Holden Trax Problems: Common Issues & Solutions
The Holden Trax is a compact crossover SUV that offers an affordable and practical option for city driving, but it’s not without its issues. This article explores the Holden Trax Years to Avoid, highlighting which model years have been reported to experience more problems, such as electrical malfunctions, turbocharger issues, and transmission failures.
We’ll also dive into the common Holden Trax Problems faced by the owners, including fuel system troubles, brake system problems, and electrical system malfunctions, along with their symptoms and causes. Understanding these issues can help both current and prospective owners maintain the vehicle in good condition.
Along with examining the symptoms and causes, we’ll also provide a Holden Trax review, shedding light on the car’s performance and overall value, helping you make an informed decision about ownership.
Common Holden Trax Problems
Let’s have a look at the problems with its Holden Trax along with its Symptoms and Causes.
1. Fuel System Issues
The fuel system’s job is to manage and deliver the right amount of fuel to the engine, where it’s used for combustion to keep the engine running smoothly. Common fuel system problems include lower fuel efficiency (which causes more fuel consumption), power loss during acceleration, trouble starting the car, and engine stalling at high temperatures. These issues often happen when parts of the fuel system are clogged, damaged, or not working properly.
| Symptoms | Causes |
| Fuel tank whining noiseleaking Fuel Engine misfires or hesitationDifficulty starting the carPoor fuel efficiency | Clogged fuel injectors Clogged fuel filter Faulty fuel pump Engine problems Fuel pressure regulator issues |
2. Brake System Problems
Many owners report problems with the braking system, such as strange noises (like grinding or squealing) when pressing the brake pedal, vibrations, fluid leaks, and burning smells in hot weather. Properly working brakes are crucial for safety, and any issues can lead to serious damage or costly repairs. It’s important to fix brake problems quickly to prevent more serious issues and keep your vehicle safe.
| Symptoms | Causes |
| Brake fluid leakageThe brake warning light on the dashboardIncreased stopping distanceSoft or spongy brake pedalSqueaking or grinding noises when braking | Damaged brake caliper Overheating Anti-lock braking system (ABS) issues Bad master cylinder Air in brake fluid |
3. Turbocharger Issues
Holden Trax models with turbocharged engines may experience turbocharger problems. The purpose of the turbo system is to increase engine power by allowing more air into the combustion chamber, giving the engine a boost. When the turbocharger fails, it reduces the engine’s power and affects performance. Keeping an eye on symptoms such as loss of power can help identify turbo issues early, so they can be diagnosed and fixed before they cause more damage.
| Symptoms | Causes |
| Unusual noises from the turbocharger Reduced fuel economy Excessive exhaust smoke Loss of power or acceleration Blinking of the check engine light | Turbo system leaks Clogged or dirty air filters Insufficient engine lubrication Catalytic converter issues Worn-out turbocharger components |
4. Electrical System Issues
Electrical system malfunctions are another common complaint. Problems can include battery drain, blown fuses, issues with the ignition system, infotainment system glitches, problems with interior and exterior lights, and warning lights on the dashboard related to electrical faults. Modern vehicle electrical systems are complex, making it difficult to pinpoint the cause of issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to visit an expert mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and repaired.
| Symptoms | Causes |
| Problems with power windows, mirrors, or locks Infotainment system malfunctions Battery drainage Flickering lights Inconsistent operation of power windows and locks | Faulty electrical components Computer system issues Weak, old, or dead battery Damaged or faulty wiring Malfunctioning ignition coils |
5. Transmission Problems
Transmission problems are some of the most common issues reported by Holden Trax owners. The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Problems include jerking or stalling during acceleration, gears slipping, fluid leaks, strange noises (like whining, grinding, or squeaking), clutch failure, and dashboard warning lights. Addressing transmission problems early is important, as they can lead to serious safety issues and expensive repairs if ignored.
| Symptoms | Causes |
| Warning lights on the dashboard Burning smell Unusual noises during gear change Delayed responses when changing gears Slipping transmission | Faulty transmission control module Transmission fluids leakage Clutch failure Issues with solenoids and torque converter Worn-out components |
Additional Information
- Transmission Issues: Timely repair is crucial to avoid safety risks or severe damage to the vehicle.
- Electrical System Issues: The complex nature of the electrical system makes it difficult to detect faults. Professional diagnosis is recommended.
- Turbocharger Issues: Faulty turbochargers impact engine health and reduce performance. Monitoring these signs can help identify problems early.
- Fuel System Issues: Problems with the fuel system can affect vehicle efficiency, making repairs essential for optimal performance.
- Brake System Issues: Regular brake maintenance is essential for safe driving. Delaying repairs can lead to costly damage and safety concerns.
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Holden Trax Years to Avoid: (2013 – 2018)
While not all Holden Trax models are problematic, certain years have been reported to experience more issues than others. If you’re considering a long-term investment in a Holden Trax, it’s important to be aware of these years to ensure a smoother ownership experience. Below is a table outlining the model years to avoid, common problems, and the reasons to steer clear of these specific years.
| Model Year | Reasons to Avoid | Common Problems Reported |
| 2018 | Complaints about electrical and turbocharger issues | Electrical system malfunctions, turbocharger issues, air conditioning problems |
| 2017 | Persistent issues despite updates | Fuel system problems, brake system issues, suspension problems |
| 2016 | Ongoing transmission and engine problems | Transmission slipping, turbocharger problems, engine hesitation |
| 2013-2015 | Issues in Early Production Models and complaints about interior quality | Transmission problems, engine stalling, electrical system failures, electrical faults, engine problems, |
Holden Trax Review
Some owners have reported issues with the Holden Trax, but many others have shared positive reviews, praising its performance and ease of use. The Holden Trax offers a balanced blend of practicality and features for a small SUV. It comes equipped with standard features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, rearview camera, and parking sensors.
The cabin is clean and uncluttered, offering excellent visibility and a comfortable driving position. While Bluetooth connectivity can be glitchy, the rearview camera performs well. Powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, the Trax delivers a smooth drive with 103 kW and 200 Nm of torque.
Its suspension is firm, which makes for a slightly skittish ride at higher speeds, but it remains comfortable for city driving. Though it’s not perfect, the Trax remains a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and spacious small SUV.
Final Note:
The Holden Trax is a small crossover SUV that comes with advanced features designed to improve its performance and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has some common issues that should be kept in mind before purchasing.
Some of the main Holden Trax problems reported include issues with the automatic transmission, electrical system failures, turbocharger faults, and troubles with the fuel and brake systems. Being aware of these problems can help current owners avoid major damage, while new buyers can make an informed decision.
To keep the Holden Trax running smoothly for a longer time, regular maintenance is important. Addressing problems quickly, making repairs on time, adopting safe driving habits, and using quality parts will all help ensure a safer and more reliable driving experience.
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FAQs:
Q. What caused Holden to shut down?
Holden shut down due to a strong Australian currency, high manufacturing costs, and a small domestic market, which made local manufacturing unsustainable.
Q. Can a car battery last 13 years?
A car battery can last 13 years, but it is highly unlikely. Most car batteries typically last between 3 to 5 years.
Q. Why did Holden stop making cars?
Holden stopped making cars due to high manufacturing costs, a strong Australian currency, a small domestic market, the global financial crisis, and a lack of investment, among other reasons.
Q. Is Holden Trax a good car?
The Holden Trax is considered a good car for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordability. However, it may lack some advanced features compared to other vehicles in its class.
