Holden Cruze Gearbox & Transmission Problems

Are you having problems with the transmission of your Holden Cruze? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Holden Cruze transmission issues & faults. We have answered all of the most frequently asked questions relating to problems with the Holden Cruze transmission.

What's a good mid-size station wagon to buy?
Answered by Graham Smith · 01 Dec 2017

Ford was having heaps of trouble with its dual-clutch automatic transmission back then, so it would be wise not to take the risk of buying one. Holden was in just as much trouble with the torque-converted auto in the Cruze, and I would urge you not to go down that route either. Instead of those, consider a Toyota Camry.

Holden Cruze 2011: Common problems?
Answered by Graham Smith · 20 Nov 2017

They have a lot or problems with the automatic transmission. If you really want to buy a Cruze buy one with a manual gearbox. Apart from the automatic transmission problems they aren’t too bad in terms of reliability. Parts aren’t expensive and they don’t a lot to service.

Sensitive transmission in Holden Cruze
Answered by Graham Smith · 20 Oct 2017

I assume it depends on the gradient involved and it doesn’t happen on every hill, just the steeper ones. It seems that’s the way it is calibrated to work.

Transmission issues with Holden Cruze
Answered by Graham Smith · 19 Jan 2018

The best option would be to contact Holden (1800 033 349) and ask them to fix it. They will most likely come to the party for at least part of the cost, which would be much cheaper than if you were to have it fixed yourself.

No, it’s not fair to ask you to undertake a diagnostic check at your expense. The transmission is known to be faulty, and as long as you haven’t abused it in any way, they should be replacing it free of charge without question.

Transmission problems with my 2010 Holden Cruze
Answered by Graham Smith · 15 Dec 2017

You’re not alone; the auto transmission in that model is well known to give trouble. As the car is now seven years old and has done 116,000 km it is well outside the warranty on both counts, so you’re not likely to get much of a hearing from Holden. But it is worth approaching the company about replacing the transmission for you free of charge, or at the very least, at a discount. Tell then that you know there is a problem with that transmission, and that you understand that they have replaced transmissions free of charge in the past.

Holden Cruze 2010: Lemon
Answered by Graham Smith · 22 Sep 2017

That model Cruze was plagued with gearbox problems like yours. Holden was replacing the gearbox free of charge as a gesture of good will, and you might be able to convince them to do the same for you, but as yours is seven years old you might have trouble mounting a compelling case.

If Holden refuses your request you could take your case to the ACCC.

Should the carmaker pay for the labour on replacement parts?
Answered by Graham Smith · 19 Jan 2018

It is quite common for a carmaker to offer to pay for parts, i.e. the transmission, and charge the owner for the labour. While you would like to think Holden would pay for everything the car is eight years old and well beyond its warranty period. If you would like to pursue Holden for the total cost contact its customer service (18000 033 349).

Does the '15 Holden Cruze have automatic problems?
Answered by Graham Smith · 26 Jan 2018

 The problem models are from around 2010/2011. They are definitely ones to avoid, but you needn’t be worried about the 2015 model.

Failed 2010 Holden Cruze gearbox
Answered by Graham Smith · 08 Dec 2017

You’re right, there have been a lot of problems with the Cruze gearbox, and Holden have replaced a number over the years. That said you can try to get some help in replacing the transmission by calling Holden Customer Care on 1800 033 349.

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