Pentax 430RS problems

I have now had a Pentax 430RS for just about six months, it appears to have developed the following faults. When on Auto the flash is poor and advancing or decreasing the f stops seems to make little or no difference.
Also on Auto the flash fires just after the shutter has been pressed.
I have tried the camera on manual and in order to get a reasonably lit picture I have to take the shutter speed down to !/15th this of course is to slow for a hand held shot. Before contacting Pentax has any one had similar experience with the 430 rs.
Any advise would be greatly appreciated
Jack Stoddart [email protected]