Holden Commodore VZ (2004 – 2006)

Reliability score : 7.2/10

The Holden Commodore VZ represents the ultimate evolution of the VT platform introduced in 1997. Produced between August 2004 and August 2006 (the Ute and Wagon versions continued until 2007), it marks a major technological turning point for the Australian manufacturer with the abandonment of the venerable 3.8L V6 Ecotec in favor of the all-new 3.6L V6 Alloytec (GM Global V6). At the end of its career, it also inaugurated the 6.0L V8 L76 (Gen IV) to meet Euro III emission standards, replacing the famous 5.7L LS1. Although its chassis was beginning to age compared to the contemporary Ford Falcon BA/BF, the VZ remains a highly appreciated RWD large touring car. Its overall reliability is rated "Average" by Australian surveys (RACQ/NRMA), mainly due to the teething problems of the V6 Alloytec

✅ Strengths

Classic large RWD road handling
Immense interior space and trunk volume
Exceptional reliability and performance of the V8 engines (LS1 and L76)
Spare parts availability (ensured for 10+ years via GM and the vast Australian independent network)
Generally affordable maintenance cost (excluding V6 timing chain)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Proven fragility of the timing chains on the V6 Alloytec (teething problem)
4-speed automatic gearbox (4L60-E) is slow, dated, and fragile if heavily stressed
High fuel consumption, even on the V6
Quality of interior plastics and wear of buttons/steering wheel
Rapid wear of the front suspension bushings (Radius rods)

🎯 Verdict

The Holden Commodore VZ is a vehicle with two faces. If you opt for a V8 (LS1 or L76) version, it is a highly recommended purchase ("BUY"): these engines are indestructible, high-performing, and supported by a massive aftermarket parts market. On the other hand, the V6 Alloytec versions, which make up the majority of the market, require great caution ("NEGOTIATE" or even "AVOID" if the history is unclear). The risk of timing chain stretch is real and the repair often exceeds the residual value of the car. Demand a service book with oil changes every 10,000 km maximum.