2004 Cadillac DeVille
2004 Cadillac DeVille
Overview
The 2004 Cadillac DeVille, a luxury sedan, offered a comfortable ride and a suite of features for its era. Under the hood, it was primarily equipped with a robust Northstar V8 engine, known for its power but also for specific maintenance requirements. The transmission was generally reliable, though like any vehicle, certain components could experience wear over time. The DeVille’s advanced electronic systems, while offering convenience, were also a potential source of issues. Suspension and interior components were generally well-regarded for durability, contributing to the car’s overall appeal as a long-distance cruiser.
Engine
4.6L Northstar V8
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and often head bolts.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, potential misfires.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Oil Leaks (Valve Cover, Crankshaft Seals)
- Symptoms: Visible oil drips, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic (4T80-E)
Torque Converter Issues
- Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, delayed engagement, harsh shifting.
- Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $800 - $1,500
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible fluid leaks, low fluid level, shifting problems.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of seals, lines, or transmission pan.
- Cost: $150 - $500
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
BCM Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, warning lights, power window/lock issues, gauge cluster problems.
- Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $500 - $1,200
Alternator
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Battery warning light, dimming lights, starting problems, dead battery.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Power Steering Control Module
Steering Assist Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power steering, stiff steering, intermittent assist.
- Solution: Replacement of the power steering control module.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Climate Control System
HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
- Symptoms: Fan only works on highest setting or not at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $100 - $250
Dashboard & Gauges
Gauge Cluster Issues
- Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of gauges, warning lights staying on.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
- Cost: $400 - $900
Summary Verdict
The 2004 Cadillac DeVille is a comfortable luxury sedan, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues, particularly with the Northstar V8 engine, such as head gasket and intake manifold leaks. Electrical components, especially the BCM and alternator, can also be sources of problems. While the transmission is generally robust, torque converter issues can arise. Suspension and exterior components tend to be reliable. Regular maintenance, especially concerning the cooling system and oil changes, is crucial for mitigating engine-related problems. Addressing electrical gremlins promptly is also advised.