1999 Cadillac DeVille

Introduction

The 1999 Cadillac DeVille is a full-size luxury sedan that was known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. It was available with two engine options: a 4.6L Northstar V8 and a 5.7L LT1 V8, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its reputation for luxury and comfort, the 1999 Cadillac DeVille has been plagued by several issues reported by owners.

Engine

• 4.6L Northstar V8

  • Oil leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking oil from the valve covers, intake manifold gaskets, or oil pan gasket can cause a reduction in engine oil level and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Intake manifold failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold can crack or warp, causing coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Head gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A blown head gasket can lead to coolant and oil mixing, overheating, and rough engine idle.
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+

• 5.7L LT1 V8

  • Ignition coil failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Faulty ignition coils can cause misfiring, rough engine idling, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replace the failed ignition coils.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Fuel injector failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clogged or faulty fuel injectors can cause engine hesitation, poor fuel economy, and stalling.
    • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Water pump failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A failing water pump can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, and catastrophic engine damage if not addressed promptly.
    • Solution: Replace the water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Transmission

• 4-speed Automatic Transmission

  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip gears, resulting in a loss of power or inability to shift properly.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Torque converter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A failing torque converter can cause shuddering, slipping, or overheating of the transmission.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Solenoid issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Faulty solenoids can cause shifting problems, erratic behavior, and a reduction in transmission efficiency.
    • Solution: Replace the failed solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Front suspension strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged front suspension struts can cause a rough ride, reduced stability, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
• Rear suspension shock absorber failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn shock absorbers can reduce ride quality and stability, and lead to premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the failed shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Electrical

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain prematurely, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause of the drain
• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failing alternator can lead to dim headlights, reduced electrical power, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Ignition switch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty ignition switch can cause intermittent starting issues, loss of power, or electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Recall No. 99V073000

Exterior

• Headlight condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can build up inside the headlight assemblies, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the lights.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Interior

• Climate control issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may not function properly, resulting in insufficient heating or cooling.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty components, such as the blower motor, blend door actuator, or temperature sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Power window failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows may fail to operate, become inoperable, or make grinding noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the window motors, switches, or regulators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Airbag deployment issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The airbags may not deploy properly in the event of an accident.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the airbag system, including the sensors, wiring, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Recall No. 99V072000, NHTSA Recall No. 99E033000

Summary

The 1999 Cadillac DeVille has received mixed reviews from owners. While it is praised for its comfortable ride and powerful engine, it has also been plagued by a number of significant issues, particularly with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but some can be quite expensive to repair. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of the potential problems associated with this vehicle before making a purchase decision.