2000 Cadillac Catera-Engine cuts out while driving or coming to a complete stop while on a bit of a downward decline. WILL NOT RESTART for anywhere between 1-3 hours. Battery replaced, issue still remains.

The Catera has a history of stalling/cutoff issues. Many are solved with the replacement of the crankshaft position sensor. It does give the symptoms you describe. I would try that first as it is fairly cheap and easy to replace. If the problem persists after that, you've at least removed one potential possibility.




This is the description of the crank sensor from AUTOZONE (cost $44.99 USD)

• The crankshaft position sensor identifies position of the crankshaft to the ignition control module (ICM), engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM)
• When not replaced, vehicle may experience no start, hard start, intermittent engine shut down, misfire, engine cut out, excessive fuel consumption, CEL illumination and/or failed emission test
• Proper alignment, positioning and spacing for faster, easier installation
• Designed to meet or exceed OE specifications in form, fit and function

I wouldnt bank on this but it sounds like a shift syliniod

Trans needs to be rebuilt,

Is it Oil,or Automatic transmission fluid?
I've changed several Catera Radiator's because the transmission cooler cracked inside of them!!
Better check the transmission fluid for engine coolant too,Coolant in the Automatic Transmission will kill it purdy Quick!

Yes, most likely a fault in the auto transmission, and the car has shut itself off to prevent further damage.

Well 145K is alot of miles, catera's are not that reliable especially after 100K. It sounds like you could have multiple issues but take it to a mechanic asap before it becomes unfixable.

try using a thicker oil like a 10 w40

Here are the most common causes of surges, stalls at stops, low erratic idle speed, rough idle and engine hesitation, it is in most cases the idle speed control air-bypass valve and or throttle valve and upper intake, these area's get full of gunk and combustion residue over the miles and cause idle issues (stalls, low idle) like yours, Get a can of intake cleaner from any local parts store, not carb spray, intake cleaner, it is made by a company called CRC, remove the air intake hose to the engine, hold the idle high so the engine won't stall, then spray the can of cleaner into the intake while keeping the engine running, use at least 1/2 the can, shut down the engine and disconnect the battery for 5 minutes, then restart and complete a number of mixed driving cycles, town, freeway, stop and go etc., after a few days the problem will go away as the system will relearn to the clean intake.

in the owners manual the sport light does a couple things depending on the make up of your catera.
start there, i don't have the owners manual with me or i would review.

Leveling light issues indicate either a leaking air shock or defective control module.