🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Cadillac Model: Catera Year: 1999 Generation Generation Code: Type 500 Codes Vin Code Engine: V 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Luxury Compact Sedan (based on Opel Vectra platform) Target Audience: Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops. Competitive Analysis Competitors: BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS. Cadillac Positioning: Offered a blend of European driving dynamics with American luxury styling and amenities, though it faced challenges in establishing itself against established German rivals. Key Features Manual Benefit: Empowers owners to maintain their vehicle, reduce repair costs, and understand their vehicle's systems. Manual Accuracy: Vehicle-specific, direct from factory documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Format Advantage: Digital PDF allows for targeted printing, preventing damage and loss of paper manuals. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Maintenance, Service, Diagnosis, Repair Secondary Coverage: Component Overhaul, Wiring Schematics, Specifications Page Count Estimated Pages: Extensive (Specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive for A-Z repairs) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Full coverage including internal components, timing, and sealing. Engine Control System: ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator control, fuel injection, ignition timing. Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, evaporative emissions (EVAP). Emission Control: Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, PCV system, emission control diagnostics. Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan, coolant specifications, flushing procedures. Lubrication System: Oil pump, oil filter, oil specifications, oil change intervals. Ignition Starting Charging: Spark plugs, ignition coils, battery, alternator, starter motor, diagnostic procedures. Automatic Transmission: Operation, diagnosis, fluid service, component replacement, torque converter. Manual Transmission: Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, fluid specifications. Drivetrain Suspension: Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, wheel bearings, suspension components, alignment specifications. Brakes Control: ABS system diagnostics, brake booster, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications. Brake System: Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake line repair. Steering System: Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, alignment procedures. Air Conditioning: Refrigerant handling, system diagnostics, component replacement, climate control operation. Supplemental Restraint System: Airbag system diagnostics, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module. Body Exterior Interior: Door mechanisms, hinges, latches, trim, weatherstripping, glass replacement. Electrical System: Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, power windows, mirrors, central locking. Multiplex Communication: CAN bus communication, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to network issues. Instrumentation Controls: Instrument cluster repair, gauge testing, warning lights, switches. Cruise Control: System operation, diagnostics, and repair. Wiper Washer: Wiper motor, linkage, washer pump, fluid reservoir. Security Immobilizer: Engine immobilizer system operation and troubleshooting. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements, spark plug replacement. Diagnostic Procedures: Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems using diagnostic tools and visual inspection. Repair Procedures: Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all covered systems. Rebuild Procedures: Instructions for overhauling major components like engines and transmissions. Wiring Schematics Interpretation: Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, with explanations for interpreting them. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all systems. Special Tool Identification: Identification of specific tools required for certain repair procedures. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete vehicle overhauls and advanced diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable (standard for high-quality PDFs), allowing for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and illustrations. Scalability: Images and diagrams can be enlarged for detailed viewing and printing. Binding Type Type: Digital (PDF), allowing for on-demand printing of specific pages. No physical binding. Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: L82 Engine Type: 3.0L V6 DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) Displacement: 2962 cc (180.7 cubic inches) Bore X Stroke: 86.0 mm x 85.0 mm (3.39 in x 3.35 in) Compression Ratio: 10.3:1 Performance Horsepower: 200 hp @ 5800 rpm (SAE Net) Torque: 205 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (SAE Net) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Engine Oil Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 Cooling System Coolant Capacity: Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) Coolant Type: Dex-Cool Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed automatic (GM 4T65-E) Optional Type: N/A (Only automatic was offered for 1999) Features Shift Modes: Standard Drive, Sport Mode (for enhanced acceleration) Fluid Type Fluid Specification: Dexron III (or equivalent) Fluid Capacity Capacity With Filter: Approx. 9.0 quarts (8.5 liters) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 186.4 inches (4735 mm) Width: 68.9 inches (1750 mm) Height: 55.7 inches (1415 mm) Wheelbase: 107.2 inches (2723 mm) Front Track: 58.6 inches (1488 mm) Rear Track: 58.9 inches (1496 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3500-3600 lbs (1588-1633 kg), depending on trim and options. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4600 lbs (2087 kg) Wheels Tires...
Luxury Compact Sedan (based on Opel Vectra platform)
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS.
Cadillac Positioning:
Offered a blend of European driving dynamics with American luxury styling and amenities, though it faced challenges in establishing itself against established German rivals.
Key Features
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners to maintain their vehicle, reduce repair costs, and understand their vehicle's systems.
Manual Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific, direct from factory documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Format Advantage:
Digital PDF allows for targeted printing, preventing damage and loss of paper manuals.
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems using diagnostic tools and visual inspection.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all covered systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Instructions for overhauling major components like engines and transmissions.
Wiring Schematics Interpretation:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, with explanations for interpreting them.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.
Special Tool Identification:
Identification of specific tools required for certain repair procedures.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete vehicle overhauls and advanced diagnostics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable (standard for high-quality PDFs), allowing for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and illustrations.
Scalability:
Images and diagrams can be enlarged for detailed viewing and printing.
Binding Type
Type:
Digital (PDF), allowing for on-demand printing of specific pages. No physical binding.
Paper Type
Type:
N/A (Digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
L82
Engine Type:
3.0L V6 DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2962 cc (180.7 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 85.0 mm (3.39 in x 3.35 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Performance
Horsepower:
200 hp @ 5800 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Oil
Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30
Cooling System
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed automatic (GM 4T65-E)
Optional
Type:
N/A (Only automatic was offered for 1999)
Features
Shift Modes:
Standard Drive, Sport Mode (for enhanced acceleration)
Fluid Type
Fluid Specification:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Fluid Capacity
Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 9.0 quarts (8.5 liters)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
186.4 inches (4735 mm)
Width:
68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.2 inches (2723 mm)
Front Track:
58.6 inches (1488 mm)
Rear Track:
58.9 inches (1496 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3500-3600 lbs (1588-1633 kg), depending on trim and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4600 lbs (2087 kg)
Wheels Tires
Standard Tire Size:
P215/55R16
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 110 mm
Wheel Size:
16 x 6.5 inches
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 1999 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 1999 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
NR (Not Rated)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
NR (Not Rated)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all seating positions, front seat pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Bose premium audio system available on some trims.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control with recirculation and air conditioning.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle operation and entertainment. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 1 year.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (with recommended iridium-tipped plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 miles or 5 years (under normal driving conditions).
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles or 5 years (using Dex-Cool).
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent meeting GM Spec D-20324)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket), cooling system leaks (thermostat housing, water pump), ABS sensor failures, ignition coil failures, interior electronic module issues (e.g., body control module).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Cadillac Lineage:
Cadillac, a long-standing American luxury marque known for comfort and prestige.
Model Evolution
Cadillac Catera Introduction:
Introduced in 1997 as Cadillac's entry into the compact luxury sedan segment, aiming to attract younger buyers. It was based on the Opel Vectra B platform.
1999 Model Updates:
Minor updates for 1999, including potential package adjustments and refinements, but no major redesign.
Production
Production Location:
Born, Germany (as part of GM's European operations)
Production Years:
1997-2001
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Perception:
While not a recipient of specific major awards in its class, the Catera was recognized for its European-derived handling and chassis, a departure from traditional American Cadillac comfort-focused designs. It was often cited as a step towards a more globally competitive Cadillac.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.