Market Position:
The Holden Barina (XC generation) was positioned as a budget-friendly, small city car, competing in the light car segment against rivals like the Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, and Hyundai Getz. This manual caters to owners and independent workshops looking to maintain and repair this practical vehicle.
Competitive Analysis:
As a rebadged Opel Corsa C (or Chevrolet Aveo in some markets), the Barina offered European engineering pedigree, though often with localized tuning for Australian conditions. Its strengths lay in its compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordability. This manual provides the detailed technical data necessary to service these specific Holden variants.
Key Features:
Comprehensive coverage of multiple engine sizes (1.2L to 1.6L), detailed step-by-step procedures with illustrations, diagnostic information, and fluid specifications. The PDF format allows for easy searching, printing, and use on various devices.
Engine:
1.2L, 1.4L, 1.5L, 1.6L DOHC and SOHC gasoline engines (including specific engine codes if available, e.g., Z12XE, Z14XE, Z16XE)
Transmission:
Manual (M20, M32) and Automatic (F17, AF13) transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axle shafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front (MacPherson strut) and Rear (torsion beam) suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (or disc), ABS system, brake fluid, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Fuel:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator
Cooling:
Radiator, coolant, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, heater core
Exhaust:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, hinges, bumpers, interior trim
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, cabin filter
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system, seat belts
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Engine component removal/installation (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement
Installation:
Accessory installation (e.g., tow bar, stereo system) with relevant diagrams
Diagnostics:
ECU testing, sensor testing, actuator testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all major systems
Technical Depth:
Covers everything from routine maintenance and minor repairs to major engine and transmission overhauls and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Options:
1.2L Ecotec (3-cylinder, often in earlier models of this platform, though less common in the XC Australian Barina), 1.4L Ecotec (4-cylinder, Z14XE), 1.6L Ecotec (4-cylinder, Z16XE).
1.4L Ecotec (Z14Xe):
Approx. 90 PS (66 kW) at 5600 rpm, Approx. 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm
1.6L Ecotec (Z16Xe):
Approx. 100 PS (74 kW) at 6000 rpm, Approx. 150 Nm (111 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with electronic control unit (ECU)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating typically 91 or higher, refer to manual for exact specifications)
Engine Management System:
Bosch Motronic or Delphi ECUs (depending on specific variant and market)
Australasian Ancap Rating:
XC Barina (2005-2011) typically achieved 3 to 4 stars (e.g., 3 stars for earlier models based on Corsa C, later models might have improved.
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard, optional side airbags, front and rear seatbelt pretensioners, collapsible steering column
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km (9,375 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific manual for exact Holden recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (18,750 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 km (37,500 miles) for standard plugs, potentially longer for iridium plugs (check specification)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, API SN/CF or ACEA A3/B4/C3 compliant (specific viscosity and API/ACEA rating dependent on engine variant and climate - always consult manual)
Coolant Type:
Silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., GM-Type 100000, red or blue antifreeze)
Known Issues:
Common issues can include minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or sump seals, occasional issues with the ignition coil pack or spark plugs leading to misfires, wear in suspension bushings causing knocking sounds, and potential for ABS sensor faults. Automatic transmission cooler lines can also sometimes develop leaks.