Holden Astra 2003 Problems

WE ASKED Holden to clarify the situation. Holden recommends that toothed belts and tensioners be changed as per the owner's handbook, which is now at 60,000km intervals after being at 120,000km, but timing chains do not require replacing as part of regular standard maintenance. Your SRi is fitted with a Z22SE engine that has a timing chain, so it doesn't need servicing. Astras have four engine variants. The other three -- the X18XE1, Z18XE and C20LET turbo -- have belts that require service at 60,000km. If you're in doubt about which engine is fitted to your Astra, check your owner's manual.

I CAN'T really give you a definitive answer because many factors can affect your decision. If you buy a new smaller car, the Fiesta, you have to be sure it will be big enough to transport your family. You will also suffer the depreciation that affects all new cars in the first year of ownership, but you will have the new-car smell and the coverage of the full warranty. If you buy a secondhand car you run the risk of having problems simply because it has been on the road for a time before you buy it. For me, the big advantage is you can get into something that is bigger and better equipped for the same money.