1998 Cadillac Seville
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Cadillac › Seville › 1998
These records cover every 1998 Cadillac Seville. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 1998 Cadillac Seville. Newest first.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. an electrical short can develop in the generator, even when the engine IS off.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The electrical short could cause an engine compartment fire that could spread to the rest of the vehicle and anything near it.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the generator.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the windshield wiper motor 'low' speed function can become inoperative when the motor IS switched from 'high' to 'low' speed.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If this were to occur while the vehicle was in motion, the driver's visibility could be affected.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the windshield wiper motor cover which contains the microprocessor.
Owner complaints
65 complaints3 involved a crash3 involved a fire5 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. While driving 60 mph, the temperature warning indicator illuminated and the contact stated that the motor began to overheat. As a result, the contact pulled over to allow the engine to cool. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. While driving 60 mph, the temperature warning indicator illuminated and the contact stated that the motor began to overheat. As a result, the contact pulled over to allow the engine to cool. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the radiator needed to be flushed, and the water pump and thermostat needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer again where it was diagnosed that the head bolts were not long enough. As a result, it caused the pressure to lead through the head. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to nhtsa. The failure mileage was 102,000.
- Visibility/wiper
Windshield wipers failed to work on low, intermittent or "rain sense" settings. failure was intermittent and sometimes the wipers would not stop or they came on voluntarily. additionally, the windshield washer failed at the same time. this would occur whether the car was stationary or in motion…
Windshield wipers failed to work on low, intermittent or "rain sense" settings. failure was intermittent and sometimes the wipers would not stop or they came on voluntarily. additionally, the windshield washer failed at the same time. this would occur whether the car was stationary or in motion and was local independent. I went to the local dealer who informed me they did not work on cars built before 2000 model year. also, they said parts were not available. they sent me to a local repair shop. I found a shop that could repair the problem by replacing the "pulse board" with a kit from cadillac [remember I was told there were no parts available]. I had the issue repaired and I then returned to the dealer and asked about the parts again. this time, I was told there was a kit available. I realize that older cars are sometimes challenging to find parts, but this IS a safety issue which should be given priority consideration and handling. note: the date given IS approximate.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. While driving approximately 30 mph, the contact heard a loud whining noise coming from the steering wheel. The steering wheel became difficult to maneuver as the wheel seized without warning. The contact stated that as the steering failed, another…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. While driving approximately 30 mph, the contact heard a loud whining noise coming from the steering wheel. The steering wheel became difficult to maneuver as the wheel seized without warning. The contact stated that as the steering failed, another vehicle crashed into the rear of her vehicle. There were no reported injuries. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The contact was not aware of what repairs would be needed. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 85,000.
- Engine and engine cooling
TL* the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. The contact stated that whenever the vehicle stopped or driving various speeds, the engine would overheat and a message informing him to add coolant would display on the instrument panel. the engine coolant was routinely added to the vehicle, but the…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. The contact stated that whenever the vehicle stopped or driving various speeds, the engine would overheat and a message informing him to add coolant would display on the instrument panel. the engine coolant was routinely added to the vehicle, but the failure continued. The vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop where the contact was advised to replace the motor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 138,000 and the current mileage was 140,000.
- Suspension › Rear
I have a 1998 cadillac seville sls and was going through left curve on road 40-45 mph right rear axle broke, causing car to spin left then right. Parallel to road on the right and crashing into a big rock between two ponds that saved my life. Car had 70,000 miles on it. IS there any one else that had a rear axle break behind the rotor? Please contact me. *Tr
- Visibility
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. in inclement weather conditions, the windshield wiper motor's 'low' speed function becomes inoperative. the failure occurs when the motor IS switched from 'high' to 'low' speed. the dealer stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign ID…
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. in inclement weather conditions, the windshield wiper motor's 'low' speed function becomes inoperative. the failure occurs when the motor IS switched from 'high' to 'low' speed. the dealer stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign ID number 98v144000 (visibility:windshield wiper/washer); therefore, they would not assume any financial responsibility for the repair. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was 80,000 and current mileage was 130,000.
- Electrical system › 12v/24v/48v battery · Electrical system › Alternator/generator/regulator
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. the contact heard a loud popping sound coming from the speakers. the battery warning light illuminated on the instrument control panel. he took the vehicle to the dealer and they stated that the battery was causing the failure and was replaced.…
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. the contact heard a loud popping sound coming from the speakers. the battery warning light illuminated on the instrument control panel. he took the vehicle to the dealer and they stated that the battery was causing the failure and was replaced. shortly afterwards, the dealer stated that the alternator was causing the failure. the dealer stated that his vin was not included in nhtsa campaign ID number 99v070000 (electrical system:alternator/generator/regulator) and would not provide a free remedy. the manufacturer provided no assistance because the recall expired. the failure and current mileages were 110,000.
- Steering › Rack and pinion
Two (2) gm oem rack and pinion replacements required within an 18 month time frame due to part failures. steering wheel became unresponsive on interstate resulting in a near crash. *Jb
- Steering › Rack and pinion
Power rack and pinion failure. *ak
- Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer
TL* the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. the contact stated that the windshield wipers operated at an accelerated pace when switching the speed from high to low. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not inspected. both the dealer and manufacturer stated that there was no recall for…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 cadillac seville. the contact stated that the windshield wipers operated at an accelerated pace when switching the speed from high to low. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not inspected. both the dealer and manufacturer stated that there was no recall for the vehicle. the contact referred the manufacturer to nhtsa recall campaign # 98v144000 ( concerning visibility:windshield wiper/washer, and was told that nhtsa's information was incorrect. the manufacturer issued case # 71-510434063. the current mileage IS 63,000, and the failure mileage was unknown.*ak the consumer stated maybe the car was on the dealers lot at the time the recall was issued. Updated 06/08/07 *tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
Sudden erratic readings such as engine hot, ac off, and service engine soon light on. Engine reduced cylinder operation to 4 cylinders, power reduced significantly. Family in car and heavy traffic could have been dangerous situation in both cases. Found blown head gaskets and coolant entering into 2 cylinders. Mileage only 70,343. *nm
- Exterior lighting › Brake lights
The upper mount tail light IS not lighting. I have since found after searching the internet that there IS a 100% failure rate of the led display in these upper tail light of the cadillac. I own a 1998 cadillac seville sls which has the left half of the upper mount brake light out. there are…
The upper mount tail light IS not lighting. I have since found after searching the internet that there IS a 100% failure rate of the led display in these upper tail light of the cadillac. I own a 1998 cadillac seville sls which has the left half of the upper mount brake light out. there are reference that the brake strip failure IS due to moisture that gets in the strip. please investigate because if this happens to many people there should be a recall for these brake lights. please let me know what you find out. the led display was manufactured by stanley electronics (i found that out on the internet). *jb
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Dt*: the contact stated there IS nhtsa recall, campaign 04v110000 regarding the fuel system. the contact started the engine and detected the strong odor of gasoline. with the engine turned off, the contact inspected under the hood and discovered the fuel rail and return line tubing was cracked…
Dt*: the contact stated there IS nhtsa recall, campaign 04v110000 regarding the fuel system. the contact started the engine and detected the strong odor of gasoline. with the engine turned off, the contact inspected under the hood and discovered the fuel rail and return line tubing was cracked and spraying large amounts of gasoline in the engine compartment. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it IS not included in the recall due to the vin. the vehicle was seen by a dealer who determined this was the same problem as indicated in the recall.aki
- Engine and engine cooling
Dt: head gasket IS blown. Vehicle milage IS only 78, 000. *ak *tt *sb consumer doesn't understand how a vehicle that doesn't receive a tune-up until 100,000 miles have a head gasket failure at 78,000. Consumer was told that this problem IS a common ocurrance and consumer feels that IS unacceptable. *Sb
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Engine need to be time sert and coolant leaks.*ak
- Electronic stability control › Automatic (asc)
The electronic rear suspension has raised by itself and locked in place. the vehicle IS raised off the ground. the rear lift compressor IS defective. *ak
- Engine and engine cooling
While driving on the highway vehicle stalled intermittently. Vehicle was taken to the dealership for repair for the fourth time. Again consumer was told that the crankshaft position sensors needed to be replaced.*ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Power assist › Hydraulic › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Just after leaving home and driving at 30 mph I applied the brakes and the pedal when to the floor. I determined that I had a massive brake fluid leak just to the rear of the right front wheel. problem: one of two rear brake lines that are located on the top of the frame rail had been worn…
Just after leaving home and driving at 30 mph I applied the brakes and the pedal when to the floor. I determined that I had a massive brake fluid leak just to the rear of the right front wheel. problem: one of two rear brake lines that are located on the top of the frame rail had been worn through by constant rubbing on the front anti-sway bar. the lines are routed over the top of the sway bar and one of the lines was pushing down on the top of the sway bar. The bar had worn a semi-circular area out of the bottom of the brake line, to the point of failure. I repaired the line and took the defective section of the line to my dealer. I also had the system fully checked and the repair inspected. the dealer said that they would contact the regional offices of cadillac to inform them of the failure and its cause. I understand that the failure occurred after 166,000 miles on a 1998 sets, but, brake lines should never be in contact with a moving assembly, a sway bar which rotates). this might be an assemble error on just my car but the lines are formed to clear the bar and were held in place by frame mounted "clip blocks". everything was mounted in the correct factory positions but this line was pushing down on the sway bar. if it happened to me it might happen to someone else. please be aware that I filed a phone report on november 1 . I received a form from you today 11/9/04 the reference number on the form IS 10099163. after reading the narrative/description on the form I am stunned. after 15 minutes on the phone with your representative, not one thing on the form IS correct. whoever I spoke to IS, to put it bluntly, an idiot. do you really think that I would file a report because my brakes were worn out? I would hope that other reports are not totally wrong as IS the case for me. I would appreciate a call from a supervision at your earliest opportunity. frank culmone - president t.d.c. Inc. cell 818 216 5862. *ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
We have a 1998 cadillac STS and are running into problems with it running hot. After replacing the radiator, thermostat and coolant, there IS still the same problem. It will only be after the engine IS warmed from driving will this occur, it will start to run hot if you give the vehicle gas to try…
We have a 1998 cadillac STS and are running into problems with it running hot. After replacing the radiator, thermostat and coolant, there IS still the same problem. It will only be after the engine IS warmed from driving will this occur, it will start to run hot if you give the vehicle gas to try and get into traffic flow. We have consulted quite a few machanics on this problem and they have all given us the same explanation for the presumed problem. Especially one that use to work directly for cadillac as a mechanic, they state there IS a problem with the steel bolts in the aluminum engine and if there IS any type of sudden exceleration then the engine will run hot or overheat. This IS a known common problem stated by any mechanic that knows about this type vehicle, especially when they are telling us this happens all the time to cadillacs. We have not replaced anything yet but have been advised this would be a very expensive job to do, and we were advised the problem will get so bad in the near future the repairs will have to be performed to even drive the vehicle.*ak
- Air bags › Side/window
While the vehicle was parked both frontal driver's side and passenger side air bags deployed. No injuries reported. consumer drove the vehicle to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic could not duplicate the problem. *ak the air bag hit the consumer in the face. *sc
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Car was serviced 2 weeks prior for sluggish performance and huge oil consumption. car in for service again! Now for blown head gasket problem. this cadillac has too many dealer/manufacturer problems. dealer should pay for these problems. Not customer. vin [xxx] check service history.…
Car was serviced 2 weeks prior for sluggish performance and huge oil consumption. car in for service again! Now for blown head gasket problem. this cadillac has too many dealer/manufacturer problems. dealer should pay for these problems. Not customer. vin [xxx] check service history. unbelievable! *la updated 07/25/2012 *js information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6)
- Air bags › Frontal · Seat belts › Front
While consumer's vehicle stopped at a traffic light it was rear ended by another vehicle, causing consumer's vehicle to rear end the vehicle in front. Upon impact, both frontal air bags did not deploy, and seat belt failed. driver sustained injuries. *ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system · Equipment › Electrical · Service brakes, hydraulic · Suspension · Visibility › Power window devices and controls
There IS some bills I did not keep.bought the car sept 4TH 1998. I had to have them make repairs everytime I took it in for a oil change, I drive an hour to the barboursville automall, inc. In west va where I bought it. The computer control chip for the strut sensor IS still not fixed, it flashes…
There IS some bills I did not keep.bought the car sept 4TH 1998. I had to have them make repairs everytime I took it in for a oil change, I drive an hour to the barboursville automall, inc. In west va where I bought it. The computer control chip for the strut sensor IS still not fixed, it flashes do not drive over 90 miles an hour constantly when I drive, which IS distracting,that has been doing it since 12/02. They just put a new one in and it also does not work. The front seat heater went out in november and did not get one till april. I told them about the bumping of the car since I got it and they just put 1 strut on the car. They put grease on them and also they told me they found a piece of paper,and they changed the brakes pads and turned the rotors twice trying to fix the bumping. The paint on the car doesn't fell like it should. I have bought other cadillacs in the past years. I didn't fight the last cadillac it was a 98 cadillac eldorado serial number #[xxx] changed cars because it had a leak in the trunk and I took it back 5 times and they ended up packing it with super glue where everyone could see it. It was also in a hail storm and they bonded it instead of getting me new parts,it was making me to nervous so my husband bought the STS. There IS other bills which I can't find but I have had trouble with this STS since I got it.i did write the cadillac people and they said I had to take it up with the dealer which I have been with no satisfaction, I'm talking to [xxx] and my case number IS 1-119401313. The cadillac company said they would keep my letter I wrote them few years ago. I'm still wanting to drive a cadillac,which I told [xxx] and kept telling the dealership. I haven't got the bills when I first had the trouble but someone must, [xxx] agreed that I have had it worked on every time I went for an oil change. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Engine and engine cooling · Unknown or other
Paint buble on leftt rear fender at 124000 m blown headgasket due to loose headbolts I found out that this IS a common problem with the northstar engine.
- Exterior lighting › Headlights
While driving down a dark road, the left headlight came apart and fell off the vehicle, which caused poor visibility. *jb
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Power rack and pinion steering failure
Gm conducted a safety recall (nhtsa # 02v286) to address a steering defect pertaining to a lower pinion bearing (lpb) within the rack and pinion steering gear (r&p). The recall covered 1,159,156 model year 1997-1998 pontiac grand prix vehicles built between march 1, 1996 and october 31, 1997, 1996-1998 pontiac trans…
Gm conducted a safety recall (nhtsa # 02v286) to address a steering defect pertaining to a lower pinion bearing (lpb) within the rack and pinion steering gear (r&p). The recall covered 1,159,156 model year 1997-1998 pontiac grand prix vehicles built between march 1, 1996 and october 31, 1997, 1996-1998 pontiac trans sport, chevrolet lumina apv, chevrolet venture, oldsmobile silhouette minivans, and chevrolet cavalier and pontiac sunfire sedans built between january 1, 1996 and october 31, 1997.odi opened this rq after receiving reports that other vehicles were exhibiting the same symptoms as the recalled vehicles.based on odi's review of technical and complaint data collected during the rq, the w-cars are associated with either a higher steering complaint rate or a higher lpb failure rate than the other vehicles investigated under the rq and are above or near the rates for the recalled vehicles.thus, odi will further examine the w-cars (1996-1997 oldsmobile cutlass supreme, 1996-1998 buick regal, chevrolet lumina, chevrolet monte carlo, 1997-1998 buick century, and 1998 oldsmobile intrigue) under a new investigation, engineering analysis (ea)03-019.
- Cadillac coolant cooled alternator fires
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10208027This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10171318This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10168979This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code. The PI update to version D is to advise the unlock procedure is temporarily unavailable. E version update is to add administrative details.
- 10166638This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10165876This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code. The PI update to version D is to advise the unlock procedure is temporarily unavailable.
- 10157018This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10154641This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10141381This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10138060This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information with the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10137901This informational bulletin provides the technician with information on what E85 fuel may due to a non E85 vehicle.
- 10116612This informational bulletin provides information on wheel bearing P/N 13582664 being received new with visible rust and no action is needed as this does not affect the part performance.
- 10116564This informational bulletin provides information on wheel bearing P/N 13582664 being received new with visible rust and no action is needed as this does not affect the part performance.
- 10114947This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10114924This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10113443This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10113258This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint lamp, Service Vehicle Soon lamp on and/or radio locked, possibly after module replacement. Technician will need to check for an incorrect or non-existent VIN number in modules that require them. Technician should ensure that all modules that are replaced are programmed per currently published Service Information. Technician should also check the Sensing and Diagnostic Module part number if it was replaced.
- 10027804General motors corp: special coverage adjustment; analog onstar deactivation. Updated 2/17/09.
- 10026686GMC: harsh ride or line installation concern with delco shock kit. Concerns with connecting the lines to the shocks and the air compressor. Concern of harsh ride after installation.
- 10026586Buick\cadillac\chevrolet\gmc\hummer\oldsmobile\pontiac\saab\saturn service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. Special coverage adjustment-analog onstar deactivation. Fcc ruled in 2002 wireless carriers would no longer re required to support analog wireless network starting in 2008. Csc letter was received. Updated 12/1/08.
- 10020584Knockig noises or excessive oil consumption. Vehicles with LD8 or L37 4.6L V8 engines.
- 10019202Missing camshaft intermediate drive shaft plug - service vme.
- 10013543Unwanted alarm activation, trunk key cylinder hard to open, trunk ajar lamp on, fuel gauge inoperative, rke inoperative, interior lamps inoperative and/or no communication with the rear integration module (rim).
- 10012688Floor pan corrosion perforation in battery compartment.
- 10012579Rear compartment carpet wet/musty odor and/or spare tire well wet.
- 10012577Revised steering wheel position sensor or steering shaft lower bearing replacement procedure and steering wheel position sensor centering procedure.
- 10011216Service engine soon (ses) light on, diagnostic trouble code (dtc) p0741, torque converter clutch (tcc) excessive slip, transaxle chuggle, slip/surge.
- 10009448This message concerns inside air temperature sensor noisy. Comments that a noise in the left side of the instrument panel on cold starts. This noise may be described as a grind, growl, hum, whine or squeal. A fan noise may also be heard while driving. This condition may be caused by the inside air temperature sensor.
- 10008897Multiple stabilitrak/precision control codes such as c1282, c1283, c1284, c1285, c1287, and c1288 exist on delphi bosch 5.0 or 5.3 systems.
- 10008881Diagnostic trouble code (dtc) p0442 small leak detected, inspect at fuel filler neck.
- 10008847Volume IS only controlled using steering wheel controls.
- 10007631Steering clunk noise.
- 10006946Diagnostic trouble code b1000.
- 10006408Indentation of rear fascia near urpa sensor. Sit bulletin 1454741.
- 100063324.0L L47, 4.6L LD8 L37 engine water pump cover p/n 12571913- thermostat loose. Also including model 2003 cadillac eldorado.
- 100063074.0L L47, 4.6L LD8, L37, LH2 engine coolant or oil leak.*mr
- 10005597Engine cold/knock/tick noise.
- 10005588Poor radio reception or radio static/ increased interference with rear window defogger on or some rear window defogger grids may be inoperative.
- 10005414Engine exhaust leak noise heard inside the vehicle. Sit bulletin 1412205.
Every Cadillac Seville model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.