The vast majority of complaints regarding the Holden Adventra emanate from under the bonnet. In the case of the V8 version (the CX8) the engine is a bit prone to experiencing wear in the top-end of the motor, namely the lifters and valves springs. A ticking noise when the car is first started each morning is the clue to this and although a lot of these engines will, indeed, make this noise on start-up, if the noise doesn’t go away in a few seconds, you have a problem.

The V6 (CX6) meanwhile which was available in the later version used the DOHC Alloytech engine which soon gained a reputation for stretched timing chains which needed to be replaced at a fairly substantial cost. The first hint that all is not well is a rattling noise from the top of the engine, combined (often) with a check-engine light illuminated on the dashboard.

Beyond those issues, many owners have complained about poor fuel economy and patchy build quality. Make sure, too, that any prospective purchase hasn’t been used off-road beyond its limits. Just because it used a higher ride height and all-wheel-drive did not mean the Adventra was a hard-core off-roader.

Informedia in Melbourne produce a DVD for Holden that has the information you need. Ask them for the contact details for Glenn Pierce, as you are after a Holden workshop manual. He only sells them through Holden dealers and not to the public, but once you’ve got his details go to your Holden dealer spare parts department and tell them you want the VZ102006 VZ series or VY202005 VY series CD manual. They might tell you they can’t find it in their system, but ask them to phone Glenn from Informedia as he distributes to dealers and give them $100 deposit and tell them to order a copy in for you. It costs around $450.

If you're looking for an SUV there are better buys. The Adventra was a heavy vehicle, which translated into high fuel consumption, particularly with the V8. It was competent off-road and would go places you wouldn't expect it to, but you don't want to buy one that has been used off-road extensively. A diesel-powered mid-sized Japanese off-roader would be a better option if you want an SUV.