SUBJECT: KIA RIO, 2000 - Gearbox (31/08/2006) *TRANSMISSION*

• "I have a Kia Rio that is 6 years old. It does not do long trips as it is used for transporting children and doing groceries. I wondered why I could not get any other gear but 4 5. I now find out that the gearbox is gone and the selector rod is snapped. The car only has 80,000 on the clock and will cost me $1500 to get a reconditioned one. Apparently this is a well known problem with Kia. I say the firm should recall the cars and pay for theses large things that should not be happening. i love my Kia but would not buy another " E Buss, Penrith NSW, Ph: 0247330367

SUBJECT: HOLDEN ASTRA CITY, 1999 - Astra Timing Belt Nightmare (31/08/2006) *TIMING BELT*

• "I purchased my Astra with 100,000 k's on the clock. When I got it serviced the mechanic asked me if the Timing Belt had been changed at 70,000. I said I didn't know and as he couldn't see if it had been done I decided not to fix what wasn't broken. Big Mistake, it busted at 166,000 k's and did maximum damage. I was told by Holden that worst case scenario it would cost me $4,900, but he has never seen a Timing Belt damage everything. I took it to another mechanic who assured me he could come in way under Holden's quote and also assured me he has never seen it damage everything.
• Mine damaged just about everything. Out of 16 valves it damaged 10; it damaged the piston, the engine backing plate and to top it off damaged wiring to the computer system with that part costing $600 alone. All up my bill was $3,736. The sad part is the actual Timing Belt Kit was only $250... " J Edwards, Glenmore Park NSW

SUBJECT: FORD BA MKII XR6, 2005 - BA XR6 Great Vehicle - No complaints (30/08/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "I purchased this car from Denmac Ford at Darra on Christmas Eve 2005. Rang and said I would be down in a week and could they fix it up for me. Turned up in Brisbane on Saturday 24-12-05 at around 9:30am. They had some one pick me up from the airport at take me out to Darra. The car was ready and after signing some papers and insuring it I was on my way. Well the thing was thirstier than an Arab after week crossing a desert. (I must admit that my other car is a 95 EF on LPG). I was looking under the car as the browser started clicking past $70 (I haven't put more than $42 in a car in the past 10 years). The car now has 11,500 km on it and the fuel consumption has improved a lot, not up to where my EF is but its getting there. It some times clunks when changing from reverse to drive, the driver's seat is showing signs of wear and the caps in the middle of the alloy wheels seem to break and fall out. May be these little things will settle down. Other than that it is a brilliant car (No ash tray or lighter - had to pay about $65 for that)
• Would I recommend you race out and buy one? NO. The resale on a 12 month old Ford is 50% or less. You can pick up an 2005 BA or BF Falcon for between $15,000 to $19,000 with about 50,000km. Use: www.governmentauctions.com.au as a guide." R Hay, Clermont QLD

SUBJECT: HOLDEN VX GEN III 5.7 COMMODORE, 2001 - Auto bumps into gear (29/08/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "My VX drives well and changes smooth with the exception of 2nd to 3rd gear.The car has been to a couple of transmission guys who agree its only rough on the change at certain revs. However, they could not offer a solution. I have spoken to a guy with an SS same vehicle and he said its a common problem on the change from 2nd to 3rd.
• Can anyone offer advice or a solution to this one? Thanks" E.Price, Gold Cost QLD

SUBJECT: HOLDEN VECTRA ZC, 2004 - Vectra ZC - brake rotor weakness no warranty (29/08/2006) *WARRANTY*

• "At 38,900 my 6/2004 Holden Vectra CDXI needed to get new front disk rotors at a installed cost of $650. Ireland's in Cairns said that it was not covered under warranty and when I rang head office in Melbourne, after a long debate, logic and customer satisfaction and the protection of Holden's corporate name became casualties. Their warranty rejection was based on Chapter 9-6. You will have to pay for: "brake lining wear or damaged brake components due to lining wear." Watch out for the hidden print in a Holden Vectra's Warranty!
• Unfortunately, the young lady answering my complaint just stated that brake rotors in the Vectra were a soft metal and wore out before other components (unlike Commodores which had different metal in their rotors). I reminded her that that sounded like a faulty or incorrect material in the component and that if she told customers before a sale that this was true then not a single car would have sold. Regardless of the arguments I put up I faced a brick wall.
• This is my first Holden and I was told that service was not what I expected in service. It seems that deception and omission are used to sell cars and the concept of warranty is analogous to a politician's promise. My previous car was a Nissan Bluebird (97 LX) - which gave me 7 years of stunning reliability as well as excellent performance/economy. Why did I sell it for a piece of technological complexity unsupported by an ignorant and penny pinching NASA that claims to be Holden. My first couple of months owning a Holden has been depressing. No wonder GM in the States is collapsing and Toyota is dominant in Australia." C Wright, Cairns QLD

SUBJECT: FORD AU III XR6, 2002 - Ford's disgraceful customer service (29/08/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *WARRANTY*

• "I bought a brand new AUIII XR6 in 2002 and shortly afterwards noticed that it had a problem with the gearbox where it would sometimes jerk between 2nd and 3rd gear. This was a pretty rare occurrence but never the less an annoyance. I tried to get it fixed during warranty on many many occasions but the mechanics could never locate the fault because obviously it would never do it when they test drove it. They said they don't know where to look for the fault.
• I was assured that due to the fact that I had logged the fault it would be fixed even outside of warranty. Now they have finally located the fault ... it needs a brand new gearbox! Ford has stated they will only pay 50% because it is out of warranty even though they fully recognise that the problem was there during the warranty and that I tried to have it fixed. What a disgrace!
• I have refused the offer and am currently considering my options. I have all the paperwork proving the fault was logged on many occasions." A Singh, Corindi Beach NSW

SUBJECT: FORD BA STATION WAGON, 2004 - Gas Conversion - PRICE HIKE (27/08/2006) *GAS CONVERSION* *PRICE WATCH*

• "How's this for a price hike. Prior to the Government rebate I rang a reputable dealer in Bendigo to obtain a quote to convert my vehicle to gas. Quoted between $2500 to $2800 depending on kit. After the release of the rebate the price went to $4200. That's right a price hike of over of $1400. Its called Supply and Demand. I have shopped around, and the best is $3,750" J Harper, Maryborough ACT

SUBJECT: RE Whinge, Whinge, Whinge (26/08/2006)

• "Reply to 'whinge ,whinge , whinge':
  You obviously do not understand the nature of this site. Perhaps you have been badly burned in the past with your purchases of motor vehicles and have developed a hang up as a result. This site is of great benefit to purchasers in that it highlights the faults and pitfalls of many types of motor vehicles. If it annoys you then I would suggest that you go away and find another site to whinge on. "
  P Ogborne, Albany WA ''Heart of the Rainbow Coast ''

SUBJECT: HOLDEN ASTRA CONVERTIBLE, 2003 - Oil Consumption (25/08/2006) *OIL* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "Our Astra Convertible (2.2) uses 1.6 ltrs of oil between services. Holden apparently says this is within their acceptable range of 2 ltrs / 10,000 klms. We have endured this problem since new (has now travelled 67,000 klms). I have never had a car use this amount of oil, in fact my EL Falcon with 287000 klms uses less than this.
• Would be interested in finding out how many other Holden Astra and Vectra owners are experiencing similar problems " N Rowan, Brisbane QLD

SUBJECT: HOLDEN ASTRA, 2002 - Dud air conditioner and brakes (25/08/2006) *AIR COND* *BRAKES* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "I'm starting to smell a rat. Having read some of the comments on this site there is definitely a recurring theme to do with the Astra's air conditioning and brakes. We have had no end of trouble with the air conditioning. The compressor was replaced under warranty and then we also took it back to Holden another couple of times to see if they could find where the gas was leaking from. They never found it but just re gassed the thing. Since our warranty has expired we have had to pay to have it re gassed again and now it has run out again. The thing is a complete DUD. Holden has never fixed it and we have no air conditioning.
• Secondly, I read here with interest about problems with the Astra's brake pads. We have already had them replaced once about two years ago. The car has only now done 60,000 in just over 3 1/2 years and we are having to have them done again at this moment , plus new discs as they are too worn to be machined PLUS a piston has cracked in half. The mechanic can't believe it. Holden won't of course supply just the piston. We have to get an entire new brake caliper for $438 ( thanks Holden). The mechanic says he's never seen a piston snapped like that in such a newish car and that it is made out of a very suspect hard plastic rather than metal. I am FUMING and am going to follow up both these issues all the way. Anyone who wants to join on board with me who has had similar problems, send me an .
• Oh and as for the smell that has come out of someone's air conditioner, ours often stank too. We just called it 'the old man wee smell." Does that sound familiar? We also complained to the Holden Summit Elsternwick dealership about it, and they just fobbed us off.
  I'M ANGRY and don't like being ripped off." Jane, Melbourne VIC

SUBJECT: DEALERSHIP - Ross LLoyd Motors Yarrawonga - Highly Recommend(24/08/2006) *GOOD NEWS*

• "I bought a vehicle from Ross Lloyd motors, almost 3 yrs ago. The service is brilliant and genuine. The mechanics are competent and obliging. I would HIGHLY recommend this dealership without any hesitation. Not only was the sales transaction easy and stress-free, the after-sales service has just been way over the top. 10 outta 10 for these guys! " F Wheeler, Tungamah VIC

SUBJECT: KIA CARNIVAL, 2002 - 2002 Kia is a LEMON (23/08/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK* *NEW CAR*

• "We purchased our Kia in 2002 brand new. Within 2,500 km's we had new lifters put in the motor. New roof liner because it was coming off the roof. New stitching put in passenger seat. At approx 30,000 we had a new CD player put in as the other one just stopped all together ... Wouldnt even turn on. We also had to pay for brakes disc to be machined as the car was shaking when you braked. We had a problem with some part of the fuel system ... had to replace some parts.
• At 70,000 we once again had problems with the new CD player ... was apparently fitted with a new one. At 80,000 the CD player went again. Just noticed paint peeling off driver side mirror. Car is starting to shake again when you brake.
• NOW at not even 90,000 and not even 4 years old we have MAJOR troubles with the motor. Of course the new car warranty has expired and we have been told it will cost us around $6,000 to fix (I don't think a new motor would cost this much). As a mum of a large family I do not have this kind of money.
• We have been told that this problem with the Kia Carnival is common and that Kia know about it ... SO my question is why they have not alerted their customers about the problem. It is absolutely disgusting that they can keep selling these Lemons.
  SAD KIA OWNER - Country N.S.W" J Reid, Canowindra NSW

SUBJECT: LAND ROVER FREELANDER, 2001 - They KNOW it is a design fault, but still don't want to fix (23/08/2006) *DESIGN* *SAFETY*

• "I found the below from a UK website, after my rear diff broke teeth and almost killed me at 110km per hour! My dealer doesn't want to know, and states that I am out of warranty. Yet they know that this is a design fault and they also know how long it should be before it goes!
• 'The Freelander has 3 main drive train problems areas, the Intermediate Reduction Drive (IRD), Viscous Coupling (VC) and the rear differential. The reason for this is the front wheels on the Freelander are driven faster than the rear wheels so it handles well, like a front wheel drive car. To accommodate this ratio difference, a VC is fitted inline with the rear prop shaft which thus is constantly slipping. On the earlier Freelander's this ratio difference is too great causing the viscous coupling to be overworked and thus seize solid. Once seized the front wheels fight the back wheels causing transmission wind-up this rapidly accelerates the wear on the rear diff and the IRD unit, which will cause the imminent failure of either/both. Early warning signs are the saw-tooth effect or scalloping of your rear tyres. Thus be warned if you need to change your diff or your IRD the viscous coupling must also be checked and renewed if necessary to stop the problem.' (http://www.ashcroft-transmissions.co.uk/faq.html#a8)
• I will be without a car for four weeks, will cost me in excess of $4,000 and my resale value has just sunk further. " R Mills, Brisbane QLD

SUBJECT: Whinge, Whinge, Whinge (22/08/2006) *FEEDBACK*

• "Hi All - Don't you people have anything better to do than sit there and whinge about your vehicle's problems that are more than likely your own fault or the previous owners fault. In most cases you have purchased second hand car's and then you bitch and moan about the vehicle? Maybe you all should put more thought into what you are purchasing a vehicle for and who you are purchasing a vehicle from.
• Have a good day" K Wilson, Sydney NSW

SUBJECT: AUDI A3 1.8 (NON TURBO), 1997- car cuts out and wont start for about 20 min's(21/08/2006) *ENGINE* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "My girlfriend bought a 1997 petrol Audi A3 1.8 (non turbo) 3 weeks ago, was only NCTed in June 2006. 2 days ago we stopped at a roundabout and the car just cut out. It wouldn't start for about 30 min's. Drove only 10 min's down the road and it cut out again. We then got it towed to a place and they changed the engine temp sensor. We collected the car the next day, drove to the shop an it cut out again. The car started again so we went back to the garage. They connected the comp up to the car and it gave a code. We now have to go back to them on Tuesday and find out what this code means. If anyone knows of this problem it would be much appreciated. Thanks for your time! " K Fay, Dublin Ph: 086 2215130

SUBJECT: FORD XR8 FALCON UTE, 2005 - automatic transmission problem (21/08/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "In sequential mode before going into first it pauses then thumps into gear. I have had the ute to one Ford dealer where they seem to be putting it into the too hard basket. I'm about to go to a second Ford dealer. The ute is still under plenty of warranty. Is there anybody who can explain this automatic transmission problem? thank you" T Cotter, Brisbane QLD, Ph: 04310 94100

SUBJECT: HYUNDAI GRANDEUR LIMITED, 2006 - "wandering to the left" syndrome? (20/08/2006) *STEERING* *NEW CAR*

• POSTING REMOVED ON REQUEST - SEE FOLLOW UP

SUBJECT: FORD BA, 2003 - Brake Problems (19/08/2006) *BRAKES* *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "The car developed brake shuddering problems whilst under warranty. The dealer fixed it on two occasions, probably by machining the front disc rotors. Now at the 120,000km service it needed new disc pads and new front rotors (as they were below the minimum thickness). Rear pads also needed replacement and the dealer suggested the brake fluid should be flushed and replaced.
• Cost of the parts was $686.65, labour $288.00. Total brake job was $974.65. This car is not driven hard. The tyres original tyres were replaced at 115,000Km and it consistently returns good mpg, but if you add to that the cost of the regular service then I have to admit that it is very expensive to maintain." J Dempsey, Mont Albert VIC

SUBJECT: HOLDEN BARINA XC, 2001 - Releasing Fuel Tank Cover & Gear Shift Problems (19/08/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "I have had my Holden Barina XC 3 Door Manual 2001 since new, 75000km on the odo. There are 2 buttons on the car key:
  - The top one you push once and it opens the drivers door, push it again and it opens the passenger door and the fuel cover.
  - The bottom button locks the car.
  The buttons on my key have just stopped working, not due to the battery. I can open the car with the key manually and also start the car etc. but I cannot refuel the car because there is NO MANUAL RELEASE FOR THE FUEL COVER.
• I just spoke to my local Holden Dealership - asked if there was a manual release, they said no and put me onto the spare parts department: It is going to cost me over $220 for a new key.
• I would like to know if there is any alternate way of opening the fuel cover. If someone could help me with some advice that would be greatly appreciated. I just can't believe the car doesn't have a manual release for the fuel cover - WHAT THE?
• I would also like to say that I have had ongoing problems with my gear selection area, it became difficult to get the gear shift into first and second gear. Approx 1 year ago I took it and got it fixed. Approx 2 months ago it packed up completely, couldn't get the car into any gear and it cost me over $600 to be repaired." A Macaulay, Sunny Coast QLD

SUBJECT: TOYOTA ATEVA, 2004 - Bad after care and customer service (19/08/2006) *DEALERSHIP*

• "I purchased a new toyota car from Phil Glibert in NSW in Oct 2004. There was a minor scratch on the inside of the door on the front passenger seat. I was told that it will take few minutes to do a paint on it but as it is over 5pm when I come in for the first service tell them and they shall fix it. On the 1st service I told them and they said that they have to be told earlier and then only it can be done. Anyhow at the second service I told them when I got it booked. I was going to turn up and rang them a day before to confirm that I am coming in next day. They said that they have not booked the car. Anyhow got another date. On the day they said you had not told us earlier and they have to keep the car for a week. I said then give me a courtesy car which they refused. I have one car only and can't go for job or grocery without the car.
• That paint job is a 10-15 minutes job if they were really interested with good customer care. The Blacktown dealer said that they will do it free of cost but I will lose the warranty and that's the reason I went to them for 2nd service
• I told my friend about Toyota after care customer service. He bought a VW and he is very happy. Wish I had. Anyhow no Toyota any more. " P Gambhir, Sydney NSW

SUBJECT: FORD AU II FAIRMONT, 2000 - Fading LCD Screen Fixed - GOOD NEWS (17/08/2006) *GOOD NEW*

• "After being quoted hundreds of dollars by Ford to fix the LCD screen which displays the distance to empty/overspeed etc on the dash in my Fairmont, I found a site on the net. They are in Moorabbin Vic. I live in Charlestown NSW, pulled it out Monday (using their instructions, 10 minute job and I am no mechanic), posted it that day Express Post and it was back completely fixed Thursday morning. Another 10 minute job to install and all for less than $90. They give a 3 month warranty but reckon it will be for keeps. Thrilled is an understatement." J Ryan, Charlestown NSW

SUBJECT: LAND ROVER DISCOVERY TD5, 2000 - Problems with Service Availability (17/08/2006) *CONSUMER ADVICE* *SERVICE*

• "On a recent trip to Northern Queensland, the Landie stopped at Lawn Hill and would not restart. I had it transported from Lawn Hill to Mt. Isa by RACQ. At Mt. Isa the problem could not be solved. Land Rover was contacted by the Service manager of the repair facility, but showed no interest in helping. The nearest service was available at Townsville! The car would have to be transported there (This is a problem especially if you have a camping trailer attached). In the end I have had it brought back to Adelaide to repair. The trailer was left in storage at Mt Isa. A three month trip ended effectively after 6 weeks.
• Lovely car, excellent economy, but service availability is a problem." R Duance, Nuriootpa SA

SUBJECT: NISSAN X-TRAIL, 2006 - Dealership - Giant Autos Osborne Park - Poor Service (17/08/2006) *DEALERSHIP*

• "The following was sent to the Dealer Principal at Giant Nissan Autos Osborne Park WA to which there was no response and the Sales Manager was rude and unapologetic re purchase of a Nissan X-Trail:
• 'To the Dealer Principal: I am writing to share with you my experience this week with regard to New Car Sales at Giant Nissan. I came to the yard Wednesday afternoon to test drive a new Nissan X-Trail ST S only to find that like Duncan's there were none available. I had a look inside the Ti but quite stubbornly insisted that I wanted to try an ST and that I was concerned about whether the vehicle would fit inside our carport. Rob suggested that it would be possible to bring a vehicle out to us to test it. My husband phoned Wednesday evening to say we were willing to test drive the Ti and so Rob made an arrangement to bring a Ti over Thursday afternoon at 4.30pm. My husband is a very busy Manager but arranged to leave work 2 hours early to come home and we were quite excited about trying the car out.
• At 4.40pm my husband phoned Rob to find out what the hold up was, only to be told that he wasn't coming because he was too busy. I was very unhappy to say the least and phoned your Sales Manager who then accused me of being abusive because I tried to explain how upset I was with the very poor customer service we had received. He did not want to accept that it would be common courtesy to telephone us in advance to let us know that Rob was unable to keep his appointment with us. The whole situation could have been diffused by him apologising about the inconvenience and trying to arrange another more suitable time.
• Obviously given the situation we are unlikely to purchase our new car at Giant Nissan but I have simply taken the time to you because perhaps I am not the only customer that has been treated this way. I realise that this promotion and others have created a sales boom in your industry at present but this should be no excuse for turning away potential customers. We have purchased 5 new Nissan vehicles in the last 10 years and have never been treated this way before. I would appreciate your response with regards to this matter.'
• Note from my Husband: Their service department is also been less that satisfactory re Turbo fix to a RD28T GQ Patrol. " L Salm, Perth WA

SUBJECT: FORD FOCUS, 2002 - Worn out tires (17/08/2006) *TIRES*

• "I have a 2002 Ford Focus and it is the worst car I have ever owned when it comes to driving. I have spent money on tires every year. I talked to Ford motor co. about the problem and they are so in the dark about their own cars. I talked to the dealership where I purchased the vehicle and they gave me so many excuses as to why the car is wearing out tires. I have had the car aligned and that didn't work. I have replaced tires at least 3 times since I've had the car. The car has no camber adjustment on the rear causing the car to be out of alignment. I know people that have owned the Focus and they told me the same thing about their cars as well. One of them was a mechanic that owned nothing but Ford. After owning that Focus, it turned him into a Nissan man. I am convinced that Ford knows about the problem but I guess no one has been hurt so it is no BIG issue yet? I can't believe that a co. like Ford has been in business for so long that it does not know about the quality of products they are making; they need to fix that problem fast!" R Winnegan, Smithfield 757-356-0337

SUBJECT: HOLDEN ASTRA, 1999 - Desperate for info (16/08/2006) *ADVICE WANTED* *POWER STEERING*

• "I have owned my 1999 Astra for 8 months and the power steering has just stopped working. It is currently at the mechanic and no-one knows what could be wrong with it. My mechanic has contacted Holden and other power steering specialists and because it is not leaking any fluid they have no idea what else it could be or even how exactly it works. We know it runs by electromagnetics and have figured there seems to be power getting to the unit. At the moment they are not even able to source the software required to talk to the car as it is overseas. I am freaking out, how can manufacturers of cars not have a clue as to how they work. I trust my mechanic but not places like Holden, especially since they don't even know how to get to the bottom of the problem. Only advice been given by specialists is pull it apart and see. Although I am not confident at that approach and what it may cost without even fixing the problem. I want to know if anyone has any info about Astra power steering systems." R Madden-Hallett, Brisbane QLD

SUBJECT: KIA PREGIO, 1999 - Unreliable (16/08/2006) *CONSUMER ADVICE*

• "My company runs 5 Kia Pregios and all have had faults:
  - A common electrical fault is for the central locking to activate without pressing the button, causing your keys to be locked in if you are not careful.
  - All 5 have had the front RH tyre badly worn on the inside within 20000 ks and needed major wheel alignment (not covered by warranty).
  - 2 have had the rear wheel bearing collapse at around 70000ks causing oil leak, brakes to drag on drum, overheating and resulting in a fire (I have also seen Pregios on the side of the road with a smoking back wheel)
  - air conditioning failure
  - cracks developing in welds and seams
• Personally I find the Kia Pregio under powered and doesn't keep up with the flow of traffic, top speed of about 120 (eventually) which makes it difficult to overtake trucks on country runs. Fuel consumption of about 500ks per 60l tank
• However the Pregio is a very cheap van and you only get what you pay for. Kia in Canninton has always addressed our problems promptly, no difficulties with warranty. Some parts have taken a while to get (3 weeks for rear axle)" Rob, Perth WA

SUBJECT: HOLDEN BARINA, 1999 - Always Overheating - Need help (15/08/2006) *COOLING SYSTEM* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "I bought my car a little over a month ago and after the first three weeks when I was driving to work along the freeway my car started overheat and some steam or smoke came out of the engine. This scared me and so I called the dealership from where I had purchased it. After a long discussion and only after my boyfriend had called did they come and get the car and look at it. I was told after three days that nothing was wrong with my car and they had looked over everything.
• Ever since I got it back it overheats when I drive in the morning and even when I drive home sometimes. I've been told that it's ok to drive when the temperature is around 97 degrees. My problem is that if I continue driving my car going on the advice of the dealership and their mechanic and the head gasket warps and stuffs the engine up, its on my shoulder and its not covered under the warranty. So I'm stuck - I don't know what to do.
• Does anyone know if the Holden Barina are supposed to heat up this much?" E Batory, Perth WA

SUBJECT: KIA RIO, 2000 - re: posting (15/08/2006) *FEEDBACK* *WARRANTY*

• "A dealer can only fault a car if it does it in their possession. Now I don't know the story with that but regarding the clutch problem, the car is now over 3 years old! Having said that, it is not that unrealistic for the car needing this repair. If you found the problem with the clutch cable and clutch plate BEFORE the vehicle ran out of warranty, the dealer would not replace them anyway because they re not a warrantable item. In other words it is a wear and tear item. A car maker will not replace something that's going to wear out after 3 years of driving. Think of it as a set of wiper blades. They wont replace them." A Neil, Katoomba NSW,

SUBJECT: HOLDEN ADVENTRA/CAPRICE/CALAIS, 2005 - Non secure security system (15/08/2006) *VEHICLE SECURITY*

• "Following a theft from my LX6 Adventra, I discovered that the security system can be set and activated with the rear doors (or tailgate) open! The deadlock activates, the indicators flash and the horn chirps to advise that the alarm system has been activated properly even though the doors may have been left wide open.
• I've checked standard alarms fitted to Ford and Mitsubishi vehicles and they either refuse to activate the alarm / security system at all or they carry on with a series of annoying horn chirps to advise that the door/s are open/ajar.
• Holden advised me that this was a "feature" of their alarm system, but were unable to explain how this "feature" enhances the security of my vehicle. There is no mention of this "feature" anywhere in owners manual." R Sturm, Melbourne VIC

SUBJECT: HOLDEN TS ASTRA CITY, 2001 - Fuse Diagram in TS Astra City Handbook 2001 (14/08/2006) *FUSE* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "My central locking is not responding (after incorrectly changing a globe). I believe a fuse may be responsible. The fuse diagram in the owner's handbook has 2 horizontal rows of 18 fuses per row - with the fuses themselves positioned vertically. However, my fuse box has 4 horizontal rows of fuses, with the fuses positioned horizontal. The handbook also indicate a 20A fuse is responsible, but all 3 20A fuses appear ok and are responsible for other functions. Can anyone help?" W Webb, Strathmore VIC

SUBJECT: LAND ROVER DISCOVERY, 2002 - Landrover Australia Avoid Warranty (13/08/2006) *ABS BRAKES* *WARRANTY*

• "I have a failing ABS Modulator in my 2002 Landrover Discovery that was reported by the original owner well within the warranty period of the vehicle at 36000 kms. The vehicle now only has 49000 km's on it. A Landrover dealer reset the unit and carried out two recalls and then charged me $374 to fix the problem. The same fault appeared 24 hours after the repairs were carried out. On re-diagnosing the fault I was told by a Melbourne Landrover Service advisor, "Sorry we got it wrong, we followed Landrover Australia instructions" and it will now cost $4000 to replace the ABS Modulator.
• I have been informed that as the second owner of the vehicle, Landrover Australia will not help with the repacement part that was reported and diagnosed by an authorised Landrover Dealer in the warranty period. I have since found by researching on the internet that many other Landrover Discovery and Landrover Freelander owners have had exactly the same situation with Landrover in Australia. It would appear to me that after two recalls on the ABS Modulator units that Landrover have a problem that they wish to hide.
• After owning 5 Landrovers and receiving this sort of treatment from Landrover Australia I will do everything I can to inform the public that this sort of service is unacceptable and potentially dangerous as the fault is in the braking system. I have taken the problem to Consumer Affairs Victoria who are looking at avenues to bring Landrover Australia to cooperate in this matter." M Kitchener, Melton VIC Ph: 03 97479933,

SUBJECT: HOLDEN VIVA - re: posting (11/08/2006) *FEEDBACK*

• "There has been only a very small handful of cases in the last 50 years where someone has had their car replaced or receive refund. Every single car maker has a no refund policy of sorts. The last time was a HSV Clubsport but by the time the case was won, it was well and truly a used car by then. It is going to be a case of be persistent with the dealer and don't lose the plot with them. They will try their best and you will get a chance to vent your anger. More so with Holden because you will receive a PDS (Purchase and Delivery Survey) just after you have the car and a SSS (service satisfaction survey). Holder police these so heavily and if you make it bad, Holden will want to know why.
• Also don't be afraid to ring CAS (customer assistance line) and put the boot in there. Your car will one day be right but there are channels to go through" A Neil, Kato NSW

SUBJECT: NISSAN NAVARA, 2002 - Diesel dual cab (11/08/2006) *FEEDBACK* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "Re Mr McLennan 26/7/2006 I have a Navara 2002 STD which has the same problem. I have changed rear springs, torsion bars, brake pads, and anything else bar trading it in. It appears from talking to people with these models that it is a common problem when carrying a load on the Navara. If he has a solution I would be grateful, if not could Nissan solve the problem as Canberra Nissan thinks it is all in our minds " P Butterfield, Wanniassa ACT

SUBJECT: KIA RIO, 2000 - Piece of ... (11/08/2006) *CONSUMER ADVICE*

• "I bought my car in early 03. A day after taking it home there was no power. After getting it back it only got worse. I have had to take it in 4 times since. The second time it went back the bearings had to be replaced at 1 year old. The third time was that the car kept stalling. The fourth was the boot would not stay open and that the gear would not shift smoothly. When I went to pick it up they said that there was nothing wrong with the gears and everything was o.k. Now the warranty has run out. I need a new clutch cable and a new clutch. " T Carlton, Brisbane QLD PH: 0419 794948

SUBJECT: FORD FAIRMONT, 2003 - Auto Transmission - design fault? (10/08/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "My Fairmont overheated yesterday. The Ford dealer that it was towed to has informed me that the repairs will total $4350. I'm not a mechanic, so in plain English they have said that the transmission oil is cooled via a hose to the radiator. That pipe has burst inside the radiator and the transmission oil has been mixed with the radiator water. End result is a new radiator, numerous new hoses and a complete rebuild of the transmission. I spoke with a company that deals with transmissions and they said that this was a common problem with the BA. He even said that they don't fix it the way it was. His company installs a separate cooling unit (oil not cooled through by the radiator) for $500 so that the problem doesn't happen again.
• I spoke to the Ford dealer about this and they said that they fixed it exactly the way it was before (through the radiator). He was aware of the alternative and offered to install that for $400 on top of the $4350 already quoted. He suggested that it was a good thing to do as they couldn't guarantee that it wouldn't happen again. Any suggestions?" D McNally, Perth WA

SUBJECT: FORD FALCON FUTURA, 2002 - Do not buy from Purely Commercials/Wanneroo Autos (10/08/2006) *DEALER*

• "On the 22 February 2006, my wife & I purchased the above fore mentioned vehicle from Wanneroo Autos. Upon the purchase, I informed Steve, our sales man that the brakes needed attention and that the boot tool kit was missing. He informed me that these things would be attended to before we acquired the vehicle. When we went to pick the vehicle up as it needed to have tint fitted and brakes repaired, our sales man gave me the keys, pointed to the rear driveway and said, "Thanks mate, good luck, the cars around the back." This surprised me a little as previous experience with car yards told me that sales people normally usher you to your vehicle and introduce it to you but apparently, not on this occasion.
• Once home, I decided I should check the vehicle over for any problems that I missed at the dealership as I was aware of the statutory warranty. At this point, I noticed the tool kit was still missing. I promptly rang the dealer and spoke to Steve who said, I will organise to send it to me. Two weeks later, I had still not received the kit so I rang the dealer, this time opting to speak to Steve Henshall, the dealer manager. He advised me that, if I wanted it, I had to come get it. This was unreal considering that I was told it would be sent to me originally. I stated this and was told, no, we won't do that. At this point, I was beginning to wonder what would happen had my wife had a flat tyre on her journeys and wanted to get these tools promptly. I rang back the next day to speak to Steve to find out what he could do. He was too busy with a customer so I left a message to ask him to return my call.
• After weeks of constant message leaving, (the number left is part of an emergency services dispatch system, therefore never unavailable) I finally got a return call. I managed to negotiate a deal where they would drop the tools off at my mother in laws place in Dianella. This still seemed to be almost too hard as once this was arranged, it still took two phone calls to follow it up to ensure it finally got there. At this point, we still had not addressed any other actual defects with the vehicle. I rang to organise rectification of faults, two to three weeks after the tool kit had arrived and after a friend of mine who is a Ford trained mechanic reviewed the vehicle to identify faults. The vehicle was still in the warranty period time but only just time wise. At this point, I was informed, Steve was away on leave and that the fill in manager could help, but as he was out of the office, to leave a message. I done so, and received no return call. I did this two or three times before calling up and asking for the number for the person who managed the operations for Londy pty ltd. They gave me the number for Purely Commercials Wangara and a contact, Shaun. I rang Shaun and he advised me that he would sort this out, told me that we could take the vehicle to Bibra Lake as it was closer. I was happy with this and in closing, was told to expect a telephone call from someone soon to confirm day & time of the repairs.
• As expected, this did not occur and again, we were left in the lurch. I rang Shaun again, could not reach him and was asked to leave a message. I did this and as expected, did not receive any return call. By this time, my patience was wearing fairly thin and a further phone call to Wanneroo Autos allowed me to make contact with acting manager at the time. I was a little heated over the phone, he apologised and stated that the problems would be rectified but the vehicle under no circumstance could go to Bibra Lake and had to go to Wanneroo. This was an absolute contradiction on what I had already been told. I stated that it was very difficult for me to get the vehicle into them as I seldom have dealings in that vicinity and they were in Wanneroo and me in Rockingham. This did not change anything. By this time the vehicle was now out of the time frame for the warranty period but not the 5000 km limit.
• I left this scenario for three or four days to allow myself to compose myself again and made yet, another telephone call to Wanneroo to speak to Steve Henshaw who by this time, returned. I again stated my plight and he told me that Bibra Lake would be contacted and that they would ring me with confirmed time & date. I waited a further two weeks after this point to no avail.
• I have had no attention to the vehicle and my wife and I have had enough of the run around. I was in the vicinity of the car yard on Friday 29 July 2006 due to work commitments. I pulled in and confronted Steve Henshall. He took down my details and advised me he would ring on Monday. He rang late Monday and told me that he couldn't get hold of the guy down at Bibra Lake and that he would make contact with me by latest Tuesday morning. No return call was made until Friday afternoon 4th August at approx 4pm. I answered the call and was greeted by Steve Henshaw. I must admit I had had enough of the situation and said "oh, finally". I got some lip back telling me "there's no need to be like that". I think I have every right to be that and somewhat more is what I replied with. He told me the vehicle is booked in for Monday 7th August 2006 at Bibra Lake. I informed him the vehicle would be there. Upon arriving at the service centre, Nelson, the mechanic told my wife that the car had not been booked in by Wanneroo autos and that the car would not be looked at until tomorrow. The next day the vehicle was repaired. However, some things were "botched" up rather than replacing parts. I am not happy. The vehicle apparently has a noisy water pump and that part is considered a wear/tear part so it is not covered. I have rebuilt seven Ford Falcon's all of various series and I have never changed water pumps like tyres.
• This yard is very dodgy. I would sell the car but its going to cost a bit of cash to fix it up to sell. I don't believe in cheating someone else." T Wegwermer, Rockingham WA
• ========== REPLY ==========
  "I just want to say that the service that I got from buying a car from Steve at Waneroo Autos was the best of any of the previous sales person I have dealt with in the past at any yard in Perth. I think you need to build a bridge and get over it T Wegwermer, Rockingham WA. You can't slander a sales person without knowing both sides.

  All calls to this sales person were answered in a timely fashion. I never had a single issue with Steve or anyone else at this yard. Everyone was polite to me and acted in a professional manner. The car that I purchased needed the air con regassing. The car yard proceeded to install a new air con at no cost to me.

  I would strongly recommend anyone looking to buy a car should definitely go to this yard and ask for Steve. If T Wegwermer, Rockingham WA has no idea what buying a second hand car is about and should have read the fine print on the warranty to see what was and was not covered. If you were so worried about your wife getting a flat tyre then you should join the RAC or something of the like. "
  
  POSTED BY: J SMITH - MIDLAND, WA 27/02/2007

SUBJECT: TOYOTA CAMRY V6, 2003 - Differential problem (09/08/2006) *DIFFERENTIAL* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "We own a 2003 V6 Camry which developed a major differential problem after only 63,000 kms. The problem was repaired by Toyota but the labour charge was not covered which ended up costing $1710. Terry Shields Toyota's own staff admitted that this particular model had an inherent problem in this specific model and that MODIFIED parts were made by Toyota to fix the issue. I am now in the process of reporting this to the Department of Fair Trading, and would like to know if anyone else has had the same problem with the differential in this model." K Farrugia, Sydney NSW , 0438 439774

SUBJECT: HOLDEN ASTRA CD, 2005 - Interior light replacement (08/08/2006) *ADVICE WANTED*

• "Can anyone tell me how to replace the interior light globe (no instruction in manual). I have tried to pull light fitting out but seems to require a lot of force which doesn't seem right, so I didn't persist. Holden dealer wasn't much help. Was told that they aren't allowed to give out technical information! I told them I just want to replace a light globe and they told me that I would have to book the car in and let a mechanic do it! I know it is probably a very simple job. Can someone advise me how the interior light fitting is removed so I can stick in a new globe, it would be fantastic." S Webb, Melbourne VIC

SUBJECT: BIKES - HARLEY - Want a Harley (08/08/2006)

• "I am 50 and have severe rheumatoid arthritis and basically my life is nearly finished. I want to ride a Harley into the bush for a month and write a book then come back and give less fortunate kids a ride for as long as I can. Can anyone suggest a Harley in the $10,000 range that will do the job without falling to bits. Your help is greatly appreciated. Regards" D Walsh, Currambine WA PH: 08 93042778

SUBJECT: FORD EF SER II, 1996 - gearbox locks into 3rd gear (07/08/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "I own a 96 EF series 2 Falcon. I am after any advice on my gearbox problem. It seems to lock into 3rd gear after driving for around 10-15ks. I have taken it to my Ford dealer but as usual it won't do it while its at the dealers. This problem isn't constant. The car can run fine for months and not do it. Then one day it will lock into 3rd gear and stay there until I leave the car turned off for a while. It could repeat this problem for a month or so then becomes fine again. I have had the gearbox oil checked and its fine and the car has been serviced. Any ideas would be a great help. Thanks" R Ohlson, Rosebud VIC

SUBJECT: BIO DIESEL - NISSAN NAVARA, 2006 (06/08/2006) *FUEL* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "I have filled up twice with Bio Diesel. There has been no difference to the running of the vehicle, a 2006 Nissan Navara. It is still performing well but at its last service (20000 km) it was pointed out to me that there was an unusual amount of what can best be described as sludge in the fuel filter. It was not of a gritty nature nor was there evidence of water . It could best be described as a grey material. I showed it to my local Gull Petroleum retailer. He was concerned and offered to contact their head office. I have also ed them re this. Has anyone had the same problem? " P Ogborne, Albany WA

SUBJECT: HOLDEN, ASTRA, 2004 - Just Lucky I Guess (05/08/2006) *GOOD NEWS*

• "I was really surprised to read all the bad luck stories involving these cars! I've had my Astra since new, and it has never skipped a beat! Not one problem! It's just turned 77,000km too.
• Last service the dealer recommended that the timing belt be changed (despite the manual stating 90,000km) which I flatly refused. I guess they gotta try. I'm still on the original brakes, although the tires were changed late last year. Apart from that, its all good. My 2003 VY Commodore was another story. Faulty antenna, worn fabric after 3 months. I don't recall the horn EVER working. Central locking was replaced twice after locking me in or out, sometimes the door just wouldn't close and I'd have to hold it closed till the nearest dealer, and the most inaccurate petrol gauge ever. I was caught out three times with this ... Distance to Empty read anywhere up to 200km, but there I was on the side of the road, tank bone dry!
  From new, I had that car for 6 months before going into the Astra. Needless to say I'll never buy another Commodore, although the VE looks very tempting ..." G McIlvaney, Wollongong NSW

SUBJECT: HOLDEN, VIVA, 2006 - Viva the Lemon - never ending problems (04/08/2006) *NEW CAR* *ADVICE WANTED* *RESPONSE*

• " I purchased a new Holden Viva this year in February, and have taken it in at least once every month since then for various problems. Occasionally the car won't start first time, the suspension is loud and required repairs, there is a squeaking sound coming from the engine and the doors rattle.
• When Holden tries to fix the problems they seem to find additional problems such as loose wiring, faulty bearings and metal that needs sanding down in the harmonic balancer. I am taking my Holden in for a replacement harmonic balancer that will then be "glued in". However this gluing in is not standard procedure. Holden has advised me that they will just keep fixing problems as they arise and If I am unsatisfied I should go external. Has anyone ever had success in getting their car bought back or replaced?" Stacey, Melbourne VIC

SUBJECT: DEALERSHIP, Jubilee Ford Sydney - Terrible service Avoid Jubilee Ford (04/08/2006) *DEALERSHIP*

• "My wife & I went to look at a late model used car at this car yard in Five Dock, Sydney. Jubilee Ford were big noting themselves from the time we called no end, touting that they'd been in business 35 yrs. I could trust them, they had a reputation and all these standards etc etc etc. So we've informed the salesman we'd be down in 1/2 hr to inspect and test drive the vehicle, a 2004 Corolla Conquest.
• We turn up and its absolutely filthy. So much dust and dirt on the outside I can't make out the true condition of the paintwork. The interior is REALLY bad ... one of the worst I've ever seen, stains and marks all over. So the salesman, Bob Wingate tells me they've had it a few weeks - haven't done anything to it; its an ex-Navy car. He assures me he'll have it fully detailed and add new floor mats. It's also well overdue for a service, which he'll do as well - ruling out a test drive being too meaningful. I tell him I need the price down from where its at, which he implies is no problem and he'll be happy to do - within the margin he has when I come back tomorrow. Based on this information I pass on several other vehicles I was looking at & lose the option on them.
• The next day, I'm called by the Ast. Mgr of their Used Car Sales advising:
  1) They're not going to clean up the car at all - it will be sold as is. Despite this being promised to me multiple times.
  2) They're not going to move the price at all - despite this being promised to me.
  3) The car was filthy outside as they are obeying the water restrictions - funny, other car they had was clean and all the other car yards had no such problems!
  4) When I stated that I'd been clearly promised all these things, he laughed it off saying he was Ast. Mgr of Jubilee Ford and the salesman wasn't!
  5) He very insincerely apologised but made no concessions or explanations at all.
  In short, I'd never deal with these cowboys again - very unprofessional and unethical in their business practices. " N Fryer, Harris Park NSW

SUBJECT: KIA CARNIVAL, 2002 - Kia trouble (03/08/2006) *ENGINE* *CONSUMER ADVICE* *NEW CAR*

• "We purchased a new Kia Carnival in 2002. We had the CD/radio replaced four times in two years. We finally put in a new one that we bought ourselves. We had three seats replaced because of faulty stitching. We had a passenger mirror replaced because the paint was peeling off. The drivers mirror needs to be replaced but the car is now out of new car warranty and they want to charge us for it. The head gasket has now gone. Because of the way Kia Motors are, you apparently have to replace the whole motor when this occurs. Cost of a reconditioned one was quoted at just over $5,000!! Is a new car only supposed to last four years? What are we supposed to do? What a lemon! Do not buy a Kia Carnival if you want your new car to last (at least a few years!)." C Russell, Wyong NSW

SUBJECT: FORD BA GT, 2003 - Cruise control & hard starting (02/08/2006) *ADVICE WANTED*

• "My BA GT has spent 4 months of the last three years having warranty repairs performed. Its had the engine rebuilt once, 2 x gearboxes (dealer left oil out of one) 2 diffs, diff carrier welded (minimal weld from factory), 2 x lower control arms, radiator replaced, clutch failed, roof ling, rear parcel shelf, air bag lights come on intermittently, 16 valves & 32 valve springs replaced. Front spoiler painted twice after dealer scratched. Rear hand brake mechanism replaced.
• Currently the car is hard to start when hot. Takes two or three goes & the cruise control does not work. These two symptoms only occurred after last cylinder head job.
• Any help with these two problems greatly appreciated. " B Preston, Kalamunda WA

SUBJECT: HOLDEN ASTRA, 2000 - Further to my comments of 21/6/06 (01/08/2006) *DEALER*

• "Holden paid for the timing belt and all associated costs (parts and labour) after one phone call to Holden head office. Thank you to Von Bibra Twin Towns Holden for carrying out the repairs. No thanks to Robina Holden who couldn't care less about the mess they contributed to" M Mayall, Burleigh QLD

SUBJECT: DEALER COMPLAINTS - "All Buyers are Liars" (01/08/2006) *DEALER* *CONSUMER ADVICE*

• "It bothers me that I sit here and read some comments from people about the treatment or lack of treatment and lies etc from car dealers. I am sure that there are stories behind every single one of them.
• I am not a car dealer but I know how they operate. There is a saying around car yards "All Buyers are Liars". How many times has someone gone into a dealer and said, I can get it for less than that down the road when in fact you can't or you have not ever spoken to the dealer down the road.
• I don't think people know how much they lie to car dealers. Yeah there may be the odd sales person that will say something that is not 100% accurate but I am sure that 99.9% of them are normal humans making an HONEST LIVING. It is not a crime for a company like Telstra, Coles, Foxtel etc to make money so why is it almost a criminal act when a car yard does.
• One comment I saw here said that he paid over the market value and he found things that were wrong with the car after he took it home. Well why did you buy it if it was over prices and secondly, why didn't you get it looked at before you purchased it. It seems to me that all the dealer has done wrong here is not be accommodating when you contacted them. It is the buyer that should have done the checks and assuming that you are an expert on market values, you should know the steps in buying a car.
• Service. Well what can I say. I have had bad dealings with dealers regarding things that are not quite correct. New Car dealers are not the people who make the rules when it comes to warranty. It is their head office so stop shooting the messenger. They will help you when they can but often their hands are tied.
• Quite often people get a raw deal because of their attitude. If you go into a car dealer with the wrong attitude, you are going to get it back. Treat them as if you were going to buy a can of coke or something, it will go much better in the long run. For the "eddie the experts" out there that claim they know the market values of cars and how to fix them maybe they should be looking for a new line of work. Like selling cars ..." Andrew, Sydney NSW