Vehicle Segment:
Entry-level luxury sedan (in North America).
Brand Perception:
Aimed at younger buyers or those seeking a more affordable Cadillac experience.
Key Competitors:
Acura TL, Lexus ES, BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
European Engineering:
Based on the Opel Omega platform, offering European driving dynamics.
Cadillac Styling:
Incorporated Cadillac's Art and Science design language evolution.
Value Proposition:
Offered a premium brand experience at a more accessible price point.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel, emissions.
Transmission Service:
Automatic and Manual transmission repair, fluid service, diagnostics, clutch.
Drivetrain Service:
Drive shaft, propeller shaft, differential, axles, CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering column, power steering systems.
Brake System:
Brake control, hydraulic systems, ABS, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring schematics, diagrams, troubleshooting, lighting, ignition, charging system, battery.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Safety Systems:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), seat belts, engine immobilizer.
Body Interior:
Exterior and interior trim, doors, windows, mirrors, instrument panel, seats, hood.
Comfort Convenience:
Cruise control, windshield wipers and washers, door locks, horn, audio/visual systems.
Emission Control:
Emission control systems and diagnosis.
Multiplex Communication:
Multiplex/CAN communication systems.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components.
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including use of diagnostic tools and codes.
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing individual components within larger systems.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, suitable for DIYers and professional mechanics.
Instruction Style:
Numbered instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings.
Visual Aids:
Hundreds of photos, illustrations, drawings, and enlarged inset diagrams.
Navigation:
Numbered table of contents for quick information retrieval.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual (rare in North America)
Automatic Transmission Model:
GM 4L30-E
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for 1999 model year, may vary by year/testing)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for 1999 model year, may vary)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pre-tensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum/iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ, ILSAC GF-2 (e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, consult manual for specific grades based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12378560 or equivalent (Orange/Pink Dex-Cool compatible if used, otherwise Green ethylene glycol based).
Ignition Coil Packs:
Can be prone to failure, leading to misfires.
Oil Leaks:
Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front crankshaft seal.
Window Regulators:
Can fail, preventing windows from operating correctly.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise or play requiring replacement.
ABS Sensors:
ABS warning lights may illuminate due to faulty wheel speed sensors.
Cadillac Philosophy:
Cadillac's historical reputation for luxury, comfort, and technological innovation.
European Collaboration:
Developed as part of a strategy to offer a smaller, more globally-oriented Cadillac.
Market Entry:
Introduced for the 1997 model year as a new model for Cadillac.
Manufacturing Location:
Rüsselsheim, Germany (shared with Opel Omega)
Production End Year:
2001
