Holden Commodore VX (2000-2002)

Concern and questionable – I had a vx sedan it looked awesome and I loved it. It had monaro tail lights and head lights, a fancy bonnet, lowered with tinted windows and mags. Inside was immaculate. One day I was driving and hit a pothole which made me lost control and the car to spin, the outcome was not good! I ended up wrapped around a tree and it was a miracle I… Read more

survived. The car was a write-off, but the issue is that the cars airbags never activated as they are designed to do, Meaning I took full impact of the car hitting the tree..!!

This isn't the first time I have heard of this kind of car not activating its airbags on impact, a family member and other people i know have said that they have had the same experience with both the VT and Vx commodoores models.

My life has been completely changed in every way from the impact of my accident that day and i need care for the remainder of my life as I can't function and look after myself.

So I say stay away from these cars as there are to many times I have heard of the airbags being faulty and letting people down.

Research and do your homework people!

Great reliable car few issues – Purchased my late 2000 Commodore executive with police pack from Brisbane government auctions 40,000km. Its been a great car to drive and still goes like new no rattling 20 years on and 170,000km. The only issue was a pully collapsed, still ran, replaced myself. Had roof lining replaced as heat damaged . Secrete is change oil and filter regularly, keep cooling system serviced . Hate to sell love the car. Show details

Great car to drive – Brought my vx commodore series 2 December last year with a 198000 on the clock great car to drive runs well had to replace a few things due to last owner but my girlfriends family don't thinkt's reliable because I paid 1200 Show details

18 years.. Still great – Bought it with 17,000 on it. Still current model (then). Went from a TR Magna to this. Heaps more power. Not as "lively" to drive as the Maggot (Manual. VX is an auto). Drove it everywhere... Kids grew up with it. I am 6'4" son is similar. He can sit behind me and have plenty of room. Car is S pak series one. Got the rear suspension sorted very… Read more

early. Now the rear tyres wear the same as the front. Best was 95,000 from a set of Dunlop SP Sports. Very econoical IF you know the tricks. Plenty of country trips. Best of 6.6 Litres per 100 k's, like the ad says. Usually round town of 10 (Canberra). Now at 332000 k's still gets good mileage (mid 7's for a country trip, mid 8's if I push it - which I do). Gearbox is original. Engine is original. No major repairs. Parts are cheap. Please, check Holden for parts prices. Often they are cheaper than Ripco or Supercheap, and you get genuine parts that will work and last. My Spak is one of 6 (six) made in Devil Yellow. Love the colour! Still looks new. No fade, no clear coat bubbles. Interior is good. No rips, no obvious wear. A/C works (never serviced). At 250,000 k's had a heater tap burst. Replaced all the hoses as they were all the originals... Bought a set from Super Cheap. Fitted ok but later that week one burst. I went to Holden. Bought a full set. Cheaper than Supercheap! And 70,000 k's later, no problems. Need advice? Call ANY mechanic. Everyone knows these cars. Still plenty of spares around, and cheap. Since Holden introduced the Alloytec motor people are realising what a great engine the Ecotec was. My car developed the rattles recently. I priced a replacement engine ($1,000 fitted - used with about 130,000k's) but I took it to a good mechanic who suggested a good engine flush and a valve lifter cleaner. Cost me about $40 all up. Now the engine is quiet again. No new engine needed! Standard equipment list was extensive for 2001: Power windows, power mirrors, steering wheel controls, leather steering wheel, sports suspension, low profile tyres/mags, ABS, Traction control, cruise, air bag, intermittent wipers, CD radio, etc etc. Hey, in 2001 that was a lot! (Now common). And they looked great, particularly in Devil Yellow!

This is Perfect! I won't be discontinuing the use of this Car – I bought this car from a car sale yard back in 2013 (2000 vx Commodore station wagon) and I've never had that much of a problem with this car which the only problem I had was that it needed a new "iac valve". At that time a "professional mechanic" told me that it had this problem or that problem" which kept affecting my hip pocket $$$ in the end.… Read more

So I then took my car to a "back yard mechanic" who found the problem, which all it needed was a new "iac valve" never had a problem ever since. This is the best car I've ever owned and still is in 2020

Fantastic car! – I bought this VX series 2 Equipe when it had 110k. The car now has 270k. I saw others with 350k or more on the clock and going strong. So I had the car for a lot of its life. I use it as family car and commute to/from work. I use it daily. The car is serviced every 10k. I had to replace the thermostat once. Never ever had any other issues at all… Read more

with it and my mechanic said it's one of the best car that's ever been on the road. It feels like the day I bought it and it has 'bullet proof' engine that will perhaps outlive the life of the car. The parts are very cheap and easy to find, mind you, I only needed normal maintenance parts such as spark plugs, brake pads, bulbs, filters etc. Lots of people complain about its high fuel consumption. I travel long, medium and short distances and I get a monthly average return of 9.5%. Lots of newer cars that cost 3 or 4 times more will perhaps drink about 8% anyway. If you do your numbers you will see that will be paying about $500 more in fuel per year. That is the cost of a drink each week. However, I wouldn't pay $25k for a car to save $500/y in fuel per year. It doesn't make sense. VX are very roomy inside, with generous boot, very quiet, plenty of power, I can't fault it for anything.

Best car looks – Use it everyday and the best car, luv this car. Use it for sports, family and commuting to work. Everyday i use this car. Service every 6 months to keep in good condition, Never had any issue. Hope it comes back. Show details

2000 Holden Commodore Lumina VX – Bought it as my second car, just sold it. This review is sorely based on my own vehicle and experience, so some of the issues I had may not be applicable to your car. Pros -Power, 3.8L 6cylinder still going strong -Good space front and rear -Cheap to buy -Decent build quality -Planted feel when driving it -Cheap and easy to maintain, you can… Read more

take it any workshop and they are willing to work on it with cheap price

Cons -High fuel consumption -4 speed auto gearbox a bit out-dated by today's standard. And occassional gear slip when downshift hard. -spoiler fractured, fixed by liquidnail -Oil and coolant leak, not severe but is there -Remote battery can't be replaced, you can only replace the entire key remote kit, quite costly

After all, a good reliable commuter, with decent power and space

flogged this car on m1 for 5 years – i bought this cheap on duel fuel for $4700. drove it up and down the m1/f3 for 5 days a week / 6 days a week. never serviced it. petrol in the tank and water in the windscreen wiper. took 5 and half years before the cost of rego did not make any sense.  Show details

Should never have sold it – My vx commodore was just a standed executive but was factory fitted with full electric windows electric mirrors sunroof and even had a gen iii 6spd manual which I had cammed by kosteki engine performance to boost the hp to over 434 hp. Used heaps of fuel but did great skids  Show details

What more can I say “Cheap and Reliable” – The headline says it all. I brought this car back in 2013 and put on over 150,000 trouble free km. The car done over 350,000km and still doesn’t burn or use any oil or water. The good things about these cars are they are cheap in parts and if you do need parts they are easy to come by.  Show details

A great drive – reliable and economical – [Jan 2020 edit] I bought my used 2002 VX II S Commodore upgrading from a 1994 ED Falcon, having owned a 1984 VH Commie prior to that. I never cared for corporate allegiances: Falcon or Commodore, it made no difference to me. I was primarily interested in cars that were Aussie-made for Aussie conditions. To be more precise, I think the big Aussie… Read more

six-cylinder family car is still a great formula for this country if you can only afford one car, and especially if you also have a family or you're just starting-out and need a cheap, safe and reliable car. Falcons and Commodores are big and roomy; simple, reliable and powerful; safe and strong. They're made to cover long distances with ease and comfort; offering spacious family transport and the ability to tow a trailer, boat or caravan. Australian families may have stepped up to SUVs, with their greater appeal to safety and recreational aspirations, but they're considerably dearer to buy and drive than a traditional Aussie sedan. City folk may buy the buzz boxes for their fuel economy but you can go further in far greater safety and comfort in a Commie or a Falcon.

The VX II Commodore was one of the most popular cars Holden ever made, and for good reason: it really is a great vehicle. I previously rated this car four stars because of its age but it's been so good to us that I changed it to five stars because I reckon this model will go down as one of the best Holden sedans ever made, taking pride of place alongside the classic HQ and HR models of yesteryear. The last Aussie Commie, the VF, may prove to be in the same league as well, as apparently it also offers exceptional safety, efficiency, comfort and importantly, reliability too, as the in-between models had their 'issues'. Holden finally got the big Commodore properly sorted with the VX Series II in 2002, after some teething problems with the VT and the original VX series. For example, the Independent Rear Suspension was revised on the VX II so that it didn't chew tyres and wasn't as prone to wander-and-track on highway straights and sweepers. The pushrod 3.8-litre Ecotec V6 and 4-speed auto might be off the pace by today's standards but Holden did a lot of work on improving the efficiency of the V6, and the engine and drivetrain are said to be 'bullet-proof' if properly maintained. I have indeed had trouble-free motoring with my VX II over the last six years and approximately 100,000 kilometres. It has now covered 230,000 kilometres in total, yet it feels solid and dependable enough to go as far again. Yes, parts wear out (disc pads, rotors, radiator, battery) and break (lightbulbs, electric window winder, ABS, ceiling lining, petrol gauge) as they do on any car, but the fundamental mechanical design of this vehicle is rock-solid and parts are still cheap and plentiful.

A nice surprise coming from the ED Falcon was how frugal the V6 Commie was on petrol. And yet the V6 engine is willing and forceful, displaying performance characteristics not too dissimilar to the torquey mid-90's Ford OHC straight six: it has the familiar deep-down pull of a '70s 5-litre V8 and at 150 kW / 200 hp, a similar power output too. On the road, the Holden feels quite spritely and dynamic compared with the squat, cruising Falcon, and feels surprisingly light and nimble on take-off and through bends and corners. The S-pack brings Stage One sports suspension and 16-inch mags that I've teamed with a set of excellent Bridgestone Turanzas. The suspension is noticeably stiffer than a regular Commie's, which delivers better cornering capabilities and less body roll, but at the expense of outright comfort. It's not a soft ride, but it's not exactly harsh either: I'd say it's a nice compromise between performance and comfort, the firmness reminiscent again of late-'60s / early-'70s muscle cars. The VX II has good brakes that are pleasingly responsive, powerful and resilient. The ABS works nicely under panic braking situations: if you throw down the anchors you'll feel the ABS pistons rapid-firing underfoot as they hold the braking action back to prevent lock-up. The S-pack also gets a very attractive, subtle body kit with a chin spoiler, side and rear skirts and an elegant tail wing. Though I'm not a properly 'fast' driver or an attention-seeker, the VX II S-pack wants you to drive quickly and it is a joy at speed, especially on bendy highways, while it still gets admiring glances around town too.

When I first moved to the country, I began running the car exclusively on 98 RON premium fuel in order to extract all the power I could out of the engine when I found myself flooring the ol' girl a bit too often on hilly country roads using regular unleaded fuel. Under these conditions, there is a noticeable difference on the good stuff, especially when climbing steep hills or overtaking vehicles; often both at the same time! and this is when the extra power becomes a safety-factor. According to the RACQ, running a car on Premium UnLeaded Petrol only costs the average driver about $50 to $80 more a year because a tank of the more volatile fuel gets you further down the road, offsetting the extra up-front cost of premium fuel. The extra safety margin in power from PULP was a worthwhile investment when I was commuting daily from our country town to the city, but when I was living in the city I mostly used to pocket the savings and drive on regular unleaded. Now that I only drive to the city occasionally and the country roads are becoming a lot busier, I mostly run plain unleaded as there's no point in overtaking slower cars as one will only get caught behind another mobile road-block further ahead; often a train of slow-moving vehicles! Better to just relax, tuck in behind 'em and take it easy.

Even after eighteen years, this car's shape still looks great on the road. Parked beside a VZ Commie, my German friend thought my VX II was the newer car! Coming from the more masculine-looking and angular ED Falcon, the VX II is all feminine curvy-swirls: there isn't a straight line anywhere on the thing! That theme continues inside the passenger cabin where again, it's all swerves and curls. By any measure, these vehicles are beautiful. Their one exterior design flaw is a be-donkey-donk butt but like a skirt over thick thighs, the elegant (yes, feminine) boot-mounted wing on the S-pack's tail hides that flaw and makes all the difference to the rear-end. I've noticed the SS's have a much larger wing on the boot that looks rather lumpen in comparison, though whale tails like that are more likely to actually generate downforce at speed. Being the beautiful girl she is, I named our VX "Vixen", though we also refer to her generically as "The Bat Mobile" (yes, she's black).

Weaknesses? Around town, I don't like the Traction Control: it totally kills engine power for far too long if the rear wheels slip on take-off ... which is exactly when one is looking for hard acceleration to jump into, or across traffic! Leave the Traction Control 'on' most of the time though, especially in the rain: I had the tail-end break traction while flooring it on a steep uphill, slippery section of highway to overtake a slower vehicle on a bend in the rain. The car just stepped out a little but before I could even react, a few lights lit up on the dash and I felt a little power come off and the rear-end tuck back in again, and I just kept going like nothing had happened. Very good indeed! I've seen plenty of cars slid off that section of road, including European exotics. Though the Commie is roomy by world standards, it is noticeably smaller than the seriously capacious ED Falcon: the cockpit in the Commie wraps around the driver and the entire cabin is more cosseting. There's less storage space in the boot and the back seat doesn't split-fold like the Falcon's did; you only get a centre arm-rest wide 'ski hole' from the boot. I've seen the VX II's safety rated surprisingly low, but ANCAP give it 4-stars, which I personally think is closer to the mark in real world situations because in a stack I'd always prefer to be in a heavier, stronger, bigger car like a Commodore than in a small car, but for that reason I'd also rather be in a Falcon than a Commodore. You pay for that extra weight and size at the fuel bowser but anecdotal evidence from ambos, towies and cops supports the 'bigger, stronger, heavier' survivability theory and it probably goes some way to explaining the SUV take-over from big Aussie sedans in the Australian market.

I've noticed plenty of peeling paint on cars of all makes and models since manufacturers began skimping on paint and glossing over their cars with clear-coat: just give 'em a few years out in the vicious Queensland sun like my poor Falcon and Commodore had to endure at work where there was no undercover parking. Like the Falcon, the paint on my Commie is fading and the clear-coat is bubbling and peeling in spots, and there's no cheap and easy fix for it. A local spray-painter quoted me more for a respray than the car is worth, saying it has to go back to metal to do it properly.

I replaced the decidedly obsolete cassette-based Blaupunkt stereo head unit with something useful: a basic 'mechless' Pioneer USB/iPod/Tuner/Bluetooth-Phone head unit, which runs through the factory quad-speaker set-up. The Single DIN Pioneer is a good performer and fit vertically with a spacer for the car's Double DIN radio hatch, but horizontally it proved to be a very tight fit. It also couldn't be connected to the 'remote' paddle controls on the steering wheel. Prolly should've done a bit more homework on that one. Finally, if you're thinking of souping-up an S-pack, you should know the Ecotec V6 doesn't respond well to simple mods: you'd need to throw thousands of dollars at boosting the engine to make it really jump. Interestingly, examples of the V8-powered VX II SS are starting for as little as five-grand in 2020. That's a lot of car for the money, and a good basis for modding, or possibly even has some collectibility potential if restored to original, factory condition.

To sum up, the VX II Commodore is among the very best examples of the great Aussie big-six sedan formula, delivering an economical, reliable, practical and fun driving experience, especially the S-pack. Parts are cheap and plentiful and Aussie mechanics know these vehicles well. Its V6 engine mated to a 4-speed auto makes for a very robust vehicle that lays down bags of power when it's needed most. These cars are remarkably fuel-efficient for a big car too, so much so that when I first began driving it, I wondered why anyone would resort to a four-cylinder econo-box when the overall practicality, safety and comfort suffers so much with small cars. If you don't know, let me put it this way: Falcons and Commodores EAT Australian roads: the further you drive them, the brighter they shine.

Satisfied – Never had any major issue except that it is not that fuel efficient. We use it just once or twice a week. It has a large machine and despite being an old model, we are not yet considering on replacing it as we are still satisfied to its performance since we regularly service it.  Show details

Holden Commodore 2001 Vx 's' Sedan V6 Auto – Just sold my 2001 VU UTE (see my separate review) made money on it .... that's a first for me .... Yep you guessed it I'm sticking to the Commodore family - AGAIN !! This time I Looked at buying 'another' V6 Ecotec Commodore Sedan. Never quite got over selling my 2001 VX V6 Acclaim sedan in Black. So you guessed it I went on the look… Read more

out for 'another' 2001 V6 Sedan ....

This time I bought a 2001 Commodore V6 'S' Sedan privately .... factory stock standard with 175 000 kms & full service history (in Sting Red goes 'faster') for $1850 cash.

Here's some specifications;

Commodore VX V6 'S' features;

IRS, Power Steering, Body kit & rear boot spoiler, colour coded door handles & mirrors, Stainless steel exhaust system, Steering wheel height & reach adjustment, Intermittent wipers, Electric exterior mirrors & Ariel, Electric rear window demister, Tachometer, Multi function trip computer, Headlamps auto off after leaving the vehicle parked, Lamp and chime warning for low fuel and parking brake on while moving, Electronic tune AM/FM stereo CD with clock, Bucket seats, Driver & Passanger airbag, cut pile carpet, twin cup holders, centre console storage compartment, door pockets, remote central locking w/ deadlock facility, FE2 Suspension, Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel 16 inch factory wheels, LSD differential & chrome exhaust tip.

I had to change rotors/brakes, front struts and changed all fluids (I always do that with a new car). Parts were inexpensive and I did all the work myself. I just payed for a wheel alignment. The paint being red was faded from the sun & looked tired. I rubbed it back, buffed it, polished it and it looks amazing.

Once you've owned a number of VT-VX Commodore's (I've had nine V8/V6 ones .... excluding the ones I've reviewed on here) you learn all the faults and quirks. That's when you can pick up some real bargains ....

Do your research online ....

My 'S' is easy to work on, looks great in red, interior in exceptional condition, has ample power from the V6 & good economy. It has all the mod-cons like air con, power steering, central locking, etc.

Parts are plentiful - either, OEM, after-market or buying wrecked cars for parts.

Seriously you can do all the work yourself .... just google whatever problem you may have. I've replaced COMMODORE fuel pumps, radiators, water pumps, coil packs, suspension parts, steering racks, interior parts, body panels, basic spray painting/panel beating, transmission service, wheel bearings, dash lights .... etc

I don't rate myself as a mechanic but am a Commodore Forum & YOUTUBE devotee .... As long as you have some basic tools like a floor jack, floor stands, spanners etc and a good SERVICE MANUAL to support your online research you can do most of the work yourself. Of course some things are too big and you will need a trusted mechanic.

So many cars now days are extremely complex but the VX is at a point where the home mechanic can still troubleshoot & fix the car themselves.

When you do see a car especially a Commodore - be brutal in your assessment of it & make your offer based on costs to rectify issues. If unsure get the car looked at by your mechanic.

I always expect that an old car will have issues, that comes with the turf. Just make sure you know what they are and negotiate accordingly or 'walk away' .... there are SO MANY Commodores to choose from .... be patient ....

This is a wonderful car, and could n't do with out it – The experience of driving the VX commodore is comfortable, performance I could not ask any more from a V6 engine, handling is terrific, not much noise. I can go from Newcastle to Blacktown and back on 50.00. I therefore would recommend such a vehicle to anyone that is looking for a decent car.  Show details

Super reliable and durable family car! – My VX series 2 Lumina has now done 212,000klms and all I have had go wrong was an alternator, I cooked a battery because it was overcharging, other than that all I have had to buy are the normal things like tyres, a couple of accessory belts, two batteries, and a couple of sets of brake pads! I treat it well with 5k oil changes and use only… Read more

synthetic oil, I do the auto every 20k and keep it clean and neat. It has always driven well, very smooth and comfortable, very economical and no oil leaks to date. I would have to recommend this car to anyone wanting cheap and reliable transport!

November 7th 2016 Update: Bullet proof bargain buy!

Getting mobile need not cost you an arm and a leg! A good solid and reliable car to look at is the Holden Commodore VX series2. This model had all the bugs ironed out, and that included things like adding an extra link to the rear IRS suspension to elimate the toe out and high tyre wear the VT and VX series 1 had. They also fixed the rear main oil seal to prevent leaks and the car had re-inforcing in the "A'" Pillars to make it stronger and safer. It's a well known fact that a well services ECOTECH all iron engine will outlast the later Allytech and the ECOTECH only needs regular servicing to give the huge mileages they are capable of giving before thy finally die. General things to do are really all logical and you don't have to be Einstein to do what the car needs to keep performing reliably. Use a quality oil, I use a Synthetic Shell 5w-40 and it suits the car, also use a quality spark plug, I use NGK Iridium and having tried all the others, these perform the best with a new set of factory spec Leads, You need to change both about every 50-60ks for reliable smooth running. Change your Oil at about 7500klms, extended oil changes are fals economy and oil sludges up when left in too long, and blocks the oil pickup, [this is a common problem with the later Alloytech Engine, along with stretched timing chains and other terminal nasties, fortunately, the ECOTECH is an all Iron Engine and is as strong as an ox! Regular Transmission oil changes will help to prolong th Auto's life too, I recommend every 20,000klms and do a reverse flush, also include Rislone Auto Trans additive too, that will prevent rough shifting and oil leaks, The main thing to remember is keep all the fluids clean, I also flush the power sterring and add Rislone Power Steering additive too, to date and after 213-000klms, I have no oil leaks at all from any part of the engine or drive train. Keep things like tyre pressures up too, 40 PSI is perfect and will stop premature tyre wear and wear on the tyre shoulders, also have a regular wheel alignment too. Finally keep your VX clean inside and out, it may be getting on in years, but it is still a great modern looking care, and will survive many more years with proper care and maintenance! Mine stays, as it has no problems that would convince me to sell it! I average about 7 liters per 100 k's on the open road at the normal speed limit, and I use Premium fuel too.

Perfect family now work car – After owning a 98 vt wagon for 3 years, drove it to many destinations including port lincoln in 40 degree temperatures and didnt miss a beat. I upgraded to a 04 patrol which brokw down on me every week. I soon got rid of it and bought a VX wagon berlina. So reliable. Comfortable and powerful. I have towed cars, caravans, loads of timber and tows a… Read more

tool trailer everyday and it drives like a dream. 600kms to a tank.

Very good and if it ever breaks itll be a small expense to buy another!

Skids like a commy don't need to say any more – Vt sedan great car 450km to the tank does hell mad skids and doses like a vl turbo hell mad can out run the cops and has done many times just snap second and she's gone big blow off valve cops don't like that and a big cops don't like this sticker on the back  Show details

COMMODORE 2001 VU V6 Ecotec UTE – Having sold my VX HSV (see my separate review) it was time to look at something else to buy. I looked at all manufacturers but decided to stay with the Commodore family - again. This time I Looked at buying 'another' V6 Ecotec Commodore. I loved my old 2001 VX V6 Acclaim sedan in Black. I had bought it with 131 000 kms & sold it at 225… Read more

000 kms.

I had only done regular services & changed brake pads, a water pump & that was it.

I toyed with the thought of a sedan but opted for a VU 2001 'S' V6 Ecotec Utility instead.

Here's some specifications;

Base VU features;

IRS, Power Steering, Body coloured bumpers and door handles, Stainless steel exhaust system, Steering wheel height & reach adjustment, Intermittent wipers, Electric exterior mirrors, Electric rear window demister, Tachometer, Multi function trip computer, Headlamps auto off after leaving the vehicle parked, Lamp and chime warning for low fuel and parking brake on while moving, Electronic tune AM/FM stereo CD with clock, Bucket seats, Driver airbag, cut pile carpet, twin cup holders, centre console storage compartment, door pockets, remote central locking w/ deadlock facility & 8 load tie down hooks to secure goods carried in the rear tray, Wheels 15 x 7 w/ 205 65 15 tyres.

Maximum payload of 830 kg.

VU 'S' Ute;

receives a lsd differential, cruise control, 16 inch alloy wheels, body coloured exterior mirrors, a chromed exhaust outlet, remote controls for the sound system on the steering wheel, an automatic power antenna, electric driver's seat height adjustment, power windows and a new flush fitting soft tonneau cover.

Maximum payload of 830 kg.

I looked at many V8 Utes but to be frank I wanted the relative simplicity of the V6. Plus V8 Utes are either 'overpriced' or 'Rough' in my view.

I refuse to pay for someone's else's 'over capitalisation' on their car. But that's me.

Having said that, if you can find a relatively unmodified one at a price you are happy with than go for it. I won't bore you with the Pro's & Con's but do your own research.

I wanted a VU V6 Ute for under $4000 with minimal to modifications & not an 'ex-tradie hack'.

Impossible?

Well after much looking I found one.

It is a Black 2001 VU 'S' Ute with all the mod-cons. I picked it up for $3650 cash.

It had a documented engine rebuild at 220 000 kms worth $3000 (Head Gasket) & a Transmission rebuild worth $1800.

All the rotors and brakes were replaced as was the suspension. The car has Holden FE2 suspension with Pursuit Wheels (15 x 7 w/new 225 60 x 15 tires).

The interior has seat covers & looks like new. The tray has an OEM liner & the paint is excellent. Anyone that knows me - knows I am very fussy when it comes to my cars & motorcycles.

I have had the windows re-tinted as well.

I love the way the Ute handles. If you are familiar with VT-VX commodores the VU Ute will feel like a comfortable pair of jeans.

Easy to work on, looks good, ample power from the V6 & good economy. It has all the mod-cons like air con, power steering, central locking, etc.

Parts are plentiful - either, OEM, after-market or buying wrecked cars for parts. There are great online forums where you can find out model information such as issues, fixes, etc. You can do quite a bit of mechanical work yourself. So many cars now days are extremely complex but the VU is at a point where the home mechanic can still troubleshoot & fix the car themselves - IMHO.

When you do see a car especially an Ute - be brutal in your assessment of it & make your offer based on costs to rectify issues. If unsure get the car looked at by your mechanic.

I always expect that an old car will have issues, that comes with the turf. Just make sure you know what they are and negotiate accordingly or 'walk away'.

Even though my Ute has done 255 000kms w/ a documented engine/gearbox rebuild & receipts for all services, etc. I was happy to pay $3650 for it.

Holden Utes in general hold their values well if you look after them. They are very handy but of course only have 2 seats so keep that in mind if you have a family or are planning one.

One other thing, it's amazing how many family & friends need to 'move things' when you have a Ute ...

HSV 'Clubsport' Series 2 Auto 5.7 Litre Sedan – Having sold my VT Series 2 SS (see my other review) I decided to buy an entry level 'HSV' Holden Special Vehicles 'Club Sport'. I initially looked at buying a VT Series 2 'Club Sport' but after seeing quite a few cars & doing my research I opted for the VX 'Club Sport'. Whilst the VT has a really nice body kit (IMHO) it looks a little similar… Read more

to the SS.

The VX has a very distinct body kit which sets it apart from SS Commodores & HBD Holden By Design body kits.

Mine is a 2 owner 2002 Series 2 'Clubsport', auto & black with the 255 kw Ls1 motor. I paid $8500 which I consider to be what they are worth & everyone comments I got it cheap!

It has 148 000 documented kms.

The only modifications are Pedders Springs, 19 inch Wheels & 'cat back' exhaust for that V8 note. (** Importantly I have the original OEM 18 inch Wheels, OEM Springs & OEM Exhaust **).

It comes with standard dual front airbags, front side airbags, ABS & traction control.

The brakes are 296 mm by 28 mm ventilated front discs with two piston callipers and 286 mm by 16 mm solid rear discs w/single piston callipers (ClubSport R8 has 330 mm by 32 mm front and 316 mm by 18 mm rear discs).

Yes there was a brake 'upgrade' option for the base Club Sport so check out the vehicle log books (** Many owners have upgraded their own HSV's with various after market performance brake packages. I personally prefer factory upgrade options but it's your call **).

Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, 6 speaker sound system w/CD player, air con (** Climate Control on R8 Club Sport's, some base 'Club Sports' have climate control as an upgrade **), Recaro-type front Seats, cruise control, fog lights, height and reach adjustable leather-wrapped steering wheel/gear shift knob, central locking, pwr windows/mirrors, immobiliser, limited slip rear diff.

The VX 2 Club Sport’s rear suspension was fitted with toe control links for better tyre wear, which is another reason I went for this model.

The car can run on normal unleaded 91 ron with some power loss but runs best at 95 ron.

The thing I can't emphasis enough is to get a car that is stock or can be taken back to stock. So many cars on the market have been modified especially engine wise. I am not comfortable with other people's engine modifications UNLESS I personally know the owner & car or there is a comprehensive detailed engine modification list carried out by a reputable workshop (** Keep in mind insurance restrictions and/or demands of modified vehicles/drivers. Do your homework **).

IMHO engine modifications that are not factory detract from the cars value & appeal. I can live w/ aftermarket exhaust & wheels (maybe sound system) but that's about it. The owner had the OEM parts for my car & that's why I bought it, plus the engine was factory standard.

Performance is good at 255 kws & the handling is very tight over say an SS (as it should be). Build quality is good as it should (** the original purchase price of $60 000 plus back in the day! **).

There are so many HSV's on the market so take your time.

Mine was advertised at $11500 for months (** I had a list of ads I was watching for months on various on line sites **). I made the call, checked it out & haggled it down to $8500 cash. I know I can sell it for $8000 - $8500 if I keep it in this condition easily down the line.

The HSV shares a lot of it's DNA with the Holden Commodore so that makes parts buying easier.

Some specific HSV items are a little more expensive but you can hunt around online & find parts at reasonable prices.

Get yourself a comprehensive service manual (** I got mine on line **). There are so many things you can do on your own & online forums are a great resource for help & information.

Keep in mind that a stamped log book can increase value of a car BUT this is a personal thing. Mine had HSV servicing to 100 000 kms then a reputable independent mechanic's afterwards. I can live with this but it's your call.

Finally make sure the interior is looked after - no rips fading, etc. Check the steering wheel leather is in good condition, also check the body kit especially the front spoiler/grill lip & side skirts aren't cracked & damaged. If they are get them priced to repair and/or replace & deduct from purchase price they ARE expensive. You will find many HSV's have some damage to the body kit.

Will the HSV's be collectible?

Maybe, there have been so many HSV variations produced. They are still to some extent 'exclusive' but there are too many on the market & some are simply overpriced due to owners spending thousands on modifications. IMHO only pristine low mileage examples will be worth something.

Remember despite what an owner tells you about the thousands he/she has poured into the car - a 'Club Sport' is always a 'Club Sport' keep that in mind.

For people like me I'm more interested in driving one, having some fun (** yes they are fun! **), then moving on to my next car without losing a ton of money, it's that simple.

bloody brilliant car :) – i have a vx series 2 s pac, car has been awesome, whole engine burnt, replaced it and no problems cars fine, only issue is we couldnt find a manual gear box reservoir so we had to convert it to auto :/ went great until the radiator cracked and i cooked the engine, replaced the radiator and been driving it for a few weeks and nothing wrong with it… Read more

at all lol, these cars cannot be killed as mine has proven :) everything manual parts are hard to find, the s pac front end is hard to find

Looks good, drives well! – Out of the VY, VZ and VE, the VX would have to be my favourite. It looks good, nice curves right around the car. Actually the car is completely in curves and I like that actually, but still I have a fetish for square nineteen eighty vehicles though before aero-dynamics became more important with car manufacturers of all makes, even European… Read more ·  2

ones. I have seen an example in a after-market green with after-market tailights! Very nice. Also looks good as is from factory but in white, black... not red. And not any other strange colours, just straight colours will do with this vehicle. I like the no-nonsense car computer with the switches and buttons that operate it, all in black. Even the steering wheel is in black vinyl, just begging for a doing over with AmourAll or Kitten. This was with the Executive model. You know now that if you like black, want a reasonably modern Australian muscle car in either a V6 or V8 for not a lot of money (shop around), that looks good and has not iPod compatibility or Bluetooth, but just what was going back in the turn of the millenium, then the VX I highly recommend. Good one Holden. You can also get this in the Monaro and note to productreview.com.au, you need to provide us with more pictures as the one above is quite misleading. The car I have described looks nothing like that above. That above looks more like a VY or VZ, I don't know which. Performance, door locks, black interior, curvy exterior, car computer...

Good – A very strong, powerful and relaxing car to drive. We love the look of the back of the car. Our Calais has the FE2 suspension and handles very well without being too firm. The car has lots of nice little extras over the base models such as the vanity mirror lights and a better quality sound system and trim. We get very good fuel economy for the… Read more

size of the engine. The car seems to use around 1 -2 litres per 100km more than the V6 C'Dore we have around town and about 1 litre more per 100km on highway cycle. Mind you we drive the Calais gently. Would I buy another? If it was the right car that had been serviced regularly with sensible km's yes but good examples are getting thin on the ground. VX Calais V8 Series 2. A very comfortable effortless tourer. It is still a good looking car even though it's now 7 years old. It also doubles as a very good tow vehicle. Our has very low KM's and is still very tight to drive. Limited slip diff can be a bit clunky at times. Dealer tells us this is normal. They have been telling us that for 7 years. We have changed the diff oil and that seems to have made it better. The dark blue paint (Vepsers Mica) gets dirty very quickly and seems to accentuate any scratches. In our opinion the factory alloy wheels are very bland. The engine was rebuilt at 34,000kms under warranty due to excessive oil consumption. The dealer told us this was quiet common. The factory exhaust doesn't sound like the old V8's.

OK – Would never buy another holden again! gone back to mitsubishi that gives you a 10 year guarantee.Unless one day holden thinks there cars are built well enough to do the same. fast,comfy to drive,plenty of room Not good towing,built for speed.Bought 2 yr old 2002 model,3 months after buying had to replace gear box $5000,after a year gearbox and… Read more

head went $4500,last month repaired minor things including engine mounts , aircon etc and another $4000. Has been towed 5 times and yes it was serviced on time each time.Also had to get boot done as it no longer opened $170

Good – I bought my VX Lumina wagon in 2004 and have done around 100,000km. It had over 200,000km on it when I bought it. This car is awesome for a family. It has room for everything and is very economical for a 6 cylinder. It has had a few things go wrong with it, which is to be expected due to wear and tear on components, but nothing major. It… Read more

doesn't even leak oil!

I love this car and don't know what I'll replace it with when eventually the time comes. Comfortable to drive and ride in, cheap to repair when things do go wrong (not often).

Good sounding original stereo.

Quiet engine.

Roomy backseat - enough for 2 booster seats & adult.

Heaps of cargo space in the wagon. Red paintwork fades if you don't have undercover parking.

Some electrics starting to play up eg. steering wheel controls don't work, an electric window sometimes doesn't work.

Typical Commodore roof lining falling down.