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2002 Cadillac DeVille Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2002 Cadillac DeVille represents a continuation of Cadillac's long-standing tradition of luxury sedans. It's a full-size, four-door sedan, part of the seventh generation DeVille (2000-2005). Key trims included the base DeVille, DHS (DeVille High Luxury Sedan), and DTS (DeVille Touring Sedan). New, the price ranged roughly from $40,000 to $45,000. Its popularity stemmed from its spacious interior, smooth ride, and Cadillac's established reputation for comfort and prestige.
The Good

The 2002 DeVille excels in comfort, offering a plush ride and spacious cabin. Its Northstar V8 provides adequate performance for daily driving. For the practical buyer, it represents a good value in the used market. Emotionally, it provides the classic Cadillac experience of luxury and prestige at an accessible price point.

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2002 DeVille include potential issues with the Northstar engine, such as head gasket failures. The electronic systems can be problematic. Rust can be an issue in colder climates. Thorough inspection of these areas is crucial before purchasing.

2002 Cadillac DeVille: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: All 2002 Cadillac DeVille models came standard with the 4.6L Northstar V8 engine.
  • Horsepower:
    • DeVille & DHS: 275 horsepower
    • DTS: 300 horsepower
  • Fuel Economy:
    • City: 17-18 mpg (estimated)
    • Highway: 26-27 mpg (estimated)
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 7.5-8 seconds, depending on the trim level.
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • DeVille (Base): Leather seating, automatic climate control, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a premium sound system.
    • DHS (DeVille High Luxury Sedan): Adds features like heated and massaging front seats, rear parking assist, and upgraded interior trim.
    • DTS (DeVille Touring Sedan): Includes performance-oriented features like a more powerful version of the Northstar V8, upgraded suspension, and unique exterior styling. It might also include Magnasteer variable assist steering.
  • Other Notable Specs: Front-wheel drive, four-speed automatic transmission.

2002 Cadillac DeVille Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2002
Make Cadillac
Model DeVille
Trim -
Style 4-Door Sedan
Type Sedan
Category Large Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City HAMTRAMCK
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 1804.39 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height 144.02 cm
Overall Length 526.29 cm
Overall Width 189.23 cm
Wheelbase Length 292.86 cm
Standard Seating 6
Engine & Performance
Engine 4.6-L V-8 DOHC 32V
Engine Size 4.6L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 4-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $42,950 USD
Invoice Price $39,299 USD
Delivery Charges $770 USD

Vehicle History Report

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2002 Cadillac DeVille Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2002 Cadillac DeVille center around the Northstar V8 engine. The most significant concern is head gasket failure, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating, resulting in costly repairs. Issues with the engine's oil consumption are also noted. The car's electronic systems, including the climate control and instrument panel, are prone to glitches and failures.
Recalls for the 2002 DeVille were issued for issues like malfunctioning seat belt retractors or problems with the fuel system. Specific recall information can be verified with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Long-term reliability is affected by the aforementioned engine and electrical problems, as well as potential rust in areas with harsh winters. Regular maintenance, particularly coolant flushes and oil changes, is essential to mitigate these risks. Owners should also be prepared for potential repairs to the suspension and braking systems as the car ages. It is important to check the vehicle history report for prior accident damage, as this could exacerbate existing reliability concerns. Finally, the complexity of the car's systems makes it more expensive to repair than more basic vehicles.

How long will the 2002 Cadillac DeVille last?

A well-maintained 2002 Cadillac DeVille can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, reaching this milestone heavily depends on consistent maintenance and timely repairs. Many owners report that neglecting preventative maintenance, such as regular oil changes and coolant flushes, accelerates wear and tear. Weaknesses over time include the Northstar engine's potential for head gasket failure, as well as deterioration of suspension components and rubber seals. Proper care and addressing issues promptly are crucial for extending the car's lifespan. Expect age-related issues with electronics and interior components as well.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2002 Cadillac DeVille came with a range of built-in tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included an AM/FM radio with CD player and cassette deck, automatic climate control, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. The DHS trim added features like heated and massaging front seats, while the DTS offered a more performance-oriented experience.
Driver-assistance features included StabiliTrak stability control (standard on DTS, optional on others) and rear parking assist (standard on DHS and DTS). Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and front and side airbags. Optional features included OnStar, which provided communication and emergency services.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are available and generally favorable for frontal and side impacts. However, it's important to note that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2002. The DeVille's safety features were advanced for its time, but modern vehicles offer more comprehensive safety technology. Overall, the 2002 DeVille provided a comfortable and reasonably safe driving experience, especially with the optional driver-assistance and safety enhancements.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
White Diamond
Black Raven
Dark Blue
Crimson Pearl
Light Bronzebush
Pewter
Gold Mist
Interior Colors
Light Cashmere
Neutral Shale
Black

2002 Cadillac DeVille Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2002 Cadillac DeVille ranged from approximately $40,000 to $45,000, depending on the trim level and options. In today's used market, prices typically range from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The DeVille has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, potential mechanical issues (especially the Northstar engine), and evolving consumer preferences for newer vehicles with updated technology and safety features. Resale value is heavily affected by the car's overall condition, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable options. Low-mileage, well-maintained examples command the highest prices.

2002 Cadillac DeVille Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2002 Cadillac DeVille are generally moderate, reflecting its age and value. Fuel costs can be high due to its V8 engine, especially with city driving. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant, particularly if the Northstar engine requires major repairs. Long-term ownership costs can be higher than average due to potential mechanical issues. While the initial purchase price is low, the DeVille is not particularly economical to own, especially if maintenance is deferred.

2002 Cadillac DeVille Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 70.03 liters
City Mileage 7.65 km/l
Highway Mileage 11.48 km/l

2002 Cadillac DeVille Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2002 Cadillac DeVille Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date 2002-08-09
Recall no. 02v222000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Passenger, Mini Vans, and Sport Utility Vehicles Have AN AIR BAG Inflator ON THE Driver's Side That Could Fracture AT A Weld During A Deployment.
Consequence Pieces OF THE Inflator Could Strike and Injure Vehicle Occupants and THE AIR BAG Cushion Would NOT Inflate Fully, Reducing THE Capability OF THE BAG TO Protect THE Driver.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect, and Replace, IF Necessary, THE AIR BAG Module Assembly ON THE Driver's Side. Owner Notification Began August 15, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Buick AT 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac AT 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537, or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737.
Notes GM Recall NO. 02032. Also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering:gear BOX (Other Than Rack and Pinion)
Recall date 2002-03-06
Recall no. 02v067000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Passenger Vehicles Were Built With Missing or Under-Torqued Steering Gear Attachment Bolts. IF A Bolt IS Missing, THE Driver MAY Notice Uneven Steering Response or Unusual Noises During Turns.
Consequence IF THE Left Bolt IS Missing and THE Right Mounting Strap Fails, Steering Control IS Lost and A Vehicle Crash Could Result.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicles FOR Presence and Proper Torque OF Both Steering Gear Bolts. Owner Notification Began April 5, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Buick AT 1-800-521-7300 or Cadillac AT 1-800-458-8006.
Notes Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:retractor
Recall date 2002-09-05
Recall no. 02v227000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Passenger Vehicles Contain Driver and Front Passenger LAP And/Or Shoulder Belt Retractors That MAY NOT Remain Locked UP AS Designed During A Crash IN Which THE Belt Pretensioners Deploy.
Consequence IN Such A Crash, This Could Result IN AN Increase IN Injury FOR That Occupant.
Remedy Dealers Will Install A Retainer KIT IN THE Driver and Passenger Safety Belt Pretensioner. Owner Notification Began January 31, 2003. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Cadillac AT 1-800-458-8006.
Notes GM Recall NO. 02031. Also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date 2003-07-01
Recall no. 03v238000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Cadillac Deville and Seville Passenger Vehicles, Funeral Coaches, and Limousines Equipped With A V8 (4.6l) Engine, Oldsmobile Aurora Passenger Vehicles Equipped With A V8 (4.0l ) Engine, and Pontiac Bonneville Ssei Passenger Vehicles Equipped With A Supercharged V6 (3.8l) Engine, THE Fuel Tank Pressure Sensors ARE Unusually Susceptible TO Malfunctions. IF THE Sensor Malfunctions, Excessive Vacuum CAN BE Applied During Self-Diagnostic Testing.
Consequence Fuel System Components CAN BE Damaged and Fuel CAN Leak From THE Vehicle When IT IS Refueled. Fuel Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source CAN Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor. Owner Notification Began ON October 17, 2003. Owners Should Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339; Oldsmobile AT 1-800-630-6537; or Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668.
Notes GM Recall NO. 03038.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date 2014-06-23
Recall no. 14v355000
Source NHTSA
Summary This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2009 Buick Lacrosse, 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, 2000-2005 Cadillac Deville, 2006-2011 Cadillac Dts, 2006-2014 Chevrolet Impala, and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring and Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury. Additionally, A KEY Knocked OUT OF THE RUN Position Will Cause Loss OF Engine Power, Power Steering, and Power Braking, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install Two KEY Rings and AN Insert IN THE KEY Slot or A Cover Over THE KEY Head ON All Ignition Keys, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 23, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), and 1-800-222-1020 (chevrolet). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14299.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2002 Cadillac DeVille Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2002 Cadillac DeVille Insurance

Insurance for a 2002 Cadillac DeVille is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2002 Cadillac DeVille Compare to Other Sedan?

Key rivals to the 2002 Cadillac DeVille included the Lincoln Town Car, Buick Park Avenue, and Chrysler LHS. In terms of performance, the DeVille's Northstar V8 offered comparable power to the Town Car's V8, though the Town Car was rear-wheel drive. The Park Avenue provided a similar level of comfort and luxury at a slightly lower price point. The Chrysler LHS offered a more modern design and potentially better handling.
In terms of reliability, the DeVille's Northstar engine is arguably less reliable than the Town Car's engine, which is known for its longevity. The Park Avenue also has a reputation for solid reliability. The DeVille offered a good range of features for its time, but some rivals had more advanced technology.
Considering today's used market, the Lincoln Town Car might be a better alternative for buyers prioritizing reliability and ease of maintenance. The Buick Park Avenue offers a similar level of comfort and luxury at a potentially lower cost and with improved reliability. If modern features are a priority, a newer, more fuel-efficient sedan from a different manufacturer would be a better choice. Overall, while the DeVille offers a comfortable and luxurious ride, its reliability concerns make it less desirable than some of its competitors.

Ranks #2038 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
2038 2002 Cadillac DeVille (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Cadillac DeVille a Good Sedan?

The 2002 Cadillac DeVille is ideal for buyers seeking a comfortable and spacious full-size sedan at a very affordable price. It's best suited for those who appreciate classic Cadillac styling and don't mind older technology. Whether it's worth buying depends on the individual vehicle's condition and maintenance history. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential, especially focusing on the Northstar engine. The DTS trim offers slightly better performance, but the DHS trim might be a better value for those prioritizing comfort. Given its age, buying a 2002 DeVille is only worthwhile if it's in excellent condition and priced accordingly, understanding that potential maintenance costs could be significant.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.