Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
Fuel, maker's test (13.7 L/100 km)
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on generation and specific powertrain.
6 problems reported (3 recurrent, 3 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentTransmission faults (automatic)
Includes failure to start due to "Transmission Not In Park" sensor issues, rough gear changes, loss of acceleration/power to wheels while engine revs, and complete transmission failure.
- RecurrentLPG system failures
Severe backfiring leading to engine shutdown, stalling, sluggish acceleration, and difficulty starting when cold. Primarily noted in dual-fuel conversions.
- RecurrentElectrical system faults
Multiple warning lights (Transmission, ABS, DSC), random system resets ("Audio Off"), complete electrical cut-out causing engine to stall and restart, and "Low Battery" warnings despite normal voltage.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedBrake system issues
Faulty brake booster leading to stiff brake pedal and reduced braking performance.
- IsolatedCooling system problems
Radiator reservoir leaks, engine overheating (especially with A/C on), and constant operation of the cooling fan.
- IsolatedDrive shaft and differential issues
Drive shaft failure and related bushings/center bearing wear.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to determine a consensus "best" version. Discussions are focused on generational identification (AU, BA, FG) and problem diagnosis rather than trim or specification recommendations.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Holden Commodore (specifically the VT model from 1997) and Ford Territory.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on generation and specific powertrain. The AU generation (1998-2002) is noted for its polarizing "New Edge" styling and its role as a durable, locally-designed full-size car with strong towing capacity. However, long-term owner reports for later models, particularly those with high mileage or LPG conversions, reveal significant and recurrent reliability issues. These include transmission faults, electrical gremlins, stalling, and backfiring on LPG systems. The vehicle is often discussed in the context of common, well-known problems that owners should expect, positioning it as a potentially high-maintenance used car choice rather than a trouble-free daily driver. There is a noted cultural affection and nostalgia for the model, especially in its home market, but this is tempered by practical experiences of mechanical failures.
Positioning vs competitors
The AU Falcon was positioned as a technologically advanced, avant-garde alternative to the conventionally styled Holden Commodore (VT), with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency (Cd=0.295) and a modern design language intended to attract younger buyers. Owner discussions indicate this styling polarized public opinion, ultimately benefiting the Commodore. The Falcon is consistently highlighted for its indigenous design tailored to Australian preferences for rear-wheel drive, V8 capability, high towing capacity, and large interior size, which differentiated it from considered imported replacements like the front-wheel drive Ford Taurus.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available. No specific configurations are recommended by owners in the provided discussions.
General recommendations
Suitable for owners with mechanical knowledge or access to a trusted mechanic, given the frequency of reported issues. Not recommended for those seeking a low-maintenance used vehicle. For AU models with factory LPG systems, be prepared for potential backfiring and stalling issues, particularly when cold or during low-speed maneuvers. For later models (e.g., FG), be vigilant for complex electrical and transmission faults that may not always log diagnostic trouble codes. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is considered essential, with a specific focus on the transmission, braking system (including vacuum booster), and all electrical components. Owners should budget for ongoing repairs.
Remarks
The provided data spans multiple generations (AU, BA, FG) and includes both historical model summaries and firsthand problem reports from owners of vehicles from 2001 to 2013. This creates a composite view of the Falcon's reputation for robust, locally-suited design coupled with predictable, age-related mechanical failures. The AU generation's controversial styling is a well-documented historical footnote within the community. A significant portion of the critical owner feedback centers on vehicles with high mileage (often over 200,000 km / 124,000 miles) and/or LPG conversions, which may exacerbate certain issues. The consensus suggests these cars are known for specific failure points that experienced owners and mechanics recognize as common. Analysis based on approximately 10 substantive owner problem reports and numerous historical/generational references.
Specifications
Not sold in North America: these versions are from other markets.
XR8 5.0 SC V8
5.0L 8-cylinder · 456 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2014–2016