Holden’s Legacy: Enthusiasts Share Insights on Post-Departure Support

Holden, once a prominent figure in the Australian automotive industry, bid farewell to its loyal customers five years ago on February 17, 2020. The announcement of Holden’s departure stirred a mix of sentiments across the nation. While some felt it was a long time coming, especially with the introduction of what was dubbed the ‘fake Commodore,’ the ZB, others mourned the permanent exit of the iconic Lion brand from the market.

Despite its exit, Holden made a commitment to support its existing owners by ensuring the availability of spare parts, servicing, and upholding vehicle warranties for a decade post-departure. As time has passed, Holden transformed its service centers into ACDelco establishments, offering lifetime capped-price servicing for eligible models and vehicles within warranty coverage. However, with all Australian-made Commodores now beyond their warranty period, the challenge of sourcing parts has become evident.

Er-Chih Li, the Manager of Petersham Auto Supplies, highlighted the diminishing availability of Commodore parts over the years. While Holden dealerships phased out parts for older models even before the departure, aftermarket suppliers have stepped up to fill the gap, particularly in general mechanical and maintenance components. Brands like Engine Pro and Nason continue to provide aftermarket parts, keeping the mechanical side of engines alive and offering performance upgrades as alternatives to original equipment.

Former Holden service center worker and Holden owner, Josh Tomlinson, commended the reliability of Holden vehicles, citing his 2016 Commodore SS Wagon and 2016 Colorado with over 200,000km mileage each, showing no signs of issues. While OEM parts are still accessible through selected Holden dealers operating under the ACDelco banner, some commonly replaced parts may experience delays due to backorders. Tomlinson expressed a sense of loss with the disappearance of the brand but acknowledged the inevitability of Holden’s closure amidst declining sales and stiff competition.

Joel Green, an owner of VE Maloo and SV6 models, shared a mixed sentiment regarding Holden’s post-departure support. While he acknowledged the availability of some OEM parts, Green leaned towards aftermarket replacements for his purchases, emphasizing the importance of enthusiast involvement in maintaining older Holden models. Despite facing standard issues like battery replacements and alternator changes, Green recognized the aftermarket’s role in sustaining support for Commodore owners.

In conclusion, the departure of Holden marked the end of an era for Australian car enthusiasts. While challenges exist in sourcing original parts for older models, the aftermarket industry has emerged as a reliable alternative, catering to the needs of passionate Holden owners. The legacy of Holden lives on through the dedication of enthusiasts and aftermarket suppliers, ensuring that the spirit of the Lion brand continues to thrive in the hearts of its admirers.