Commodore (VB-VL)

1978-1988 / Sedan / Estate / Australia

All Commodore (VB-VL) problems All workshop issues

Common Engine, Holden V8 (253/308)

Worn Valve Train

Symptoms

Ticking or clattering from the top of the engine. May be constant or vary with RPM.

Cause

The 253 and 308 V8 use adjustable rocker arms with shaft-mounted rockers. The rocker shaft wears, the rocker arm tips wear where they contact the valve stem, and pushrod tips can wear into cups. High mileage and infrequent oil changes accelerate wear.

Fix

Inspect the rocker shaft for scoring and the rocker tips for excessive wear.

Replace worn components.

A Yella Terra roller rocker conversion eliminates the wear issue permanently and adds a useful amount of top-end power.

Budget $400-800 for roller rockers.

Cost mentioned in fix

Budget $400-800 for roller

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Other known issues

Critical Engine, Holden V8 (253/308)

Overheating in Traffic

Temperature gauge climbs into the red zone in slow traffic or on hot days. May push coolant out the overflow.

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.

Critical Engine, Nissan RB30E (VL naturally aspirated)

Timing Chain Stretch

Rattling noise from the front of the engine on cold start. Rough idle that may smooth out as the engine warms.

Common Engine, Nissan RB30E (VL naturally aspirated)

Oil Consumption

Oil level drops between services. No visible external leaks.

View all 21 Commodore (VB-VL) problems