Parts for your 2014 Holden Commodore-Struts

2014 Holden Commodore (VF) Front Struts — What They Do and How to Look After Them

Technical sources confirm that the 2014 Holden Commodore (VF) uses MacPherson struts at the front and separate shock absorbers at the rear. This layout is documented in the GM Holden VF Commodore Chassis and Suspension Service Manual (2013–2017) and GM Service Information, and is reflected in AU/NZ fitment catalogues from Monroe and KYB. Sedan and Sportwagon variants run an independent rear with shocks, the Ute uses a rear shock setup without rear struts.

On the VF, the front strut is a structural unit that combines a shock absorber with a coil spring and mounts to the body via a strut top mount and bearing. It supports vehicle weight, locates the wheel, and controls body movement under braking, cornering and over bumps. Because the strut also influences wheel alignment (camber and caster), its condition has a big say in steering feel, tyre wear and braking stability.

Servicing-wise, fresh front struts help the Commodore track straight, brake shorter and keep tyres wearing evenly. Many owners see best results inspecting struts from around 80,000–120,000 kilometres, earlier if the car tows, runs FE2/FE3 sport suspension, carries loads, or drives on rough country roads. Replacement should always be done in axle pairs (left and right together), followed by a proper wheel alignment. It’s smart practice to renew related hardware at the same time: strut top mounts and bearings, bump stops, dust boots and any single‑use fasteners as specified in the workshop manual.

• Common signs the VF front struts need attention:
  • Oil seepage down the strut body
  • Front-end knocks, rattles or a hollow thud on sharp bumps
  • Nose‑dive under braking, floaty or bouncy ride, or tramlining
  • Uneven or feathered front tyre wear, wandering steering
  • Longer stopping distances or ABS/ESC working harder than usual

When replacing, a quality spring compressor and correct torque settings are essential. The strut-to-knuckle fasteners and top mount hardware must be tightened to the GM Holden specs, with any designated single‑use (self‑locking or torque‑to‑yield) fasteners replaced. While in there, check sway‑bar link pins and lower control arm bushes, as wear here can mimic tired struts.

Owners who keep the VF’s front struts in good nick enjoy sharper steering, quieter ride, better control in the wet, and tyres that last longer—exactly what this Aussie favourite was engineered to deliver.

Popular questions about 2014 Holden Commodore struts

Does a 2014 Holden Commodore use front struts or shocks?

The VF Commodore runs MacPherson struts at the front and separate shock absorbers at the rear. This applies across sedan, Sportwagon and Ute variants, with front struts being the load‑bearing, alignment‑critical units.

How often should front struts be replaced on a VF Commodore?

There’s no fixed expiry, but many workshops see notable wear from 80,000–120,000 kilometres. High‑load use, rough roads or sportier FE2/FE3 packages can shorten that. Condition, not just distance, drives the call—if there’s leakage, poor control or uneven tyre wear, it’s time.

Do new front struts require a wheel alignment?

Yes. Because the strut locates the wheel, any strut removal or replacement can alter camber and caster. A quality alignment after fitting ensures correct geometry, even tyre wear and the steering feel the VF is known for.