Holden Astra Gearbox & Transmission Problems

MOST cars now have electronic throttles, replacing the cable connection that existed in the past. It's linked to the electronics, which tell the engine what you, the driver, want to do. It's a more efficient system. The Astra auto will drop into neutral when you're at rest with your foot on the brake; it does that to save fuel. When you hit the accelerator it automatically engages Drive and you move off.

You certainly have had a bad run with your car and I can understand your frustration. Holden's offer is not a bad deal, but if you want to take it further you could go to the ACCC, or your local state government consumer affairs people. In Victoria, that's VCAT.

You're right to demand the gearbox be replaced or overhauled. At the very least it needs servicing, at the worst replacing as you have requested.

It's hard to be sure without driving it for a time and observing for the leak. Before taking delivery check the paperwork to see that the dealer has attended to the problem, and keep a copy of the vehicle inspection report for later reference if needed. It's not unusual for cars to develop oil leaks, most do.