# Used VF Series 2 Commodore (2015–2017): Problems and Which Years to Buy > What's reported on the Holden VF Series 2 Commodore built from September 2015 to 2017, the last Australian-built Commodore, and what to check at the car. Last updated: 6 November 2026. Web page: https://shufti.com.au/checklists/used-holden-commodore-inspection-checklist/vf-series-2. Engines: 3.0 SIDI V6 (LFW); 3.6 SIDI V6 (LFX); 6.2 V8 (LS3). ## Common Problems on a Used VF Series 2 Commodore The main reports on a VF Series 2 Commodore are fuel injector failures on the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 and faulty inlet rocker arms on SS cars built from July to October 2017. V6s share the earlier VF's carbon build-up. These are the newest Commodores of the pair, with the fewest recalls. ### Is a VF Series 2 Commodore reliable? Many VF problems are reported more often as the cars age, so newer, lower-kilometre cars carry less of that risk. On an LS3, ask about injectors and, on a late 2017 car, rocker arms. ## VF Series 2 Commodore Problems by Engine and Build Date ### V8 engines - **Faulty inlet rocker arms.** Covers: SS cars built July to October 2017. Reported symptoms run from misfires to total engine failure. Make sure the replacement was done. - What to check: Check the build date on the compliance plate, and feel for misfires. - Ask the seller: Were the inlet rocker arms replaced by Holden? - **Fuel injector failure on the LS3.** Covers: 2015–17 SS models with the 6.2-litre LS3. Injector misfires are also listed on VF V8s generally. Rough running and limp-home mode can follow. It wasn't a recall, so check whether the injectors have been replaced. - What to check: Feel for rough running, and watch for the ESP light or reduced power on the test drive. - Ask the seller: Have the fuel injectors been replaced, and can I see the invoice? - **Hydraulic lifter noise or failure on the LS3 V8.** Covers: LS3 V8s. A failed lifter can damage the pushrods, valves or camshaft. Replacing lifters means taking the cylinder heads off. - What to check: Listen for ticking or tapping from the top of the engine, from cold and at idle. - Ask the seller: Have the lifters been replaced, and how often was the oil changed? - **Worn rocker bearings, leaving the valves damaged.** Covers: V8s, with no year limit given. You can't see this at a viewing, so service history and how the engine sounds are your best guide. - **Oil leaks at the rear main seal and sump.** Covers: V8s. Worth a look underneath, and common as these cars age. - What to check: Look under the back of the engine, and at the ground where the car is parked. ### V6 engines - **Carbon build-up on the intake valves of direct-injection V6s.** Covers: LFW and LFX V6s. These direct-injection V6s can start hard, misfire or lose power. The fix means removing the intake to clean the valves by hand. - What to check: Start the car and watch for a long crank, then feel for misfires at idle and under light throttle. - Ask the seller: Have the intake valves ever been cleaned? - **Gearbox trouble and worn engine mounts.** Covers: Reported more often on V6 models. Have a harsh shift diagnosed. Worn mounts are a routine repair. - What to check: Feel for harsh shifts, and for vibration through the cabin at idle in Drive. ### All engines - **Buttons failing, from breakdown of wiring insulation.** Covers: VF and VF Series 2. Severe cases have reportedly caused complete vehicle failure. - What to check: Try every button on the wheel, dash and doors. - Ask the seller: Have you had any electrical faults or warning lights? ## Which VF Series 2 Commodore Years to Avoid? No Series 2 year is one to avoid outright. On an SS built from July to October 2017, make sure the rocker arms were replaced, and on any LS3 ask about the injectors. Our shortlist: On what's reported, a V6 avoids the two LS3 problems. Newer, lower-kilometre cars also carry less of the age-related risk. ### What changed, by build date - Sept 2015: Series 2 production starts: LS3 6.2 V8, no LPG, updated styling. - 8–13 Oct 2015: Airbag control module recall covers this short build window. - MY16: Vent smell software fix in production. - Jul–Oct 2017: Faulty inlet rocker arms on SS cars built in this window. ## Recalls to Confirm - Feb 2016: Built 8 to 13 October 2015. Airbag control module may delay side and curtain airbags. [PRA 2016/15220](https://www.vehiclerecalls.gov.au/recalls/rec-000532) ### Do all VF Series 2 SS models have injector problems? No. Failures are widely reported on the LS3, but not every car has had them. Ask whether the injectors have been replaced, and feel for rough running on the test drive. ### Is a VF Series 2 worth more than a VF? It's newer, and it has the 6.2-litre V8 on SS models and fewer recalls. The LS3 has its own reports, so judge the car in front of you. ### Does the VF Series 2 have the power steering recall? It's reported as covering cars built before 30 April 2015, and the Series 2 started in September 2015. The register's year range runs to 2018, so check the VIN. --- Shufti is an Australian used car inspection app for iPhone and Android that tailors the inspection to the exact car you're looking at. It is not affiliated with Shufti Pro, the identity verification (KYC) company. From the listing link, it builds every check around that car's make, model and year, odometer reading and the seller's description. It runs PPSR and government recall checks, crosschecks a database of more than 3 million recalls and owner complaints, flags problems from your photos and audio, plans a test drive, produces a shareable report with repair cost estimates, and coaches you through the negotiation. A Tailored check costs $24.99, or $49.99 for three, including PPSR and recall checks. A mechanic's pre-purchase inspection costs $250–350. To start, Shufti's General inspection guide is free: pick the car's make and model, and it takes you through the checks that matter for that model, on your phone. There's a guide for popular models, and one for every type of car. Made by Frontpoint Digital Pty Ltd (ABN 23 669 870 366), Melbourne, Australia. Contact: hello@shufti.com.au. Download: [App Store](https://apps.apple.com/au/app/shufti-used-car-inspection/id6795718336?pt=129235165&ct=Website%20guide&mt=8), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.shufti.shufti_app&referrer=utm_source%3Dshufti.com.au%26utm_medium%3Dwebsite%26utm_campaign%3DWebsite%2520guide%26utm_content%3Dllms%26utm_term%3D%252Fllms.txt).