Vehicle Segment:
Personal Luxury Coupe
Brand Philosophy:
Cadillac's commitment to luxury, comfort, and advanced technology for its era.
Key Competitors:
Lincoln Continental, Chrysler LHS, potentially high-end models from European luxury marques.
Distinctive Attributes:
Long-wheelbase coupe design, powerful V8 engine, advanced suspension (optional), and upscale interior appointments.
Typical Owner:
Discerning buyers seeking comfort, prestige, and performance in a stylish two-door package.
Instrument Panel And Controls:
All gauges, indicators, warning lights, switchgear, and climate controls.
Powertrain Operation:
Engine startup, operation, cooling system, fuel system, and exhaust system basics.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, transaxle operation, and related components.
Brakes And Suspension:
Braking system operation (ABS), steering, and suspension fundamentals.
Electrical System:
Lighting, power accessories, battery, and basic electrical troubleshooting guidance.
Infotainment And Comfort:
Audio system, climate control (HVAC), power seats, and convenience features.
Safety Features:
Airbags, seat belts, child seat restraints, and safety system explanations.
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, wipers, and other regular checks.
Do It Yourself Activities:
Guidance on minor tasks such as replacing wiper blades, changing engine air filter (if accessible), and bulb replacement.
Towing Considerations:
Specific instructions and precautions for towing the vehicle or towing a trailer with the vehicle.
Emergency Procedures:
Procedures for tire changes, jump-starting, and dealing with vehicle malfunctions.
Warning Lights And Messages:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights and informational messages, with recommended actions.
Diagnostic Level:
Basic owner-level troubleshooting and identification of system faults.
Repair Scope:
Focus on user-maintainable items and basic adjustments; not a full service or repair manual.
Maintenance Schedules:
Recommended service intervals for routine maintenance tasks (e.g., oil changes, inspections).
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Engine Displacement:
4.6 Liters (279 cu in)
Engine Code:
Northstar L37 V8
Horsepower:
275 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Engine Control Module:
GM Engine Control Module (ECM)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Not directly available for 1998 models in a standardized format, but expected to meet GM safety standards of the era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) often standard or available.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts; front seat pre-tensioners.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (or equivalent mounting points) for child safety seats.
Audio System:
Premium AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player. Bose premium audio system often optional.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with digital display and dual-zone temperature settings.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Steering:
Speed-sensitive power steering.
Onstar Readiness:
While not standard, some models may have been equipped with or pre-wired for OnStar communication system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or as indicated by oil life monitor if equipped.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 7,500 miles to ensure even wear.
Coolant Flush:
Consult manual, often around 50,000 to 100,000 miles for extended-life coolant.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped plugs typically last 100,000 miles. Check manual for specifics.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.0 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
GM-specified orange antifreeze/coolant (or equivalent Dex-Cool compatible)
Northstar Engine Specifics:
While robust, early Northstar engines could be prone to head gasket issues due to their design; regular maintenance is critical. Coolant leaks from the intake manifold or heater core can occur.
Electronics Reliability:
As with many vehicles of this era, minor electrical gremlins (e.g., window regulators, dashboard illumination) can surface.
Suspension Components:
Wear on suspension bushings and ball joints is typical with age and mileage.
Cadillac Legacy:
Long history of luxury, innovation, and powerful V8 engines in American automotive history.
Eldorado Lineage:
A celebrated nameplate in Cadillac's history, evolving from large, rear-drive luxury coupes to the front-wheel-drive platform of the 1990s.
Manufacturing Location:
Hamtramck, Michigan, USA
Production Period:
1992-2002 (Ninth Generation)
