Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Cadillac Positioning:
Cadillac's flagship sedan, competing with German luxury marques
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS, Audi A8
Vehicle Usp:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, powerful V8 engines, advanced (for its time) technology, distinctive American luxury styling
Value For Owner:
Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving on labor costs and extending vehicle life.
Value For Technician:
Provides the authoritative factory information required for accurate diagnosis and repair.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, exhaust system, engine management (ECM), ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (4T80-E), transaxle, drivetrain components, drive shafts, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, traction control), wheels and tires
Electrical Electronics:
Body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), lighting systems, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, infotainment system, power accessories, anti-theft system, diagnostic connectors, wiring diagrams
Body Interior:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, airbags, doors, windows, locks, HVAC system, body sealing
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, inspections
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, valve train service
Transmission Repair:
Transmission diagnosis, fluid and filter service, internal component repair and replacement
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint and control arm service, power steering pump and rack replacement
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures, ABS component diagnosis
Electrical Diagnostics:
Circuit testing, sensor diagnostics, module replacement and programming, wiring harness repair
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations and solutions
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory Level
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with detailed photos and diagrams, exploded views
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (Driver), 5-star (Passenger) - 1998 model tested
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners
Infotainment System:
CD player, cassette deck (optional), AM/FM stereo, premium sound system options (e.g., Bose)
Driver Assistance Features:
StabiliTrak (optional electronic stability control on some models), cruise control
Connectivity Features:
OnStar telematics system (optional, subscription-based service)
Convenience Features:
Dual-zone climate control, power adjustable seats, heated seats, memory seats, keyless entry
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years (Dex-Cool recommended).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, change fluid and filter as needed (often around 50,000-100,000 miles for severe service).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (GM spec 4718M)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter (verify in manual)
Coolant Type:
GM Original Equipment (GM6247M) Dex-Cool, extended life coolant
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or compatible Dexron VI)
Northstar Head Gasket:
Premature failure of head gaskets due to improper torque procedures on earlier Northstar engines; later models and updated procedures reduced this risk. Manual will detail proper torque sequences.
Cadillac Evap System:
Potential issues with the evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, leading to check engine lights. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Suspension Component Wear:
Wear on control arm bushings and ball joints, common for vehicles of this age and weight.
