Holden Astra 2004 Problems

When talking about engine oil (as opposed to transmission, brake, power steering, differential, radiator or other types of oils found in cars) for your Holden TS Astra, a 10W-40 rating is best, though 15W-40 is good and 20W-40 is also OK. Make sure to go with a trusted brand.

Go back to where you bought the struts, perhaps take a photo with you showing them the problem, and ask them for their advice. Make sure the struts you bought are the correct ones.

The recommended fuel for the 1.8-litre AH model Astra is 91-octane regular unleaded.

Holden reduced the service interval on the cam timing belt change to 60,000 km to get over the problems they were having with the belt breaking and causing major engine damage before the original service point was reached. They later changed it again to 90,000 km. A 2004 model should have already had a belt change, if not on the basis of kilometres done, then certainly on the basis of time. If in doubt have it changed.

You don't normally see a water pump leak until you remove the timing belt cover, which is normally done when changing the camshaft timing belt. You don't say what work the dealer was carrying out, but perhaps the leak was discovered in the course of that work. That it was changed in 2009, almost four years ago, has no bearing on the issue, it may well be leaking again.

The maintenance-free battery won't last any longer than any other battery, all it means is that you don't have to check the electrolyte level and top it up if its down. I wouldn't replace it until it's needed; if you are concerned have a mechanic test it to find out its condition.