Holden Astra 1999: Timing belt broke
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Asked by Christine McEvoy
I OWN a 1999 Holden Astra TS CD which I bought new. It has done 76,000km and I have it serviced as advised in the owner's manual, but recently it lost all power when the timing belt broke. Being a Saturday afternoon I could not have it towed to a Holden dealer so I took it to the nearest open motor repair mechanic which happened to be an Ultra Tune outlet. The mechanic replaced the belt, but the valves were found to be bent after the head was sent away to be assessed. Given that the the owner's handbook specifies that the engine toothed belt is to be replaced at 120,000km or eight years, whichever comes first, am I entitled to monetary reimbursement from Holden given that the part has broken well under the time/odometer reading advised? My car has been serviced by Holden except once when it was done by a reputable mechanic close to home. When I contacted Holden Customer Service the person I spoke to implied that I might not be entitled to anything as I hadn't sent the car to Holden to be repaired. I would appreciate your advice. To be nearly $2500 out of pocket unexpectedly when my car has been well looked after and serviced regularly is not a great feeling!
Answered by CarsGuide
2 Jun 2005THIS problem is not uncommon with the Astra. Holden actually changed the service interval for the belt from 120,000km to 60,000km, so you have a strong claim. Taking your car to an Ultratune outlet complicates the issue a little, but doesn't alter the fact that the belt failed. Holden rightly wants to see the mechanic's report and the belt. I'm sure if you follow its recommendation you will have a satisfactory outcome.
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