{"id":7448,"date":"2026-06-10T04:52:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-10T04:52:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/australianholden.com\/?p=7448"},"modified":"2026-06-10T04:52:06","modified_gmt":"2026-06-10T04:52:06","slug":"vl-commodore-oil-leak-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/10\/vl-commodore-oil-leak-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"VL Commodore Oil Leak Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oil leaks are one of the most common issues found in VL Commodores today. Whether fitted with the naturally aspirated RB30E or the turbocharged RB30ET, these engines are now over 35 years old and many are suffering from hardened seals, worn gaskets, and age-related engine wear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While some oil leaks are minor and mostly cosmetic, others can lead to low oil levels, engine damage, smoke, and expensive repairs if left unattended. Fortunately, most VL oil leaks originate from a handful of well-known locations.<\/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;VL 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 : \"VL Commodore\",\nfu_ebay_query : \"VL Commodore rare\",\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\">Why VL Commodores Develop Oil Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most leaks are caused by ageing rubber and gasket materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Main Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hardened engine seals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shrinking gaskets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excessive crankcase pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor maintenance history<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Engine overheating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High kilometre wear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even well-maintained VLs eventually develop oil leaks due to age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Rocker Cover Gasket Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The rocker cover gasket is the most common oil leak source on RB30 engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil on top of engine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Burning oil smell<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil running down side of cylinder head<\/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 gasket material<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loose rocker cover bolts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Warped cover surfaces<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Replace rocker cover gasket<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspect breather system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clean sealing surfaces thoroughly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div id=\"fu_ebay_1\"><!-- Presentation: cols = 4, rows = 2, slideshow = Manual, slides = 3, slideId = 1 --><div class=\"fu_ebay_results_container \">\n<h5 class=\"fu_ebay_results_title\" style=\"display: block !important;\">\n<a name=\"fu_slidetop_1\"><\/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;Gasket<\/h5>\nLoading&#8230;<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<script>\n<!--\nvar content_fu_ebay_1 = null;\nvar waitForDepends_fu_ebay_1 = setInterval(function () {\n  if (typeof jQuery !== \"undefined\") {\n  if (window.fu_is_bot_useragent !== undefined) {\n    clearInterval(waitForDepends_fu_ebay_1);\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_1 = jQuery(\"#fu_ebay_1\");\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 : \"Gasket\",\nfu_ebay_query : \"VL Commodore Gasket Kit\",\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 : 1,\n\n      },\n      success : function( response ) {\n        content_fu_ebay_1.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\">2. Front Crankshaft Seal Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A common leak point on high-kilometre RB30 engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil around harmonic balancer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil on front of engine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil sprayed inside engine bay<\/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>Seal wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crankshaft wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Age-related hardening<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Replace front crankshaft seal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspect harmonic balancer condition<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Rear Main Seal Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most frustrating oil leaks to repair.<\/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 between engine and gearbox<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil around bellhousing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Persistent oil loss<\/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>Seal deterioration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crankshaft movement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High engine wear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Requires gearbox removal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Sump Gasket Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common on older RB30 engines.<\/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 underside of engine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wet sump rail<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil spots under vehicle<\/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>Gasket shrinkage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loose sump bolts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Previous poor-quality repairs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Replace sump gasket<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspect sump flange condition<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Oil Pressure Sender Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Often mistaken for more serious leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil around oil pressure sender<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Small but persistent seepage<\/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>Sender unit failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cracked housing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seal deterioration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replace oil pressure sender.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Camshaft Seal Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A common RB30 leak source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil around timing cover<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil near front of cylinder head<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficult-to-trace 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>Hardened camshaft seals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Timing belt service neglect<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Usually performed during timing belt replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Turbo Oil Leaks (RB30ET)<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turbocharged VLs introduce additional leak points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil around turbocharger<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Smoke from exhaust<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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 turbo seals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damaged oil feed lines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blocked oil drain lines<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rebuild or replace turbocharger<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspect feed and return system<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Crankcase Breather Problems<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Often overlooked but contributes to multiple leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil leaks from multiple locations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excessive oil vapour<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil pushed from seals<\/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>Blocked breather system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Faulty PCV components<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excessive engine blow-by<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inspect and clean entire breather system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Timing Cover Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Front engine leaks are commonly traced here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil around timing cover<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil accumulating near crank pulley<\/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>Timing cover gasket failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seal deterioration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Often performed during major front-engine servicing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Oil Filter Housing Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A smaller but common 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 near oil filter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leaks appearing after servicing<\/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>Damaged seal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loose filter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cracked housing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replace seals and inspect housing condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common RB30 Turbo Oil Leak Areas<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turbo VLs often suffer from additional leak points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Most Common<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Turbo oil feed fittings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Turbo return lines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rocker cover breather system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Front crank seal under boost pressure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Modified engines are especially prone to crankcase pressure-related leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Find an Oil Leak<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Clean the Engine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remove all old oil residue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Drive the Vehicle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Allow fresh oil traces to appear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Inspect from Top Down<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many leaks start higher than they appear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: Use UV Leak Dye<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Helpful for difficult-to-find leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Minor vs Major Oil Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Minor Leaks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Light seepage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minimal oil loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No smoke<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Usually manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Major Leaks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil dripping onto ground<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Frequent top-ups required<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Smoke from exhaust or engine bay<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Immediate repair recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Oils for High-Kilometre RB30 Engines<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Viscosity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>20W-50 mineral oil<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High-zinc classic engine oils<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reduces seepage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintains oil pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improves wear protection<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always follow engine condition and climate requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Mistakes When Repairing Oil Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Replacing Only One Seal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many RB30 engines leak from multiple locations simultaneously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Ignoring Crankcase Pressure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Breather issues often cause recurring leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Using Cheap Gaskets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Low-quality gaskets frequently fail prematurely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Not Cleaning Before Diagnosis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Makes accurate leak detection difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Preventing Future Oil Leaks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Change Oil Regularly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reduces sludge and seal deterioration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maintain Breather System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reduces internal pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Monitor Engine Temperature<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overheating accelerates gasket failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repair Small Leaks Early<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prevents larger failures later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warning Signs of Serious Oil Loss<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Low oil pressure warning light<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visible smoke from engine bay<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Frequent oil top-ups<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil under vehicle after parking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Burning oil smell while driving<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These symptoms should never be ignored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oil leaks are a normal part of owning a VL Commodore, particularly one powered by an RB30 engine. Most leaks are caused by ageing seals and gaskets rather than major engine failures, but they should still be addressed promptly to avoid further problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common leak sources include the rocker cover gasket, sump gasket, crankshaft seals, oil pressure sender, and turbo oil system components on RB30ET models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With proper maintenance, quality replacement parts, and regular inspections, most VL oil leaks can be repaired effectively, helping preserve one of Holden&#8217;s most popular classic 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>RB30 Starting Problems Guide<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RB30 Overheating Guide<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>VL Commodore Cooling System Problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>VL Commodore Fuel Pump Problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>VL Commodore Electrical Problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How to Inspect a VL Commodore Before Buying<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Oil leaks are one of the most common issues found in VL Commodores today. Whether fitted with the naturally aspirated RB30E or the turbocharged RB30ET, these engines are now over 35 years old and many are suffering from hardened seals, worn gaskets, and age-related engine wear. While some oil leaks are minor and mostly cosmetic, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":589,"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-7448","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>VL Commodore Oil Leak Guide - Australian Holden<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Oil leaks are one of the most common issues found in VL Commodores today\" \/>\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\/10\/vl-commodore-oil-leak-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"VL Commodore Oil Leak Guide - 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