2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Cadillac DeVille
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2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille ▼
- Price Range: $5,200 - $17,000
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Entry/exit
- Interior materials
- Quietness
- Passenger and cargo room
- Build quality
Cons
- Navigation-system controls
- Fuel economy
- Rear visibility
Vehicle Highlights
Deville was redesigned with all-new styling for 2000, losing some of the traditional look. Wheelbase grew by 1.5 inches, but the body actually was two inches shorter and narrower than before. DHS (DeVille High Luxury Sedan) and DTS (DeVille Touring Sedan) models were added, replacing the D'Elegance and Concours editions. Under the hood sat familiar Northstar V8 engines, making 300 horsepower in the DTS and 275 bhp in other models. Traction control and all-disc antilock braking were standard. Standard on DTS were Cadillac's StabiliTrak antiskid system (optional on other models) and a Continuously Variable Road Sensing Suspension. All DeVilles had GM's OnStar emergency/communications system, front side airbags, and newly optional rear side airbags. New taillamps used LED technology, said to illuminate faster. Digital instruments went into base models, versus analog gauges in the others, which also had standard leather upholstery and a lumbar-massaging front seat. The DHS added power rear-seat lumbar adjustment, a power rear-window sunshade, and manual shades for back-door windows. New steering-wheel audio and climate controls were used, with a separate back-seat temperature adjustment. A satellite navigation system and Night Vision--an industry "first"--were optional on DHS/DTS models. Night Vision used infrared technology to project an image of the view ahead into the windshield. A new ultrasonic Parking Assist option provided audible and visual warnings.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Cadillac DeVille DHS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 8 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 9 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 9 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 66 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille.
Year to Year Changes
2001 Cadillac DTS:
A new CD player became standard on the base DeVille, and a tire-pressure monitor joined the options list. During the 2001 model year, a new Infotainment system became available, combining audio and text display of e-mail on a dashboard screen. The system operated via a touch-screen, keypad, or vocal commands.
2002 Cadillac DTS:
DeVille got a new DVD navigation system for 2002. Leather upholstery became standard instead of optional on base models, and a tire-pressure monitor was standard on DHS and DTS. Added during the model year was an optional satellite radio that played commercial-free programs for a monthly fee.
2003 Cadillac DTS:
A tire-pressure monitoring system was the only noteworthy change for '03.
2004 Cadillac DTS:
Cadillac's largest car gets available heated and cooled front seats and a heated steering wheel for '04.
2005 Cadillac DTS:
DeVille gets no changes for 2005. Cadillac will redesign the sedan and shorten the name to DTS for 2006.
Our road test for the 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Poised on the road, a DeVille DHS easily holds its own against imported luxury sedans, with a ride that's comfortable yet controlled. Acceleration is outstanding, as a DeVille is able to reach 60 mph in as little as 7 seconds. The refined powertrain features a smooth and responsive automatic transmission. As for gas mileage, a DTS sedan with the 300-bhp engine averaged 14.6 to 16.7 mpg. Cadillac recommends premium fuel, but regular is acceptable and does not affect performance by much. Few sedans are more spacious or comfortable than a DeVille. Front seats provide fine support and stretch-out room in outboard position, though the middle occupant of the front bench is likely to feel squeezed. Leg clearance in back ranks as limousinelike, with a firm, generous cushion that's wide enough for three adults. All doors open exceptionally wide for easy entry/exit. Whether digital or analog, gauges are unobstructed and legible. Though abundant, controls on the dashboard and steering wheel are large and clearly labeled. Outward visibility is generally good, but thick rear roof pillars hamper over-the-shoulder vision. The big trunk opens to bumper level. Cabin materials and workmanship are competitive with imported luxury cars, and notably better than other domestics. Two exceptions are the low-budget plastic in the dashboard center and crude movement of vent adjusters. Cadillac's Night Vision option is most useful in rural areas, displaying a moving image in the windshield that resembles a photographic negative. It does not interfere with normal forward vision, and can be switched off.
Value for the Money
Spacious and powerful, the DeVille is loaded with jet-age gizmos. Priced below most V8 luxury rivals, it has a markedly different appearance than DeVilles of the past, which pleases some potential buyers but may distress others. Ride and handling are on a par with the world's most prestigious luxury sedans, accompanied by energetic performance.
Spacious and powerful, the DeVille is loaded with jet-age gizmos. Priced below most V8 luxury rivals, it has a markedly different appearance than DeVilles of the past, which pleases some potential buyers but may distress others. Ride and handling are on a par with the world's most prestigious luxury sedans, accompanied by energetic performance.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Cadillac DeVille DHS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 8 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 9 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 9 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 66 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Cadillac DTS includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Cadillac DTS .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Brakes:
The original-equipment rear brake pads cause a humming or moaning noise, especially when the brakes are hot or warm. (2000)
Brakes:
When warm, the front brake pads may cause the front end and steering wheel to vibrate and shake. Countermeasure pads are available. (2000)
Climate control:
Due to insufficient tension on the pivots, the shut-off doors in the dashboard may close when the blower is set on high. (2000)
Engine knock:
Engine knock, especially when cold, may be due to carbon buildup in combustion chambers. (2000-01)
Horn:
If the horn becomes difficult to operate or sounds by itself in cold temperatures, the airbag module will have to be replaced. (2000)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $750 |
| Alternator | $550 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,190 |
| Brakes | $575 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $800 |
| Exhaust System | $500 |
| Radiator | $670 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,755 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $1,275 |
Our price chart for this generation Cadillac DTS details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| DeVille | $14,800-16,300 | $13,500-14,800 | $9,300-10,300 |
| DeVille DHS, DTS | $17,000-18,500 | $15,600-17,000 | $10,900-11,800 |
| 2004 | |||
| DeVille | $12,200-13,500 | $11,000-12,200 | $6,800-7,600 |
| DeVille DHS, DTS | $14,000-15,500 | $12,700-14,100 | $8,500-9,500 |
| 2003 | |||
| DeVille | $10,000-11,000 | $9,000-9,900 | $5,200-5,700 |
| DeVille DHS, DTS | $11,500-12,800 | $10,400-11,500 | $6,300-7,000 |
| 2002 | |||
| DeVille | $8,200-9,200 | $7,400-8,300 | $4,200-4,700 |
| DeVille DHS, DTS | $9,200-10,300 | $8,300-9,300 | $4,800-5,400 |
| 2001 | |||
| DeVille | $6,800-7,700 | $6,100-6,900 | $3,200-3,600 |
| DeVille DHS, DTS | $7,500-8,500 | $6,800-7,700 | $4,200-4,800 |
| 2000 | |||
| DeVille | $6,000-6,800 | $5,200-5,900 | $2,500-2,900 |
| DeVille DHS, DTS | $6,600-7,500 | $5,800-6,600 | $3,000-3,500 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Cadillac DTS include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 115.3 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 207.0 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 74.4 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.7 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3978 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 19.1 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.1 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.2 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.3 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 43.2 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two different Northstar V8 engines were used, developing 300 horsepower in the DTS sedan and 275 bhp in the base model and DHS. All DeVilles had a four-speed automatic transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V8 | 4.6 / 279 | 275 | 300 | 4-speed automatic: 16/27 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V8 | 4.6 / 279 | 300 | 295 | 4-speed automatic: 16/27 | 4-speed automatic: 16.7 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Cadillac DTS include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2000 DeVille |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 3 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2000:
Some cars have internal fluid leaks in brake hydraulic control unit; when rear-brake proportioning, antilock-braking, traction-control, or stability-control feature is activated in some driving situations, feature may not perform as designed.
2001:
Some seatbelt assemblies fail to comply with a 30-pound pushbutton release-effort requirement and may be difficult to unlatch in a crash.
2001:
Sunvisor center supports may be too small, increasing the possibility of injuries, such as lacerations, during a collision.
2001-02:
Lap- and shoulder-belt retractors may not remain locked.
2002:
Airbag inflator may fracture during deployment, endangering passengers.
2002:
Steering-gear attachment bolts may be undertorqued or missing, resulting in uneven steering response or unusual noise in turns.
2002-03 V8:
Faulty fuel-tank sensors may have been installed in certain vehicles, leading to fuel leakage. Dealer will inspect and replace all affected parts.
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