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1997 Cadillac Catera Problems

Coolant and Oil Leaks

for the Cadillac Catera

The Catera often experiences oil leaks from the oil cooler and/or valve cover gasket. The thermostat seal and/or the water pump may develop a coolant leak.

29 Reports

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Engine Performance Problems Due to Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure

for the Cadillac Catera

The crankshaft position sensor may fail causing the engine to stall while driving and/or will crank but not start, especially when the engine is warm. The car may start again if it is left to cool off, but it may run roughly or have poor performance.

14 Reports

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Coolant loss and/or Engine Overheating Due to Leaking Water Control Valves

for the Cadillac Catera

The hot water control valve may develop a coolant leak resulting in engine overheating. A leaking valve should be replaced.

10 Reports

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Shift Lever May Not Go Into "Park" on Automatic Transmissions

for the Cadillac Catera

On the automatic transmission models, the shift lever may not shift completely into "Park". This can result in the key being stuck in the ignition lock cylinder. Care should be taken to insure the shift lever fully engages the "Park" position. Replacing the shifter may be necessary to correct this concern.

10 Reports

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The Timing Belt Idler and/or Tensioner Pulley May Fail

for the Cadillac Catera

The timing belt idler and/or tensioner pulley may fail, resulting in server engine damage. Cadillac has recalled certain 1997-2001 models to replace the timing belt and other related components as necessary.

9 Reports

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Oil Pressure Warning Light May Illuminate

for the Cadillac Catera

The oil pressure warning light may illuminate due to a failed oil pressure sensor. Our technicians tell us that replacing the oil pressure sender will commonly correct this concern.

8 Reports

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Check Engine Light and/or Erratic Engine Idle

for the Cadillac Catera

Engine vacuum leaks may develop from the various vacuum hoses causing the engine to idle incorrectly or the Check Engine Light to illuminate. Damaged vacuum lines should be replaced as necessary. Our technicians tell us that rubber vacuum hoses can be used to replace damaged plastic lines if necessary, as long as any connections are vacuum tight.

7 Reports

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Check Engine Light With Code P0128

for the Cadillac Catera

The thermostat may become stuck in the open position causing the engine to warm up too slowly, setting a P0128 trouble code and causing the Check Engine Light to illuminate.

6 Reports

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