Is the Cadillac Catera Reliable?
1997–2001 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Cadillac Catera? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Cadillac Catera Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | 0 | 18 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2000 | 0 | 57 | 3 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1999 | 0 | 78 | 3 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1998 | 0 | 128 | 6 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1997 | 0 | 152 | 13 | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Catera Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Catera scores exactly at the sedan average.
Known Cadillac Catera Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 433 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cadillac Catera reliable?+
The Cadillac Catera scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 5 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 0 recall campaigns and 433 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Catera is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2001 Catera achieved the highest reliability score of 57/100 with 0 recalls and 18 complaints.
How many miles does a Catera last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Cadillac Catera owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Catera will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Cadillac Catera Research
Check a Specific Cadillac Catera VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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