2000 Cadillac Catera Base 3.0 V6 from North America
Summary:
I love my 2000 Catera, but then again, I got a good one
Faults:
Radiator failure at 34000 miles.
I bought the car with 26000 miles on it from a HORRIBLE dealership (they treated me like crap). That aside, my 2000 Catera was pretty much immaculate. Even to this day, the engine looks brand new, no rust anywhere on the car. Honestly I had no idea of the car's reputation before I bought it, as I got it on a whim (needed a second car). That being said, the radiator sprung a crack on the intake. Cadillac wanted $400 for a replacement. Found one new in the box on eBay for $80.
Crankshaft position sensor failed at 35000 miles. The sensor failed while I was on the interstate on my way home one day. After some finagling, I made it home. It cost $25 to replace it with a new one.
Front bearings failed + tie rods.
Other than those two main issues, one other has sprung up, both front bearings went bad pretty much at the exact same time, along with the tie rod. Another $100 bucks to fix.
General Comments:
Overall, I guess I got lucky. I take very good care of my cars, and this one has for the most part been an awesome vehicle. It handles awesome, is comfortable, and just plain looks nice.
In almost 3 years of ownership (2nd owner), the money I've spent on the above problems compared to its reputation are reasonable to me. I basically stole the car from the dealership. Now I know why. It is now going on 12 years old, and for the most part still looks and smells new. Like I said, I baby my vehicles. Other than some minor cosmetic things I want to add (i.e. in dash GPS, rims, rear headrests) I am very happy with this car. Not to mention it's paid for. So if any of you have a Catera and want to get rid of some parts (just in case), please email me at brutus-maximus@stillwagner.com and I will take them off your hands.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 23rd January, 2012