Segment:
Compact Car (Small Family Car)
Key Competitors:
Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer, Hyundai i30, Kia Cerato.
Strengths:
Often praised for its ride comfort, cabin space for its class, and strong safety features. Offered competitive pricing in its segment.
Weaknesses:
Some reviews noted less engaging driving dynamics compared to rivals and potential issues with certain engine variants or transmissions in earlier models.
Standard Features:
Air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, central locking, airbags (front, side, curtain), ABS, EBD.
Optional Features:
Cruise control, alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, climate control, sunroof, leather upholstery, fog lights, electronic stability control (ESC) on higher trims.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Holden dealerships seeking comprehensive technical information.
Engine:
All engine variants including 1.8L DOHC, 1.6L DOHC, and potentially diesel variants if applicable to the JG model year.
Transmission:
Manual (M32/F40 families) and Automatic (e.g., GM 6T40) transmissions, including diagnostics, overhaul, and fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs/drums), ABS, EBD, Traction Control, and Brake Assist systems, including component replacement and bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), power steering systems (hydraulic/electric), and alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, bumpers, underbody protection, structural components, and corrosion prevention.
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), and climate control diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, and evaporative emissions control system.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, and oxygen sensors.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, and heater core.
Safety Systems:
Airbag systems (SRS), seat belt pretensioners, and associated control modules and sensors.
Instrumentation And Controls:
Dashboard, instrument cluster, warning lights, switches, and control modules.
Infotainment And Audio:
Radio, CD player, speakers, auxiliary inputs, and potential navigation system integration.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs, and lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, warning light diagnosis, and component-specific problems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and electrical components.
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for the complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major components like engines and transmissions.
Replacement:
Procedures for replacing individual parts and assemblies, including torque specifications and fitting instructions.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Procedures for recalibrating sensors, adjusting components (e.g., parking brake), and setting specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component locations and pinouts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repairs.
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, and procedures for using diagnostic tools.
Special Tools:
Lists required special tools for specific repair procedures and provides details on their use.
Engine Code Example:
A18XER (1.8L DOHC)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve
Displacement:
1796 cc (1.8 Litres)
Bore X Stroke:
80.5 mm x 88.2 mm (approximate for 1.8L)
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1 (approximate for 1.8L)
Power Output:
103 kW @ 6300 rpm (approximate for 1.8L)
Torque Output:
176 Nm @ 3800 rpm (approximate for 1.8L)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Multi-Point)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (91 RON minimum recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
GM Engine Control Module (ECM), specific model depends on engine/transmission.
Emissions Control:
Three-way catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative emission control (EVAP).
Ancap Rating:
5 Stars (for models tested in Australia/New Zealand, e.g., JG)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Standard)
Ebd:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (Standard)
Esc:
Electronic Stability Control (Standard on most 2010 models, may have been optional on base trims)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) (Standard)
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver/passenger), side airbags, curtain airbags (standard on most trims).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX and/or top tether anchor points.
Oil Change Interval:
15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific manual for exact intervals).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km or 24 months (depending on driving conditions).
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 km (for iridium-tipped plugs, typical for this era).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years (DOT 3 or DOT 4, check manual).
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 5W-30 Fully Synthetic (GM dexos1 or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 litres (approximate for 1.8L with filter).
Coolant Type:
GM Coolant G12+ or equivalent (Purple/Pink, extended life).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; if hydraulic, likely ATF DEXRON VI or specific GM fluid. Electric power steering does not require fluid.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some reports of increased oil consumption in certain 1.8L engines, particularly with higher mileage. Proper diagnosis is crucial.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional reports of rough shifting or hesitation in automatic transmissions, and potential clutch wear in manual transmissions. The manual will detail diagnostic steps.
Powertrain Control Module:
Potential for ECU/PCM software glitches requiring updates or recalibration.
Thermostat Housing:
Some models may experience leaks from the plastic thermostat housing, requiring replacement.
