Cadillac Eldorado (1986-02)

COMMON FAULTS
Common Faults
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The **1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado** had several common faults reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:

1. **Anti-Theft System**: Problems with the anti-theft system using raised-chip keys could prevent the car from starting. The wires in the steering column to the ignition lock cylinder tend to break.
2. **Trunk Lid Issues**: The trunk pull-down switch might fail, causing the trunk lid not to close completely.
3. **Auto Level Ride Compressor**: The auto level ride compressor could fail, causing the rear of the vehicle to ride too high or too low.
4. **AC System**: The air conditioning system was prone to refrigerant leaks and pressure sensor failures.
5. **Engine Performance**: The crankshaft position sensor might fail, causing the engine to stall intermittently.
6. **Headlight Issues**: The headlight switch could fail, causing the headlights to become inoperative.
7. **Power Seat Problems**: Power seat motors and seat position sensors could fail, causing erratic operation.
8. **Brake System**: Issues with brake pads, rotors, callipers, and the anti-lock braking system (ABS) were reported.
9. **Cooling System**: Problems with the radiator, hoses, cooling fan, and thermostat could lead to overheating.
10. **Transmission Cooler Lines**: Rubber transmission cooler lines could leak fluid, requiring replacement.

These are some of the common faults that owners of the 1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado have encountered. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these issues.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **Cadillac Eldorado** from **1986 to 1992** was part of the **fourth generation** of this iconic model. During this period, the Eldorado was available in several trim levels, including:

- **Base Model**: The standard trim with essential features.
- **Touring Coupe**: A more luxurious trim with additional features and options.
- **Biarritz**: The top-of-the-line trim, offering the highest level of luxury and features.

These trim levels provided various options for buyers, allowing them to choose the level of luxury and features that best suited their needs.
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Engine
The **1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado** was equipped with a **4.1-liter V8 engine** (LT8). This engine produced **130 horsepower (97 kW)** at 4200 rpm and **271 Nm (200 lb-ft)** of torque at 2200 rpm. The engine was naturally aspirated and featured overhead valves, providing a smooth and powerful performance.
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Performance
The **1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado** offered respectable performance for a luxury coupe of its era. Here are some performance specifications for the model equipped with the 4.1-liter V8 engine:

- **Horsepower**: 130 hp (97 kW)
- **Torque**: 271 Nm (200 lb-ft)
- **0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) Acceleration**: Approximately 11 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 115 mph (185 km/h)
- **Fuel Economy**: Approximately 16-18 mpg in city driving and 22-25 mpg on the highway

The Eldorado's performance was characterized by smooth acceleration, a comfortable ride, and the luxurious amenities that Cadillac was known for.
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Rivals
Let's compare the performance of the **1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado** with its main rivals:

### **Cadillac Eldorado (1986-1992)**
- **Engine**: 4.1-liter V8
- **Horsepower**: 130 hp
- **Torque**: 271 Nm (200 lb-ft)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 11 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 115 mph
- **Fuel Economy**: 16-18 mpg city, 22-25 mpg highway

### **Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit (1980-1998)**
- **Engine**: 6.75-liter V8
- **Horsepower**: 180 hp
- **Torque**: 400 Nm (295 lb-ft)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 9 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 130 mph
- **Fuel Economy**: Around 10 mpg city, 15 mpg highway

### **Jaguar XJ6 (1986-1994)**
- **Engine**: 4.2-liter V6
- **Horsepower**: 234 hp
- **Torque**: 310 Nm (228 lb-ft)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 130 mph
- **Fuel Economy**: Around 18 mpg city, 26 mpg highway

### **Mercedes-Benz 500SEL (1980-1991)**
- **Engine**: 5.0-liter V8
- **Horsepower**: 240 hp
- **Torque**: 360 Nm (265 lb-ft)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 130 mph
- **Fuel Economy**: Around 15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway

As you can see, the Cadillac Eldorado offered competitive performance, but its rivals generally had more powerful engines and slightly better acceleration and top speeds. However, the Eldorado's smooth ride and luxurious features made it a strong contender in the luxury car market.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado** was designed under the leadership of **Chuck Jordan**, who was the Vice President of Design for General Motors at the time - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chuck_Jordan_%28automobile_designer%29). His design work included several iconic Cadillac models, and he played a significant role in shaping the brand's aesthetic during that era - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chuck_Jordan_%28automobile_designer%29).

Here are the dimensions for the **1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado**:

- **Length**: 188.2 inches (4780 mm)
- **Width**: 71.7 inches (1822 mm)
- **Height**: 53.7 inches (1365 mm)
- **Wheelbase**: 107.9 inches (2743 mm)
- **Curb Weight**: Approximately 3,600 lbs (1632 kg)
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating **Cadillac Eldorado** spares in the UK and Ireland, you can check out the following sources:

1. **AM Car Parts**: They have a large stock of Cadillac parts and accessories.
2. **24/7 Spares**: They offer genuine Cadillac parts and have a wide network across the UK.
3. **123 Spare Parts**: They provide a variety of Cadillac parts online.

As for specialist garage services in Northern Ireland, **McMillan Specialist Cars** in Antrim offers comprehensive services for various car brands, including Cadillac. They are known for their expertise and quality service.
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Racing
The **1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado** wasn't specifically designed for racing, but its performance and handling characteristics made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts for **track days** and **autocross events**. While it wasn't a dedicated race car, its luxury features and powerful V8 engine allowed it to perform well in competitive driving scenarios.
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Valuation
In 2025, the value of a **1986-1992 Cadillac Eldorado** in the UK can vary depending on its condition. On average, a Cadillac Eldorado in good condition is worth around **£17,556**. However, prices can range from **£6,900** for cars in fair condition to **£202,984** for exceptionally well-maintained or rare models.
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Clubs
Yes, there are Cadillac clubs for owners in Northern Ireland! You can join the **Cadillac Owners Club of Great Britain (COCGB)**. They are dedicated to the preservation of the Cadillac brand and offer a range of services, including a bi-monthly club magazine, details of forthcoming events, and a platform to buy and sell Cadillac cars.
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