The Cadillac Eldorado spans 1981–2002 with 40 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1996, 1997, 1995 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1982, 1983. It delivers up to 21 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 Eldorado is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 2002 across multiple generations.
How to read a Cadillac Eldorado VIN — every digit explained
Every Cadillac Eldorado 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 Eldorado.
- 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 Eldorado, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Cadillac Eldorado have?
The Cadillac Eldorado has 40 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2002. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2000 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 1
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE INNER TIE ROD NUTS ARE LOOSE AND CAN RESULT IN SEPARATION OF A TIE ROD.
Risk. SEPARATION OF A TIE ROD CAN CAUSE UNEXPECTED STEERING INPUT INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. DEALERS WILL CHECK AND ADJUST THE VEHICLE TOE-IN AND TIGHTEN THE INNER TIE ROD NUTS TO THE SPECIFIED TORQUE.
1998 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 1
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, HEARSES AND LIMOUSINES. THE CANISTER PURGE EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS HARNESS ON THESE VEHICLES WAS MISROUTED.
Risk. THE HARNESS COULD INTERFERE WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THROTTLE LINKAGE PREVENTING RETURN TO A CLOSED THROTTLE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE FOR PROPER ROUTING OF THE HARNESS, CORRECT AS NECESSARY, AND INSTALL A PLASTIC TIE STRAP TO THE HARNESS.
1997 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip
What's wrong. THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL MODULE OR THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE AND TRACTION CONTROL MODULE CAN CAUSE THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) TO CYCLE DURING A NON-ABS BRAKE APPLICATION.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN AN INCREASE IN VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL MODULE OR THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE AND TRACTION CONTROL MODULE.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L V8 ENGINES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE NYLON TUBING USED IN THE FUEL RAIL CONSTRUCTION MAY DEGRADE AND CRACK. ADDITIONALLY, THE 1995 MODEL YEAR USES A UNIQUE UNDERHOOD FUEL RETURN LINE THAT MAY CRACK. CRACKING OF THE FUEL RAIL OR RETURN LINE TUBING CAN RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL WITH A NEW STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAIL. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSTALL A REVISED CHASSIS FUEL RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 2, 2004, FOR 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA VEHICLES. OWNERS OF 1995 CADILLACS AND 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA WERE SENT LETTERS ON AUGUST 6, 2004. ADDITIONAL LETTERS TO OWNERS WILL BE FORTHCOMING. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
1996 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
Equipment:electrical
What's wrong. THE ANALOG INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER ON THESE VEHICLES COULD HAVE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT DISRUPTING THE PASS KEY SYSTEM, CAUSING FAILURE OF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL GAUGES AND TELL-TALES, AND A POSSIBLE NO-START CONDITION. THIS DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 101, "CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS;" NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT;" AND NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
Risk. CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: IF THE SHORT CIRCUIT OCCURS WHILE DRIVING, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER WILL GO BLANK, CAUSING LOSS OF GAUGE FUNCTION AND ALL TEEL-TALE INDICATORS EXCEPT FOR ABS, SIR, PARK BRAKE AND SERVICE ENGINE SOON. THE LOSS OF ALL TELL-TALES FOR SEAT BELTS, TURN SIGNALS, HIGH BEAM, HAZARD, OIL PRESSURE, COOLANT TEMPERATURE, AND OTHERS RESULT IN NONCOMPLIANCE WITH THESE SAFETY STANDARDS.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L V8 ENGINES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE NYLON TUBING USED IN THE FUEL RAIL CONSTRUCTION MAY DEGRADE AND CRACK. ADDITIONALLY, THE 1995 MODEL YEAR USES A UNIQUE UNDERHOOD FUEL RETURN LINE THAT MAY CRACK. CRACKING OF THE FUEL RAIL OR RETURN LINE TUBING CAN RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL WITH A NEW STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAIL. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSTALL A REVISED CHASSIS FUEL RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 2, 2004, FOR 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA VEHICLES. OWNERS OF 1995 CADILLACS AND 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA WERE SENT LETTERS ON AUGUST 6, 2004. ADDITIONAL LETTERS TO OWNERS WILL BE FORTHCOMING. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
1995 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
Air Bags
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. INADVERTENT DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAGS CAN OCCUR DUE TO WATER INTRUSION.
Risk. DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG WITHOUT WARNING COULD CAUSE A DRIVER TO LOSE VEHICLE CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH AND PERSONAL INJURY.
Fix. DEALERS WILL CLEAN THE EXTERIOR CASE OF THE SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE (SDM) AND APPPLY A POTTING COMPOUND TO THE SDM CASE AND ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR BODY.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L V8 ENGINES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE NYLON TUBING USED IN THE FUEL RAIL CONSTRUCTION MAY DEGRADE AND CRACK. ADDITIONALLY, THE 1995 MODEL YEAR USES A UNIQUE UNDERHOOD FUEL RETURN LINE THAT MAY CRACK. CRACKING OF THE FUEL RAIL OR RETURN LINE TUBING CAN RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL WITH A NEW STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAIL. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSTALL A REVISED CHASSIS FUEL RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 2, 2004, FOR 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA VEHICLES. OWNERS OF 1995 CADILLACS AND 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA WERE SENT LETTERS ON AUGUST 6, 2004. ADDITIONAL LETTERS TO OWNERS WILL BE FORTHCOMING. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
1994 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. THE THROTTLE CABLE CAN BECOME DISENGAGED FROM THE RETAINING BRACKET.
Risk. THE DISENGAGED THROTTLE CABLE CAN INTERFERE WITH THETHROTTLE CAM MECHANISM, RESULTING IN THE THROTTLE STICKING IN EITHER THE OPENPOSITION OR CLOSED POSITION. WHEN THE THROTTLE STICKS IN THE OPEN POSITION,UNWANTED VEHICLE ACCELERATION WILL OCCUR WHICH MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. INSPECT THROTTLE CABLES TO ENSURE THE THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE IS FULLY SEATED IN THE RETAINING BRACKET AND INSTALL A CABLE TIE STRAP TO SECURE THE CABLE IN ITS CORRECT SEAT.
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.
1993 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
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.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. THE FUEL FEED AND RETURN LINES TO THE ENGINE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM WERE NOT FULLY ASSEMBLED AND LOCKED. THE LINES CAN WORK LOOSE, CAUSING A FUEL LEAK IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Risk. FUEL LEAKS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAN RESULT INUNDERHOOD FIRES IF EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
Fix. DEALER WILL INSPECT VEHICLE AND, IF NECESSARY, ADJUST OR REPLACE THE FUEL FEED AND RETURN LINES TO THE ENGINE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM.
1992 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 1
Steering:rack And Pinion
What's wrong. THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT TO STEERING RACK LOWER COUPLING PINCH BOLT MAY BE MISSING.
Risk. IF THIS CONDITION EXISTS AND SHAFT DISENGAGEMENT OCCURS, LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL WILL BE EXPERIENCED BY THE DRIVER WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. INSTALL PINCH BOLT.
1991 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 1
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. THE FRONT OUTER SHOULDER BELT WEB SEW STOP CAN BECOME STUCK IN THE RETRACTOR. THE BELT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO PULL OUT OF THE RETRACTOR AND SOME OCCUPANTS MAY NOT BE ABLE TO FASTEN THE BELT.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN PREVENT A PERSON FROM USING THEIR RESTRAINT SYSTEM RESULTING IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. DEALER WILL INSTALL A WEBBING STOP BUTTON IF THE CUSTOMER REQUESTS REPAIR.
1990 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 4
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:floor Shift
What's wrong. TRANSAXLE SHIFT CONTROL CABLE MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE FROM THE FLOOR SHIFT CONTROL WITH LOSS OF GEAR INDICATOR REFERENCE AND SHIFT SELECTOR OPERATION.
Risk. DRIVER WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO DETERMINE ACTUAL GEARPOSITION THE TRANSAXLE IS IN, WHICH COULD RESULT IN UNEXPECTED VEHICLE MOVEMENTAND AN ACCIDENT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Fix. INSTALL A TRANSAXLE SHIFT CONTROL CABLE RETAINING CLIP TO PREVENT CABLE DISENGAGEMENT.
Air Bags:frontal
What's wrong. THREADED INFLATOR COMPONENTS MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY WHICH MAY ALLOW COMPONENTS TO SEPARATE WHEN INFLATOR RECEIVES A SIGNAL TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAG.
Risk. INFLATOR COMPONENT SEPARATION ALLOWS HOT COMBUSTION GASESTO ESCAPE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURIES TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Fix. REPLACE AIR BAG MODULES CONTAINING POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE INFLATORS.
Seat Belts:front:retractor
What's wrong. MISALIGNED REAR SEAT SAFETY BELT SHOULDER RETRACTOR ASSEMBLIES COULD CAUSE PENDULUM INTERFERENCE, CAUSING THE BELT TO REMAIN IN LOCKED POSITION OR TO TRAVEL FREELY WITHOUT LOCKING.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A PANIC STOP OR ACCIDENT, IF THE BELT RETRACTOR INERTIA LOCK DOES NOT ENGAGE, THE REAR SEAT OCCUPANT WOULD HAVE AN INCREASED LIKELIHOOD OF INJURY.
Fix. REALIGN REAR SHOULDER BELT RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY.
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. THE FRONT OUTER SHOULDER BELT WEB SEW STOP CAN BECOME STUCK IN THE RETRACTOR. THE BELT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO PULL OUT OF THE RETRACTOR AND SOME OCCUPANTS MAY NOT BE ABLE TO FASTEN THE BELT.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN PREVENT A PERSON FROM USING THEIR RESTRAINT SYSTEM RESULTING IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. DEALER WILL INSTALL A WEBBING STOP BUTTON IF THE CUSTOMER REQUESTS REPAIR.
1989 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
Service Brakes, Air:antilock
What's wrong. ONE OR BOTH ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT MOUNTING BOLTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SEATED AND COULD LOOSEN.
Risk. THIS CONDITION COULD LEAD TO SEPARATION OF THE ABSHYDRAULIC UNIT FROM THE MOUNTING BRACKET AND RESULT IN LOSS OF BRAKE FUNCTIONAND A CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Fix. REPLACE BOTH ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT MOUNTING BOLTS.
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 Eldorado 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).
1987 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
Exterior Lighting:headlights:switch
What's wrong. THE TWILIGHT SENTINEL POTENTIOMETER (THUMBWHEEL CONTROL) MIGHT HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED WITH ELECTRICAL CONTACTS WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN INTERMITTENT HEADLIGHT CIRCUIT.
Risk. WITH THE TWILIGHT SENTINEL SYSTEM ON, THE INTERMITTENTCIRCUIT COULD CAUSE HEADLIGHT AND INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS TO GO OUT. SUDDENLOSS OF HEADLIGHTS COULD REDUCE DRIVER VISIBILITY AND MIGHT RESULT IN A VEHICLECRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Fix. INSTALL A NEW PART IN ONE OF THE VEHICLES CONTROL COMPUTERS TO PREVENT THIS CONDITION FROM OCCURING.
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).
1986 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 3
Exterior Lighting:headlights:switch
What's wrong. THE TWILIGHT SENTINEL POTENTIOMETER (THUMBWHEEL CONTROL) MIGHT HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED WITH ELECTRICAL CONTACTS WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN INTERMITTENT HEADLIGHT CIRCUIT.
Risk. WITH THE TWILIGHT SENTINEL SYSTEM ON, THE INTERMITTENTCIRCUIT COULD CAUSE HEADLIGHT AND INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS TO GO OUT. SUDDENLOSS OF HEADLIGHTS COULD REDUCE DRIVER VISIBILITY AND MIGHT RESULT IN A VEHICLECRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Fix. INSTALL A NEW PART IN ONE OF THE VEHICLES CONTROL COMPUTERS TO PREVENT THIS CONDITION FROM OCCURING.
Vehicle Speed Control:linkages
What's wrong. FLOOR MAT COULD BECOME MISPOSITIONED AND INTERFERE WITH ACCELERATOR PEDAL.
Risk. THROTTLE MAY NOT RETURN TO THE CLOSED IDLE POSITIONCAUSING LOSS OF ACCELERATOR CONTROL WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASHWITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Fix. REPLACE FLOOR MATS WITH NEWLY DESIGNED MATS THAT ARE LONGER AND HAVE IMPROVED RETENTION.
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).
1985 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
What's wrong. WATER OR SNOW DRIPPING ONTO DRIVERS SIDE WINDOW SWITCH ASSEMBLIES MAY CAUSE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT AND SWITCHES TO OVERHEAT.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN A FIRE IN THE DOOR PANEL AREA.
Fix. INSTALL NEWLY DESIGNED WINDOW SWITCHES. (1984 MODELS WILL RECEIVE NEW CONNECTORS ALSO).
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
Risk. SERVO ROD ASSEMBLY COULD CATCH ON ENGINE COMPONENTS ANDRESULT IN A STUCK THROTTLE WITH POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. INSTALL A NEW BUSHING IN CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL.
1984 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 3
Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
What's wrong. WATER OR SNOW DRIPPING ONTO DRIVERS SIDE WINDOW SWITCH ASSEMBLIES MAY CAUSE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT AND SWITCHES TO OVERHEAT.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN A FIRE IN THE DOOR PANEL AREA.
Fix. INSTALL NEWLY DESIGNED WINDOW SWITCHES. (1984 MODELS WILL RECEIVE NEW CONNECTORS ALSO).
Seats:front Assembly:recliner
What's wrong. SOME VEHICLES HAVE BUCKET SEAT BACK LOCKS THAT DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 207, ANCHORAGE OF SEATS. IN EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BACK LOCK MAY NOT FUNCTION.
Fix. INSPECTION OF SEAT BACK LOCKS WILL BE PERFORMED. LOCKS THAT HAVE BENT, BROKEN OR MISSING HOOKS WILL BE REPLACED.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
Risk. SERVO ROD ASSEMBLY COULD CATCH ON ENGINE COMPONENTS ANDRESULT IN A STUCK THROTTLE WITH POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. INSTALL A NEW BUSHING IN CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL.
1983 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 2
Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:motor
What's wrong. DURING WINDSHIELD WIPER OPERATION, THE NOISE SUPPRESION CAPACITOR IN THE WIPER MOTOR RELAY MAY OVERHEAT.
Fix. THE DEALER WILL MODIFY THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR DELAY RELAY BY REMOVING THE NOISE SUPPRESION CAPACITOR. THIS WILL BE DONE FREE OF CHARGE.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. THE FUEL FILTERS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN INCORRECT THREADED FITTING. THE INCORRECT FITTING IS SIMILIAR ENOUGH IN SIZE THAT THE FUEL FILTER MAY APPEAR TO BE CORRECTLY THREADED ONTO THE FUEL LINE.
Risk. REPLACE THE FILTERS WITH THE CORRECT FILTERS.
Fix. THE IMPROPER THREADING COULD CAUSE A GASOLINE LEAK WHICH MAY RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE WHEN EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
1982 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 3
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
What's wrong. UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT RETAINER IN THE INJECTION PUMP MAY FAIL. THE THROTTLE VALVE COULD STICK, PREVENTING RETURN TO IDLE AND SHUT DOWN OF THE ENGINE BY THE DRIVER.
Fix. DEALER WILL REPLACE THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT ASSEMBLY IN THE INJECTION PUMP AT NO COST TO OWNER.
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
What's wrong. SOME OF THE INVOLVED VEHICLES CONTAIN INCORRECT ACCELERATOR CABLE BRACKETS. THIS COULD ALLOW THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO ROD TO BIND ON THE ACCELERATOR CABLE BRACKET.
Fix. DEALER WILL INSTALL THE CORRECT CABLE BRACKET WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER. VEHICLES WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL WILL ALSO BE MODIFIED IN THE EVENT THAT CRUISE CONTROL IS LATER ADDED.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. THE FUEL FILTERS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN INCORRECT THREADED FITTING. THE INCORRECT FITTING IS SIMILIAR ENOUGH IN SIZE THAT THE FUEL FILTER MAY APPEAR TO BE CORRECTLY THREADED ONTO THE FUEL LINE.
Risk. REPLACE THE FILTERS WITH THE CORRECT FILTERS.
Fix. THE IMPROPER THREADING COULD CAUSE A GASOLINE LEAK WHICH MAY RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE WHEN EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
1981 Cadillac Eldorado recalls 1
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm
What's wrong. THE FRONT LEFT UPPER CONTROL ARM NUTS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SECURELY TIGHTENED. THE NUTS MAY LOOSEN AND COME OFF AND WITH CONTINUED DRIVING THE CONTROL ARM FRONT BOLT MAY WORK ITS WAY OUT OF POSITION OR BECOME DISPLACED.
Best and worst years for the Cadillac Eldorado
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 22 tracked years, the worst years are 1996, 1997, 1995 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1982, 1983.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 Eldorado | Engine And Engine Cooling | Best | |
| 1982 Eldorado | Power Train | Best | |
| 1983 Eldorado | Engine And Engine Cooling | Best | |
| 1984 Eldorado | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 1985 Eldorado | Structure | Average | |
| 1986 Eldorado | Electrical System | Average | |
| 1987 Eldorado | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1988 Eldorado | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1989 Eldorado | Electrical System | Average | |
| 1990 Eldorado | Electrical System | Average | |
| 1991 Eldorado | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 1992 Eldorado | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1993 Eldorado | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1994 Eldorado | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1995 Eldorado | Fuel System | Avoid | |
| 1996 Eldorado | Electrical System | Avoid | |
| 1997 Eldorado | Service Brakes | Avoid | |
| 1998 Eldorado | Fuel System | Average | |
| 1999 Eldorado | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 2000 Eldorado | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 2001 Eldorado | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 2002 Eldorado | Structure | Average |
What are the most common Cadillac Eldorado problems?
The most-reported Cadillac Eldorado problems are Air (3 reports), Other (5 reports) and Seats (8 reports) — out of 622 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 Eldorado specifications & dimensions
The 2002 Cadillac Eldorado measures 201″ long on a 108″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 3,880 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 Eldorado window sticker.
| Wheelbase | 108″ (274 cm) |
| Rear track | 61″ |
| Body / trim | Eldorado 2dr Coupe Sport/touring |
| Curb weight | 3,880 lb (1760 kg) |
| Front track | 61″ |
| Overall width | 76″ (192 cm) |
| Overall height | 54″ (136 cm) |
| Overall length | 201″ (510 cm) |
| Weight distribution (front/rear) | 64/36% |
How the Eldorado's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 201″ | 76″ | 54″ | 108″ | 3,880 lb |
| 1999 | 200″ | 76″ | 54″ | 108″ | 3,814 lb |
| 1996 | 202″ | 76″ | 54″ | 108″ | 3,765 lb |
| 1993 | 202″ | 76″ | 53″ | 108″ | 3,470 lb |
| 1990 | 191″ | 72″ | 54″ | 108″ | 3,426 lb |
| 1987 | 188″ | 71″ | 54″ | 108″ | 3,360 lb |
| 1984 | 205″ | 70″ | 54″ | 114″ | 3,735 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Cadillac Eldorado cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Eldorado holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 100 cu ft of passenger volume and 15 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
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 Eldorado 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 Eldorado get?
The Cadillac Eldorado returns up to 21 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $3,700/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 2002 Cadillac Eldorado (4.6L 8-cyl) gets 19 mpg combined and costs about $3,300/yr to fuel, emitting 468 g/mi CO₂ — about $5,500 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 Eldorado | 16 | 25 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2001 Eldorado | 15 | 25 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2000 Eldorado | 15 | 25 | $4,050 | 468 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1999 Eldorado | 15 | 24 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1998 Eldorado | 15 | 24 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1997 Eldorado | 15 | 24 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1996 Eldorado | 15 | 24 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1995 Eldorado | 15 | 23 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1994 Eldorado | 15 | 23 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1993 Eldorado | 15 | 23 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 1992 Eldorado | 15 | 23 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.9L 8-cyl | |
| 1991 Eldorado | 15 | 24 | $4,300 | 494 | — | 4.9L 8-cyl | |
| 1990 Eldorado | 15 | 23 | $4,550 | 523 | — | 4.5L 8-cyl | |
| 1989 Eldorado | 15 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4.5L 8-cyl | |
| 1988 Eldorado | 15 | 22 | $3,650 | 523 | — | 4.5L 8-cyl | |
| 1987 Eldorado | 15 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4.1L 8-cyl | |
| 1986 Eldorado | 15 | 24 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4.1L 8-cyl | |
| 1985 Eldorado | 17 | 26 | $3,900 | 509 | — | 5.7L 8-cyl | |
| 1984 Eldorado | 18 | 26 | $3,700 | 485 | — | 5.7L 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 Eldorado stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this Eldorado's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Cadillac Eldorado have? Power & range
The Cadillac Eldorado 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 | Regular |
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 Eldorado cost to own?
A used Cadillac Eldorado sells for a median of about $7,500 for a 2002 — most listed between $3,400 and $10,000, from 52 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 Eldorado | $3,400–$10,000 | 13 | |
| 2001 Eldorado | $3,500–$35,000 | 5 | |
| 2000 Eldorado | $2,900–$13,500 | 5 | |
| 1999 Eldorado | $2,300–$9,500 | 15 | |
| 1997 Eldorado | $8,888–$11,500 | 7 | |
| 1995 Eldorado | $9,950–$39,980 | 7 |
For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a Eldorado is worth today, or browse used-market prices across all models.
A Cadillac Eldorado 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 Eldorado loses about 63% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $18,500 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Eldorado 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 Eldorado safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Eldorado yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Cadillac Eldorado last?
A well-maintained Cadillac Eldorado 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 Eldorado’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Eldorado’s VIN free →All Cadillac Eldorado model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Cadillac Eldorado — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 Eldorado | 1 recall | — | |
| 2001 Eldorado | 1 recall | — | |
| 2000 Eldorado | 1 recall | — | |
| 1999 Eldorado | 1 recall | — | |
| 1998 Eldorado | 1 recall | — | |
| 1997 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1996 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1995 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1994 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1993 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1992 Eldorado | 1 recall | — | |
| 1991 Eldorado | 1 recall | — | |
| 1990 Eldorado | 4 recalls | — | |
| 1989 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1988 Eldorado | 1 recall | — | |
| 1987 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1986 Eldorado | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1985 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1984 Eldorado | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1983 Eldorado | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1982 Eldorado | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1981 Eldorado | 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 Eldorado?
By owner-complaint volume, 1996, 1997, 1995 drew the most reports. 1981, 1982, 1983 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Eldorado have?
40 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2002. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the Eldorado get?
Up to 21 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Eldorado last?
A well-maintained Eldorado typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Eldorado reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Eldorado is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Cadillac Eldorado 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 Eldorado made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Eldorado'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 Eldorado weigh?
The Eldorado's curb weight is around 3,880 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.
How much ground clearance does the Eldorado 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.