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Holden Astra Problems

Are you having problems with your Holden Astra? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Holden Astra issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the Holden Astra in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Holden Astra 2017: Can I use 91-octane in the RS variant?

It’s recommended that you use 95-octane Premium unleaded in the RS, and that’s what I would use. You could damage the engine using 91.

Holden Astra: Does it have the same automatic gearbox as the Holden Cruze?

The transmission in the Astra is a conventional torque convertor unit, the one that gave the trouble in the Cruze was dual-clutch manual/auto, a different ’box altogether.

Can a used car be returned to the private seller?

No, there is no warranty or cooling-off period that goes along with a private sale. It’s a case of buyer beware. If they were concerned they should have had it checked before buying it. It seems to me that they have changed their mind about the car and want to get out of it.

Holden Astra 2002: What cam belt?

If it’s a regular model it will have a 1.8-litre engine, but if it’s a SRi it will have s 2.2-litre.

Holden Astra 2017: What fuel does it use?

The recommended fuel is 91-octane unleaded petrol.

Holden Astra 2004: What is the service interval for the timing belt?

Holden reduced the service interval on the cam timing belt change to 60,000 km to get over the problems they were having with the belt breaking and causing major engine damage before the original service point was reached. They later changed it again to 90,000 km. A 2004 model should have already had a belt change, if not on the basis of kilometres done, then certainly on the basis of time. If in doubt have it changed.

Holden Astra: What is the service interval for the timing belt?

It is 90,000km. The service interval was reduced from 100,000km to 60,000km in the preceding TS model after a number of serious engine failures caused by broken or loose belts caused by a problem with the belt tensioner. In AH the service interval was increased to 90,000km. When it's replaced mechanics usually find that the water pump is leaking, and they replace it, which adds to the cost of the job.

Holden Astra 2017: Is there a price cut refund?

Our enquiries with Holden weren't successful; all we got was a deafening silence. It seems they either don't know how it will work, or aren't prepared to tell us. Given the company's reluctance to talk on this matter I suggest you maintain pressure on the customer care people until they give you an answer.

Holden Astra 2007: Servicing problems

You appear to have been given the run-around. Take the car back to the dealer and ask for a meeting with the service manager. Ask him for an explanation of what has happened and why, and then try to get a commitment to fix it, at their expense. You could also complain to the Motor Trade Association of WA about the work that has been done, they might be able to help you. You could also seek the advice of the WA Consumer Affairs Department, and as a last resort seek legal advice.

The transmission in my Berlina has collapsed

Yes, it can be rebuilt or replaced and an automatic transmission specialist would be able to do that for you. Cost for the job would be around $2000 to rebuild or replace the transmission on a changeover basis.

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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