The Cadillac Allante spans 1987–1993 with 8 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1987, 1990, 1989 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1993, 1988, 1992. It delivers up to 17 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Cadillac Allante is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1987 to 1993 across multiple generations.
How to read a Cadillac Allante VIN — every digit explained
Every Cadillac Allante carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Cadillac and the country it was built in.
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Allante.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Allante, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Cadillac Allante have?
The Cadillac Allante has 8 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1987–1993. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
1993 Cadillac Allante recalls 1
Equipment:appliance:air Conditioner
What's wrong. IF THE AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR CLUTCH ASSEMBLY CONTACTS THE AUXILIARY ENGINE OIL COOLER OUT HOSE, THE HOSE MAY WEAR THROUGH ALLOWING ENGINE OIL TO LEAK IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Risk. AN OIL LEAK THAT CONTACTS THE HOT EXHAUST SYSTEM CAN RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A TIE STRAP TO RETAIN THE AUXILIARY ENGINE OIL COOLER OUTLET HOSE TO THE AUXILIARY ENGINE OIL COOLER INLET HOSE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE RADIATOR ASSURING ADEQUATE CLEARANCE OF THE AFFECTED HOSE FROM THE AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR CLUTCH ASSEMBLY.
1992 Cadillac Allante recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Fix. HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
1991 Cadillac Allante recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Fix. HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
1990 Cadillac Allante recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Fix. HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
1989 Cadillac Allante recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Fix. HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
1988 Cadillac Allante recalls 2
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe And Cap
What's wrong. PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE IN FUEL CAP MAY STICK DURING THE TURN TO VENT FUNCTION, CAUSING THE VALVE TO REMAIN OPEN.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN FUEL SPILLAGE DURING AND AFTER ACOLLISION AND POSSIBLY A FIRE. VEHICLES WOULD NOT BE IN COMPLIANCE WITH FMVSS301.
Fix. INSTALL NEW FUEL CAP.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Fix. HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
1987 Cadillac Allante recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Fix. HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
Best and worst years for the Cadillac Allante
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 7 tracked years, the worst years are 1987, 1990, 1989 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1993, 1988, 1992.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1987 Allante | Service Brakes | Avoid | |
| 1988 Allante | Service Brakes | Best | |
| 1989 Allante | Service Brakes | Avoid | |
| 1990 Allante | Service Brakes | Avoid | |
| 1991 Allante | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 1992 Allante | Service Brakes | Best | |
| 1993 Allante | Electrical System | Best |
What are the most common Cadillac Allante problems?
The most-reported Cadillac Allante problems are Air (19 reports), Seats (1 reports) and Tires (1 reports) — out of 208 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Cadillac Allante specifications & dimensions
The 1993 Cadillac Allante measures 179″ long on a 100″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 3,481 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Cadillac Allante window sticker.
| Wheelbase | 100″ (253 cm) |
| Body / trim | Allante Convertible/hardtop |
| Curb weight | 3,481 lb (1579 kg) |
| Overall width | 74″ (187 cm) |
| Overall height | 52″ (133 cm) |
| Overall length | 179″ (454 cm) |
How the Allante's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1990–1993 | 179″ | 74″ | 52″ | 100″ | 3,466 lb |
| 1987 | 179″ | 73″ | 52″ | 100″ | 3,494 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Cadillac Allante cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Allante holds — passengers and cargo. Seating, cargo and interior dimensions vary by trim and seat configuration — decode your VIN for the exact build.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Cadillac Allante tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Cadillac Allante get?
The Cadillac Allante returns up to 17 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $4,550/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 1993 Cadillac Allante (4.6L 8-cyl) gets 15 mpg combined and costs about $5,150/yr to fuel, emitting 592 g/mi CO₂ — about $14,750 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 Allante | 13 | 20 | $5,150 | 592 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1992 Allante | 14 | 20 | $4,800 | 555 | — | 4.5L 8-cyl | |
| 1991 Allante | 14 | 20 | $4,800 | 555 | — | 4.5L 8-cyl | |
| 1990 Allante | 14 | 20 | $4,800 | 555 | — | 4.5L 8-cyl | |
| 1989 Allante | 14 | 21 | $4,800 | 555 | — | 4.5L 8-cyl | |
| 1988 Allante | 15 | 22 | $4,550 | 523 | — | 4.1L 8-cyl | |
| 1987 Allante | 15 | 22 | $4,550 | 523 | — | 4.1L 8-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Allante stacks up against the most fuel-efficient two-seaters, or calculate this Allante's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Cadillac Allante have? Power & range
The Cadillac Allante is offered with 1 powertrain — 4.6L 8-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V8 | 4.6L · 8-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | FWD | Premium |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Cadillac Allante cost to own?
A used Cadillac Allante sells for a median of about $7,700 for a 1993 — most listed between $5,900 and $29,980, from 27 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:
| Year | Typical price | Market range | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 Allante | $5,900–$29,980 | 12 | |
| 1992 Allante | $2,900–$27,980 | 5 | |
| 1991 Allante | $5,000–$32,980 | 5 | |
| 1990 Allante | $5,900–$9,000 | 5 |
For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a Allante is worth today, or browse used-market prices across all models.
A Cadillac Allante tends to depreciate faster than average. A typical example keeps roughly 37% of its value after five years — losing about 63% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 75% | $22,500 | −$7,500 |
| Year 2 | 63% | $18,900 | −$11,100 |
| Year 3 | 53% | $15,900 | −$14,100 |
| Year 4 | 44% | $13,200 | −$16,800 |
| Year 5 | 37% | $11,100 | −$18,900 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Allante loses about 63% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $22,750 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Allante ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Cadillac Allante safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Allante yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Cadillac Allante last?
A well-maintained Cadillac Allante typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.
Check your Cadillac Allante’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Allante’s VIN free →All Cadillac Allante model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Cadillac Allante — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 Allante | 1 recall | — | |
| 1992 Allante | 1 recall | — | |
| 1991 Allante | 1 recall | — | |
| 1990 Allante | 1 recall | — | |
| 1989 Allante | 1 recall | — | |
| 1988 Allante | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1987 Allante | 1 recall | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Allante?
By owner-complaint volume, 1987, 1990, 1989 drew the most reports. 1993, 1988, 1992 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Allante have?
8 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1987–1993. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the Allante get?
Up to 17 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Allante last?
A well-maintained Allante typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Allante reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Allante is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Cadillac Allante warranty?
New Cadillac models carry a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 4 years / 50,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Cadillac dealer.
Where is the Cadillac Allante made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Allante's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Cadillac may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much does a Allante weigh?
The Allante's curb weight is around 3,481 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.
How much ground clearance does the Allante have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.