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    Holden Astra 2005: Servicing problems

    Holden Holden Advice Holden Astra Holden Astra Advice Holden Astra 2005
    Until the three-year warranty ran out I had my 2005 Holden Astra serviced by my Holden dealer; since it ran out I have been taking it to a reputable mechanic for servicing. At it's 60,000 km service there was a slight noise in the engine and my mechanic rang Holden and suggested it may be the timing belt, but he was told it should be ok as the timing belt and water pump get changed at the 100,000 km service, so he finished the service and off I went away on my Easter holiday. But the temperature light came on and when we pulled over there was water coming from the water pump and we attempted to restart it kicked there was a clunking noise. We turned the engine off and had it towed back home. When the mechanic inspected it he found that the water pump and timing pump had gone, and the fourth piston had hit the valve and caused damage to he head. I have phoned Holden, and they will inspect the car, but they don't believe they are at fault. They said perhaps they may cover some of the repairs, but could not guarantee it and they want to charge me $118 for the inspection. Do I have a case against Holden for repairs to my, which will cost $2500?
    Answered by CarsGuide
    22 April 2010
    Graham Smith

    There are several issues here. First, the timing belt problem is well known so your mechanic should have looked deeper into the cause of the noise and not taken the word of whoever said it would be ok. The timing belt change interval has moved a couple of times, down to 60,000 km and then out to 90,000 km, but it's such a potentially devastating failure that a "she'll be right" approach simply isn't good enough. Second, your claim would have been stronger against Holden if you were still having your car dealer serviced. Third, Holden will possibly cover part of the repair cost, which is a normal industry practice, so go ahead and have it inspected as they suggest.

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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