🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Cadillac

Model:

Seville

Year:

1998

Generation Name:

1998-2004 (K-Body)

Platform Code:

K-Body

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size luxury sedan

Key Competitors 1998:

Lincoln Continental, Lexus LS 400, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8

Luxury Features:

The 1998 Seville positioned itself as a technologically advanced and comfortable luxury sedan, often emphasizing its powerful Northstar V8 engine and refined interior.

Engine Technology:

The 4.6L Northstar V8 engine was a signature feature, offering good power and a sophisticated feel.

Chassis Technology:

MagneRide adaptive suspension (optional on some trims/years, but indicative of Cadillac's tech focus) and StabiliTrak electronic stability control system were advanced features for the era.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides official, licensed, factory-derived repair information, offering accuracy and completeness far superior to generic aftermarket guides. Enables cost savings through DIY repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

Northstar V8 (4.6L)

Transmission Coverage:

4-speed automatic (4T80-E)

Drivetrain Coverage:

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Accessories, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM)

Body And Trim Coverage:

Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Climate Control

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (digital format, equivalent to thousands of printed pages)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software / Web-based

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head overhaul, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing service, timing system (chain and tensioners), lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, evaporative emission control), engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

4T80-E automatic transmission: removal/installation, internal component inspection and repair (clutches, bands, valve body), torque converter service, transmission fluid service.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), power steering system service (pump, rack and pinion, hoses), wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis and repair (pads, rotors, calipers), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) components and troubleshooting, parking brake service.

Electrical System:

Detailed wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator), battery service, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), instrument panel operation, diagnostic connector (OBD-II).

Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning (HVAC):

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling and charging, A/C compressor service, blower motor, climate control module, heater core replacement.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and fill, brake fluid flush, accessory belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting flowcharts for common drivability issues, fault code retrieval and interpretation (OBD-II), electrical system diagnostics using multimeters and oscilloscopes, component testing.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems, including torque specifications.

Technical Specifications:

Detailed specifications for all components, including clearances, pressures, voltages, resistances, and fluid capacities.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, factory-level information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex component rebuilds and diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Web-based access through a browser.

Print Option:

Printable pages available via web browser interface.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L37 / LD8 (Northstar)

Engine Type:

DOHC V8

Displacement:

4.6 liters (281 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.56 in x 3.31 in (90.5 mm x 84.0 mm)

Horsepower:

275 hp @ 6000 rpm (LD8) / 300 hp @ 6000 rpm (L37)

Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (LD8) / 295 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (L37)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)

Compression Ratio:

10.3:1

Firing Order:

1-8-7-2-3-6-5-4

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic

Transmission Model:

4T80-E

Drive Layout:

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

Gear Ratios 1-4:

2.96 / 1.61 / 1.00 / 0.75

Reverse Gear Ratio:

2.14

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

11.0 US quarts (10.4 Liters) - dry fill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

200.0 inches (5080 mm)

Width:

73.1 inches (1857 mm)

Height:

55.3 inches (1405 mm)

Wheelbase:

110.9 inches (2817 mm)

Front Track:

60.7 inches (1542 mm)

Rear Track:

60.7 inches (1542 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,900 - 4,100 lbs (1769 - 1860 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 5,100 lbs (2313 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Refer to specific government safety reports for detailed ratings. Cadillac generally aimed for high safety standards.

Traction Control:

Standard

Stability Control:

StabiliTrak electronic stability control system (optional on some trims)

Anti Lock Brakes ABS:

Standard

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium Bose sound system often available, with AM/FM stereo, cassette, and CD player options.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control.

Cruise Control:

Standard, often with steering wheel controls.

Onboard Diagnostics:

OBD-II compliant system for engine and emissions diagnostics. Manual provides detailed diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific guidance.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Typically around 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs, but consult manual for exact specification.

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Initial flush at 50,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter. Use correct coolant type.

Engine Oil Specification:

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

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Northstar Engine Gaskets:

Head gasket leaks (coolant into cylinders or oil passages) were a known concern on some early Northstar engines, though improvements were made. The manual will detail proper sealing procedures.

Intake Manifold Gaskets:

Coolant leaks from the intake manifold gaskets could occur.

Automatic Transmission Behavior:

Potential for delayed shifting or harsh shifts can sometimes be related to valve body issues or electronic control module (ECM) programming. The manual covers diagnostic procedures.

Suspension Components:

Wear and tear on bushings, ball joints, and struts is common with age and mileage, leading to potential clunks or poor handling. Detailed replacement procedures are in the manual.

📚 Vehicle History

Cadillac Legacy:

Cadillac has a long history of producing American luxury vehicles, known for comfort, style, and technological innovation since 1902.

Seville Lineage:

The Seville nameplate was introduced in 1975 as Cadillac's first compact luxury car, evolving through various iterations to meet changing market demands and technological advancements. The 1998 model marked the introduction of the fifth generation (K-Body).

Manufacturing Location:

Hamtramck, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The 1998 Seville was not typically listed on Car and Driver's 10 Best lists, which often favored European luxury or sportier sedans, but it was recognized as a strong contender in its segment for luxury and technology.