The VL Commodore isn’t just another old Holden anymore — it’s become a full-blown Australian car icon.
Released in 1986, the VL arrived at a strange time for Holden. Fuel prices were high, the Australian market was changing, and Holden needed something more modern and efficient than the ageing VK. What they ended up creating was one of the most legendary Commodores ever built.
The Nissan-sourced RB30 straight-six gave the VL a completely different personality compared to earlier Holden six-cylinders. It was smoother, happier to rev, and eventually became one of the most popular turbo conversion engines Australia has ever seen.
But the newest VL is now around 40 years old, and surviving examples come with plenty of old-car problems.
Some issues are minor. Others can empty your wallet quickly if ignored.
Here are the most common VL Commodore problems owners and buyers should know about.
1. Rust Problems
Rust is probably the biggest killer of VL Commodores today.
Back in the ’80s, rust protection simply wasn’t what it is now, and decades of Australian weather have taken their toll. Finding a genuinely rust-free VL has become difficult — especially at affordable prices.
Common rust areas include:
- rear wheel arches
- boot floors
- window surrounds
- lower doors
- firewall corners
- chassis rails
Many cars have already had questionable rust repairs done multiple times over the years.
Common symptoms
- Bubbling paint
- Rust around windows
- Water leaks
- Soft floor sections
- Cracking filler repairs
A tidy shell is worth paying extra for because proper rust repairs can become incredibly expensive.
Related guide
- VK, VL Commodore Rust Problems
- How to Inspect a VK, VL Commodore Before Buying
- Best Rust Prevention Products for Old Holdens
2. RB30 Cooling System Problems
The RB30 engine is strong, but like many older engines, it absolutely hates overheating.
Cooling system neglect is one of the biggest reasons RB30-powered VLs end up with serious engine damage. Many surviving cars still run ancient radiators, brittle hoses and worn-out water pumps.
Turbocharged VLs are even more sensitive to cooling issues.
Common symptoms
- Overheating
- Coolant leaks
- Rising temperature gauge
- Steam from engine bay
- Heater problems
Radiators and fan clutches are particularly common failure points.
Related guide
- VL Commodore Cooling System Problems
- RB30 Overheating Guide
- Best Radiators for VL Commodore
3. Automatic Transmission Problems
The VL’s automatic transmission is generally durable, but age, neglect and abuse eventually catch up with them.
A lot of VLs have spent years:
- getting thrashed
- towing trailers
- doing burnouts
- running increased turbo power
Factory autos often struggle once serious modifications enter the picture.
Common symptoms
- Slipping gears
- Delayed shifting
- Harsh gear changes
- Transmission fluid leaks
- Shuddering under load
Turbo cars running stock transmissions are especially vulnerable.
Related guide
- VL Commodore Transmission Problems
- Best Transmission Upgrades for Turbo VLs
- Common Holden Auto Transmission Faults
4. Fuel System Issues
Fuel system problems are becoming increasingly common on ageing VL Commodores.
Old fuel tanks collect rust and sediment, fuel pumps wear out, and injectors become clogged after decades of use.
Many VLs also sit unused for long periods, which only makes things worse.
Common symptoms
- Hard starting
- Rough idle
- Fuel smells
- Hesitation under acceleration
- Sudden stalling
Turbo models are particularly sensitive to fuel delivery problems.
Related guide
- VL Commodore Fuel Pump Problems
- Best Fuel Pumps for VL Turbo Builds
- Best Fuel Injectors for VL Turbo Builds
5. Electrical Gremlins
VL wiring looms are now approaching 40 years old, and it definitely shows.
Electrical problems are extremely common, especially on modified cars. Alarm systems, turbo timers, stereo installs and old aftermarket wiring jobs create endless headaches.
Common electrical issues include:
- faulty dashboard lights
- intermittent starting
- power window problems
- battery drain
- bad earth connections
Common symptoms
- Flat batteries
- Flickering lights
- Random starting issues
- Electrical accessories not working
- Blown fuses
Many strange VL electrical problems ultimately trace back to poor grounding.
Related guide
- VL Commodore Electrical Problems
- RB30 Starting Problems Guide
- Best Scan Tools for Old Holdens
6. Suspension Wear
The VL still feels surprisingly good to drive today, but worn suspension can ruin them completely.
Most surviving VLs now have tired:
- shock absorbers
- control arm bushes
- sway bar links
- steering components
Lowered cars and drift builds often wear parts even faster again.
Common symptoms
- Loose steering feel
- Clunking noises
- Uneven tyre wear
- Steering vibration
- Poor ride quality
A proper suspension refresh makes a massive difference to how a VL feels on the road.
Related guide
- VK, VL Commodore Suspension Problems
- Best Suspension Upgrades for VK, VL Commodore
- VK, VL Lowering Guide
7. Oil Leaks
RB30 engines are tough, but they’re definitely not known for staying perfectly dry underneath.
Oil leaks are common on both naturally aspirated and turbocharged VLs, especially as seals and gaskets age.
Common leak areas include:
- rocker cover gaskets
- rear main seals
- turbo oil lines
- sump gaskets
Common symptoms
- Oil spots under the car
- Burning oil smell
- Dirty engine bay
- Smoke near turbo area
Turbocharged cars often develop leaks around aftermarket fittings and oil feed lines as well.
Related guide
- VL Commodore Oil Leak Guide
- Common RB30 Engine Problems
- Best Engine Oils for RB30 Engine
8. Interior Wear & Cracked Trim
VL interiors are becoming harder and harder to keep tidy.
Australian heat destroys dashboards, door trims warp, plastics crack and roof linings sag badly after decades in the sun.
Good original interior parts are now surprisingly valuable.
Common symptoms
- Cracked dashboards
- Sagging roof lining
- Loose trim pieces
- Faded plastics
- Interior rattles
A clean interior can massively increase the value and appeal of a VL today.
Related guide
- Early Commodore Interior Restoration Guide
- Early Commodore Roof Lining Repair Guide
- Best Interior Products for Early Commodores
Is the VL Commodore Reliable?
Despite the common problems, the VL Commodore is still regarded as one of Holden’s most loved and durable cars.
The RB30 engine earned a legendary reputation in Australia, aftermarket support remains enormous, and most common problems are now very well understood.
A well-maintained VL can still be an incredibly enjoyable street car or weekend cruiser.
The VL Commodore has evolved from cheap used Holden into genuine Australian motoring legend.
