Holden Commodore Common Problems: What to Do

The Holden Commodore is one of Australia's most-owned cars, and across the VN through to the last VF, a handful of problems show up again and again. Whether you're running an early VS with the 3.8 V6, a VY SS with the LS1, or a later VE with the SIDI 3.6, knowing what to watch for will save you from getting stranded.

What Causes It

• Cooling system failures (VT-VZ 3.8 V6): The plastic intake manifold and thermostat housing crack with age, causing coolant loss. Common on high-kilometre examples past 200,000 km.
• Alternator corrosion (VE models): The VE's alternator terminals are particularly prone to galvanic corrosion, especially when mixing metal types (copper to steel). The blue/green build-up you see is copper sulphate, which increases resistance and can cause charging faults or total alternator failure.
• Power steering pump failure (VS-VX): The power steering pump on the 3.8 Ecotec wears out around 150,000-180,000 km. First sign is a whining noise on full lock.
• Cam phaser rattle (VE SIDI 3.6): The 2010-on SIDI V6 is known for a cold-start rattle caused by worn cam phasers. If you hear a brief ticking on startup that fades, this is likely the culprit.
• Oil consumption (LS1 5.7 V8): The Gen III LS1 in the VX-VZ SS can consume oil if valve stem seals harden with age. Watch for blue smoke on startup or downshifts.
• Wheel bearing wear (VE rear): VE Commodores, especially sports wagon and ute variants, chew through rear wheel bearings. Humming noise that changes with steering input is the giveaway.

What to Do Right Now

1. Check your charging voltage with a multimeter across the battery terminals at idle. You want 13.8-14.4V. If you're below 13.5V after fitting a new alternator, clean every terminal connection with a wire brush and apply dielectric grease before assuming the alternator is faulty.
2. Check coolant level and oil level before every drive if your Commodore has been showing any warning lights or you're unsure of its service history.
3. Fix the terminal corrosion properly. Use a bimetallic terminal or a proper crimp adaptor rated for automotive use. Wrap connections in self-amalgamating tape after applying grease. Do not drive with blue corrosion sitting on a terminal.
4. Run a battery load test at your local auto shop. A failing battery can mimic alternator faults and vice versa.
5. Log any fault codes with an OBD-II scanner before clearing them. VE models often throw codes that point directly to the faulty component.

When It's Serious

Stop driving immediately if your temperature gauge is climbing past the normal zone or the coolant light comes on. Commodore engines, particularly the 3.8 V6, can crack a head gasket within minutes of overheating. Pull over, turn off the engine, and do not remove the radiator cap until the engine is completely cold.

If your alternator warning light is on and you are driving at night or in heavy rain, your battery is running on reserve power only. Turn off non-essential electrics and get off the road. A flat battery while driving will eventually kill power steering and braking assist, particularly on later VE and VF models.