Parts for your 2005 Holden Commodore-Pedal pads

2005 Holden Commodore pedal pads: purpose, upkeep and when to replace

For the 2005 Holden Commodore (VZ series), pedal pads are absolutely relevant and fitted. The Holden VZ workshop manual and GM-H electronic parts catalogues list the brake (and clutch on manuals) pedal pads as serviceable components, and Australian/New Zealand roadworthiness rules expect a non-slip pedal surface. Those sources make it clear the Commodore uses removable rubber pads on the brake pedal (auto and manual) and an additional rubber pad on the clutch pedal for manual variants. The accelerator uses a different style of pedal face and isn’t the typical removable rubber pad.

On this Commodore, pedal pads do a simple but critical job: they provide grip, feel and consistency so the driver’s foot doesn’t slip—wet days, muddy boots, or a rushed stop included. The ribbed rubber also damps vibration, helps position the foot on the pedal, and meets non-slip expectations baked into common service and safety guidance for passenger cars in Australia and New Zealand.

As part of routine servicing, they deserve a quick look. Every service or 10,000 km, a visual and fingertip check goes a long way. Clean with mild soapy water and a soft brush, avoid silicone dressings or harsh solvents that make rubber slippery or brittle. A worn or smooth pad can trigger a WOF/RWC fail, and more importantly, it can cost braking feel.

• Replace the pad if it’s shiny/slick, cracked, hardened, missing ribs, or peeling at the edges.
• Manual models have two pads to inspect (brake and clutch), autos have one on the brake.

DIY replacement is quick and inexpensive and suits most home mechanics.

1. Park safely, engine off, and give the area a clean.
2. Peel the old pad off the metal pedal plate (start at a corner).
3. Warm the new pad in hot water for a minute to make it more pliable.
4. Hook the bottom lip first, then stretch over the top until the pad’s lip fully captures the metal plate all around.
5. Press firmly and check the lip is seated on every edge, test pedal movement before driving.

For autos, use the wider brake pad style, for manuals, match the smaller brake and clutch pads to the VZ series. Genuine or quality aftermarket pads both work—just ensure they’re slip-resistant and a correct fit. If in doubt, a quick check against the Holden/GM parts listing for the VZ will confirm the right bits.

• Does a 2005 Holden Commodore have pedal pads?
  Yes. The VZ Commodore uses a removable rubber brake pedal pad (auto and manual) and, on manual models, a clutch pedal pad as well. These are listed as service parts in Holden’s VZ documentation and GM-H parts catalogues.
• How often should the pedal pads be replaced?
  There’s no fixed kilometre interval—replace when the surface is smooth, cracked or loose. Inspect at every service, in typical mixed driving they’re often due somewhere between 80,000–150,000 km, but mud, grit and heavy use can accelerate wear.
• Are alloy pedal covers legal in Australia and New Zealand?
  They can be, provided they’re securely fastened and have a non-slip surface (especially when wet). If a cover is slippery or poorly attached, it can fail a WOF/RWC. Choose quality covers with rubber inserts and fit them properly.