KIA CARNIVAL, 2005 - Engine problems with new model (30/11/2006) *ENGINE* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "We (now appears stupidly!) purchased 2005 Kia Carnival 7 seater in May 2006 after owning 2001 model which had the commonly known faulty engine. When told that 2001 car would be off road (while engine fixed by Kia - must add when out of warranty) for 6 weeks! we decided to trade on 2005 model after being constantly reassured that the new model did NOT have same fault. We got good trade price for 2001model - which was in bits and off we went.
• Now six months and only 5000 kms later the car is losing coolant! No one can find reason and now Kia Wangara (W.A.) are going to pull motor apart to check head gasket. Starting to sound all too familiar!!!
• Car off road for at least a week - they can give us a 'loan' car but will cost us $30 a day for insurance! KIA Wangara assure us they have no knowledge of other 2005 models with this problem. Has anyone experienced or heard of this problem with post 2004 Carnivals?" L Carter, Perth WA
• ========== REPLY ==========
  Please be aware that the Kia Carnival (05-06 model) still has engine problems. There are a number of cases of engine failures (oil in the water from failed head gasket) at relatively low kms (11K - 40K kms).

  Kia Australia has provided replacement short motors in order to fix the problem, however, it is not known if this will rectify the problem. Please be careful in purchasing any Carnival, as I do not believe that this year's model is any better. Poor quality vehicle that should not be sold to the public and Kia Australia should be held accountable to the public.
  POSTED BY: R HEMA - TOWNSVILLE, QLD 25/01/2007

DEALER, JOHN NEWELL MAZDA - Buyer beware! (30/11/2006) *DEALER* *FINANCE*

• "Do not obtain finance from John Newell Mazda. We just bought a car and got ****** off. Careful of what you sign, dealership gave us the wrong information and now we are out of pocket several hundred dollars. They bumped up the interest rate by 3% compared to other banks. They've told us we can resign the contract but we've had to refinance elsewhere. Buyer beware!" L Pejkic, Sydney NSW

HOLDEN VE COMMODORE, 2007 - This is soooo bad (27/11/2006) *NEW CAR* *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "I brought a brand new Holden, it was a couple of months ago now. I am still having problems with it. It has been back and forth from Service place to Service place, to no avail. I just want it fixed. I have brought 2 cars before this one at the same place in the past 4 years.
• This is the first brand new car I have ever purchased. I know its a brand new series, but should this really happen? Why can't anybody help me with this, because no one really cares. Engine mounts were meant to be replaced and I don't think they were (well with new ones anyway). Its been recalled for seat belts and also a fuel line.
• This is horrible, so much money was spent when making this car, how embarrassing for Holden. My first new car ever, never again. " M Lindsey, Daylesford VIC

FORD COURIER, 2002 - Gear Box problems (27/11/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *FEEDBACK WANTED* *FEEDBACK*

• "Interested to hear from people who own Ford Couriers 4x4 Turbo Diesels that have had either gear box problems or gear box failures. My 3.5 year old Courier had travelled 187000K with mostly open road driving and moderate loads(200 - 300kg) when the 5th gear failed causing $3k damage to the gear box. Ford did not want to know about it and the dealer (although very sympathetic could not help). I believe the same gear box is fitted to the Mazda Bravo of the same vintage and comments from people I have spoken to say that is a common problem. Can anybody confirm this either way. Ford or Mazda?." D Cockman, Perth WA

FORD BA RTV UTE, 2004 - Stalling - computer failure (27/11/2006) *COMPUTER* *ENGINE* CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "Purchased BA Ute still under warranty. Started losing power especially on hills, or stalled completely driving 50 kph or 100 kph. Replaced filters, pumps and dealer also spent quite a bit of time and money. After last tow back, dealer replaced computer and have had no trouble since. Computers do not show if they have problems and it's a case of elimination by repairers.
• Car also squeaks in brakes - dealer says it's dry calipers and cannot be fixed. Also a couple of other squeaks in back end. " K Lysaght, Coolabah NSW

HOLDEN BARINA, 2001 - Re: TRANSMISSION (26/11/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *TIMING BELT* *DEALER* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "I had the same problem (Barina gear box/gear shift problems) with my 2001 Barina when I was living in Darwin. The car was still under warranty so I took it back to Kerry Holden and they assured me that they had fixed it. However the problem surfaced again a few months later, still under warranty. Kerry Holden then told me they had replaced it. Car went well for a few more months.
• Once the warranty ran out it happened again so I took it to Ultratune as they were closer to where I was working. Ultratune had to replace the part and kept the old one to show me what Kerry Holden had done when they told me they had replaced. I was shocked to see that what Kerry Holden told me was a new part (when it was still under warranty) had actually just been bodgied up. Needless to say, once it was replaced by Ultratune I had no further problems in that department.
• However I now have another problem and that is the timing belt. My daughter bought the car from me 2 months ago and the timing belt has gone. All services have been done on time and we can see no record in the service book of timing belt ever having been touched so she contacted Kerry Holden to obtain a detailed copy of all work carried out by them. They told her that they have no records prior to 2004.
• She then phoned head office who told her this is not the normal procedure and that they should have records. She again phoned Kerry Holden and spoke to the same rude lady with an obvious attitude problem who informed her that head office do not know what they are on about and hung up in her ear.
• Any advice on how to deal with this would be greatly appreciated. My daughter needs the car to get to work each day but can't afford the $2500 repair bill for the timing belt. We can't prove that Kerry Holden were at fault as they won't provide detailed records of service and all we have are the service books with minimal information. Thanks." T Shiels, Coffs Harbour NSW

KIA RIO, 2003 - Dead at 3 years old (26/11/2006) *ENGINE* *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "As a first car I was extremely happy with the Kia Rio 5 door hatch. It was zippy, and did what you expect from a small car seemingly effortlessly. Then came the product recall for "fuel rail". We took it to the Kia dealer Steve Jarvin Motors who fixed the defect which had never shown itself to us.
• 9000ks later and the car won't idle under 1500 rpm. We again took it to Steve Jarvins. The vehicle came back with a new noise. We took it back and were told 'it would wear in'. We asked regarding the health of the car and the service manager said it would be fine until its 40,000km service.
• Unfortunately we missed it. At 41,102 ks, the car spat the timing gear through the timing cover seizing the motor. Dead at 3.
• DO NOT BUY A KIA. Since I began researching complaints I have found similar very expensive defects in all models. " S Mobbs, Sydney NSW

FORD FOCUS, 2002 - Major problem so soon (26/11/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *NEW CAR* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "Purchased a Focus in Jan 2003 (so got a 2002 model). Not yet 4 years later and only 30,000 km on the clock my transmission needs a major fix costing $3200. Ford doesn't seem to know what the problem is but do know the transmission has to come out and be taken apart.
• I'm amazed. I don't recall even spending this much on past second hand cars during the many years I had them. I thought a new car would be cost effective. I'm wondering if after the next 30,000 km I'll be up for another huge bill. I'm not even driving 10,000 kms a year.
• Has anyone else encountered problems with their auto transmission?" J Flatt, Melbourne VIC

UPDATE - RENAULT CLIO, 2002 - A Clio that Renault can't fix (26/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "I posted this problem and I have since read "Renault Clio is a little ripper".
• Further information to support my claim - Consumer Affairs have looked at the situation and agree with me. They contacted the dealer "Rex Gorell Geelong". I have had further conversations with the dealer service department that provided no hint of a resolution or concern. Consumer Affairs could not resolve this and are now assisting me with my VCAT claim .
• Brett Gorell was asked to contact me directly, from the dealer, and never did. I had second hand conversations with the service department. Renault Australia have made no contact with me and the dealer has said once again they will talk to Renault.
• I waited 7 months last time and they want me to wait again. This matter has nearly been going on 4 years now. Cheers" M Richo, Geelong VIC

FORD XR6T, 2003 - Premium brake package (25/11/2006) *BRAKES* *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "I purchased the car in August 2003 with just about every option possible including the premium brake package. I have only done 58,000k's in a little over 3 years. The dealer said brake pads need replacing. Fair enough, I thought for that amount of 'kays' was a good run, but then I was told that the rotors had to be replaced because the premium rotors can't be skimmed. To make matters worse the Ford service centre wouldn't tell me why the rotors were 'throw aways'. I had to go to an after market brake specialist to get the answer.
• It appears that the rotors can't be skimmed because of the way the grooves are located. The skimming machine tends to 'track' the grooves & this gouges the rotor. Solution, sell car & buy something other than Ford." K Kerr, Sunshine Coast QLD

HOLDEN ASTRA EQUIPE, 2002 - Holden Brand (25/11/2006) *IGNITION* CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "My wife bought a new Holden Astra Equipe 2002 (Classic). We found out that this particular Holden car has many manufacturer's defects or design problems, which Holden are covering up. In our opinion, this organization is not fit to be in business due to the lack of responsibility, integrity and ethics towards the customers.
• Since we purchased this vehicle we have had many problems related to design faults. A year ago just before Christmas, her Astra broke down as she was entering a major intersection in the afternoon during heavy traffic. This incident put her life in danger as she lost total power and control of the car, due to a fault in the ignition system (Electrical). Holden admitted that the cause of the problem was due to a design fault in the ignition system and only offered to pay for the cost of the damaged parts.
• The dealership was supposed to have replaced the ignition system but today my car broke down again due to a problem related with the ignition. I lost confidence and respect towards the "Holden Brand". I think reputation is everything in a very competitive market." A Rojas, Perth WA

NISSAN PATROL, 2003 - 3 litre turbo diesel (24/11/2006) *CLUTCH* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "I bought the 3 litre turbo manual Nissan 3 years ago and have used it as a car. Only one trip to Fraser Island, no towing. At 140,000 kilometers the flywheel separated. Had the Nissan towed to the local Nissan dealer and had a new flywheel and clutch fitted at a cost of $4500.
• I have rung the Nissan customer service 5 times and had 2 brief replies. Both gents said they would look into my problem and get back to me. The dealer advised that the clutch was hardly worn and they could see that the breakdown was not driver error or hard work. Has anyone else had same pathetic response from Nissan?" B Fisher, Gold Coast QLD

HOLDEN COMMODORE, 1995 - Holden service my **** (24/11/2006) *OIL* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "Bought a 95 Commodore (Acclaim) back in Feb 2006. Was pretty straight and ran nicely, put leaked oil and had a noisy pulley.
  Took the car into John Sivyer Holden at Moorooka and got them to fit new pulleys. No worries they said. It was leaking from the rocker covers so I had them do this also. Got the car back and drove it for 2-3 weeks.
• Car continued to leak oil along with developing rattling noises in the engine and smoking quite bad. They had put the wrong oil in it. Not carried out engine flush as requested, had not replaced gaskets, but had removed one of the old ones! Had them re-do it, car stopped leaking oil. BUT, within the 6 weeks of them fixing their stuff up, car runs rough, has problems starting, blows black soot from the exhaust, lost power, chews oil, and generally runs worse since it has been in their hands. Holden doesn't want to know, surprise surprise.
• Any one had similar trouble with them? would love to hear from you."

HOLDEN VY BERLINA, 2002 - Poor Service from Holden dealership (23/11/2006) *DEALER* *WHEEL ALIGNMENT*

• "I bought a second-hand VY Berlina. It was pulling to the left A LOT so I put it in for a service and wheel alignment thinking that was the problem. Upon it's return it hadn't been fixed so I put it in again and can I now mention I'm female. When I got it back for the second time I found it again was the same as it was when it went in. Was told all is well, so I let sleeping dogs lie ... until I had two flat tyres.
• Investigation led to me finding the (new) front tyres had been 'chopped out' on the inside to the wire. I rang the Holden dealership up and acted a little dumb, not telling them who I was and said "so what does that mean?". They promptly answered back "oh you need to get your car in for a wheel alignment straight away" HA!!!! can you believe that! They later admitted that they didn't know how to use the machine that does the wheel alignments and got someone from Melbourne (2 hours away) to show them.
• HOLDEN STINKS as far as I'm concerned and I'm not going into the things that suddenly break on the return of the car whenever it goes in for a service. Or the fact they wont give me a loan car when they have my car all day and I live out of town (and I pay all my bills on time). It's never ending!
• I have spent enough $$$$$ with them but where is the respect?" K Kryger, Kyabram VIC

FORD AU II UTE, 2000 - Utility keeps stalling, seems to be when its done a 50km trip (23/11/2006) *ENGINE* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "We have a Ford AU 2 ute. For the past 18 months we have taken it to dealers in regard to a stalling problem. We will do a 150km trip in the morning when its a little cooler. Then when driving home after 3-4 hours being stopped we get around 40km then it stalls along the open road. We have had the coils done as well as a zillion other things and no one can find problem. Is there anyone with any ideas?" K Mackey, Condobolin NSW

FORD FOCUS, 2002 - Power steering leaks (23/11/2006) *POWER STEERING* *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "I have a Ford Focus bought new in 2002 and was very happy with it until recently. July 2006 - had to have a new power switch installed at a cost of about $350 after the seal blew and sprayed power steering fluid out. None were available in WA so had to be air freighted from Sydney.
• This week the car is back at the mechanic to have the power steering rack rebuilt (was going to cost $1500 for a new one) after developing a leak that drops all the power steering fluid every couple of days. All this in a car that is only 4 years old and has done 52,000km.
• Was "cold called" by Ford this morning to ask how my car was going! When I explained the problem I was told to phone Ford customer care who then nicely explained to me that there is nothing they can do as the car is 12 months out of warranty and I am not a loyal Ford customer because I didn't have the last 2 services done at their dealership.
• Have done internet search and found the comment that 'they leak all the time'. " S Forrester, Geraldton WA

FORD FIESTA, 2006 - FORD = Fix Or Repair Daily (22/11/2006) *NEW CAR* *ENGINE* *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "I recently bought a brand new Ford Fiesta at the end of September. The car is now 6 weeks old. Last Friday while at the traffic lights smoke started pouring out of the engine and the temperature shot up to 120. I pulled over and called the salesman that sold me the car. He assured me that there was roadside assistance and to call Ford Customer Service. I did this and was informed that there was no roadside assistance for these cars unless it was purchased. They asked me why the car dealership did not inform me of this. They then informed me to get the car towed to the dealership. This meant organising a tow truck and paying for it myself for a 6 week old car.
• I called the sales guy back and he was none too helpful. I finally got the car down to the dealership the next morning. So far the car has been with them for 4 days and each report I get back is that they still don't know what is wrong or how to fix it.
• The first response was that they did not have much info on the Fiesta - this gave me a lot of confidence. They now think that it may be the computer and they think best case scenario is 6 week wait to get one from England.
• Mean while I have a loan car (thank god) but I have had to cancel my short holiday out of the state as I can't take the loan car 50km out of the metropolitan area. I am now trying to get my money back from the accommodation I booked.
• As far as the roadside assistance, if I had known my car had none I would have incorporated it into the finance and the salesman had a duty of care to research the car he sold me. I will be taking this further but these big companies treat you like **** once they have made the sale." S Bates, Adelaide SA

HONDA CIVIC VTI-L, 2006 - Westside Honda (22/11/2006) *DEALER* *NEW CAR PURCHASE*

• PROBLEM RESOLVED - posting removed by request (19/12/2006)
• S Campus, Point Cook VIC

HOLDEN ADVENTRA, 2004 - Watch out for the Adventra - a nightmare in the making (21/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "I purchased a 2004 LX VY II Adventra from Tony Ireland Holden in Townsville in July 2005 with 7000klm on the clock. Almost immediately the problems started:
  - Drivers seat adjustment stops working (6 days in total off the road)
  - All internal lights fail ( 3 days off road)
  - Paint on roof rack supports peeling off ( 2 days off road)
  - Problems with rear door ( 2 days off road)
  - Air conditioner problems - still not fixed as of November 2006 - nearly 12 months later. ( many wasted days)
  - Rear window leaking ( not fixed)
  - Sunroof leaking (not fixed)
  - Steering pump failure ( once again being fixed)
• Each time I take it in - I have to leave the car there and come back in a day or two. Some problems have been"fixed" up to 3 times.
  The car has now done 26,000kms. I've been a Holden man all my life - but now I've got the feeling for a Toyota. " K Simpson, Herberton QLD

HOLDEN RODEO, 1997 - Holden Rodeo 2.8 TD - Oil Pump Failure (21/11/2006) *OIL PUMP* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "I read a previous post about Oil Pump Failure in the Holden Rodeo models 1998 to 2000 by J. Johnstone, Brisbane QLD, but UNFORTUNATELY for me it was all too LATE. It was early September 2006, and about the 250,000km mark when I encountered this problem. The motor ran dry and it was a write-off. I had to get a replacement engine ($7000). Id like to expand J. Johnstones observation/research to say that this oil pump problem occurs in the 1997 models as well (and maybe earlier) and in the diesel models. My engine model (4JB1) occurs in petrol and diesel.
• To me it looks like the oil pump goes roughly at about 7-10 years, and around the 250000km mark. Mechanics in Perth know about this problem but that's as far as it goes. I would like to push for some kind of compensation here and I am all for going at Holden. Id be happy to hear from whoever at my address, and approach Holden.
• By the way, I've got a new 4JB1 fitted now (it was the cheapest option) and a oil pressure gauge! You have been warned ... again! On another note (to not sound like a rodeo critic), I haven't had any other problems with the rodeo motors, they have driven beautifully as such." C Whisson, O'Connor WA

NISSAN MAXIMA, 2004 - Engine rattles when cold (20/11/2006) *ENGINE NOISE* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "I am the owner of this Maxima that has also been having problems with a rattling noise coming from engine. Like the previous comments from others when I took it to the dealership they also act as if they do not hear anything. They then told me my exhaust bracket was broken so I paid $100 to replace it but the next day the same loud noise was still there. So I returned it to the dealership and again they said that the noise is normal and every Maxima will make that noise for the first 2-3 seconds. When I took it to numerous mechanics they told me that the engine was wasted and that it sounds like something is broken inside the engine. Others told me it had to do with the timing belt.
• Well in addition to this after having my Maxima for 1.5 years the air conditioning stopped working and when I checked the oil my car had none. For my car to be a new model and only having it for one year how does it not have any oil? it may be acceptable if it is an older model but no I bought it new. Some mechanics tell me that my car is burning oil and I am better off getting rid of it.
• Has anyone else had these same problems? There should be a report made so they can make a recall on this vehicle. It already has about 4 recalls on it but for conditions relating to the skyview window, brackets, and the power seats." L Gladish, Oceanside 760-231-7302

FORD FAIRMONT, 2002 - Ford Brake Shudder (18/11/2006) *BRAKES*

• RESOLVED: "Problem fixed 4 now - will see how it goes, thanks" G Teakle, Werribee VIC

KIA CERATO, 2005 - Great car (18/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "Had this Cerato since new and couldn't be happier. Drove all the other makes and only found the Mazda 3 to be better but not $8000 better " A North, Adelaide SA

HYUNDAI ELANTRA FX, 2005 - More Clutch problems (16/11/2006) *CLUTCH* *FEEDBACK*

• "In reply to Luke M Parramatta. My Elantra had done 34,000Ks, when the clutch had to be replaced. I was told the same as Luke, it is due to driver abuse (what ****).The new one has been in only 3 months, done 13,000Ks and is now on the way out. Hyundai actually know they have a problem with these clutches but will not admit it. I intend now to just rip this clutch out and get a ceramic racing clutch to see if this will cure the problem." S Poole, Perth WA

HOLDEN ASTRA EQUIPE, 2002 - Water pump fails at 4 years - $2600 repair? (15/11/2006) *WATER PUMP* *ENGINE* *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "My Astra Equipe was purchased in Jan 2003 - it was serviced by the dealer for 3 years while under warranty but I lost confidence in the dealer and have had the car serviced at my local workshop since Jan 2006. In August 2006 (58538km) my workshop did a 60000km service and advised that the timing belt should be changed in accordance with the owner manual. The new timing belt kit (cam belt, pulleys and tensioner) was fitted at 58878km.
• On 11 Nov 2006 (approx 63500km) the engine simple stopped with no prior indication of a fault (no warning lights, no strange noises etc). Car was towed to my local workshop with coolant running freely from the engine. I am advised that the water pump failed and somehow interferred with the timing belt, resulting in bent valves. The repair bill is estimated at $2600 (head off, machined, new valves, new water pump, etc). A new timing belt is also needed but some of the kit can be reused.
• Should Holden be selling cars like this? I think not. The timing belt issue is bad enough but to have a failed water pump bring down the whole engine suggests design faults to me.
• I lost confidence in my dealer because:.
  1. the engine warning light came on (and stayed on) on 3 occasions during the first 2 years, requiring return of car to dealer. After the 3rd return under warranty, the warning light still came on occasionally but not for more than an hour or so. No one at Holden service could tell me why the light was coming on or what the problem was - it was not a cover up - they simply did not know.
  2. at 10000km a bubble appeared in my front RH tyre wall (Dunlop Sport tyre - about $180 each). The dealer refused to replace the tyre. I eventually tracked down the Dunlop distributor in WA who directed me to a tyre retailer who replaced the tyre immediately, free of charge.
  3. They charged me $46.40 for a small Holden emblem which had been stolen from the rear of the car - how mean can you get?
  4. A mix up occurred up with one of my services- they did a 20000km instead of a 10000km. Some time later, after the real 20000km service, my brake fluid warning light came on and the fluid was low. I'm told the level drops as the pads wear and the pistons push in further. I was aware that the brake fluid should have been replaced at 2 years regardless of mileage but could find no evidence in my service history that the fluid had been changed - they just missed it.
  5. from new the front disk brakes gave out a screaming noise when the car was reversed - two returns under warranty - brakes still scream occasionally in reverse.
• Readers thinking of buying a new or 2nd hand Astra should take note of the above issues." K Marriott. Perth WA

KIA GRAND CARNIVAL, 2006 - Any problems with latest Kia Carnival Grand? (14/11/2006) *NEW CAR* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "I'm a sucker for punishment - well unfortunately, the purse makes the rules and am looking at trading in the 2000 model for the 2006 Kia Grand Carnival. Appreciate ANY feedback on this car (or is it too early to tell?)" A Lee, Eagle Vale, NSW

FORD FALCON FORTE, 2000 - Re: Transmission slipping & car stalling (13/11/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *ENGINE*

• "Problem solved by having the sensors in the transmission checked. Easily done at an auto trans mechanic. Don't make the same mistake we did and take it to a dealer. We took ours to the dealer we bought it from several times, only to get a response of "we have no idea".
• Finally got sick of that and took it to a specialist. Problem fixed in less than an hour, for $120. Also, apparently old or a lack of transmission fluid is a common problem in this model of car. This is because there is no dipstick to check it yourself unless you have a hoist and know what your doing." B Stuart, Port Macquarie NSW

FORD AU FALCON, 1998 - Gas conversion problems (12/11/2006) *GAS CONVERSION* *ADVICE WANTED*

• "I have recently converted this car to auto gas and have had nothing but trouble when running on gas. The first problem was stalling when taking my foot off the accelerator when the revs dropped to a low stalling level. My installer received advice to drill a 3mm hole in the large round device to let out air from the diaphragm. This worked to a limited extent but added further problems.
• On a recent trip travelling at 110 km/hr there was continuous interruption to the gas flow so that the speed would drop and then pick up again. Eventually after about 10 kms the flow would stop altogether. I would switch back to petrol and run for several kms on petrol then switch back to gas and the same thing would happen again. This did not happen before the hole was added.
• Does anybody know how these 2 problems can be eliminated." P Clarke, Boulder WA Ph: 08 9022 3416
• ========== REPLY ==========
  "I had a problem similar to yours causing stalling at lights and when slowing down. Our gas mech. told us to put a screw in pipe in the side of converter. You will find on the side of the converter a round hole with thread in it you screw in that. Place a hose onto the end of the pipe, drill a hole in the side of the air filter box big enough to put the hose in, run hose over to air filter. Place hose in hole and use good quality sealant around the hole to seal it.
  
• Ask gas bloke to do it, we did this in our EF with straight gas two tanks and have been to Dalby and back with no problem. Our normal mech. didn't understand how this could work but he did it for us anyway and when I told him that it was not stalling anymore he was amazed - touch wood it going fine. "
  POSTED BY: G MORRAL - BRISBANE, QLD 8/03/2007

NISSAN MAXIMA, 2005 - Maxima 05 (09/11/2006) *ENGINE NOISE*

• "Yes I agree with your hearing. The 3.5 Maxima engine does give a disconcerting rattle at startup. Good luck with a dealer hearing it, or you may get this old chestnut from your friendly service manager: 'they all do that sir' " R Parker, Brisbane QLD

TOYOTA PRADO, 2005 - Prado front passenger tyre scrubbing out (09/11/2006) *TYRES* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "I have had this Prado since new and at 27000 km and after 3 wheel alignments I have to replace both passenger side tyres as they have both been scrubbed out on the front. Toyota are denying the problem and say it must be how the car is driven but I know of 4 other people with the exact same problem. Does anyone know of a fix? " D Parr, Sydney NSW

FORD FOCUS LX, 2003 - Problems with dealership & Ford customer service (08/11/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "Brought the car new from local dealer. Before 15000 ks service trans had to come out because it wouldn't select 1st when taking off. Also told them about a vibration at 80ks & 110ks.
• Done 45000ks now and still have problems. Front carpet has been replaced with extra foam under it to stop wall from pulling from under door trim. Won't start sometimes. Fuel pump has been replaced but still has problems. Also has very solid metallic knock coming from front end, but they assure me there is nothing wrong." T Barrette, Kyabram VIC

HOLDEN ASTRA CONVERTIBLE, 2005 - Again More problems (07/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK* *NEW CAR*

• "Yes I am back again & thought I would update you on my latest problems:
  - The drivers side window mechanism is getting replaced now
  - The front rubber strip is still coming off
  - The front bumper is still a lighter colour
  - I have a wear mark already on the roof from putting it down (I have read that this is a problem).
  - The black panel that lifts up under the roof is getting replaced, the lining is coming off. This car is garaged & only see's direct sunlight when driving & I have    not owned it for a summer yet.
  - And last night I had problems starting it with the ignition, the key would not turn.
• To recap other problems:
  - Roof still plays up
  - Still monitoring oil consumption
• To recap the things that have already been fixed:
  - New Computer
  - New Cruise Control
• I have made contact with other 2005 Astra Convertible owners that are selling theirs. Have found out I am not the only one having problems with this model. One owner had the same problems with her roof & it was off the road for a month & after that still only worked when the motor was running. Her cruise control was also playing up, but her dealer could not find the problem. Her back window also rattled badly, plus numerous other problems. She sold hers at a loss to get rid of it.
• So it appears that my car is not a one off Lemon, like I first thought. I contacted Holden again with this new information, but they just told me to let them know if I have any problems with my Dealer, I told them there car was the problem not the Dealer. Basically Holden do not care, I wish I had seen this site before buying an Astra" M Peterson, Brisbane QLD  

RENAULT CLIO, 2002 - A Clio that Renault can't fix ... (07/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK* *ENGINE*

• "This is a really fun experience that we had with Renault Australia. My wife purchased a Renault Clio, and as she planed on keeping it for some time we added every option. A few days later my wife went to start the car and it would not go. The engine was making banging noises. It was turning over slow and smelt flooded. We rang the dealer and they got the car in for observation, and continued to do this every time it failed and on average that was about every 90 days. At one point they had the car at the workshop for a week. I had even showed them the car during one of the episodes of not starting. With the mechanic present it was filling with fuel, cranking slow knocking and the battery went flat. Basically this fault went on for the duration of the warranty period. Renault Australia would not return my phone calls and the dealer said we should talk to them.
• In summary we have a dud Clio that has inherent problems and Renault can't and won't fix. They dragged it out until the warranty was over, and will not return our phone calls. The dealer made a promise to me, to get this sorted out ASAP, nearly a year ago. And the dealer refused to sell me an extended warranty after Renault had indicated we would be provided with that, at no cost.
• The car had failed three times this year, with the last being in April. At that time the vehicle was put into storage and has not been driven or repaired since.
• We have already invested so much time and effort into this. I guess now our only choice is to get involved in another process with another investment in time, when all we wanted for our money was a car that worked. " M Richo, Geelong VIC  

NISSAN X-TRAIL, 2002 - Engine oil usage over the top with rattle (06/11/2006) *OIL CONSUMPTION* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "we have had this x trail from new and have been complaining about an engine rattle from about 60,000 kms we to have had the cat replaced as well as the fuel filter line it has now traveled 130,000 kms and is using 1lt of oil for every 500 kms the rattle is getting louder. Because we have been complaining about this problem from 60,00 kms we are looking to got more feed back from you out there with similar issues." J Collingwood, Adelaide SA , 08 81880270  

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF, 2006 - Good or bad? (05/11/2006) *CAR BUYING* *FEEDBACK WANTED*

• "There are no complaints listed for VW. I was considering a Golf Diesel. I've seen all the complaints against the Astra, and am now doubtful about the diesel version. Are the Golf's better?" G Joyce, Brisbane QLD  

HOLDEN ASTRA CD, 2000 - Never again! (04/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK* *COMPUTER* *AIR COND*

• "I purchased my car second hand approximately 3 years ago. Since then I have had major problems. This last month I have had to replace a 'faulty' computer in it totalling $1100. Two weeks ago I had to replace the brake pads and rotors in my car. Yesterday I got a quote to get my air conditioning fixed and was told that I needed a new compressor which would cost me $1200 to be installed and regassed.
• Literally on the way home from getting the quote (which I haven't taken up - see below) I had my driver's rear window down and when I got home tried to put it back up. It made a loud noise and it can't be closed. Today I got a quote from a panel beaters for $250 for a new regulator and $50 for labour to fix it. I went to Holden Newcastle this afternoon and was advised it was 'tough luck'.
• My best friend also has the same car and she has had the exact same problems I have had. She told me that 2 yrs after she replaced the compressor in her air conditioner the fan broke and was up for another $400 for that.
• It looks like this will be the last Holden I purchase. Great after sale service Holden. You should be proud." R Cromarty, Newcastle NSW  

HOLDEN VT COMMODORE, 1998 - VT stalls in hot weather (04/11/2006) *ENGINE* *COOLING SYSTEM* *ADVICE WANTED* *FEEDBACK*

• "A work colleague (who admits he is not mechanically minded), owns a VT Commodore which he is reasonably happy with, except when the ambient temperature reaches about 30C. For an unknown reason the car will occasionally stall. After approx. 15 minutes of sitting by the side of the road and cooling down, the car will normally start. It will run for a while (5-10 minutes down the road) then do the same thing. Then other times it may not stop at all.
• He travels long country miles with his young children and has at times, in the middle of nowhere, broken down on these hot days which becomes very distressing for them. He has replaced the crank angle sensor to no avail and has now been told it is probably the fuel pump.
• Any suggestions from the forum would be appreciated." DJ Adelaide SA

KIA CARNIVAL, 1999 - What great car (04/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK*

• "I have owned a Kia carnival for 6 years what a car. I have had the engine replaced while in warranty. Since then it has not missed a beat. The car is built to a price so don't have a cry when something goes wrong. I had it serviced at a dealer since new, you may pay more but it is worth every cent . Most Kia owners don't service at a dealer and when something happens its the end of the world. I am sick of people bagging Kia's. Get a life, its always I have no money, 10 kids, its only done 40km. Warranty is not for ever, ask a Holden SS Gen 3 owner how many engine replacements he has had. I think most Kia owners love their cars as much as I do.
• PS. Rover 75, Range Rover Freelander has the same engine - don't hear them bitching." K Lopez, Melbourne VIC  

HOLDEN VT COMMODORE, 1998 - Got the shudders (03/11/2006) *ADVICE WANTED* *ENGINE*

• "The car shudders when accelerating and I've read someone else having the same problem .. What causes it?" B Beck, Perth WA  

FORD AU II, 2000 - Auto Transmission and Stalling problem (03/11/2006) *ADVICE WANTED* *TRANSMISSION*

• "My Falcon AU2 transmission keeps slipping no matter what speed I am doing. It causes the car to jerk and I have no idea what is wrong. It also stalls for no reason, usually when turning a corner which is very dangerous because the power steering goes. This happens no matter how long the car has been running. If anyone knows what may cause these problems I would be very grateful to hear from you." S Ward, Port Macquarie NSW  

FORD BA XR6 TURBO, 2003 - Another absolute disgrace (03/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK* *SERVICE* *BRAKES* *DRIVELINE*

• "Having just read "Ford BA XR8: An absolute disgrace" here's my experience with Ford quality, Ford Broadmeadows customer service and Ford dealers:
• I purchased a new BA XR6 Turbo auto in May 2003.
  1. The vehicle was delivered new with a deflating front tyre, a noisy diff and the limited slip was not working. I was pumping the tyre up every week, then twice a week while the dealer was telling me on 5 separate occasions they had tightened the valve. Finally I took it to Beaurepairs who put the wheel in a bath and found air leaking through porous alloy in the rim.
  2. Water leaks in the boot. Took the dealer 12 mths to fix
  3. Headlight cover went milky.
  4. Diff was replaced after 10 months, the dealer said they had ordered a new diff after the 1st service and they were not available!
  5. The new diff limited slip worked, but it was noisier than the original diff and there was now a driveline vibration which after several attempts to fix, the dealer said was "normal"
  6. Creaking steering.
  7. Stalling at idle and poor performance. The dealer said that "data was missing from the ECU" so they reprogrammed it. This happened on 3 separate occasions and I asked for the ECU to be replaced but they wouldn't do that.
  7. Coolant puddle on the garage floor ... cracked water pump.
  8. 3 months later another coolant puddle ... cracked radiator tank.
  9. On going brake issues. I have never been hard on brakes in any car I've owned and front pads in the Commodores used to last 80-90K.
  The dealer machined the discs, then replaced them, then machined them again then replaced them. Then they changed the pads to a new type which they said would fix the problem ... it didn't and they kept on machining the discs. These new pads produced so much black dust, I was washing the front rims every week. After 6 months of this I noticed that I couldn't clean all the black bits off and on closer inspection found that hot bits of pad had embedded into the rim and I couldn't get them out. Do you think Ford would replace the rims? Never.
• I sent many s and many times phoned Ford customer service to get resolutions to the brake and driveline problems and was just told to "take it to the dealer". I just ran out of time and patience and ended up renting a car for long highway trips. This car had covered just 40K when I sold it. I am now the owner of a Subaru Liberty GT and at 30K have not had a single problem. It will be a long time before I buy another locally built car!" R Peberdy, Sydney NSW  

TOYOTA CAMRY SPORTIVO, 2003 - RE: *SUNROOF* *SAFETY* (02/11/2006) *FEEDBACK* *SAFETY*

• "Just a quick note regarding the person complaining about the Toyota Camry sunroof. I really think that the designer didn't design the sunroof with the intent for it to be collected by a 300kg bull moving at 100klms. As for that glass issue I really think that under normal usage (i.e. a flying bull free environment) that the shattering problem will not be an issue.
• I must admit when I read your complaint I laughed until I nearly ****** my pants. Have u ever thought of becoming a comedian." I Ahumpalot, Sydney NSW  

HSV VY CLUBSPORT, 2004 - I was sold a lemon (02/11/2006) *CONSUMER FEEDBACK* *SERVICE*

• "I brought a HSV clubbie from Central Coast Holden. I thought I would never own one. Finally being able to get one, I had the car of my dreams.
• The first week the car would not start. The battery was dead so I spent all day at the service waiting for a battery only to be told sorry they had none. I would have to go to another service centre. Then started my battle with the braking system. Every time I was slowing down to stop I would get shuttering though the steering. 6 attempts later they fixed that problem.
• I have since had 5 diffs, a new gear box, a shaking of the whole car when driving on the freeway at 110 speed which they have no idea what that problem is so it cant be fixed. A tapping noise from the back wheel when turning left. When you are sitting in the car and put your foot on the brake it make a soft howling noise - they also tell me this can't be fixed.
• I am forever having problems with the central locking which they keep telling me is fixed. I have also had to have the door pushed back up due to air getting in while driving. Door trims replaced, glove boxes repaired and I am now waiting for my car to go in for a cold start to see if I need a new engine.
• My car has only done 42000ks and is that much of a lemon I can not even sell it to buy a new car. The service I have received from Holden is disgusting and I would never buy another Holden ever again especially seeing my husband bought a Rodeo which is 1 year old and needs a new engine as well. If the service people were real mechanics my car might have a chance but everytime it goes in it comes out with a new problem and the same problem that it went in with." K Clark, Bateau Bay NSW  

NISSAN ST PATROL CAB CHASSIS, 2005 - Bent chassis over rear wheel arch (02/11/2006) *WARRANTY* *CHASSIS*

• "Having done only 29000 kms and under a year old I found it hard to believe that my chassis had bent. NISSAN AUSTRALIA refused to consider that this is a warranty problem and it was left to me to have the vehicle repaired. I now find that this is a common fault with this type of vehicle as much so that the engineering company that repaired my Nissan already have a stock of 6mm plates made up to strengthen the chassis. I have also found out that TELSTRA had so much trouble with this problem of bent and cracked chassis that NISSAN now have to strengthen the chassis on this model before TELSTRA take delivery .Now NISSAN AUSTRALIA still say its not a problem" J Farmer, Alice Springs NT  

KIA RIO, 2003 - *Transmission *Warranty *Service (01/11/2006) *TRANSMISSION* *WARRANTY* *SERVICE* *NEW CAR*

• "I bought a Kia Rio in Feb 2004 and have no problems until now.
• Driving home I was unable to get the car into first or second gear. I rang Tynan Motors at Sutherland to organise someone to look at it but was told they were too busy and couldn't look at it for a month. With the car undriveable I had no choice but to get it towed up there anyway. I was later advised by another Kia service department at Warwick Farm that Kia would pay for the towing if the car was under warranty, which it is.
• The Tynan Motors service department do not care about their customers and getting information from them is hard. I was told by the manager that 'I should also look at the brand of car I bought' as if I should expect problems. Well I purchased a brand new car so as not to deal with major car problems in the first 3 years.
• I was later told that the problem was either the transmission or the clutch but they wouldn't know until they stripped the car. If it was the transmission it would come under warranty (although they would only confirm this over the phone and not in writing) and if it was the clutch I would have to pay for it myself.
• In the end I paid for yet more towing to a Kia service department that I could trust and were they were able to give me answers straightaway. During the month or so of being stuffed around I was forced to catch public transport which took me over 3 hours return trip as opposed to the usual 1.5 hrs" A Court, Cronulla NSW  

CAR BUYING - BUYER BEWARE ... caveat emptor! (01/11/2006) *CONSUMER ADVICE*

• "#1 RULE OF BUYING ANY CAR:
• Research, research, research!
• Reliability?
• Service pricing?
• Parts prices?
• Pre-purchase checks?
• G Killian, Eneabba WA