The VT and VX Commodore are widely regarded as some of Holden’s best-handling large sedans. Featuring independent rear suspension (IRS), improved chassis rigidity, and refined suspension geometry, these models provide an excellent platform for suspension upgrades.
Whether you’re building a comfortable daily driver, a street machine, a track car, or simply refreshing worn components, upgrading the suspension can dramatically improve handling, ride quality, braking stability, and overall driver confidence.
Why Upgrade VT, VX Suspension?
Most VT and VX Commodores are now over 20 years old.
Common Issues
- Worn shock absorbers
- Sagging springs
- Perished bushes
- Excessive body roll
- Poor steering response
Even a basic suspension refresh can transform how the vehicle drives.
Best Suspension Upgrade Strategy
The most effective upgrades are usually completed in stages.
Recommended Order
- Shock absorbers
- Springs
- Bushes
- Sway bars
- Alignment
- Advanced handling upgrades
This approach provides the best balance of performance and value.
1. Quality Shock Absorbers
The single biggest improvement for most VT and VX Commodores.
Benefits
- Improved ride control
- Better cornering stability
- Reduced body roll
- Improved braking performance
Best For
- Daily drivers
- Touring vehicles
- Performance builds
Many original shocks are well beyond their service life.
Expected Improvement
Drivers often notice:
- More precise handling
- Reduced bouncing
- Better ride quality
2. Lowered Springs
One of the most popular Commodore modifications.
Benefits
- Improved appearance
- Lower centre of gravity
- Reduced body roll
- Sharper handling
Popular Heights
- Low
- Super Low
Moderate lowering generally provides the best compromise between comfort and handling.
Best For
- Street-driven vehicles
- Show cars
- Performance builds
3. Polyurethane Suspension Bushes
The VT and VX use numerous rubber bushes that wear with age.
Benefits
- Reduced suspension flex
- Improved steering response
- Better handling consistency
Common Locations
- Control arms
- Sway bars
- Rear IRS components
Advantages
- Longer lifespan
- Improved vehicle feedback
Considerations
Some polyurethane bushes may increase road noise slightly.
4. Heavy-Duty Sway Bars
A highly effective handling upgrade.
Benefits
- Reduced body roll
- Improved cornering
- Better balance
Best For
- Spirited driving
- Track days
- Performance applications
Sway bars often provide noticeable gains without affecting ride comfort.
5. Strut Top Mount Replacement
Frequently overlooked.
Benefits
- Improved steering feel
- Reduced suspension noise
- Better alignment stability
Best Time to Replace
During shock absorber installation.
6. Rear IRS Bush Upgrades
The IRS system contains multiple bushes that commonly wear.
Benefits
- Improved rear-end stability
- Reduced wheel movement
- Better handling under acceleration
Common Upgrades
- Polyurethane IRS bushes
- Heavy-duty rubber bushes
7. Adjustable Shock Absorbers
Popular among enthusiasts.
Benefits
- Tunable ride quality
- Adjustable handling characteristics
Best For
- Performance vehicles
- Weekend track cars
Allows suspension settings to match driving conditions.
8. Adjustable Suspension Kits
A more advanced upgrade.
Benefits
- Ride height adjustment
- Improved handling
- Greater tuning flexibility
Best For
- Dedicated performance builds
- Motorsport applications
9. Front Camber and Alignment Upgrades
Alignment can significantly affect handling.
Benefits
- Improved tyre contact
- Better cornering grip
- Reduced tyre wear
A professional wheel alignment should always follow suspension work.
10. Steering Rack Bush Upgrades
Often forgotten during suspension upgrades.
Benefits
- Sharper steering response
- Reduced steering movement
- Better road feel
Best Suspension Setup for Daily Drivers
Recommended
- Quality shocks
- Low springs
- Fresh rubber bushes
- Wheel alignment
Provides excellent comfort and handling.
Best Suspension Setup for Street Performance
Recommended
- Performance shocks
- Super Low springs
- Heavy-duty sway bars
- Polyurethane bushes
Offers significant handling improvements.
Best Suspension Setup for LS1 Models
The additional weight and performance of LS1-powered vehicles benefits from stronger suspension.
Recommended
- Heavy-duty shocks
- Performance springs
- Larger sway bars
- IRS bush upgrades
Best Suspension Upgrade Value
If budget is limited:
Highest Value Upgrade
- Replace shocks and worn bushes
This usually provides the biggest improvement per dollar spent.
Common Suspension Upgrade Mistakes
Lowering Without Upgrading Shocks
Can result in poor ride quality.
Ignoring Worn Bushes
New springs cannot compensate for worn bushes.
Skipping Wheel Alignment
Can cause poor handling and tyre wear.
Choosing Extremely Low Springs
May reduce suspension travel and comfort.
Suspension Upgrades for High-Kilometre Cars
Before upgrading, inspect:
Check
- Ball joints
- Control arms
- Bushes
- Steering components
- Wheel bearings
Replacing worn components first provides better results.
Expected Handling Improvements
A properly upgraded VT or VX Commodore typically gains:
Improvements
- Reduced body roll
- Sharper turn-in
- Improved stability
- Better tyre contact
- Increased driver confidence
Many owners are surprised by how modern these cars can feel with refreshed suspension.
Final Thoughts
The VT and VX Commodore respond exceptionally well to suspension upgrades. Quality shocks, lowered springs, fresh bushes, and upgraded sway bars can dramatically improve handling while maintaining everyday drivability.
For most owners, replacing worn suspension components and installing quality shocks offers the greatest improvement. Enthusiasts seeking sharper handling can further enhance performance with sway bars, polyurethane bushes, and adjustable suspension systems.
With the right combination of upgrades, a VT or VX Commodore can remain comfortable, predictable, and enjoyable to drive even by modern standards.
Related Articles
- VT, VX Commodore Suspension Problems
- VT, VX, VY Lowering Guide
- VT, VX Commodore Steering Problems
- Best Tyres for VT, VX Commodores
- How to Inspect a VT or VX Commodore Before Buying
- Holden Suspension Maintenance Guide