Segment:
Full-size luxury coupe.
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a comfortable, stylish, and powerful American luxury coupe.
Competitors:
While direct coupe competitors were diminishing, it competed against luxury sedans and upscale performance coupes from brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Lincoln.
Distinctive Features:
Front-wheel-drive platform (unique for its class), powerful V8 engine, spacious interior, distinctive styling.
Manual Purpose:
To empower owners with knowledge of their Cadillac Eldorado's functions, maintenance requirements, and safe operation.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, transmission operation, differentials.
Braking System:
Brake system operation, ABS, parking brake.
Steering & Suspension:
Power steering system, suspension components.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting, horn, wipers, power accessories.
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, automatic climate control.
Infotainment & Controls:
Radio/audio system, climate controls, dashboard indicators, interior features.
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, child seat anchors (LATCH).
Basic Operations:
Starting and operating the vehicle, using all controls and features.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, changing engine oil and filter (DIY section).
Service Schedules:
Recommended maintenance intervals for various components.
Troubleshooting:
Guidance on warning lights and basic operational anomalies.
Towing:
Guidelines for towing the vehicle and towing with the vehicle.
Safety Considerations:
Proper use of safety features, driving in adverse conditions.
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance and operation, not a full repair manual. Focuses on understanding vehicle functions and routine care.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4-star (driver), 5-star (passenger) for models of this era.
IIHS Offset Frontal Rating:
Good (for models tested).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags (optional or standard depending on trim).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Child Safety:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Audio System:
Bose® premium audio system with CD player, AM/FM radio. Often integrated with steering wheel controls.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort.
Parking Assist:
Ultrasonic rear parking assist (optional).
Telematics:
OnStar® system was available, providing emergency assistance, vehicle diagnostics, and turn-by-turn navigation.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (using Dex-Cool coolant).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (Long-life platinum-tipped spark plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (API SM or higher).
Coolant Type:
GM Dex-Cool® antifreeze/coolant (or equivalent OAT coolant).
Northstar Engine Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent in later Northstar versions, some earlier models experienced coolant leaks due to head gasket issues. The 2002 model generally had improved reliability but can still be a consideration.
Transaxle Issues:
Some owners reported occasional transmission shifting issues or premature wear. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
HVAC System:
Blend door actuators and HVAC control modules can sometimes fail, affecting climate control functionality.
Struts:
With age and mileage, front struts may require replacement, impacting ride quality.
Brand Legacy:
Cadillac, America's luxury automobile brand, known for innovation and comfort since 1902.
Eldorado Lineage:
The Eldorado has a storied history as Cadillac's flagship personal luxury coupe, evolving through several generations of iconic design and technology.
Sixth Generation Context:
The 2002 model represents the final year of the eighth generation (1992-2002) Eldorado, a significant redesign from its predecessors, emphasizing a more European driving feel.
Production Years:
1992-2002 for the eighth generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Hamtramck, Michigan, USA (GM's Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant).
