2002 Holden Vectra Equipe 2.2L petrol from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Reliable and efficient

Faults:

Hand brake is tight, so makes a creaking noise when applied. Had this checked by dealer 4 times and they said this is a characteristic of the car, not to worry about it.

Replaced front 2 tyres after 30,000km. Replaced all 4 tyres after 60,000km.

Coolant is now leaking at 60,000km, I need to pour water in every day. Will have it serviced in 3 days and investigate the cause. I believe the timing belt needs to be changed with the 60,000km service.

General Comments:

The car is quite smooth and handles very well. The cabin is nothing special though, very dated.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd February, 2006

27th Feb 2006, 19:56

I wrote this comment, just wanted to add more detail.

I picked the car up from its 60,000km service today. It cost an absolute fortune in parts.

1) The front discs and brakes needed replacing pretty badly. The holden parts cost $400, but the mechanic suggested that European brakes are softer and don't last as long, and went for a cheaper alternative.

2) There was an issue with the car leaking radiator fluid and overheating, that was due to a crack in the hot-water pump. That part couldn't be fixed and a new genuine Holden one was $100.

3) Timing belt needed replacing.. also not cheap.

Stay away from Vectras, Astras and Barinas coz they are expensive to repair the major parts once you get some serious mileage on the car.

17th Jul 2015, 07:09

What do you call serious mileage? Thanks.

17th Jul 2015, 20:52

140K km-up.

2002 Holden Vectra Equipe Sedan 2.2 ltr petrol from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

A very good car all round except for some minor engineering faults

Faults:

Top engine gasket (cover) leaked oil when car was new. Replaced under warranty.

Steering Shaft needed replacing at 31000 Km's. Replaced under warranty.

Emissions warning light turns on & off randomly. Yet to be checked out by Holden. (and car is now out of warranty).

General Comments:

Apart from the above issues, this car has been great value for money.

It handles like a European Sports car, gets great highway fuel economy and looks good as well.

It is a dream to drive, very comfortable and these models appear to have a good re-sale value.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 24th April, 2005

20th Oct 2006, 05:13

I actually wrote the above review. We got rid of the car today 18 October 2006. Not sorry either, the steering problem was coming back. (Clunking noises when the car goes around a corner). Also, the auto transmission was making some funny noises at low speed. This is all at 48200 Km's. Bye Bye Vectra.

Hello New Honda Civic...Yeah.