Table 1 shows twelve common engine and engine cooling related problems of the 1998 Cadillac Catera. The number one most common problem is related to the engine belts and pulleys (17 problems). The second most common problem is related to the engine cooling system (seven problems).
The tensioner pulley & timing belt was a know defect for vehicle and was recalled but I was never notified, at the time of failure I lost all power & control of the vehicle on an decline in a high traffic location in a server rain storm. Read details...
The water pump gave out. Read details...
1998 cad. Catera - no incident started the problems - a mechanic knew it had a bad head gasket before opening the hood or being told why I was there because he said 9 out of 10 Cateras have this problem. Consumer reports lists this year and model as a must to avoid car. Read details...