The Northstar Condition
 Affecting Northstar engines from 1993 - 2005

The Northstar engine rarely exhibits typical blown head gasket symptoms.  Initial overheating issues can usually be traced to component failure and repaired. The first indication that some residual problem still exists begins with a low coolant light. 

You check for leaks and everything looks good. Your mechanic checks the cooling system and also finds nothing wrong. In fact, most Cadillacs can idle all day and not loose a drop of coolant or overheat. However, as soon as you get on the freeway the temperature starts to go up and the low coolant light appears again. When you check the coolant level it's very low frequently requiring a gallon or more to refill. Without any clear indication as to what’s causing the problem your mechanic may suggest replacing various cooling system components. Again, this may resolve the problem for a while. But soon the low coolant light re-appears.
 
Trial and error diagnostics - In a desperate attempt to get the overheating problem under control your mechanic may suggest replacing the water pump even though there are no signs of leakage. This rarely solves the problem and the mechanic rarely offers to give your money back. If you've started down this path stop and get proper diagnostic help.

Diagnostic procedure - Let us help you properly diagnose your Cadillac's overheating problem and ultimately determine whether you do or do not have a blown head Gasket. You can count on our experience to provide the fastest and most cost effective solution to your problem.