The Holden Calais (2008-2013, VE and early VF) represented Australian motoring at its finest, a comfortable and stylish large sedan with a powerful engine and plenty of features. It's a piece of NZ automotive history, as these Holdens were extremely popular. They were a common sight on our roads and many were used as company cars.
• Oil leaks (engine and transmission) • Cooling system issues (radiator, hoses, water pump) • Electronic issues (sensors, infotainment system) • Suspension component wear (bushings, shocks) • Rust (especially in coastal areas)
WOF tips
• Check for oil leaks, particularly around the engine and transmission. • Suspension components (ball joints, bushings) are a common WOF failure point due to wear. • Brake performance: ensure even wear and sufficient brake pad/rotor thickness. • Check all lights are functioning correctly; electrical issues can cause problems here. • Check for rust, especially in the sills and wheel arches.
About the Holden Calais i V8
The Calais models of this era came with a range of engine options, including V6 and V8 engines. Performance is generally excellent, particularly with the V8 models. Common issues include oil leaks (especially on the V8s), cooling system problems, and electronic gremlins. The automatic transmissions are generally reliable, but regular servicing is crucial. The interior offered a level of luxury not often found in cars in this price range. The suspension provides a good balance of comfort and handling. Due to their age, rust could be a problem on some examples. Check the sills and wheel arches.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common issues to look out for with a 2008-2013 Holden Calais in New Zealand?
Owners of the 2008-2013 Holden Calais in NZ frequently report oil leaks, particularly on V8 engines, and cooling system problems such as issues with the radiator, hoses, or water pump. Electronic gremlins affecting sensors or the infotainment system are also common, as is wear on suspension components like bushings and shocks. Due to their age and New Zealand's climate, rust can be a concern, especially in the sills and wheel arches.
Where can I get replacement parts for my 2008-2013 Holden Calais in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 580 SKUs specifically for the 2008-2013 Holden Calais. You can find a wide range of parts, including those for common issues like cooling system components, suspension parts, and engine seals, directly through CARFIX in New Zealand.
What should I be checking on my 2008-2013 Holden Calais to ensure it passes its WOF in New Zealand?
For your 2008-2013 Holden Calais WOF, pay close attention to oil leaks around the engine and transmission, as these are common failure points. Suspension components like ball joints and bushings are also frequently worn and should be inspected. Ensure your brakes have even wear and sufficient pad/rotor thickness. All lights must be functioning correctly, as electrical issues can sometimes cause problems here. Finally, thoroughly check for rust, especially in the sills and wheel arches, which are known areas for corrosion on this model.
Are the V8 Holden Calais models from 2008-2013 reliable, and what are their specific issues?
The V8 Holden Calais models from 2008-2013 offer excellent performance but are particularly prone to oil leaks. While the automatic transmissions are generally reliable, regular servicing is crucial for their longevity. Cooling system issues and electronic problems can also affect V8 models. Despite these, they offer great value, especially if fuel consumption isn't a primary concern.
How often should I service my 2008-2013 Holden Calais?
The recommended service interval for your 2008-2013 Holden Calais is every 15,000 km. Adhering to this schedule is important, especially given potential issues like oil leaks and cooling system problems that benefit from regular inspection and maintenance.
What's the deal with rust on the 2008-2013 Holden Calais?
Due to their age and New Zealand's coastal conditions, rust can be a problem on some 2008-2013 Holden Calais examples. It's particularly important to check the sills and wheel arches, as these are common areas for corrosion to develop and can be a WOF failure point.