The 2003 Cadillac DeVille is a full-size luxury sedan, part of the seventh generation (2000-2005). Known for its spacious interior and smooth ride, the DeVille offered classic Cadillac comfort. Key trims included the base DeVille, DHS (DeVille High Luxury Sedan), and DTS (DeVille Touring Sedan). New, it ranged approximately from $40,000 to $48,000. It stood out for its Northstar V8 engine and plush features, appealing to buyers seeking traditional American luxury.
The Good
The 2003 DeVille excels in comfort, offering a smooth, quiet ride. Its performance from the Northstar V8 provides ample power. From a practical standpoint, its spaciousness suits families, while emotionally, it delivers a sense of traditional American luxury. Its relatively affordable used market price enhances its value.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses include the Northstar V8's head gasket issues, which can lead to costly repairs. The electronic systems can also be prone to glitches. Watch out for oil leaks and ensure regular maintenance has been performed. Suspension components can wear over time, affecting ride quality.
2003 Cadillac DeVille: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.6L Northstar V8 (LD8) - Base DeVille, DHS
- 4.6L Northstar V8 (L37) - DTS (slightly higher output)
- Horsepower:
- LD8: 275 hp @ 5600 rpm
- L37: 300 hp @ 6000 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA est.):
- City: 17-18 mpg
- Highway: 26-27 mpg
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.0 - 7.5 seconds (depending on engine and trim)
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- DeVille (Base): Leather seats, dual-zone climate control, power windows/locks, AM/FM/CD stereo, OnStar system.
- DHS: Adds heated front and rear seats, memory settings for driver's seat and mirrors, premium sound system, rear parking assist.
- DTS: Includes performance-tuned suspension, StabiliTrak stability control, more aggressive exterior styling, unique interior trim, and potentially upgraded audio/navigation options.
2003 Cadillac DeVille Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Cadillac |
| Model | DeVille |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Large Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | ORION |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3978 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 56.70 inches |
| Overall Length | 207.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 74.50 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 115.30 inches |
| 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) | $44,400 |
| Invoice Price | $40,626 |
| Delivery Charges | $795 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Cadillac DeVille Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2003 Cadillac DeVille often center around the Northstar V8 engine. The most significant concern is head gasket failure, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating. This issue is more prevalent in earlier Northstar engines, but still a risk in the 2003 model year. Symptoms include coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and engine overheating. Repair costs can be substantial.
Other reported issues include problems with the electronic climate control system, electrical glitches affecting sensors and displays, and failures in the suspension system, particularly the rear air suspension on some models. Oil leaks are also common as the car ages, particularly around valve covers and seals.
While recalls may have been issued for specific components or safety concerns, it's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to determine if any open recalls apply. Long-term reliability concerns largely depend on maintenance history. Regular oil changes with the correct oil and addressing cooling system issues promptly are essential for extending the engine's life. Neglecting maintenance can exacerbate existing weaknesses and lead to more significant problems down the road. Some owners also report issues with the transmission, although this is less frequent than engine-related problems.
Other reported issues include problems with the electronic climate control system, electrical glitches affecting sensors and displays, and failures in the suspension system, particularly the rear air suspension on some models. Oil leaks are also common as the car ages, particularly around valve covers and seals.
While recalls may have been issued for specific components or safety concerns, it's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to determine if any open recalls apply. Long-term reliability concerns largely depend on maintenance history. Regular oil changes with the correct oil and addressing cooling system issues promptly are essential for extending the engine's life. Neglecting maintenance can exacerbate existing weaknesses and lead to more significant problems down the road. Some owners also report issues with the transmission, although this is less frequent than engine-related problems.
How long will the 2003 Cadillac DeVille last?
With good maintenance, a 2003 Cadillac DeVille can reach 200,000 miles or more. Average mileage is heavily dependent on prior owner care, but many examples still on the road have surpassed 150,000 miles. Key to longevity is addressing the aforementioned Northstar engine issues promptly. Weaknesses include deterioration of suspension components, leading to a less comfortable ride, and potential rust issues in regions with harsh winters. Proper rustproofing and regular maintenance are vital for long-term durability. The electronic systems can also become problematic with age.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2003 Cadillac DeVille came equipped with a range of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control, power windows, power locks, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system. Higher trims, like the DHS and DTS, added features like heated front and rear seats, memory settings for the driver's seat and mirrors, and a premium Bose sound system.
Driver-assistance features included available rear parking assist, which was a helpful addition given the car's size. StabiliTrak stability control was standard on the DTS model and available on others, enhancing handling and safety in slippery conditions. OnStar was also a standard feature, providing emergency assistance, navigation, and remote diagnostics.
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and front and side airbags. Optional features included a navigation system and adaptive cruise control. The 2003 Cadillac DeVille performed well in crash tests. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it a 5-star rating for front and side crash protection for both driver and passenger. These features contributed to a safer driving experience. The car's solid structure and advanced safety technologies (for its time) made it a competitive choice in the luxury sedan segment.
Driver-assistance features included available rear parking assist, which was a helpful addition given the car's size. StabiliTrak stability control was standard on the DTS model and available on others, enhancing handling and safety in slippery conditions. OnStar was also a standard feature, providing emergency assistance, navigation, and remote diagnostics.
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and front and side airbags. Optional features included a navigation system and adaptive cruise control. The 2003 Cadillac DeVille performed well in crash tests. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it a 5-star rating for front and side crash protection for both driver and passenger. These features contributed to a safer driving experience. The car's solid structure and advanced safety technologies (for its time) made it a competitive choice in the luxury sedan segment.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
White Diamond
Black Raven
Sterling Silver Metallic
Pewter Metallic
Dark Blue Green Metallic
Crimson Pearl
Gold Mist Metallic
Interior Colors
Light Cashmere
Neutral Shale
Black
2003 Cadillac DeVille Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2003 Cadillac DeVille ranged from approximately $40,000 to $48,000 depending on the trim level and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from $2,000 to $8,000, heavily influenced by mileage, condition, and maintenance records. The DeVille has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, potential repair costs (especially the Northstar engine), and changes in consumer preferences towards newer vehicles and SUVs. Resale value is highest for well-maintained examples with lower mileage and comprehensive service history. The trim level also affects value, with the DTS typically fetching a slightly higher price.
2003 Cadillac DeVille Cost of Ownership
The 2003 Cadillac DeVille can be costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are moderate, but fuel economy is not great, especially in city driving. Maintenance can be expensive due to potential Northstar engine repairs and general wear-and-tear on aging components. Repair costs can quickly escalate, making it less economical than newer, more reliable vehicles. Careful budgeting for potential repairs is crucial for responsible ownership.
2003 Cadillac DeVille Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
18.50 gallons
City Mileage
18 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
27 miles/gallon
2003 Cadillac DeVille Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2003 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).
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).
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2003-02-14
Recall no.
03v051000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Mini Vans, Passenger and Sport Utility Vehicles, Some OF These Vehicles Have A Driver's Side AIR BAG That MAY NOT Deploy AS Designed. IN Addition, THE AIR BAG Inflator Could Rupture.
Consequence
This Could Result IN Reduced Capability OF THE AIR BAG TO Protect THE Driver. Also IF THE AIR BAG Inflator Ruptured, Pieces OF THE Inflator Could Strike and Injure THE Vehicle Occupants.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect, and IF Necessary, Install A NEW Driver's AIR Bag. Owner Notification Began ON March 11, 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 Buick AT 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac AT 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 03008. 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.
2003 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
2003 Cadillac DeVille Insurance
Insurance for a 2003 Cadillac DeVille is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Cadillac DeVille Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2003 Cadillac DeVille competed with luxury sedans like the Lincoln Town Car, Buick Park Avenue, and Chrysler 300M. In terms of performance, the DeVille's Northstar V8 offered competitive power, but the Lincoln Town Car focused more on smooth cruising. Features were comparable across these models, with similar levels of luxury and convenience. However, the DeVille lagged behind in reliability compared to some rivals, particularly the Buick Park Avenue, known for its robust build. The Chrysler 300M offered a sportier driving experience, while the DeVille prioritized comfort.
In terms of price on the used market, the DeVille is often more affordable than some of its competitors. However, potential repair costs must be factored in. If reliability is a primary concern, the Buick Park Avenue (especially the Ultra trim) could be a better alternative, offering similar luxury with potentially lower maintenance costs. The Lexus ES 300/330, while smaller, offers superior reliability and a more modern driving experience, but sacrifices some of the DeVille's spaciousness and traditional American luxury feel. The Town Car is a similar alternative if a very soft, quiet ride is paramount.
In terms of price on the used market, the DeVille is often more affordable than some of its competitors. However, potential repair costs must be factored in. If reliability is a primary concern, the Buick Park Avenue (especially the Ultra trim) could be a better alternative, offering similar luxury with potentially lower maintenance costs. The Lexus ES 300/330, while smaller, offers superior reliability and a more modern driving experience, but sacrifices some of the DeVille's spaciousness and traditional American luxury feel. The Town Car is a similar alternative if a very soft, quiet ride is paramount.
Ranks #2008 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★) |
| 2008 | 2003 Cadillac DeVille | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Cadillac DeVille a Good Sedan?
The 2003 Cadillac DeVille is ideal for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and affordable used luxury sedan with a classic American feel. It's worth buying *if* you're willing to accept the potential for higher maintenance costs, particularly related to the Northstar engine. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential. Look for well-maintained examples with comprehensive service records. The DHS or DTS trims offer more features, but the base DeVille can be a good value. New, this car is obviously not an option. Consider it only if you're prepared for potential repairs and appreciate its traditional luxury despite its age.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.