๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: Cadillac Model: Cimarron Model Years Covered: 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988 Codes Vehicle Platform Code: J-body (GM J Platform) ๐ Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Luxury Sedan Target Demographic: Younger buyers and those seeking a more affordable entry into Cadillac ownership. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Chevrolet Cavalier, Oldsmobile Firenza, Buick Skyhawk, Pontiac Sunbird (all J-body siblings), as well as compact luxury imports like Acura Integra and Honda Civic Si. Key Features Unique Selling Proposition: Cadillac luxury and styling applied to a compact, front-wheel-drive platform, intended to broaden the brand's appeal. User Benefit: Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and increasing vehicle longevity. ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types Documentation Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely exceeds 1000 pages based on comprehensive coverage for multiple model years. Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable Digital Format (PDF compatible) ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery (carburetor and fuel injection depending on year/engine), ignition system. Transmission Drivetrain: Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch service, driveshaft, axles, differential. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake. Steering Suspension: Power steering system, suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), wheel alignment, steering linkage. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting and charging system, instrumentation, accessories, power windows, power locks, HVAC controls. Body Chassis: Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, underbody protection, frame components. HVAC: Air conditioning system service and repair, heater core, ventilation system. Procedures Included Preventative Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, lubrication. Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Systematic troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable). Component Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems. Rebuilding Overhaul: Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures, carburetor and fuel injection system overhaul. Specifications Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, timing settings, electrical schematics. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete component overhauls and advanced diagnostics. ๐ Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Accessibility: Viewable on PC, MAC, tablets, smartphones with Adobe Reader. Print Quality Printable: Printable by chapter or entire document. Binding Type Binding: Not applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: Not applicable (Digital Download) โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type 1982-1983: 1.8L (1817cc) OHC Inline-4 Engine Type 1984-1986: 1.8L (1817cc) OHC Inline-4 (some revisions) Engine Type 1987-1988: 2.0L (1998cc) OHC Inline-4 (LG7) Optional Engine Optional Engine Type 1984-1986: 2.0L (1998cc) OHC Inline-4 (LG7 - introduced mid-run) Performance Horsepower 1.8L: Approximately 84-88 hp (depending on year and specific tune) Horsepower 2.0L: Approximately 90-96 hp (depending on year and specific tune) Fuel System Fuel Delivery Early Models: Rochester Dual-Jet Carburetor Fuel Delivery Later Models: Throttle Body Fuel Injection (TBI) ๐ง Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-speed Manual (limited availability) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 3-speed Automatic (THM-125/125C) Features Transmission Features: Front-wheel drive, compact design for packaging efficiency. ๐ Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 99.1 inches Length: Approx. 170.2 inches Width: Approx. 65.4 inches Height: Approx. 53.3 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (depending on options) ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Side Impact Rating: Information not readily available or applicable to modern rating standards for this era. Active Features Braking System Features: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power front disc brakes standard on most models. Passive Features Restraint Systems: Seat belts (3-point front, lap rear), optional automatic locking retractors. Steering Column: Collapsible steering column for impact absorption. ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo radio, optional cassette player, possibly graphic equalizer systems on higher trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional cruise control system. Trip Computer: Optional trip computer on higher trim levels, displaying fuel economy and estimated range. Connectivity Antenna: Power antenna standard on most models. ๐ง Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (refer to specific manual for exact recommendations). Tune Up Interval: Spark plug replacement generally every 30,000 miles, ignition timing adjustment as needed. Transmission Fluid Change: Refer to manual, often around 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API Service SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature). Engine Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Dex-Cool compatible, though early models may have used conventional green coolant). Mixture of 50/50 coolant and distilled water. Automatic Transmission Fluid: GM DEXRON II or III Automatic Transmission Fluid. Known Issues Common Problems: Carburetor performance issues, fuel injection system glitches, rust (particularly on body panels and undercarriage), electrical component failures (e.g., sensors, switches), HVAC blower motor issues, starter motor wear. Engine Reliability: While basic, the 4-cylinder engines could be prone to head gasket issues if overheated or poorly maintained. Timing...
Younger buyers and those seeking a more affordable entry into Cadillac ownership.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Cavalier, Oldsmobile Firenza, Buick Skyhawk, Pontiac Sunbird (all J-body siblings), as well as compact luxury imports like Acura Integra and Honda Civic Si.
Key Features
Unique Selling Proposition:
Cadillac luxury and styling applied to a compact, front-wheel-drive platform, intended to broaden the brand's appeal.
User Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and increasing vehicle longevity.
๐ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types
Documentation Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Likely exceeds 1000 pages based on comprehensive coverage for multiple model years.
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF compatible)
๐ Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery (carburetor and fuel injection depending on year/engine), ignition system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch service, driveshaft, axles, differential.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), wheel alignment, steering linkage.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting and charging system, instrumentation, accessories, power windows, power locks, HVAC controls.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, underbody protection, frame components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service and repair, heater core, ventilation system.
Procedures Included
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, lubrication.
Approximately 84-88 hp (depending on year and specific tune)
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approximately 90-96 hp (depending on year and specific tune)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery Early Models:
Rochester Dual-Jet Carburetor
Fuel Delivery Later Models:
Throttle Body Fuel Injection (TBI)
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual (limited availability)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic (THM-125/125C)
Features
Transmission Features:
Front-wheel drive, compact design for packaging efficiency.
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 99.1 inches
Length:
Approx. 170.2 inches
Width:
Approx. 65.4 inches
Height:
Approx. 53.3 inches
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (depending on options)
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
Information not readily available or applicable to modern rating standards for this era.
Active Features
Braking System Features:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power front disc brakes standard on most models.
Passive Features
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts (3-point front, lap rear), optional automatic locking retractors.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for impact absorption.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo radio, optional cassette player, possibly graphic equalizer systems on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system.
Trip Computer:
Optional trip computer on higher trim levels, displaying fuel economy and estimated range.
Connectivity
Antenna:
Power antenna standard on most models.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (refer to specific manual for exact recommendations).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug replacement generally every 30,000 miles, ignition timing adjustment as needed.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual, often around 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Dex-Cool compatible, though early models may have used conventional green coolant). Mixture of 50/50 coolant and distilled water.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
GM DEXRON II or III Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Carburetor performance issues, fuel injection system glitches, rust (particularly on body panels and undercarriage), electrical component failures (e.g., sensors, switches), HVAC blower motor issues, starter motor wear.
Engine Reliability:
While basic, the 4-cylinder engines could be prone to head gasket issues if overheated or poorly maintained. Timing belt on some engines requires periodic replacement.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Cadillac Positioning:
Historically known for large, luxurious, V8-powered rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
Model Evolution
Introduction Strategy:
Introduced as Cadillac's first compact and front-wheel-drive model, based on the GM J-car platform, aimed at attracting a new, younger demographic and competing with European imports.
Design Basis:
Shared platform with Chevrolet Cavalier, Oldsmobile Firenza, Buick Skyhawk, and Pontiac Sunbird, with unique Cadillac styling and interior appointments.
Production
Production Period:
1982-1988
Manufacturing Location:
General Motors assembly plants (specifics may vary, often shared with other J-body cars).
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Reception:
The Cimarron received mixed to negative reviews from automotive critics and the public, often criticized for its pricing and lack of authentic Cadillac luxury compared to its predecessors and competitors. It is frequently cited as a misstep in Cadillac's history.
Sales Performance:
Sales figures were significantly lower than anticipated, reflecting the market's perception.