2002 Holden Jackaroo review from Australia and New Zealand

Since moving to Defence Canberra from Brisbane, the car won't easily start. It takes some serious turning over before it runs. Once going and warmed up it is very good. Glow plugs don't heat sufficiently to help motor start. Army engineers state this is a general ISUZU problem.

I took my car to an Auto Electrician to have the glow plugs checked. Auto elect stated that the glow plugs and batteries were faulty. In the process of taking out the plugs they found the rear one cracked at the base. Car was then given over to diesel experts to extract and repair. Plug subsequently broke and head given over to a local engineering expert to extract.

Diesel repairers and local GM service personnel state that this particular motor from this model is a lemon. Aluminium block has problems. Finding replacement heads is a problem. General diesel repairers won't touch them. GM want over $3200 for a bare replacement head.

My problem indicates that the manufacturer did not QC the motor build. Glow plug allowed bypass of gases which carboned up and ate out plug seat. New plug sits 3-4mm lower. Head now unserviceable.

Car is just outside warranty. Sydney GM refuse to assist. My original glow plug service and new batteries of probably $600 has turned into a probable $5000 bill if and when I ever get my car back.

Must have the correct oil in it. Preferably less than 10w 30, ideally 5w 30, otherwise it won't accelerate enough to change gear. Check handbook.

Holden have issued a recall on the motor, faulty injectors, mine is a VIN of JACUBS73G27106620.

Comments from local GM and more than one diesel experts indicate that this 2002/3 model 3 Litre diesel intercooled turbo is a lemon. Buyers beware.

I bought it from Doug Barton Holden in Queensland as a second hand probable ex Q fleet in November 2005. No service records.