Holden Commodore Problems

THE keys to keeping your auto alive are to service it regularly and not overheat it by overloading. Holden has towing packs capable of handling 1200kg, 1600kg and 2100kg for the VZ. I recommend you go for the heaviest. As for the chassis and driveline, I don't see a problem, but do get the best towing pack. I would only be guessing on the fuel consumption you might get.

I WOULD rule out the Commodore immediately because its six-cylinder engine will be too thirsty for your budget. But any cars fitting your price range will almost certainly be unreliable and expensive in the long run. Even though you're stepping up in price range, $5000 will buy an old car that is only marginally better than the cheapies you've been driving. You'll be better if you can spend $10,000 on a car that's still got some life left in it. I'd recommend a five-year-old Nissan Pulsar, Ford Laser, Mitsubishi Lancer or Toyota Corolla. They will still accommodate four and will be much cheaper to run than the Magna, Camry or Commodore.

WITH $3000, your son shouldn't be choosy. Cast a wider net and search for the best car you can find for the money. It's better to have a car in good condition, though it might not be a cool choice. That might sound boring, but he'll get better service out of a car in tiptop shape than one that might have a better image but is run down.

SOME engines use oil, others don't. In your case I would accept Holden's view that the oil usage is not that high. Based on your figures, you would use a litre between services, which isn't much. If it was 400ml every 1000km, I would be concerned.

IT'S a sad fact of motoring life today that brakes are regarded as consumables just like oil, filters and tyres. Pads and discs wear out and are not covered by the warranty. You complain about having to replace brakes but don't seem to have a problem with replacing tyres. Today's brakes perform much better, but that comes at the expense of a higher wear rate. Your Holden is no different from most cars, so don't expect any better service if you switch camps.

I LIKE the more sporty two-door Prelude, but can understand the practical appeal of the Commodore. Both will have high odometer readings, so you will need to choose carefully, particularly in the case of the Honda, which is more inclined to suffer if not well serviced.

SOME people think the VL was one of the best, if not the best early Commodore, because it had a Nissan engine. The Nissan six is a good, reliable engine and I'm sure you've felt its good performance. In the Nissan it was bullet-proof, but it had a few problems in the Commodore, caused by installation, not the engine. The Commodore's radiator was prone to breaking an internal baffle, affecting the flow of coolant, and mechanics often wouldn't bleed the cooling system properly after repairing the radiator. This led to overheating problems. If yours is in good condition, it's worth $2000-$3000, and would be popular with young drivers. It sounds as if the dealer doesn't want to take it off your hands. Do a deal where you keep the VL and sell it privately.

YOUR problem is not unusual and there are several possible causes: fuel, ignition or engine wear. First, make sure the ignition is set correctly and it's not a bad idea to close up the spark-plug gap a little when you do that. It's also worth having a leak-down test on the engine, which will show up a leaking valve or worn valve stem seals. I'm guessing your engine has done plenty of kilometres and wear could be causing your problem.

IT COULD be any of several things. You really need to have it checked by a dealer. It could be a temperature sensor, the crank-angle sensor, a direct-fire ignition pack, or several other components.

BOTH are well-built and will be reliable so I reckon it comes down to whether you fancy a coupe or convertible. The Celica is a stylish coupe, but the MX-5 is obviously a soft top. My choice is a Mazda, but that's because I like convertibles. Sit in each, make sure you're comfortable with the seats and the roominess, and take them for a drive to see if either fits your needs.