Holden Epica Engine Problems

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

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Seems like you might have two problems here. The first is that I suspect you’ve may have fried the computer in the Holden in the process of jump-starting your other car. Jump-starting a modern car with on-board computers is something that should only be attempted by somebody who is a specialist. There’s a specific technique that goes beyond simply hooking up the jump-cables and hoping for the best. It’s all too easy to send a voltage spike through the car and send the computers into melt-down. That would explain why the car will not restart.

As for the milky oil and the sludge under the oil-filler capo, that sounds unrelated but still serious. A blown head gasket can lead to this exact set of symptoms and it occurs when the engine’s coolant is allowed to mix with the oil (and vice-versa). Sometimes in these colder months (particularly in Tassie) it’s not uncommon to get a small amount of frothy, grey muck under the oil-filler cap, but not a huge amount. And if the oil on the dispstick is also covered in oil contaminated with coolant, then you’re looking at a new head gasket at a minimum.

I’m not sure I agree that all modern Holdens were problematic, but the Epica, which was really a Daewoo (it was built in South Korea) with Holden badges, is definitely on the suspect-reliability list.

Warning lights on Epica
Answered by Graham Smith · 08 May 2015

The warning lights are indicating there is a problem with your car’s engine/emission system, and it needs to be checked by a mechanic to determine exactly what it is. By all means check the oil level in the engine, by removing the dipstick and seeing the level indicated on it, but I doubt that is the problem.

Holden Epica engine oil
Answered by Carsguide.com.au · 24 Jan 2014

The 5w-30 is often used and is ok as an alternative to the factory recommended oil.

Holden Epica warning light
Answered by Graham Smith · 29 Mar 2012

It sounds plausible that the wiring harness could be damaged and needing replacement. You can get your answers from Carsguide.com.au.

Faulty emission light in Epica?
Answered by Graham Smith · 05 Feb 2016

It does sound like it's an electrical or electronic problem, because when it happens the car is going into limp home mode, which is when you lose power. These problems are not unusual with today's cars, which rely so much on electronics.

Should I change my Epica timing belt after 6 years?
Answered by Carsguide.com.au · 09 May 2016

Change the belt as recommended at six years. Belts deteriorate with age as well as kilometres and you don't want to risk the damage that might occur to the engine should the belt fail.

Holden Epica 2009: Ignition not working
Answered by Graham Smith · 30 Nov 2018

As it is an intermittent problem it’s hard to be definitive, but I would suggest you look at the fuel system, and check for a faulty electrical connection that could affect the operation of the fuel pump or injectors.

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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