Cadillac Northstar Oil Leak Problems

Is your Northstar leaking oil?

Oil leaks have been a problem with Northstars over the years, particularly from 1996-1999 along the rear oil crankcase. Repairs can be very expensive, ranging from $4,500 to $10,000. These repairs generally require specialized tools, so self-repair is not always an option.

Types

Oil leaks in Cadillac Northstars are not limited to just accumulated pools of oil under the vehicle. If blue/gray smoke is coming from the exhaust, you have an oil leak, and the oil is being burned out the exhaust. It is also possible for the oil to be burning directly off the engine.

Prevention/Solution

In order to determine whether you have an oil leak, it is often beneficial to keep an oil log. Carefully document any oil that you or your mechanic add to the car. Fixing the problem, once detected, is a personal choice. You may decide that it is more economical to simply keep adding oil, rather than opting for an expensive repair.

History

The Cadillac Northstar was introduced in 1993, and its engine was rated one of the ten best in the world at that time by Ward's Auto World.

References

• Caddyinfo: Cadillac Northstar and Oil Leaks / Oil Usage
• Aa1car: Cadillac Northstar 4.6 Engine

Resources

• Caddyinfo: Caddyinfo's Cadillac How-To Section