Holden Commodore 2008 Problems

Older model Commodores did have an issue with the geometry of the rear wheels that led to rapid tyre wear, but that doesn't appear to be an issue with the VE. If the wear is uneven across the face of the tyre, if the tyre is wearing on the inner shoulder, there could be an alignment problem with your car, if the wear is even there are other issues affecting it. There is some suggestion that there are counterfeit tyres being sold here as brand name products, but you can avoid that by shopping at reputable tyre dealers.

If you feel it is a problem, and the presence of piston slap is not necessarily a problem in itself, you should keep meticulous records of your dealings with the dealer and Holden in case it does escalate into an issue that needs addressing. In that case you would be well armed with the information needed to support your case for Holden to act.

It's the first time I have heard of "Croak" and I would be asking the dealer to explain what they mean by the term. It could be as simple as a valve lifter needing to be replaced, or it could be serious like piston slap, which is what affected the 5.7-litre V8 engine used before your engine. Have an experienced engine man listen to the engine during the warm-up phase to tell you what part of the engine the noise is coming from. Because your warranty is about to expire I would recommend you place your concerns on the record with the dealer and with Holden. You should also be aware that Holden's responsibility for the product it sells does not end when the warranty ends, there is no time limit on the company's responsibility under our consumer laws.

I’ve experienced a similar problem myself and I was told there was a software upgrade available to fix it. I suspect that the upgrade was installed in your car on the second dealer visit, but it would be worth checking. Have you been able to demonstrate the problem to the dealer so they understand what it is you’re complaining about, or are they taking a stab in the dark? I would drive the car with the dealer and show them exactly what it is you want fixed, then you’ve got something to go back to when they claim to have fixed the problem.

The paint would only be covered by the warranty if was defective in some way from the factory, normal wear and tear wouldn't be covered. But to have it visibly fading after just two years is not acceptable and I would certainly press the dealer, and Holden, to repair it. For the dealer to say it's expected is even more unacceptable. We've approached Holden for their view and will print it when we get it.

Two years is a long time. I'd be tempted to sell it, even though you will suffer a substantial slug of depreciation. Leaving a car to sit unused for two years will adversely affect it, no matter what you do.  But if you do store it and you can have someone drive it regularly, I would simply cover it and leave it. If that's not possible, put it up on blocks and disconnect the battery. The fuel tank shouldn't be left empty but there should be no more than about a quarter of a tank of fuel left in it. Lightly smear some lubricant over the door and boot seals to prevent them from sticking, and cover it to stop dust building up on the paint.