Holden Astra 2002: High servicing costs

I BOUGHT a 2002 Astra City new, and while it has been a good car, the cost of servicing it would stop me buying another one. My first surprise came at 60,000km when the timing belt and tensioner had to replaced at a cost in excess of $700. I have now reached 120,000km and the belt has to be replaced again, and Holden recommend I replace the water pump as well at a total cost of $1100. Had I been made aware of this in the first place I would not have bought the Astra. Holden says it is detailed in the service book, but I argue that not many people sit down and read the service book. I was interested in buying a Holden Viva, but I note its belt is to be replaced every 60,000km as well. Can you give me some idea of the replacement distance of timing gear belts on comparable Toyotas?

YOU really should have done your homework on the service costs of the Astra before you bought it. It's really not good enough to say people don't sit down and read the service book. It's your responsibility to inform yourself about the car before you buy it. By not doing so, you left yourself open for a surprise. Most car companies service the timing belt about 100,000km, but Toyota is generally about 150,000km.

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.

Comments

Have a new question for the CarsGuide team?
More than 9,000 questions asked and answered.
Complete guide to Holden Astra 2002
Complete guide to Holden Astra 2002 CarsGuide Logo
Reviews, price, specs and more