Holden Problems

It is worth fixing, you will only have more trouble if you don’t. Cost depends on the engine. If it’s a V6 it could cost as much as $3000, a 4-cylinder less.

You’re pretty safe with either car in terms of reliability, but resale would favour the Honda.

The DPF is supposed to automatically regenerate, but it sometimes won’t do that if the car doesn’t run at high enough speeds to generate the temperature required. That usually happens because the car is just being used for short trips and doesn’t regularly get a chance to run at higher speeds on highways or freeways. Running it at higher engine speeds in lower gears might be one way of getting the temperature up, and you could run it to 3000 rpm without any danger, but it doesn’t seem like a good way to fix the problem.

It’s probably an issue with the computer, but it could a wiring issue, a sensor problem. Have a mechanic check it.

Kia has a seven-year warranty. Holden, Ford, Hyundai and Mazda have five-year warranties. Toyota is currently three years, but is going to five. Look at the small models from those carmakers and you’ll find models to fit your budget.

The HiLux would be my first choice, followed by the Colorado.

It’s probably a leaking heater hose or connection of some sort associated with the heater. Take it to your Holden dealer who I imagine would be able to fix it under warranty.

It’s most likely the battery in the key needs replacing. Have you tried the spare key?

Try disconnecting and reconnecting the battery. If that doesn’t do it take it to a Holden dealer, as the body computer probably needs to be reset.

Take it to a Holden dealer or an auto electrician and have the sensor replaced.