Holden Commodore VE (2006 – 2013)

Reliability score : 7.4/10

The Holden Commodore VE is an iconic sedan of the Australian market. Based on the Zeta platform (developed at a cost of one billion Australian dollars), it is the first Commodore designed entirely in Australia without using an Opel chassis. Offered as a sedan, station wagon (Sportwagon), and utility vehicle (Ute), it stands out for its RWD architecture (rear-wheel drive), excellent driving dynamics, and generous interior space. It received a major update in 2010 (Series II) introducing the Holden iQ multimedia system, E85 compatibility, and the widespread use of direct injection engines (SIDI). Although the Holden brand disappeared in 2020, spare parts support remains ensured by the GM network and numerous independent specialists for at least a decade.

✅ Strengths

Excellent road handling (weight distribution close to 50/50)
Giant interior space and trunk volume (496L in sedan)
Exceptional reliability of the V8 blocks (LS/L family)
Availability and price of spare parts (GM network and independents)
Very robust 6-speed automatic gearbox (6L80E)
Unbeatable price/performance ratio on the used market

⚠️ Weaknesses

Endemic timing chain stretch issue on the V6s (Alloytec and SIDI)
Average interior plastic quality and assembly (frequent rattles)
Very common failure of the climate control flap actuators (HVAC blend doors) requiring dashboard removal
Headliner sagging with heat and time
Rapid wear of the front suspension bushings (radius rod bushes)
Obsolete and fragile 4-speed automatic gearbox (4L60E) on early V6s

🎯 Verdict

The Holden Commodore VE is an excellent cruiser, spacious and dynamic. According to RACQ/NRMA surveys, its overall reliability is rated 'Good', with a special mention for the robustness of the 6L80 gearbox and the V8 engines (LS2/LS3/L98). However, buying a V6 version (Alloytec or SIDI) requires extreme caution: the timing chain stretch issue is real and expensive. Demand an impeccable service book with very regular oil changes. The V8 versions, although thirstier, offer superior mechanical reliability and incomparable driving pleasure. Watch out for finishing details (headliner, climate control flaps) that age poorly.

Common issues

Problèmes de chaîne de distribution (moteurs V6 3.6L LY7/LLT) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 2 500 – 4 000 A$

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien, écouter tout bruit de cliquetis moteur au démarrage.

Fuites de pompe ou crémaillère de direction assistée Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 000 – 1 800 A$

Inspecter le niveau de liquide et les traces de fuite sous le véhicule.

Dysfonctionnements de la transmission automatique (4L60E/6L80E) High

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 3 000 – 5 000 A$

Tester les changements de vitesse, vérifier l'historique des vidanges de boîte.

Usure prématurée des supports moteur Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 400 – 800 A$

Observer les vibrations excessives du moteur, surtout au ralenti.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Clutch	£900 – 1 700
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.