Across 5 model years, the Cadillac Catera has 553 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and engine cooling and electrical system. 1997 drew the most complaints (189), 2001 the fewest (30).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Cadillac Catera vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 1997 (189 complaints). Lowest: 2001 (30).
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment based on long-term owner reports. The vehicle is widely regarded as a significant failure for Cadillac, plagued by poor reliability, complex and expensive repairs, and a lack of refinement.
Includes three water pumps (one mechanical, two electric), prone to leaks and shorts.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Catera. Individual model years are broken down above.
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