2013 captiva problems Page 11

The 2013 Holden Captiva can be a bargain SUV, but it also has the temperament of a cat that’s seen the vet’s crate. Common trouble spots include:

• Automatic transmission shudder, harsh shifts or failure, especially if servicing was skipped.
• Cooling system leaks (thermostat housing, radiator and water pump) leading to overheating.
• Timing chain noise/stretch on some petrol engines; on diesels, EGR/DPF clogging if mostly driven short distances.
• Electrical gremlins: central locking, window switches, sensors and random warning lights; occasional battery drain.
• Power steering pump/rack leaks and front suspension bush or wheel bearing wear.
• Air-con compressor failure and oil leaks from rocker cover or rear main seal.

Check for a complete service history, smooth cold and hot gear changes, and stable temps on a long test drive. A pre-purchase inspection and a scan for codes are cheap insurance, and confirm recall work has been done. Budget a buffer for repairs, then haggle like your rego depends on it.