- #2343 of 2506
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Re: Class Action Lawsuit on Northstar Engine failures [sotelo]
by 04cad
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Aug 07, 2007 (5:28 am)
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Replying to: sotelo (Aug 07, 2007 5:18 am)
I wonder if the main reason for a lawsuit involving ten year old engines is the potential lawyer fees? I wouldn't think any car maker would have much liability for engine problems on vehicles that old? Good luck anyway.
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- #2344 of 2506
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Re: Class Action Lawsuit on Northstar Engine failures [04cad]
by sls002
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Aug 07, 2007 (6:25 am)
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Replying to: 04cad (Aug 07, 2007 5:28 am)
I have to agree. If a ten year old car is worth $3700 to fix, and you get a few more years of use out of it, then you are getting some value for your money. I think that one should consider a ten year old car basically fully depreciated (if you bought it new, or nearly new). Ten year old cars are going to need repairs.
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- #2345 of 2506
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Re: Class Action Lawsuit on Northstar Engine failures [sls002]
by bolivar
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Aug 07, 2007 (9:12 pm)
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Replying to: sls002 (Aug 07, 2007 6:25 am)
I'm not sure there actually is a class action lawsuit. I've never heard of one.
I think this message got started when someone said there 'should' be a class action lawsuit.
And, it isn't just 10 year old cars with head gasket problems. Northstars from 1993 until at least 2000 have head gasket problems. Maybe even later ones.
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- #2346 of 2506
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Re: Class Action Lawsuit on Northstar Engine failures [bolivar]
by sls002
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Aug 08, 2007 (6:26 am)
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Replying to: bolivar (Aug 07, 2007 9:12 pm)
The first generation northstar (1993 through 1999) had some design issues that may have been corrected in the redesign for the 2000 model year. I don't know what the problem is with the head gasket, but I wonder if part of the problem is related to water pump failure. Water pumps do not work for the life of the engine, and the northstar water pumps would usually need fixed after about 50,000 to 75,000 miles. Usually the owner of the car will have an engine that overheats, which is the first clue that the water pump is not working. The northstar engine is not harmed by overheating, but the head gaskets may be stressed and, if there were any flaws, may start leaking.
But my point was that any car that is 10 years old should be expected to have problems.
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- #2347 of 2506
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Re: Class Action Lawsuit on Northstar Engine failures [sls002]
by jasper60103
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Aug 08, 2007 (7:51 am)
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Replying to: sls002 (Aug 08, 2007 6:26 am)
Also, it seems low coolant is another clue. Northstars cooling systems with dex don't seem to be as tolerant of this.
When I gas up, I try to make a point to check my coolant and oil on my 04 Deville. Also, I had the coolant changed when I bought it just in case. So far, so good.
-jasper
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- #2348 of 2506
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Re: Class Action Lawsuit on Northstar Engine failures [jasper60103]
by sls002
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Aug 08, 2007 (8:39 am)
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Replying to: jasper60103 (Aug 08, 2007 7:51 am)
I think it is best to check the coolant level when the engine is cold. But in any case, when you see a change in the level, it is wise the find out why.
The basic problem is that the northstar is an aluminum engine, and leaking coolant is bad for corrosion. Dexcool may be worse in a leaking system that other coolants, but other coolants are not good with aluminum either.
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- #2349 of 2506
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Tips on Buying 99
by joeblack1
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Aug 11, 2007 (5:15 pm)
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I'm seriously considering downsizing from my Suburban to a 99 Deville now that I have a few less kids around. I'm tired of driving a truck, and looking for a smoother ride with better gas mileage. Can anyone offer any tips on what to check or what to expect in major repairs? I am looking for something in the 25-50K miles range.
Thanks!
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- #2350 of 2506
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Re: Tips on Buying 99 [joeblack1]
by 04cad
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Aug 11, 2007 (5:54 pm)
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Replying to: joeblack1 (Aug 11, 2007 5:15 pm)
What are you looking to spend? 2005 Devilles are available if you look around, for around $20,000. for 34,000 mile cars still under warranty. Don't forget Cadillac has the 50k mile 48 month (I think those are the numbers) warranty standard instead of the 36 month 36k and if it is certified, I think it qualifies for the new longer powertrain warranty. They ride great, look great, get decent mileage especially on the highway, and if you are thinking of buying used are priced right. Good luck 
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- #2351 of 2506
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Re: Tips on Buying 99 [joeblack1]
by amkdevile
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Aug 12, 2007 (3:32 am)
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Replying to: joeblack1 (Aug 11, 2007 5:15 pm)
2000-2005's use regular gas. They run great on 87 and will not carbon up as easily. I have a 2005 and am very pleased with it. 26 mpg. on highway. Smooth and powerful.
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- #2352 of 2506
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Re: Tips on Buying 99 [04cad]
by joeblack1
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Aug 12, 2007 (4:46 pm)
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Replying to: 04cad (Aug 11, 2007 5:54 pm)
I'm looking to buy a 99. In my opinion this is the last year that has the classic Cadillac look. And, you can get nice one of these with 34k miles for about 10,000.00.
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