1996 Cadillac Eldorado Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

1996 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated May 2026

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1996 Cadillac Eldorado has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure ($3,000-$6,000 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $400 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 2 Known Issues

On the 1993-2002 Cadillac Eldorado, the 1993-2002 Eldorado was one of the first vehicles to receive the Northstar 4.6L V8 and has the same head bolt/head gasket failure. Early Northstar engines (1993-1995) are particularly prone as the design was less refined. The Eldorado ETC (Touring Coupe) uses the high-output 300hp Northstar. Same failure mechanism and repair as all Northstar-powered Cadillacs.

This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Encore

Common Symptoms

Coolant loss with no visible external leak
White smoke from exhaust
Overheating
Milky oil residue
Bubbles in coolant overflow

How to Fix

Engine removal and head stud/Time-Sert installation. Given the age and value of Eldorados, many owners must weigh repair cost ($3-6k) against vehicle value. Eldorado enthusiasts still perform the repair for collector vehicles.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeNorthstar Performance SureGrip SG102 head stud kit - permanent fix, covers Eldorado 1993-2002 (Northstar Performance #SG102)
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TipFor collector Eldorados, the head stud repair is worth it. For daily drivers, weigh repair cost against vehicle value carefully.

Typical repair cost:$3,000 - $6,000

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0+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 1992-2002 Cadillac Eldorado, the Teves Mark IV ABS modulator assembly develops internal leaks and electronic failures, disabling ABS and traction control. The modulator is expensive and integrates the hydraulic pump, valves, and electronic controller into one unit. Moisture intrusion into the electrical connector accelerates failure.

This issue also affects: Audi TT, Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Monte Carlo

Common Symptoms

ABS light on
Traction control disabled message
Brake pedal drops under ABS activation
ABS motor runs continuously for short periods

How to Fix

The ABS modulator can be sent to a specialty rebuilder for significantly less than dealer replacement cost. Apply dielectric grease to all electrical connectors during reinstallation. Bleed the ABS system using a scan tool to cycle the pump and valves. Inspect the wheel speed sensors and tone rings during the repair.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeABS wheel speed sensor to restore anti-lock brake and stability control function (Bosch ABS Wheel Speed Sensor)
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UpgradeABS sensor replacement — aftermarket alternative with OE fitment (Dorman ABS Speed Sensor)
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Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

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0+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Cadillac Eldorado problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1996-1996 Cadillac Eldorado has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure, ABS Modulator and Traction Control System Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Cadillac Eldorado reliable?

The 1996-1996 Cadillac Eldorado has 2 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Cadillac Eldorado problems?

Repair costs for known Cadillac Eldorado issues range from $400 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure, typically costs $3,000-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1993-2002 Cadillac Eldorado Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure?

The 1993-2002 Eldorado was one of the first vehicles to receive the Northstar 4.6L V8 and has the same head bolt/head gasket failure. Early Northstar engines (1993-1995) are particularly prone as the design was less refined. The Eldorado ETC (Touring Coupe) uses the high-output 3… Repairs typically run $3,000-$6,000. Severity: high.

What is the 1992-2002 Cadillac Eldorado ABS Modulator and Traction Control System Failure?

The Teves Mark IV ABS modulator assembly develops internal leaks and electronic failures, disabling ABS and traction control. The modulator is expensive and integrates the hydraulic pump, valves, and electronic controller into one unit. Moisture intrusion into the electrical conn… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: medium.

1996 Cadillac Eldorado Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 2 Known Issues

1993-2002 Cadillac Eldorado: Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

1992-2002 Cadillac Eldorado: ABS Modulator and Traction Control System Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Cadillac Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Cadillac Eldorado problems?

Is the Cadillac Eldorado reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Cadillac Eldorado problems?

What is the 1993-2002 Cadillac Eldorado Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Bolt/Head Gasket Failure?

What is the 1992-2002 Cadillac Eldorado ABS Modulator and Traction Control System Failure?