{"id":7382,"date":"2026-06-14T12:14:36","date_gmt":"2026-06-14T12:14:36","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/australianholden.com\/?p=7382"},"modified":"2026-06-21T11:48:39","modified_gmt":"2026-06-21T11:48:39","slug":"common-holden-straight-six-issues","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/common-holden-straight-six-issues\/","title":{"rendered":"Common Holden Straight-Six Issues"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Holden straight-six engine is one of the most iconic powerplants in Australian automotive history. Found in everything from early EH and HR models through to VB, VC, VH and VK Commodores, this engine family earned a reputation for simplicity, torque and long service life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite their durability, Holden straight-sixes are not immune to age-related problems. Many of these engines are now 30 to 60 years old, and even well-maintained examples can develop a range of common mechanical and reliability issues.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"fu_ebay_0\"><!-- Presentation: cols = 4, rows = 2, slideshow = Manual, slides = 3, slideId = 0 --><div class=\"fu_ebay_results_container \">\n<h5 class=\"fu_ebay_results_title\" style=\"display: block !important;\">\n<a name=\"fu_slidetop_0\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebay.com.au\/?mkcid=1&#038;mkrid=705-53470-19255-0&#038;siteid=15&#038;campid=5339152561&#038;customid=5339151688&#038;toolid=10049&#038;mkevt=1\" class=\"fu_ebay\" style=\"display:inline !important;\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/fast-ebay-listings\/US\/Right_Now_108x45.gif?resize=108%2C45&#038;ssl=1\" style=\"border:0;display:block !important;\" width=\"108\" height=\"45\" alt=\"Right Now on eBay\"\/><\/a>&nbsp;Holden<\/h5>\nLoading&#8230;<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<script>\n<!--\nvar content_fu_ebay_0 = null;\nvar waitForDepends_fu_ebay_0 = setInterval(function () {\n  if (typeof jQuery !== \"undefined\") {\n  if (window.fu_is_bot_useragent !== undefined) {\n    clearInterval(waitForDepends_fu_ebay_0);\n    if (typeof jQuery.ajax == \"undefined\") {\n      console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: jQuery.ajax missing. Are you using jQuery.Slim that doesn't include ajax? \");\n      return;\n    }\n    if (fu_is_bot_useragent) return;\n    content_fu_ebay_0 = jQuery(\"#fu_ebay_0\");\n    jQuery(document).ready(jQuery.ajax({\n      type : \"post\",\n      url : \"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php\",\n      data : {\n        action : \"fu_ebay_load_search\",\nfuDisableAPICache : 0,\nfuTraceLogging : 0,\nebay_country : \"AU\",\nfu_ebay_customId : \"\",\nfu_ebay_widget : 0,\nfu_ebay_picwidth : 225,\nfu_ebay_arrangement : 0,\nfu_ebay_title : \"Holden\",\nfu_ebay_query : \"Holden engine\",\nfu_ebay_searchInDesc : 0,\nfu_ebay_searchLocation : \"Internationally\",\nfu_ebay_pickupPostcode : \"\",\nfu_ebay_pickupRadius : 0,\nfu_ebay_sort : \"BestMatch\",\nfu_ebay_categoryIds : \"6030\",\nfu_ebay_sellers : \"\",\nfu_ebay_sellerType : \"\",\nfu_ebay_buyingOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_conditionOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_minPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_minBids : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxBids : 0,\nfu_cols : 4,\nfu_rows : 2,\nfu_slideshow : \"Manual\",\nfu_slides : 3,\nfu_slideId : 0,\n\n      },\n      success : function( response ) {\n        content_fu_ebay_0.html( response );\n      },\n      error: function(e) {\n        console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: deferred loading error: \" + e);\n      }\n    }));\n  }}\n}, 10);\n\/\/-->\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of Holden Straight-Six Engines<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Holden produced several variations of its inline six-cylinder engine over the decades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Variants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>132 and 138 Grey Motor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>149 (2.4L)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>161 (2.6L)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>173 (2.8L)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>179 (3.0L)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>186 (3.05L)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>202 (3.3L)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blue Motor (VC Commodore era)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Black Motor (VK Commodore era)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While improvements were made over time, the basic architecture remained similar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are Holden Straight-Six Engines Reliable?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes \u2014 when properly maintained, these engines are extremely durable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strengths<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strong cast iron construction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Simple design<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Good low-end torque<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Easy to repair<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wide parts availability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weaknesses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Age-related wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil leaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cooling system sensitivity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carburettor dependence (early models)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most issues today are due to age rather than design flaws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Oil Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oil leaks are the most common issue across all Holden straight-sixes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Leak Areas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rocker cover gasket<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sump gasket<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rear main seal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Timing cover<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Side plate gaskets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil spots under vehicle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Engine oil smell<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dirty engine block<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hardened rubber seals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gasket shrinkage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crankcase pressure buildup<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oil leaks are almost universal in older engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Overheating Problems<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cooling system issues are another major concern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rising temperature gauge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coolant loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Boiling radiator<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor performance under load<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Blocked radiators<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Worn water pumps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Faulty thermostats<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scale buildup in block<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Straight-six engines rely heavily on a healthy cooling system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Timing Chain Wear<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Timing chains stretch over time, especially in high-mileage engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rattling noise on startup<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loss of performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rough idle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Timing drift<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Normal wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor oil maintenance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High engine hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is especially common in 202 and Blue Motor engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Carburettor Problems<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most early Holden sixes use carburettors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hard starting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rough idle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hesitation under load<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fuel leaks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dirt contamination<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Worn internal components<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect tuning<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carburettors require regular servicing for best performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Ignition System Issues<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ignition problems are common on older engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Misfires<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No-start condition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rough running<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor fuel economy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Worn distributor cap<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Faulty points (early models)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Weak ignition coil<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damaged leads<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Electronic ignition upgrades greatly improve reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Valve Train Wear<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">High-mileage engines often develop top-end wear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ticking noise<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increased oil consumption<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Worn lifters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Valve stem wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor lubrication over time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular oil changes reduce wear significantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Oil Consumption<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many straight-sixes consume oil as they age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Blue smoke<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Frequent top-ups<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fouled spark plugs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Worn rings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Valve stem seal failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PCV system issues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is common in engines with high mileage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Head Gasket Failures<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Less common, but still possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Coolant loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>White exhaust smoke<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Overheating<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Severe overheating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Corrosion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Age-related gasket failure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most engines avoid head gasket failure if cooling systems are maintained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Rear Main Seal Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A well-known Holden issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil dripping from bellhousing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil loss over time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hardened seal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crankshaft wear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Repair often requires transmission removal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Water Pump Failure<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Water pumps wear out over decades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Coolant leaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bearing noise<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Overheating<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bearing wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seal failure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replacement is straightforward and affordable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Fuel Pump Problems<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mechanical fuel pumps are common on early engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hard starting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fuel starvation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Engine cutting out<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Diaphragm failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Internal wear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Often replaced during restoration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Vacuum Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vacuum leaks affect performance and idle quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rough idle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High idle speed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lean running<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Sources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hoses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carburettor base<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Manifold gaskets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even small leaks can cause noticeable issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. Exhaust Manifold Cracks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heat cycling can cause cracking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ticking noise<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exhaust smell in engine bay<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced efficiency<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cause<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Thermal stress over time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common in high-mileage engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. Cooling Hose Failure<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rubber hoses degrade with age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Coolant leaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sudden overheating<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Heat exposure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rubber deterioration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preventative replacement is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. Engine Mount Wear<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Old mounts collapse or crack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Excess engine movement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vibration in cabin<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clunking under load<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rubber deterioration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil contamination<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replacing mounts improves drivability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Preventative Maintenance Tips<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Regular Oil Changes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeps internal components healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cooling System Flushes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prevents overheating and corrosion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ignition Tune-Ups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maintains smooth running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hose Replacement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prevents sudden breakdowns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Reliability Upgrades<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For improved long-term reliability:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Upgrades<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Electronic ignition conversion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aluminium radiator<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High-quality water pump<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Silicone coolant hoses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Steel timing gear (where applicable)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These upgrades greatly reduce common failure points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are Holden Straight-Six Engines Good?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes \u2014 they remain some of the most durable engines ever built in Australia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While they do suffer from predictable age-related issues, most are simple to repair and inexpensive compared to modern engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With proper maintenance, a Holden straight-six can easily exceed 300,000 km and continue running strongly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Holden straight-six engines are a cornerstone of Australian automotive history. From early red motors through to Blue and Black motor Commodores, these engines are known for their toughness and simplicity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most common problems \u2014 oil leaks, cooling issues, ignition faults and timing wear \u2014 are well understood and easily managed with routine maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For enthusiasts restoring or maintaining classic Holdens, understanding these issues is essential to keeping these legendary engines running reliably for decades to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Articles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/20\/holden-red-engine-oil-leak-guide-2\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"7247\">Holden Red Motor Oil Leak Issues<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/15\/vc-commodore-blue-motor-problems\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"7381\">VC Commodore Blue Motor Problems<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/16\/early-commodore-starting-problems-guide\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"7370\">Early Commodore Starting Problems Guide<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-vl-commodore-cooling-system-problems\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"7397\">Early Commodore Cooling System Problems<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Best Battery Upgrades for Early Commodores<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/16\/how-to-inspect-an-early-commodore-before-buying\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"7348\">How to Inspect an Early Commodore Before Buying<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Holden straight-six engine is one of the most iconic powerplants in Australian automotive history. Found in everything from early EH and HR models through to VB, VC, VH and VK Commodores, this engine family earned a reputation for simplicity, torque and long service life. Despite their durability, Holden straight-sixes are not immune to age-related [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3472,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7382","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Common Holden 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