Something is very wrong..... 2 breakdowns in a week

[Ashman1992]

Hey people,

Two weeks ago is was driving along when all of the sudden my engine died. I was just cruising along at 55-60 and she just stopped running. I pulled over, put it in park and put the handbrake on... turned the key to start and nothing happens. I have all electronics (stereo, lights, blinkers).... The is a warning sign on the dash saying it needs a major service.

The RACV came and they couldnt get it going. They towed it to the workshop.

1 week and $600 later I pick up my car. Driving along 20 mins later.... Dies again. Exact same issue. Wont start. So It gets towed away.... again..

Has this happened to any of you? Any similar symptoms? She was running beautifully and it just died.

The Mechanics are not really telling me anything useful and would really like to know what you guys think. Cheers.

[richardpalinkas]

Sounds like an alternator issue

[VZ_SS]

So they wouldn't tell you what was wrong the first time? You have more patience then me.

[MikeCuzzy]

Coil pack or alternator are my bets. What was the $600 for?

[Ashman1992]

They reset the computer. Filled her up with petrol and gave it back to me. The second time the car broke down I was on the phone straight away to the mechanic. He then came up with a massive list of things it could be.

[SavVYute]

They reset the computer. Filled her up with petrol and gave it back to me.

LOL .... for $600? How big's the fuel tank on your car !!

[Ghost]

The mech probably filled all the other cars as well

[Ashman1992]

Nah they put 10 litres in charged me $16 for that and the other $584 for the computer reset and probably endless hours of tossing about... I was told (by some mates and my dad) I should get them to send it off to a Holden Dealership so they can more accurately diagnose the problem.

[Ghost]

Probably a good idea Holden have the correct equipment for later model cars

[Kernal]

I wouldnt take it back to that mechanic as he did take you for a ride.

It does sound like your alternator has shit itself. If you can get the car started (jump start, booster pack) check the volts.

I dont think you would be able to get anything back from the Mech. Where do they stand on their guaranteeing their work? If you can find a small local shop, a lot of the times they can be very well priced and will work wonders. Not being able to start the car does limit your options though.

Taking it to Holden the will bend you over the reception desk just to take a look at the car and if you decide to get it fixed by them they will pound you like a sailor on leave.

[RiCeY]

I take it back to the guy who charged you $600 as it hasn't fixed it. Say you paid for it to be fixed and wont be handing any more money over.

[VK SL 3800]

If it was $600 to fix and it was fixed its not half bad, there can be a lot of time consuming diagnosing that goes into the most stupid small problems. You can easily spend a good day chasing a electrical fault and still turn up nothing, there goes at least $500 in labor already.

Go and find out what they did for the $600 labor to justify their time.

[Ashman1992]

Gave the Mech a call today (thismorning). Turns out they did send it to Holden last time. So holden didnt do the right job. But its funny how the story changes every time.

I completely understand why it costs so much. Just pissed its not working :/

[RiCeY]

So it needs to go back to Holden then at their expense.

[Ashman1992]

Picking my car up tonight. Rang the Mech thismorning and I am not being charged a cent. Lets hope they actually found and solved the problem and it doesnt break down again. Fingers crossed.

[Ashman1992]

Holden said it was a blown fuse near the ECU.... and a wire had worn through....

[goders]

hey mate this just happened to me today just sitting at the the lights, what do you recommend i do? cheers

[Ghost]

Start with Holden the more ppl that go there eventually either they will need to do a software upgrade or a recall