lights would not turn off. I was in harms way in the rain and had to take the care 70 more miles, while I could get out of the buffalo area to a safe location for the night. The lights never went off till the battery was exhausted.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-05-02

Steering

14% · 11 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic power assist system and anti-theft device.

INJURY

Vehicle speed control

9% · 7 reports

Most commonly citing accelerator pedal.

CRASHINJURY
Show complaint excerpts

While pulling into a parking space and coming to a stop, vehicle lurched forward and hit another vehicle.

NHTSA ODI report, 2001-08-16

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

1999 Cadillac Catera — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Engine and engine cooling: 31 reports on file for this year.
  • Tires: 12 reports on file for this year.
  • Electrical system: 12 reports on file for this year.

FAQ

Is the 1999 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 1999 Cadillac Catera?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1999 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.