Recalls: Holden TK Barina
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Holden TK Barina
2009-10 Holden TK Barina: reduced braking performance
In August 2012, a recall was issued for Holden TK Barinas produced between 2009 and 2010 and in the VIN range KL3S####1#B253789 to KL3S####1#B112341. In these vehicles, a valve within the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) could potentially stick, resulting in reduced brake performance and/or a spongy brake pedal. As part of the recall, the EBCM was to be inspected and, if required, replaced (PRA 2012/13280).
Problems and faults: Holden TK Barina
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
‘Check engine’ light, misfires and variable idle speed
- Carbon deposits that accumulate on the exhaust valves may also cause misfires and an erratic idle – this may be indicated by the P0300 fault code. To fix, the exhaust valves and seats must be replaced.
- A fluctuating idle speed may require the throttle position sensor (TPS) connector to be replaced – this fault may also be accompanied by the P0300 error code.
- The camshaft position sensor may fail when the engine is hot – this may cause the ‘check engine’ light to illuminate, variable idle speed, reduced engine power, intermittent stalling and the vehicle not to start. For a faulty camshaft position sensor, the P0340 fault code may be logged.
- For some early models, intermittent misfires accompanied by the ‘check engine’ light illuminating may be due to improper seating of the exhaust valves (i.e. inadequate contact between the exhaust valves and seats). To fix, the cylinder head had to be removed and the valves replaced.
ABS warning light
The ABS light may illuminate due to cracked reluctor rings which then contact the ABS sensor. To fix, the driveshaft must be removed for access to the CV joints which require replacement.
Alternatively, the ABS light may illuminate due to faulty wiring with the speed sensor wires at the right-front wheel.
Plastic thermostat housing
The Barina had a plastic thermostat housing which could crack/split due to repeated heat cycles and cause coolant to leak. Upon repair, a common modification is to replace the plastic housing with an aluminium housing.
Oil leaks
Oil leaks at the front of the engine may be misdiagnosed as an oil pump leak when the problem is a weak oil pump gasket – an improved part was subsequently released to address this problem.
Oil may leak from the drain plug due to deformation of the original copper washer; improved washers were subsequently released.
Other problems and faults: Holden TK Barina
- When using a portable music player and the vehicle’s power adapter was in use, there could be unwanted noises from the vehicle’s speakers. To fix, a ground loop isolator – available from electronic stores – needed to be fitted between the device and the power outlet.
- The fuel gauge may not provide a full reading after re-fueling due to sulfur corrosion of the fuel level sender. This problem may be fixed by using a Fuel System Cleaner; if not, the sender requires replacement.
- If the key is hot when removed from the ignition, the key interlock solenoid is likely to be defective and in need of replacement.
- Noises from the rear axle may be due to bad wheel bearings that require replacement (including their seals).
