The 1997-2002 Holden Combo was a practical and reliable small van, ideal for tradespeople and businesses needing a compact and economical workhorse. Based on the Opel Corsa platform, it offered a decent payload capacity and reasonable fuel economy. These vans were a familiar sight around New Zealand cities.
Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components, particularly if the van has been regularly overloaded. The clutch can also wear out prematurely with heavy use. Check for rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and floor pan. The engine may suffer from oil leaks, particularly as it gets older.
WOF tips
Pay close attention to the condition of the tyres, as they often bear the brunt of heavy loads. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly. Check the brakes for wear and tear, particularly the rear brakes, which can be prone to seizing. The suspension components will be inspected for excessive play or damage. Rust in critical structural areas will fail the WOF.
About the Holden Combo i
Powered by a range of small petrol and diesel engines, the Combo provided adequate power for urban driving and light commercial duties. The manual transmission was the most common choice, offering good control and fuel efficiency. Regular servicing is crucial to keep these vans running reliably, particularly if they have been subjected to heavy use.
Considered a cost-effective utility vehicle, the Holden Combo was very popular in NZ.
Questions owners ask
What are some common problems to look out for on a Holden Combo van in New Zealand?
Common issues with the Holden Combo (1997-2002) in NZ include wear and tear on suspension components, especially if the van has been regularly overloaded. The clutch can also wear out prematurely with heavy use. Rust is a major concern, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and floor pan. The engine may also suffer from oil leaks as it gets older.
Where can I get parts for my Holden Combo 1997–2002 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 361 SKUs for the Holden Combo (1997-2002). You can find a wide range of parts, including brake pads, filters, suspension components, and more, on the CARFIX website or in-store.
What should I check on my Holden Combo for its WOF?
For a WOF on your Holden Combo (1997-2002), pay close attention to the condition of the tyres, as they often bear the brunt of heavy loads. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly. Check the brakes for wear and tear, particularly the rear brakes, which can be prone to seizing. The suspension components will be inspected for excessive play or damage. Rust in critical structural areas will cause the vehicle to fail its WOF.
How often should I service my Holden Combo van?
The recommended service interval for the Holden Combo (1997-2002) is every 10,000km. Regular servicing is crucial to keep these vans running reliably, particularly if they have been subjected to heavy use.
Is the Holden Combo a good van for commercial use in NZ?
The Holden Combo (1997-2002) is a cost-effective utility vehicle that was popular in NZ for light commercial duties. However, it requires careful inspection and maintenance, particularly if it has been used for heavy commercial purposes. Rust is a major concern.
What type of transmission does the Holden Combo typically have?
The manual transmission was the most common choice for the Holden Combo (1997-2002), offering good control and fuel efficiency.
What are some signs of suspension problems on a Holden Combo?
Signs of suspension problems on a Holden Combo (1997-2002) include excessive bouncing, uneven tyre wear, and knocking noises when driving over bumps. These vans are prone to suspension wear, especially if overloaded.