🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

Catera

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

GMX269

Platform:

Opel Omega B

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Cadillac Catera was positioned as an entry-level luxury sedan, often referred to as the 'Asian Cadillac' due to its Opel origins. It aimed to attract younger buyers to the Cadillac brand.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Acura TL.

Distinguishing Features:

Sporty handling for a Cadillac of its era, refined interior, comfortable ride, rear-wheel drive platform (inherited from Opel Omega).

Value:

Enables owners and independent repair shops to perform maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealership service. Provides detailed, manufacturer-level information.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (specific number not provided, but described as 'Complete' and 'A-Z')

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, emissions control

Transmission:

Automatic transmission service and repair

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, axle shafts, differential

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, steering system

Brakes:

Brake system components, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Electrical:

Ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body electrical

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common issue resolution

Repair And Replacement:

Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair

Rebuilding:

Engine rebuild procedures, transmission rebuild procedures

Disassembly And Assembly:

Step-by-step guides for component removal and installation

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete overhauls and diagnostics

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Quality:

High-quality, enabling clear printing of text and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Downloadable)

Paper:

N/A (Downloadable)

Search Functionality:

Searchable text (typical for PDF manuals)

Required Software:

Adobe Reader (or compatible PDF viewer)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Engine Code:

L81 (3.0L)

Displacement:

2962 cc (180.7 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 84.8 mm (3.39 in x 3.34 in)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

200 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (Regular)

ECU Type:

GM ECM (specific module not detailed in product info)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

4T65-E

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios not provided, but typical for GM's 4T60/65 family

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) for a dry fill, less for a fluid change.

Recommended Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.0 inches (4851 mm)

Width:

70.9 inches (1801 mm)

Height:

56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Wheelbase:

110.5 inches (2807 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3550-3750 lbs (1610-1701 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4600 lbs (2087 kg)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.0 cu ft (425 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Not explicitly rated or data unavailable for this specific year/model configuration.

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Not explicitly rated or data unavailable for this specific year/model configuration.

IIHS Crash Test Ratings:

Some Catera models received 'Acceptable' ratings in front and side impact tests from IIHS in their respective testing periods.

Traction Control:

Available (TCS)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard; side airbags optional on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available premium audio systems, including Bose sound systems on higher trims. AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Onboard Diagnostics:

OBD-II compliant, enabling diagnostic scanning for fault codes.

Phone Integration:

Limited by era; typically no integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Platinum-tipped spark plugs: Inspect at 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace at 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace fluid and filter every 45,000-60,000 miles (72,000-96,000 km), or more frequently under severe usage.

Coolant Flush:

Replace coolant every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher)

Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Coolant:

GM P/N 12378302 (or equivalent Dex-Cool compliant coolant, typically orange)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-III ATF

Ignition Coils:

Coil pack failures are common, leading to misfires and rough running.

Crankshaft Position Sensor:

Failure can cause intermittent starting problems or stalling.

Thermostat:

Thermostat housing leaks or thermostat sticking can cause cooling issues.

ABS Module:

ABS warning lights can indicate a failing ABS control module.

Water Pump:

Leaking water pumps are a common maintenance item.

📚 Vehicle History

Cadillac Positioning:

Cadillac, a division of General Motors, historically represented American luxury, focusing on comfort, smooth ride, and V8 power.

Catera Introduction:

Introduced for the 1997 model year, the Catera was Cadillac's response to the growing import luxury sedan market. It was essentially a rebadged Opel Omega B.

Catera Facelift:

Received a mild facelift for the 1999 model year, including updated styling cues and minor interior revisions.

Production Period:

1997-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Rüsselsheim, Germany (as Opel Omega)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Received mixed reviews. Praised for handling and sportiness relative to other Cadillacs, but criticized for its Opel origins and perceived lack of unique Cadillac identity by some automotive critics.

Safety Awards:

No major specific safety awards widely recognized for this model year.