{"id":7395,"date":"2026-06-14T11:52:10","date_gmt":"2026-06-14T11:52:10","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/australianholden.com\/?p=7395"},"modified":"2026-06-21T11:53:04","modified_gmt":"2026-06-21T11:53:04","slug":"vk-commodore-202-engine-problems","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/","title":{"rendered":"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Holden 202 engine, fitted to many VK Commodores, is one of Australia\u2019s most well-known six-cylinder motors. As the final evolution of Holden\u2019s long-running inline-six family before the introduction of the Nissan-sourced RB30 in the VL Commodore, the 202 is valued for its simplicity, torque and strong parts availability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, despite its reputation for durability, the 202 is not without its issues\u2014especially in VK Commodores that are now 40 years old. Most problems are age-related rather than design flaws, but they can still affect reliability, drivability and performance.<\/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;VK Commodore<\/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 : \"VK Commodore\",\nfu_ebay_query : \"VK Commodore 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 the Holden 202 Engine<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 202 (3.3L) inline-six was used extensively across Holden\u2019s range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Features<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cast iron block and head<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carburetted fuel system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mechanical simplicity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strong low-end torque<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Easy servicing and rebuildability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While robust, these engines rely heavily on good maintenance.<\/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 in the 202 engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Leak Points<\/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>Timing cover<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rear main seal<\/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>Burning 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>Shrinking cork gaskets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crankcase pressure buildup<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most VK Commodores will develop at least one oil leak over time.<\/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 a major concern for 202 engines.<\/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>Loss of power 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 radiator cores<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Worn water pump<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Faulty thermostat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Old or collapsed hoses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 202 is sensitive to overheating and should always be maintained carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Cooling Upgrade<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Product: Aluminium Radiator Upgrade<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Improved heat dissipation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Better reliability in hot conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced overheating risk<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best For<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Daily drivers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Modified VK Commodores<\/li>\n<\/ul>\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 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>Reduced performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rough idle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ignition 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 and tear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor oil maintenance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replacing the timing set is common during rebuilds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Carburettor Problems<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The VK 202 uses a carburettor system that requires regular tuning.<\/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>Poor fuel economy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hesitation 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>Dirt contamination<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Worn internal components<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect float levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vacuum leaks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carburettor issues are extremely common in ageing VK Commodores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Carburettor Solution<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Product: Nikki Carburettor Rebuild Kit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Restores fuel delivery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improves drivability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces fuel consumption<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best For<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stock VK Commodores<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Ignition System Issues<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The VK 202 uses electronic ignition, which can still develop faults.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No-start condition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Misfires<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rough running<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sudden stalling<\/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>Ignition module failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coil breakdown<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Distributor wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Faulty leads or cap<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heat is a major contributor to ignition component failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Oil Consumption<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">High mileage engines often burn oil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Blue exhaust smoke<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Frequent oil 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 valve stem seals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Piston ring wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PCV system issues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oil consumption increases with engine age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Valve Train Noise<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Top-end noise is common in older 202 engines.<\/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 from engine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rough idle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced performance<\/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>Rocker arm wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil starvation in top end<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular oil changes help reduce wear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Fuel Pump Problems<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mechanical fuel pumps can fail over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Engine cutting out<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hard starting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fuel starvation 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>Diaphragm failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Internal wear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replacement is straightforward and inexpensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Vacuum Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vacuum leaks significantly affect performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>High idle speed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rough running<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lean fuel mixture<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Leak Points<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Vacuum hoses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carburettor base gasket<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Intake manifold<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even small leaks can cause drivability issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Exhaust Manifold Cracks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heat cycling can cause cracking in the manifold.<\/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 on acceleration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exhaust smell in engine bay<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced performance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cause<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Long-term thermal stress in cast iron components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Head Gasket Issues<\/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 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 failure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most failures are preventable with proper cooling maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. 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 leaking between engine and gearbox<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil loss over time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cause<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seal hardening due to age<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Repair requires gearbox removal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Oil for VK 202 Engines<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Product: Penrite HPR 30 (20W-60)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>High zinc content<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excellent wear protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ideal for older engines<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best For<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stock and rebuilt 202 engines<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Affiliate Link Opportunity:<\/strong><br>Search Penrite HPR 30 on Amazon Australia and eBay Australia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">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\">Every 5,000 km or 6 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cooling System Servicing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Flush and inspect regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ignition Tune-Ups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replace cap, rotor and leads as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vacuum Hose Replacement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prevents drivability issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Mistakes Owners Make<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ignoring Overheating<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fastest way to damage a 202 engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Running Old Carburettor Settings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Leads to poor fuel economy and rough running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Using Low-Quality Oil<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Increases wear on older components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Delaying Seal Replacement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Small leaks often become major leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is the Holden 202 a Good Engine?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. The Holden 202 is a tough, simple and highly serviceable engine that remains popular among enthusiasts and restorers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most problems today are age-related rather than design faults, and with proper maintenance these engines can continue running reliably for many years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The VK Commodore 202 engine remains one of the most iconic Australian six-cylinder engines. While issues such as oil leaks, carburettor wear, ignition faults and cooling system problems are common, they are generally well understood and straightforward to repair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With regular servicing and attention to key weak points, the 202 can remain a dependable and enjoyable engine in classic VK Commodores.<\/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\/14\/vk-vl-commodore-rust-problems\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"7391\">VK Commodore Rust 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\/10\/vl-commodore-cooling-system-problems\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"7422\">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\/14\/how-to-inspect-a-vk-vl-commodore-before-buying\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"7393\">How to Inspect a VK or VL 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 202 engine, fitted to many VK Commodores, is one of Australia\u2019s most well-known six-cylinder motors. As the final evolution of Holden\u2019s long-running inline-six family before the introduction of the Nissan-sourced RB30 in the VL Commodore, the 202 is valued for its simplicity, torque and strong parts availability. However, despite its reputation for durability, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":588,"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-7395","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>VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems - Australian Holden<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The Holden 202 engine, fitted to many VK Commodores, is one of Australia\u2019s most well-known six-cylinder motors\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems - Australian Holden\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The Holden 202 engine, fitted to many VK Commodores, is one of Australia\u2019s most well-known six-cylinder motors\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Australian Holden\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-06-14T11:52:10+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-06-21T11:53:04+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"270\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"180\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Administrator\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Administrator\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Administrator\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/d0deacc0e3037203f1a9a2e253dac39e\"},\"headline\":\"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-14T11:52:10+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-21T11:53:04+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":891,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/australianholden.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/05\\\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/\",\"name\":\"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems - Australian Holden\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/australianholden.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/05\\\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-14T11:52:10+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-21T11:53:04+00:00\",\"description\":\"The Holden 202 engine, fitted to many VK Commodores, is one of Australia\u2019s most well-known six-cylinder motors\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/australianholden.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/05\\\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/australianholden.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/05\\\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1\",\"width\":270,\"height\":180},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/14\\\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/\",\"name\":\"Australian Holden\",\"description\":\"Specifications and Information\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Australian Holden\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/australianholden.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/05\\\/48-215.jpg?fit=1024%2C768\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/i0.wp.com\\\/australianholden.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/05\\\/48-215.jpg?fit=1024%2C768\",\"width\":1024,\"height\":768,\"caption\":\"Australian Holden\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/australianholden.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/d0deacc0e3037203f1a9a2e253dac39e\",\"name\":\"Administrator\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/dcbbf7f5803193d4dd17c01f78bc121d4e0a05c840fc8935604de0a0c0ec14c3?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/dcbbf7f5803193d4dd17c01f78bc121d4e0a05c840fc8935604de0a0c0ec14c3?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/dcbbf7f5803193d4dd17c01f78bc121d4e0a05c840fc8935604de0a0c0ec14c3?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Administrator\"}}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems - Australian Holden","description":"The Holden 202 engine, fitted to many VK Commodores, is one of Australia\u2019s most well-known six-cylinder motors","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems - Australian Holden","og_description":"The Holden 202 engine, fitted to many VK Commodores, is one of Australia\u2019s most well-known six-cylinder motors","og_url":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/","og_site_name":"Australian Holden","article_published_time":"2026-06-14T11:52:10+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-06-21T11:53:04+00:00","og_image":[{"width":270,"height":180,"url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Administrator","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Administrator","Est. reading time":"5 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/"},"author":{"name":"Administrator","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#\/schema\/person\/d0deacc0e3037203f1a9a2e253dac39e"},"headline":"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems","datePublished":"2026-06-14T11:52:10+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-21T11:53:04+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/"},"wordCount":891,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1","inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/","url":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/","name":"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems - Australian Holden","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1","datePublished":"2026-06-14T11:52:10+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-21T11:53:04+00:00","description":"The Holden 202 engine, fitted to many VK Commodores, is one of Australia\u2019s most well-known six-cylinder motors","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1","contentUrl":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1","width":270,"height":180},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/14\/vk-commodore-202-engine-problems\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"VK Commodore 202 Engine Problems"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#website","url":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/","name":"Australian Holden","description":"Specifications and Information","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#organization","name":"Australian Holden","url":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/48-215.jpg?fit=1024%2C768","contentUrl":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/48-215.jpg?fit=1024%2C768","width":1024,"height":768,"caption":"Australian Holden"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/#\/schema\/person\/d0deacc0e3037203f1a9a2e253dac39e","name":"Administrator","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/dcbbf7f5803193d4dd17c01f78bc121d4e0a05c840fc8935604de0a0c0ec14c3?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/dcbbf7f5803193d4dd17c01f78bc121d4e0a05c840fc8935604de0a0c0ec14c3?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/dcbbf7f5803193d4dd17c01f78bc121d4e0a05c840fc8935604de0a0c0ec14c3?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Administrator"}}]}},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/VK-Commodore.jpg?fit=270%2C180&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7395","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7395"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7395\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8213,"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7395\/revisions\/8213"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/588"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7395"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7395"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7395"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}