Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Procedures All sections

Maintenance Information Cadillac Catera I

Procedures 6 illustrations ~1964 words

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 1

Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. No Operating Conditions From Severe Service Schedule

Severe Service (Unique Driving Conditions)

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

  1. Most Trips Are Less Than 5 To 10 Miles (8 To 16 KM) This Is Particularly Important When Outside Temperatures Are Below Freezing
  2. Most Trips Include Extensive Idling (Such As Door-To-Door Delivery And Frequent Driving In Stop-And-Go Traffic)
  3. Most Trips Are Through Dusty Areas
  4. You Frequently Tow A Trailer Or Use A Carrier On Top Of Your Vehicle
  5. If The Vehicle Is Used For Delivery Service, Police, Taxi Or Other Commercial Application

CAMSHAFT TIMING BELT

CAUTIONFailure to replace a faulty camshaft timing belt may result in serious engine damage.

The condition of camshaft drive belts should always be checked on vehicles which have more than 50,000 miles. Although some manufacturers do not recommend belt replacement at a specified mileage, others require it at 60,000-100,000 miles. A camshaft drive belt failure may cause extensive damage to internal engine components on most engines, although some designs do not allow piston-to-valve contact. These designs are often called "Free Wheeling".

Many manufacturers changed their maintenance and warranty schedules in the mid-1980's to reflect timing belt inspection and/or replacement at 50,000-60,000 miles. Most service interval schedules in this manual reflect these changes.

Belts or components should be inspected and replaced if any of the following conditions exist

  1. Cracks Or Tears In Belt Surface
  2. Missing, Damaged, Cracked Or Rounded Teeth
  3. Oil Contamination
  4. Damaged Or Faulty Tensioners
  5. Incorrect Tension Adjustment

Scheme 2

Scheme 2: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS

Scheme 3

Scheme 3

LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS

MaterialConditionSpecification
Engine Oil (1)Ambient Temperature Less Than 60°F (16°C) To Over 0°F (-18°C)SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil (1)Ambient Temperature Above 0°F (-18°C) To Over 100°F (38°C)SAE 10W-30
Engine Coolant (2)All50/50 Mix of Distilled Water & DEX-COOL
Brake FluidAllDOT 3
Rear Axle FluidAllSAE 80W-90 GL-5
Power Steering FluidAllGM Power Steering Fluid (GM Part No. 12346143)
Automatic Transmission FluidAllDEXRON-III ATF
A/C RefrigerantAllR-134a
(1) SAE 10W-30 preferred. Use API-approved oil w/Starburst symbol (2) Use GM Engine Coolant Supplement (sealer) GM Part # 3634621 when performing a complete coolant change.
(1)SAE 10W-30 preferred. Use API-approved oil w/Starburst symbol
(2)Use GM Engine Coolant Supplement (sealer) GM Part # 3634621 when performing a complete coolant change.

LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS

FLUID CAPACITIES

ItemConditionSpecification (1)
Engine OilDrained, With New Filter6.1 Qts. (5.75L)
Engine Coolant (2)Drained10.6 Qts. (10.0L)
Rear Axle FluidDrained1.74 Qts. (1.65L)
Automatic Transmission FluidPan and Side Cover Removed7.0 Qts. (6.6L)
A/C RefrigerantEvacuated2.9 Lbs. (0.95Kgs.)
Fuel TankFull Capacity18.0 Gal. (68.1L)
(1) Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level. (2) Add two crushed pellets GM Engine Coolant Supplement sealer) GM Part # 3634621 to overflow tank when performing a complete coolant change.
(1)Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level.
(2)Add two crushed pellets GM Engine Coolant Supplement sealer) GM Part # 3634621 to overflow tank when performing a complete coolant change.

FLUID CAPACITIES

TIRE REPLACEMENT

To find out what kind of tires are needed for the vehicle, look at the Tire Loading Information Label.

The tires originally installed on the vehicle had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire's sidewall. When tires are replaced make sure the new tires have the TPC Spec. number as the original tires. This ensures that the vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other thing during normal service on the vehicle.

TIRE INFLATION

Recommended cold tire pressures, tire sizes and vehicle capacity weight can be found on the Tire Loading Information Label.

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION Section.

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (AIR BAG)

Note. See the AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Section.

Modifications or improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), can adversely affect system performance. DO NOT cover, obstruct or change the steering wheel horn pad in any way, as such action could cause improper function of the system. Use only plain water when cleaning the horn pad. Solvents or cleaners could adversely affect the air bag cover and cause improper deployment of the system.

WARNINGTo avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT.
CAUTIONDisconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system, steering column or passenger side dash component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of accidental air bag inflation

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING

WARNINGAvoid breathing R-134a refrigerant and PAG lubricant vapors, exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. To remove R-134a from system use R-134a recycling equipment that meets SAE J2210 specifications. If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate work area before resuming service.
WARNINGR-134a service equipment or vehicle A/C systems SHOULD NOT be pressure tested or leak tested with compressed air. Some mixtures of air/R134a have shown to be combustible at elevated pressures. These mixtures are dangerous and may cause fire and/or explosions. See AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

CAUTIONThe anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since this interference could cause the possible loss of the anti-lock braking capability, such equipment should be installed by qualified professionals.

On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS observe the following cautions

  1. DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate «ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM»(ref-48011) article in the BRAKES Section.
  2. DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
  3. Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.

BATTERY

DO NOT overfill battery as this may cause electrolyte to squirt out of the battery during periods of heavy charging. This could result in corrosion or other damage.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

CAUTIONBefore replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR

Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

CAUTIONContinued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and vehicle.
CAUTIONAny modification to the exhaust system on turbo models, which reduces exhaust backpressure, will lead to lean fuel mixtures and excessive spark advance. This could cause serious engine damage.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

WARNINGMany solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.

ENGINE OIL

CAUTIONNever use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

WARNINGRelieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component (fuel injection models).

HALOGEN BULBS

Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.

RADIATOR CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

RADIATOR FAN

WARNINGKeep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off.

RIDE HEIGHT CONTROL

Before jacking up vehicle, turn height control switch to OFF position. Switch is located inside tool storage section on left side of trunk compartment. Also, if a vehicle is jacked up and engine started when height control is on, a diagnostic code is recorded in ECU. If this happens, be sure to clear code from memory.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONDue to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options.

BUMPER-TO-BUMPER COVERAGE

Covers any repair or replacement of parts which becomes necessary due to defects in materials or workmanship under normal use for 4 years or 50,000 miles from in-service date.

CORROSION PERFORATION WARRANTY

There are two types of corrosion coverage. The coverage is as follows

Body sheet metal panels are covered against ruse for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Any body sheet metal panel that rusts through (an actual hole) continues to be covered for up to 6 years or 100,000 miles, or whichever occurs first.

EMISSION SYSTEM DEFECT WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Warrants to the retail purchaser, and subsequent purchaser that vehicle was designed, built, and equipped so as to conform at the time of sale with applicable emission regulations and that it is free from defects in materials or workmanship which may cause the vehicle to fail to conform with applicable regulations for 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

EMISSION SYSTEM PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Covers all repairs, adjustments, or replacements if vehicle fails to conform to applicable emission standards and such failure results in the vehicle owner having to bear a penalty or other sanction under local, state or federal law for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. If the vehicle has been in use for more than 24 months or 24,000 miles, the manufacturer will make the necessary adjustments, repairs or replacements at no cost to the owner only when noncompliance is caused by failure of components which have been installed in the vehicle for the sole or primary purpose of reducing vehicle emissions. See copy of warranty for specific components covered.

EMISSION SYSTEM PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

For a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, manufacturer will make all necessary repairs and adjustments to ensure vehicle passes a required Smog Check inspection.

EMISSION SYSTEM DEFECT WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

Warrants vehicle to be free of defects in materials or workmanship that may cause it to fail to conform with applicable California emission regulations for a period of 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Certain emission-related parts are covered for repair or replacement for 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first. See copy of warranty for specific components covered.

FUSE PANEL LOCATION

The vehicle is equipped with 3 fuse panels. There are two fuse panels located in the instrument panel, one is on the driver's side and the other is on the passenger's side. The third fuse panel is located in the engine compartment next to the battery on the driver's side.

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: Instrument Panel Fuse Identification (Driver's Side)
  1. 1 - RH & LH Front Side Door Window
  2. 2 - Stop Lamp Switch
  3. 3 - Automatic Transmission Switch & Control Indicator, Power Steering Control Module, Hazard Warning Switch
  4. 4 - RH & LH Rear Seat Cushion Heater Relay
  5. 5 - Transmission Control Module
  6. 6 - Sound Processor Amplifier
  7. 7 - RH & LH Rear Side Door Window Regulator Motor
  8. 8 - Headlamp Switch, Turn Signal Switch, Horn Relay, CD Changer, Multifunction Relay Module
  9. 9 - Windshield Wiper Motor & Relay, Windshield Wiper & Washer Switch
  10. 10 - Body Control Module (BCM), Auxiliary Water Pump, Heater & A/C Control, Fan Control Relays, Engine Control Module (ECM) Cooling Blower, ECM Relay
  11. 11 - Heater & A/C Control, RH & LH Outside Rear View Mirrors
  12. 12 - Hazard Warning Switch, Instrument Cluster, Stop Lamp Switch, Gauge Cluster
  13. 13 - Remote Control Outside Rear View Mirror Switch, A/C Compressor Relay, A/C Control Switch
  14. 14 - Cellular Phone, Cigarette Lighter, RH & LH Windshield Washer Nozzle, Driver & Passenger Heated Seat Switch, Heater & A/C Control, Heated Outside Rearview Mirror & Rear Window, Defogger Relay, Radio, RH Front Door Speaker
  15. 15 - Rear Suspension Leveling Air Compressor Relay, Instrument Cluster, Gauge Cluster, Cruise Control Switch & Module, Headlamp Switch, Multifunction Relay Module, Passenger & Driver Heated Seat Relay, BCM, Sunroof Actuator, Automatic Level Control Sensor, RH & LH Heated Rear Seat Switch & Cushion Relay, Driver Seat Memory Module, LH Front Side Door Window Switch, Dome & Reading Lamp, Inside Rearview Mirror
  16. 16 - Transmission Control Module
  17. 17 - Horn
  18. 18 - Fuel Pump
  19. 19 - Electronic Brake, Traction Control Module
  20. 20 - Passenger & Driver Heated Seat Relay
  21. 21 - Daytime Running Light Relay, LH High Beam Headlamp Relay
  22. 22 - LH Headlamp & Headlamp Switch
  23. 23 - LH Parking Lamps & Tail Lamps, Inside Rearview Mirror, LH Rear Side Marker Lamp
  24. 24 - Lifting Magnet, BCM, Instrument Cluster
  25. 25 - Sunroof Actuator
  26. 26 - Multifunction Relay Module, Headlamp Switch, RH & LH Front Side Marker Lamp, Middle Tail Lamp, RH & LH Rear License Plate Lamp, Radio, Automatic Transmission Control Indicator, Heater & A/C Control
  27. 27 - Automatic Level Control Sensor, Rear Suspension Leveling Air Compressor
  28. 28 - Remote Control Door Lock Receiver, Driver Seat Adjuster Memory Module, Door Lock Relay, Rear Compartment Lid Release Switch
  29. 29 - Multifunction Relay Module
  30. 30 - RH Parking Lamps & Tail Lamps, RH Rear Side Marker Lamp
  31. 31 - RH Headlamp & Turn Signal Switch
  32. 32 - RH High Beam Headlamp Relay
  33. 33 - Heater Blower, A/C Compressor Relay
  34. 34 - Heated Rear Window Defogger Relay, Heated Outside Rearview Mirror
  35. 35 - Passenger & Driver Seat Adjuster Switch

Scheme 5

Scheme 5: Instrument Panel Relay Identification (Passenger's Side)
  1. I - High Beam Headlamps
  2. II - Automatic Level Control
  3. III - Heated Rear Window, Heated Power Mirrors
  4. IV - Hazard Warning Flashers
  5. V - Windshield Wipers & Washer System
  6. VI - Horn
  7. VII - Parking Lamps & Tail Lamps
  8. VIII - Low Beam Headlamps
  9. IX - Daytime Running Lamps II
  10. XI - Daytime Running Lamps I

Scheme 6

Scheme 6: Engine Compartment Relay Identification - 1997
  1. 1 - Secondary Air Induct
  2. 2 - A/C Blower-Radiator
  3. 3 - Coolant Pump Follow-Up
  4. 4 - Interval Windshield Washer & Wiper
  5. 5 - A/C Compressor
  6. 6 - A/C Blower-Radiator
  7. 7 - A/C Blower-Radiator
  8. 8 - A/C Blower-Radiator
  9. 9 - Secondary Air Duct
  10. 10 - Injection Valves
  11. 12 - Blower-Radiator
  12. 15 - A/C Blower-Radiator
  13. 16 - Plug Connection
  14. 17 - A/C Blower-Radiator
  15. 18 - A/C Blower-Radiator
  16. 19 - Relay
  17. 20 - Fuel Pump
  18. 27 - Oxygen Exhaust Sensor
  19. 28 - Control Unit
  20. 29 - Blower Box
  21. 39 - Diagnostic Plug Connection

Engine Compartment Relay Identification - 1998

  1. 1 - Secondary Air Injection Pump (Relay K12)
  2. 2 - Fan Control (Relay K67)
  3. 3 - Auxiliary Water Pump (Relay K22)
  4. 4 - Windshield Wiper Motor (Relay K8)
  5. 5 - A/C Compressor (Relay K60)
  6. 6 - Fan Control (Relay K87)
  7. 7 - Fan Control (Relay K26)
  8. 8 - Fan Control (Fuse 42)
  9. 9 - Secondary Air Injection Pump (Fuse 49)
  10. 10 - Engine Controls Power (Relay K43)
  11. 12 - Fan Control (Fuse 40)
  12. 15 - Fan Control (Fuse 52)
  13. 16 - Connector C110
  14. 17 - Fan Control (Relay K52)
  15. 18 - Fan Control (Relay K28)
  16. 19 - Fan Control Relay, Engine Control Module (ECM) Relay (Fuse 50)
  17. 20 - Fuel Pump (Relay (K44)
  18. 27 - Heated Oxygen Sensors (Fuse 43)
  19. 28 - Engine Control Module (ECM) (Fuse 60)
  20. 29 - Engine Control Module (ECM) (Relay K48)
  21. 39 - Coolant Fan Test Connector