With a development and engineering program reported to cost over $1 billion dollars (AUD), the introduction of the virtually all-new VE Commodore in 2006 saw the iconic Australian car receive a design that was clearly influenced by its European competitors and real enhancements to the ride, handling, performance and build quality.

In fire-breathing V8 form, the SS, when new, was a celebrated and revered car, offering immense performance from its 6.0-litre LS V8, excellent chassis balance and dynamics with a near 50:50 weight distribution and a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension set-up.

Receiving continual updates during its production run, most notably the Series II update late in 2010, now the VE range in general is pushing a decade old, are they still worthy of their accolades and should you buy one? Read on.

What goes wrong with a used Holden SS Commodore?

• Early VE SS Commodores had a clutch that was troublesome with slave cylinder-related issues
• Rocker bearings can develop a sideways slop which can damage engine valve tops
• Lifters are the achilles heal of these engines and some have had failed lifters
• Six-speed automatics can slip and cause harsh shifts
• Lower interior trim panels and glove box parts known to fail and fall out in early cars
• Check for worn sway-bar bushes and suspension strut mounting plates
• Radiator end plates may wear, requiring a new radiator
• It is essential that these engines have frequent oil changes to protect their bearings and lifters from premature wear and failure
• It should be noted that the V8 was far more reliable than the Alloytec/SIDI V6 in cheaper model grades and in general, is a tough and reliable power plant

Should you buy a used Holden SS Commodore?

The VE SS Commodore, in all its various iterations, is a simple, solid and reliable vehicle.

However, it’s not perfect and we don’t think it necessarily deserves the cult-like status it seems to receive but there is no question that from a value-for-money perspective, very few vehicles offer the sheer bang for your buck with genuine practical appeal the VE SS provides.

Find a stock, low-kilometre example with a solid service history and yes, you should buy one.