Rust is one of the most serious issues affecting VK and VL Commodores today. While both models are popular among enthusiasts—especially the VL Turbo and VL Calais—corrosion is often the deciding factor between a good project car and one that is too far gone to restore economically.

The VK (1984–1986) and VL (1986–1988) Commodores were built during a period when rust protection was improving but still not at modern standards. As a result, moisture, dirt traps and factory seam sealer breakdown have led to predictable rust patterns across these vehicles.

Why VK & VL Commodores Rust

Rust occurs when steel is exposed to moisture and oxygen over time.

Contributing Factors

• Age (35+ years old)
• Poor factory seam sealing
• Blocked drain points
• Previous accident repairs
• Exposure to coastal environments
• Worn weather seals

VL Commodores, in particular, are highly vulnerable due to age and popularity.

Common Rust Areas in VK & VL Commodores

1. Front Guards

Front guards are one of the first areas to rust.

Symptoms

• Bubbling paint near wheel arches
• Rust around indicator mounts
• Inner guard corrosion

Causes

• Mud and water trapped inside
• Stone chips exposing bare metal

2. Door Bottoms

Door rust is extremely common.

Symptoms

• Blistering paint along lower edge
• Rust flakes when doors are opened
• Swollen door seams

Causes

• Blocked drain holes
• Moisture trapped inside door cavities

This is one of the most frequent rust issues on VL Commodores.

3. Boot Floor

The boot area is highly prone to hidden rust.

Symptoms

• Damp carpet in boot
• Rust around spare wheel well
• Soft or perforated metal

Causes

• Water leaks from tail lights or boot seals
• Condensation buildup

4. Windscreen Surrounds

Both front and rear screens are major rust points.

Symptoms

• Bubbling around window trims
• Water leaks into cabin
• Visible corrosion under rubber seals

Causes

• Deteriorated rubber seals
• Poor previous windscreen installations

5. Rear Wheel Arches

Wheel arches suffer from constant exposure to debris.

Symptoms

• Rust bubbling on outer arches
• Inner arch corrosion
• Paint lifting near lip edges

Causes

• Stone chips
• Dirt and moisture accumulation

6. Floor Pans

Floor rust is often hidden until carpet is removed.

Symptoms

• Damp carpet
• Holes under seats or footwells
• Soft metal when pressed

Causes

• Water leaks from firewall or windows
• Blocked drain channels

This can become a major structural issue.

7. Firewall and Engine Bay

Engine bay rust is less common but still important.

Symptoms

• Rust near battery tray
• Corrosion around brake master cylinder
• Surface rust on strut towers

Causes

• Battery acid leaks
• Brake fluid damage
• Moisture exposure

8. Boot Lid and Bonnet Edges

Hinges and edges are rust hotspots.

Symptoms

• Bubbling paint along edges
• Rust near hinge mounts

Causes

VK vs VL Rust Comparison

VK Commodore

• Generally slightly better corrosion resistance
• More durable paint systems
• Still suffers from door and floor rust

VL Commodore

• More prone to rust due to age and popularity
• Turbo models often heavily modified
• Many examples have hidden repairs

VL Commodores require extra inspection attention.

Hidden Rust Areas to Check

Some rust is not immediately visible.

Always Inspect

• Behind interior trims
• Under carpets
• Inside rocker panels
• Around windscreen seals
• Inside doors and guards

Rust often starts internally before showing externally.

How to Inspect for Rust Before Buying

Step 1: Check Lower Body Panels

Look for bubbling paint or uneven surfaces.

Step 2: Inspect Door Bottoms

Open doors fully and inspect inner seams.

Step 3: Check Boot Floor

Lift spare wheel and carpet.

Step 4: Inspect Under Carpet

Look for dampness or softness.

Step 5: Check Windscreen Seals

Look for rust staining or lifted rubber.

Repairing VK & VL Commodore Rust

Minor Surface Rust

• Sand back affected area
• Treat with rust converter
• Repaint and seal

Moderate Rust

• Cut out affected metal
• Weld in repair panels
• Refinish properly

Severe Rust

• Full panel replacement required
• May involve structural repairs

Professional panel beating is recommended for structural rust.

Best Rust Prevention Products

Recommended Product: Fish Oil or Lanolin-Based Rust Proofing

Benefits

• Penetrates seams
• Protects internal cavities
• Long-lasting protection

Best For

• Door interiors
• Chassis rails
• Guard cavities

Recommended Product: Wax-Based Cavity Protection

Benefits

• Seals moisture out
• Long-term corrosion prevention
• Ideal for restored vehicles

Preventing Rust in VK & VL Commodores

Keep Drain Holes Clear

Prevents water buildup.

Fix Leaks Early

Even small leaks cause major rust over time.

Store Indoors

Reduces moisture exposure.

Regular Cleaning

Removes dirt that traps moisture.

Are VK & VL Commodores Rust Prone?

Yes—rust is one of the biggest issues affecting these models today. However, the severity depends heavily on storage history, repair quality and maintenance.

Well-preserved examples can still be found, but most vehicles will require some level of rust repair or prevention work.

VK and VL Commodores remain highly desirable classic Holdens, especially turbocharged VL models. However, rust is the single most important factor affecting value and usability.

Door bottoms, floor pans, wheel arches and windscreen surrounds are the most common problem areas, and thorough inspection is essential before purchase.

With proper rust repair and preventative treatment, these Commodores can still be preserved and enjoyed for many years. However, neglecting corrosion issues can quickly turn a promising project into an uneconomical restoration.

For buyers and restorers alike, understanding VK and VL rust patterns is critical to making informed decisions and protecting one of Holden’s most iconic model generations.

Related Articles

• Early Commodore Electrical Problems
• How to Inspect an Early Commodore Before Buying
• Best Rust Prevention Products for Classic Commodores
• VL Commodore Turbo Buying Guide
• Early Commodore Interior Restoration Guide