1987 Holden Commodore VL from Australia and New Zealand - Comments

3 hours after I bought it the crank angle sensor broke.

3 manifold bolts sheared off.

Brake master cylinder needed rebuilding.

Gear box mount broke.

Numerous rubber exhaust mounts broke due to high temperatures from the exhaust.

The main reason VL Commodores need their cooling system fixed is because of the metal buffer inside the radiator which drops off and blocks the water flow thus cracking the head from overheating. This usually happens around 180000 to 190000kms. Mine had already been fixed before this happened by the people who owned it before me.

All in all I won't be selling my VL anytime in the near future for one simple reason... every morning I get up to go to work and go to start it, it starts without any problems. I may have to replace things every now and then, but hey, the car is 14 years old so what do you expect?

Too right. With a 14 year old car, you can't expect perfection. Maintenance is the word, all cars need it. Gotta love how the VL starts up (compared with the XF Falcon carby I previously owned).

Luke.

My VL has just reached 180 000 K's, I have had it for 8 months and not had a problem, but how can I ensure that I don't crack the head? Any warning signs for this problem?

It would be great if you could email me at sdra4438@mail.usyd.edu.au.

I've a problem. Can you help me? Mr Holden VL Berlina 1987 will not start by key ignition. I think the isolating switch is not working in or on the gearbox. It will go into park, but will not start by key. The light comes on and brake light comes on as well.

Any ideas please email me at hartleyisabel@xtra.co.nz.

The cut off switch may be corroded over--the one that prevents you from starting in gear.

Mitch.