2002 Holden Astra CD 1.8 from Australia and New Zealand
Summary:
Love the car, but the brakes make me regret my decision
Faults:
Brakes make the most annoying sound imaginable. Nobody knows how to fix it - I have already had the car in for repairs twice and the sound is still audible.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 23rd October, 2002
6th Feb 2003, 23:37
Further information on the squeaking/groaning rear brake problem. My local dealer initially offered the handbrake linkage modification, but has now advised that GM will provide a set of new calipers for the rear brakes. It seems that GM/Opel has decided to revert to the type of caliper which was fitted before the switch to the type that has caused the noise problem.
Those of you who have been given the linkage modification may have received a temporary fix - you may wish to talk to your dealer about obtaining the new (old style) calipers.
31st Oct 2002, 04:10
For some reason my comments about the brake issue has vanished from this site. To recap, there is an issue with the rear calipers - they make a squealing noise at slow speeds and also when reversing slowly. Holden has a fix for this problem, a redesigned linkage between the brake caliper and the hand brake cable. ASK FOR THIS FIX. I have had this done and no more problems. Holden will only do something if you complain about it. I can obtain the part numbers if required. Hope this helps.