VB VC VH VK Commodore Repair Manual
Launched in September 1981, the VH Holden Commodore represented the first major facelift of the Commodore range. Today, the VH is highly regarded for its blend of classic early Commodore styling and improved mechanical refinement.
VH Commodore Model Range Overview
The VH Commodore was available in:
- Sedan
- Wagon
Trim levels included:
- Commodore SL
- Commodore SL/X
- Commodore SL/E
- Commodore SS (limited production)
VH Commodore SL
Description
The base VH Commodore was aimed at fleet and budget buyers, prioritising reliability and affordability.
Engine Options
- 1.9L inline-four
- 2.85L inline-six (Blue 173)
- 3.3L inline-six (Blue 202)
Transmission Options
- 4-speed manual
- Trimatic 3-speed automatic
Key Features
- Vinyl interior trim
- Steel wheels with hubcaps
- Minimal exterior chrome
- Front disc brakes standard
Buyer Notes
Base models are now quite rare and often overlooked, making them an affordable entry point for collectors.
VH Commodore SL/X
Description
The SL/X offered increased comfort and a broader engine range.
Engine Options
- 2.85L inline-six
- 3.3L inline-six (202)
- 4.2L V8 (253 cu in)
- 5.0L V8 (308 cu in)
Transmission Options
- 4-speed manual
- 5-speed manual (Getrag)
- Trimatic automatic
Key Features
- Improved interior materials
- Bucket seats standard
- Additional chrome detailing
- Optional power steering and air conditioning
Buyer Notes
Manual V8 SLs are particularly desirable today.
VH Commodore SL/E
Description
The SL/E remained the luxury flagship of the VH range, blending comfort with performance.
Engine Options
- 3.3L inline-six (202)
- 4.2L V8 (253 cu in)
- 5.0L V8 (308 cu in)
Transmission Options
- 4-speed manual
- 5-speed manual (Getrag)
- Trimatic automatic
Key Features
- Velour interior with high-back seats
- Full instrumentation with digital clock
- Alloy wheels standard
- Two-tone paint options
- Power steering standard on V8 models
Buyer Notes
The VH SL/E with a 308 V8 is highly collectible and continues to rise in value.
VH Commodore SS
Description
The VH Commodore SS marked the return of a factory performance Commodore, produced in limited numbers.
Engine Options
- 5.0L V8 (308 cu in)
Transmission Options
- 5-speed manual (Getrag)
- Limited automatic availability
Key Features
- Performance-oriented suspension
- Sports instrumentation
- Unique exterior striping and badging
- Alloy wheels
Buyer Notes
Original VH SS models are extremely rare and command strong prices.
VH Commodore Engines Explained
Inline-Six Engines
- 2.85L Black 173 – Improved efficiency and emissions compliance
- 3.3L Black 202 – Reliable, torquey and easy to maintain
V8 Engines
- 253 (4.2L) – Smooth and durable
- 308 (5.0L) – Performance flagship and most desirable
VH Commodore Transmissions
- 4-speed manual
- 5-speed manual (major upgrade)
- Trimatic 3-speed automatic
What to Look for When Buying a VH Commodore
- Rust in plenum chamber, rear quarters and boot floor
- Electrical faults in SL/E models
- Engine originality, particularly SS and 308 cars
- Suspension wear, especially trailing arms and bushes
- Interior trim condition — SL/E velour is difficult to source
Why the VH Commodore Is Special
The VH Commodore combined classic early Commodore styling with new-generation engines, better fuel efficiency and improved transmissions, making it one of the most rounded early Commodores to own today.
VB VC VH VK Commodore Repair Manual