Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Holden Rodeo 2003 Problems

Are you having problems with your 2003 Holden Rodeo? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest 2003 Holden Rodeo issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the 2003 Holden Rodeo in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Holden Rodeo 2003: Oil and fuel use

It would be possible, but I wouldn’t recommend doing it, as there’s too much work required. I would recommend converting it to LPG, you’ll get the savings and it won’t cost you anything like as much. Use a good quality sequential LPG injection system, and check the general condition of the engine before making the conversion.

Used Holden Rodeo review: 2003
Read the article
Holden Rodeo 2003: How to reduce fuel consumption?

THE 3.5-litre V6 petrol engined RA Rodeo has a reputation for being thirsty. There is a factory-approved dual-fuel kit available, and this may be the best way to reduce your fuel bills. The jury is still out on the economy of the new Alloytec V6 Rodeo. When asked, Holden wouldn't say if the new engine was more economical than the old one.

Used Holden Rodeo review: 2003
Read the article
What's the best ute for 4WD and beach driving?

The trade holds the Hilux up as the best of those you've mentioned. The Toyota turbo diesel is easily the best, but the downside is that you'll have to pay up to $3000 more to get behind the wheel of a Hilux. The others are OK, and all rated equally, but there are plenty of reports from the trade about problems with the Nissan turbo diesel so I'd recommend caution. If you were to consider a Navara, make sure it has an extended warranty for peace of mind.

Holden Rodeo 2003: Leaky turbo diesel

Holden's service people say the problem was fixed with the introduction of a new seal last year. Holden's response was: "Vehicles undergo a continuous cycle of product development." To this end, the O-ring on the Jackaroo Turbo Diesel model was revised, and last year a procedure was developed in order to allow fitting of such by Holden retailers, as required. "To our knowledge completion of this replacement has resolved any issue." If you have had the new seal fitted and are not satisfied it has fixed the problem I recommend you return to the dealer and register your complaint.

Braking performers

No doubt the Rodeo delivers adequate brake performance -- it has to, to meet ADRs and customer expectations. But I'm sure you'd agree it doesn't brake as effectively as your BMW. The Rodeo doesn't have the high performance of the BMW so it doesn't need the same level of braking performance. German cars (including the Opel-sourced Holden) do tend to use a pad/rotor combination that gives good pedal feel and stopping performance, but higher wear. But all car companies are striving for greater braking performance and even homegrown models now chew up pads and discs in less than 60,000km.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
Have a new question for the CarsGuide team?
More than 9,000 questions asked and answered.
Complete guide to Holden Rodeo 2003
Complete guide to Holden Rodeo 2003 CarsGuide Logo
Reviews, price, specs and more