🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

Catera

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

GMX247

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Compact Sedan (European-engineered, rebadged Opel)

Brand Perception:

Cadillac's entry into a smaller, sportier luxury segment, aiming to attract younger buyers and compete with European rivals.

Key Competitors:

Vehicle Platform:

Based on the Opel Vectra B platform.

Target Audience:

Younger professionals, European luxury segment buyers, those seeking a more compact Cadillac offering.

📋 Manual Details

Main Topics:

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 250-350 (estimated based on typical owner's manuals of this era and scope)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Electronic (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Chassis Systems:

Electrical Systems:

Body And Interior:

Maintenance:

Diy Activities:

Safety And Emergency:

Depth:

Owner-centric, covering operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic or repair procedures typical of a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically searchable text-based PDF, allowing for keyword searching.

Quality:

Digital replica of original printing. Quality depends on source scan, but generally good for readability.

Original Binding:

Staple-bound or Perfect-bound (as printed by manufacturer)

Original Paper:

Coated paper stock (typical for OEM manuals)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

X25XE (Opel/Vauxhall designation)

Engine Type:

3.0L V6 DOHC (Dual Overhead Cam)

Displacement:

2962 cc (180.7 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

200 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Net)

Torque:

190 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (SAE Net)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug

Emissions Control:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters)

Coolant Type:

Dex-Cool Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (Hydra-Matic 4L30-E)

Optional Transmission:

None offered for 1999 model year in North America.

Transmission Features:

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or Dexron VI for improved performance and longevity)

Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for a complete fluid change.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

183.2 inches (4653 mm)

Width:

68.2 inches (1732 mm)

Height:

56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Wheelbase:

105.7 inches (2685 mm)

Front Track:

58.2 inches (1478 mm)

Rear Track:

58.1 inches (1476 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3350 - 3450 lbs (1520 - 1565 kg), depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4400 lbs (1996 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not officially specified or recommended for towing by Cadillac. Consult manual for specific limitations/guidance.

Trunk Volume:

14.4 cubic feet (408 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 1998 model year, indicative for 1999)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 1998 model year, indicative for 1999)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for 1998 model year, indicative for 1999)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for all seating positions.

Child Seat Anchors:

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system not standard on this model year, typically requires seat belt securing.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Bose premium audio system was available.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with cabin air filter.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Standard on most trims.

Headlights:

Halogen headlights with integrated fog lamps on some models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically have a lifespan of 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Recommended flush and fill every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-96,000 km), or sooner under severe driving conditions.

Coolant Replacement:

Dex-Cool coolant: First change at 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 3 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 Synthetic or Synthetic Blend

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III ATF or GM Power Steering Fluid

Common Problems:

Typical Maintenance Focus:

Regular fluid changes, especially transmission fluid and coolant, are critical. Attention to suspension and brake system wear is also important due to the European chassis tuning.

📚 Vehicle History

Cadillac Positioning:

Cadillac, a division of General Motors, historically known for large, V8-powered luxury sedans and coupes.

Catera Introduction:

Introduced in 1997 as Cadillac's first compact luxury sedan, designed to appeal to a broader, younger demographic and compete in the growing European luxury compact segment.

Catera Development:

Developed in collaboration with Opel (a GM subsidiary in Europe), based on the Opel Omega and Vectra platforms.

Catera Facelift:

Received a minor facelift for the 1999 model year, including revised styling cues and updated features.

Production Location:

Rüsselsheim, Germany (as Opel Vectra/Vauxhall Cavalier, then exported to North America)

Production Years:

1997-2001

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Received mixed reviews upon introduction, praised for its European driving dynamics and luxury feel but criticized for reliability concerns compared to established luxury brands. Often referred to as 'the baby Benz' or 'the German Cadillac'.