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Commodore (VB-VL)

1978-1988 / Sedan / Estate / Australia

All Commodore (VB-VL) problems All workshop problems
Common Suspension and Steering

Differential Wear and Whine

Symptoms

Whining noise from the rear that increases with speed. May also produce a clunking noise on take-up (applying or releasing throttle).

Cause

The Borg Warner differential fitted from the late VK onwards uses a ring and pinion gear set that wears over time, particularly if the diff oil has not been changed regularly. The LSD (limited-slip differential) clutch packs on SS and SL/E models wear out, causing the diff to behave as an open diff. The 2-spider centre (VK) is weaker than the 4-spider centre (VL).

Fix

A whining diff typically means the ring and pinion are worn and need replacement or the diff needs rebuilding.

A clunk on take-up is usually worn LSD clutch packs or loose carrier bearings.

Budget $800-1,500 for a rebuild.

For modified cars making more than 200 kW, the VL 4-spider centre is significantly stronger than the VK 2-spider unit and is a direct swap.

Change diff oil (80W-90 GL5 with LSD additive) every 40,000 km.

Cost mentioned in fix
Budget $800-1,500 for a

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// More Commodore (VB-VL) problems

Other known issues

Common Suspension and Steering

Front Suspension Wear (All Models)

Clunking over bumps, vague steering, wandering on the highway, uneven tyre wear.
Common Suspension and Steering

Power Steering Rack Leak

Power steering fluid on the ground, heavy steering at low speeds, whining noise from the power steering pump.
Common Suspension and Steering

Rear Axle Bearing Noise

Humming or whining noise from the rear that changes with speed but not with steering input. May also develop a clunk on deceleration.
Minor Engine, Holden Six (3.3L / 202ci)

Worn Valve Stem Seals

Blue smoke on startup that clears after 30 seconds to a minute. May also smoke briefly on deceleration after sustained highway driving.
Common Engine, Holden Six (3.3L / 202ci)

Carburettor Issues (VB-VH)

Hard starting, rough idle, flat spots on acceleration, flooding, poor fuel economy, black smoke.
Critical Engine, Holden Six (3.3L / 202ci)

Oil Leaks (All Holden Six and V8)

Oil on the garage floor, oil smell, oil coating on the underside of the engine.
All Commodore (VB-VL) problems