Common Holden Cruze Problems & Potential Issues

Are you contemplating the purchase of a used Holden Cruze car or trying to find out what issues are common among Cruze owners? 

A compact car that is affordable, reliable, and practical for Australian drivers, the Holden Cruze remains popular among them. Despite this, every vehicle, including the Holden Cruze, has issues and errors that need to be addressed. 

Common Holden Cruze Problems & Potential Issues

In this article, I will provide you with information about the common Holden Cruze problems that owners report following an experience with them. If you plan to buy a used Cruze car, you should be aware of these problems and do a thorough inspection. 

In order to make informed decisions about whether or not to get a service, let’s obtain a thorough understanding of each problem, its causes, symptoms, and solutions.


Holden Cruze Problems

Below you’ll find a breakdown of the 10 most common Holden Cruze problems.

Holden Cruze Problems

Transmission Issues

Automatic transmission problems are among the most frequently reported issues by owners. A large number of owners report that their cars suffer from jerks, shuddering, gear slippages, and hesitation while accelerating. Most of the problems with automatic transmissions were reported by those who bought early Cruze models (2011-2014).

Following are the problems they reported:

Hard Shifts

It is common for owners to have difficulty powershifting. Shifting may become very difficult at times and may require additional power. In a transmission system with hard gear shifting, there is likely to be an underlying problem.

Delayed Shifting

It is common for Holden Cruze drivers to experience delayed gear shifting after covering 90,000-115,000 miles. When the vehicle experiences lag in acceleration, shifting gears can become harder than usual, resulting in critical damage.

Transmission Slipping

There is also the issue of gear slipping while driving with an automatic transmission. There is a possibility that the transmission will be damaged, resulting in an entire failure and loss of power.

Causes 

The causes of automatic transmission problems and the main culprits need to be identified after examining these issues.

  • Fluid depletion in transmissions
  • A faulty transmission component such as a clutch, solenoids, sensors, torque converter, etc.
  • Problems with the control module
  • Filter clogged with dirt
  • Problems with the electrical system

Engine Overheating In Holden Cruze Problems

Holden Cruze owners often report engine overheating as a second problem. Keeping the engine cool, avoiding faults, and preventing potential issues is crucial to keeping the vehicle’s engine functioning efficiently. In addition to knowing about engine overheating problems, it is imperative that you understand the causes of overheating as well.

Engine Overheating In Holden Cruze Problems

Leaking Coolant

The engine is kept cool and lubricated by coolants like oil and freshwater. It is important to address a coolant leak as soon as possible, otherwise the level of coolant will drop, which will cause the engine to overheat due to the inability to maintain its temperature.

Faulty Thermostat

By gradually allowing the coolant to enter the radiator, a thermostat keeps the engine cool. In the event that a thermostat malfunctions, the coolant flow into the engine is disrupted, resulting in overheating.

Radiator Issues

By maintaining the coolant fluid levels, radiators are essential components of the cooling system. A damaged radiator will have a reduced ability to cool fluids and dissipate heat from the engine when it is affected by leaks, clogs, or leaks.

Water Pump Malfunctioning

Taking water from the engine through the radiator gradually circulates the water from the engine. It keeps the temperature of the engine cool by constantly circulating water. In the case of a malfunctioning water pump, the engine’s temperature can rise due to a disruption in water circulation.

Steering Issues

There are many owners who have issues with their power steering systems. It is one of the most serious problems that can occur with Holden Cruzes, and it can cause a lot of damage if not dealt with at the earliest possible opportunity. For smooth handling and safety, it is essential that the steering system functions correctly. Here are some steering issues to watch out for:

Difficulty Turning The Steering Wheel

Holden Cruze drivers often encounter problems turning the steering wheel after driving it for a long time. A faulty steering pump, a low power steering fluid level, and an issue with the power steering rack can all result in hard steering wheel turning.

Unusual Noises

There are times when Holden Cruze drivers hear uncommon noises, such as whining and groaning, especially when turning the steering wheel. When the steering fluid pump fails, or the level of steering fluid is low, these noises usually begin.

Electrical Issues

Holden Cruze vehicles continue to experience a lot of electrical system problems. A professional mechanic is usually needed to fix these problems because they are complex. There are a number of electrical issues that are commonly encountered.

Battery Drainage

The dashboard of the Holden Cruze often shows battery error warning lights and sudden battery drain. Any component that fails to function correctly will drain the battery. The problem occurs when batteries are old or weak, the battery terminals are corroded or loose, parasitic current is drawn, the wiring is damaged, and the control unit is malfunctioning.

Alternator Faults

The electrical systems and battery need to be charged by a proper, accurate, functioning alternator. Alternators can cause significant problems for electrical components when damaged, faulty, or worn out.

Electronic Components Issues

When there is a malfunctioning electric part, it can be very frustrating when it’s difficult to locate it. The only technician who can find and resolve that issue accurately is an expert. Among the electric problems owners report about the Holden Cruze are blown fuses, dim headlights, faulty windows, malfunctioning switches, faulty sensors, and a malfunctioning engine control unit.

Brake Problems

Holden Cruze cars are often plagued with brake problems, and long-term owners are concerned about their safety. The following are some issues drivers face when it comes to the brake system.

Leaking Fluid

In the event of brake master cylinder damage or wear, fluid leaks out, causing a rapid depletion of brake fluid and resulting in significant brake system damage. The master cylinder should be inspected for wear and damage and replaced if necessary to prevent fluid leakage.

Dashboard Warning Light

This is a common problem with Holden Cruzes, which owners have experienced multiple times over the years. Every time there is a problem with the anti-lock braking system or the brakes, they report it by indicating warning lights.

Unusual Noises When Braking

Brake calipers and brake pads that are worn out can cause unusual braking noises, including grinding and squeaking. In order to prevent unusual noises from occurring, Holden Cruze owners should replace damaged brake components regularly during scheduled service.


Holden Cruze Years To Avoid

A used Holden Cruze must be inspected carefully before you choose to purchase it, and you should make sure it’s free of critical problems. Nevertheless, it might be a good idea to look first for the problematic model year that stands out among more significant issues reporting models. Listed below are the model years you can avoid to keep yourself safe and have a more reliable experience.

Model YearReason to AvoidKey Issues
2011Transmission IssuesTransmission slipping, hard shifts, delayed shifting
2012Engine OverheatingCoolant leaks, faulty thermostat, radiator problems
2013Water Pump and Turbocharger ProblemsCoolant leaks, turbo failure
2014Electrical and Steering IssuesBattery drainage, alternator failure, power steering
2015Brake and Fuel System ProblemsBrake pedal vibration, poor acceleration, fuel leaks
2016Suspension and Air Conditioning ProblemsSuspension noise, inadequate A/C cooling
2017Continued Transmission and Electrical System ProblemsTransmission failures, battery drainageExport to Sheets

Conclusion

There are numerous Holden Cruze problems reported by Australian owners, but the vehicle also offers many advanced features at a reasonable price. Knowing the problems before purchasing a Holden Cruze will help you make sound decisions and assist you when you encounter any problems with the car. 

The transmission, brakes, power steering, electrical system, or engine overheating are some of the most common problems that vehicle owners experience. Maintaining your vehicle properly, solving problems promptly, replacing faulty parts, and fixing problems before they become serious can prevent these problems from occurring.


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with a used Holden Cruze?

Among the common Holden Cruze problems found in used vehicles are transmission issues (hard shifting, delayed shifting, gear slipping), brake problems, electrical component issues, motor overheating, turbocharger failures, suspension issues, and steering issues. Whenever a problem arises, have it inspected thoroughly by a professional mechanic.

Which Holden Cruze model years should I avoid?

There have been more issues and complaints reported by owners of some Holden Cruze models. If you want a vehicle with longevity in performance, don’t buy a Holden Cruze model year 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017.

How can I spot transmission issues in a used Holden Cruze?

The best way to determine whether a used Holden Cruze has transmission issues is to take it for a test drive for just a few minutes. The engine must be started, shift into gear, and the car must be moved slowly forward. Keep an eye out for gear slippage, hard or delayed gear changes, and strange noises in the transmission. This indicates that there is a problem with a Holden Cruze if you encounter any of these problems.

How can I prevent issues with a used Holden Cruze after purchase?

If you have purchased a Holden Cruze, please take it to a local certified mechanic shop for service. Inspecting each component thoroughly, the mechanic will make sure it is in good working condition by repairing or replacing it if necessary.

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