Parts for your 2017 Holden Commodore-Ignition coils

2017 Holden Commodore ignition coils — what they do and when to replace them

Ignition coils are absolutely fitted to the 2017 Holden Commodore. Holden’s VF Series II petrol and LPG engines — including the 3.6-litre V6 and 6.2-litre LS3 V8 — use coil-on-plug ignition. This is documented in Holden VF Series II service literature, GM engine technical data for the Global High Feature V6 (LFX) and LS3 V8, and ACDelco parts catalogues, all of which specify individual ignition coils mounted directly on each spark plug.

On this Commodore, each cylinder gets its own coil sitting on top of the spark plug. The coil’s job is to step up battery voltage to a high-voltage spark at precisely the right moment, so the air–fuel mix lights off cleanly. That means strong starts, smooth idle, decent fuel economy and crisp throttle response. Whether it’s a family-spec V6 or the V8 SS, healthy coils make a noticeable difference to how the car feels.

Coils aren’t a scheduled service item like oil or filters, but they do wear with heat and vibration. Most last well past 100,000 km. The best time to think about them is when doing spark plugs, because worn plugs make coils work harder. Holden/GM specify long-life iridium plugs, many techs inspect at around 60,000 km and replace between 100,000–160,000 km depending on engine and use. LPG variants are a bit tougher on ignition parts, so earlier checks are smart.

• Common signs a coil is on the way out: rough idle, misfire under load, sluggish performance, worse fuel use, a flashing check engine light, or codes like P030X (cylinder misfire) and P0351–P0358 (ignition coil circuits).
• Diagnosis tip: swap the suspect coil to another cylinder and see if the misfire follows. Resistance tests are unreliable on modern coils, a scan tool and swap-test are better.
• Replacement advice: quality coils only, keep coil boots clean and dry, use dielectric grease on the boot, and ensure the rocker cover seals aren’t leaking oil into the plug tubes. Coil retaining bolts are light torque items, refer to the Holden workshop spec and don’t overtighten.

Owners can replace coils individually when one fails, workshops often pair a new coil with a fresh spark plug on that cylinder. If multiple coils are aged and the car has high kilometres, a full set may save repeat visits. After fitting, clear any codes and road-test — a smooth idle and clean pull under load means the Commodore’s ignition is back on song.

Popular questions

How long do ignition coils last on a 2017 Commodore?
Many go beyond 100,000 km, and plenty last the life of the vehicle. Heat, stop–start driving, and tired spark plugs shorten coil life. If the car is on LPG or often tows, plan on earlier inspection.

Is it OK to drive with a bad ignition coil?
It’ll usually run, but it’s not wise. A misfiring cylinder can damage the catalytic converter, wash fuel past the rings, and leave the driver stranded. It’s best to fix it promptly.

Should coils be replaced when doing spark plugs?
Not automatically. If coils test fine and boots are clean and supple, keep them. When the car has high kilometres or multiple misfires, replacing coils with the plugs can be cost-effective.