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Holden may no longer build cars, but there are still thousands of them on Brisbane roads. That means demand for used Holden engines and gearboxes remains strong, and a good local wrecker is often the fastest and most affordable way to get a Commodore, ute or SUV back on the road.
GDM Wrecking is a family-owned Brisbane car wrecker based in Archerfield. We stock tested used engines, gearboxes and transmissions, and we specialise in Holden alongside Ford, Nissan and Toyota. To see what we carry, visit our Holden wreckers Brisbane page, browse our used parts range, or contact us with your vehicle details.
⭐ Rated 4.5 stars from 795+ Google Reviews — Brisbane's Most Trusted Auto Wreckers
A brand-new engine is rarely a sensible purchase for an older vehicle. The cost can easily exceed the value of the car. A quality used engine, on the other hand, gives you a working replacement at a fraction of the price.
Because Holden engines were built in huge numbers, donor vehicles are common and parts availability is good. That combination makes used engines a practical choice for keeping a Commodore or ute on the road.
Holden used a handful of engine families across its most popular models. Knowing which one you have helps you find the right replacement.
The Alloytec V6 is a 3.6-litre engine used across the VZ and VE Commodore range, among others. It is a common engine in Brisbane, which means donor units are relatively easy to source.
The earlier Ecotec 3.8-litre V6 powered many VT, VX, VY and VZ models. It has a reputation for durability, and used examples are still widely available.
The LS V8 family powered Commodore SS models and HSV variants. These engines are popular with enthusiasts, and demand for good used units is consistently strong.
Smaller Holden models used four-cylinder engines, and these are also available as used replacements for the right vehicle.
Holden vehicles were offered with a mix of manual and automatic transmissions. The most common automatic options include four-speed and six-speed units, depending on the model and year.
When sourcing a used gearbox, the key is matching the transmission to your engine and vehicle. A gearbox that suits one variant may not suit another, so accurate vehicle details matter.
A used engine or gearbox is a significant purchase, so it pays to ask the right questions.
A reputable wrecker will answer these questions clearly and help you avoid a mismatch.
Buying a major component from interstate or online can be risky. If something is wrong, returning it is expensive and slow. Buying locally means you can inspect the part, ask questions face to face and get support if you need it.
Local knowledge also helps. A Brisbane wrecker knows which Holden models are common locally and which parts are in demand, so they can point you in the right direction quickly.
Used engines and gearboxes are one of the biggest savings available to car owners. Because the component has already been manufactured, you avoid the cost of a new unit while still getting a working part.
Our guide on saving money with recycled car parts, engines and transmissions explains how these savings add up.
“John has been there serving the car community for 40+ years and he and his team find the hard to get parts consistently. Highly recommended.”
If your Holden is beyond repair, you may be better off selling it rather than fixing it. Wreckers buy vehicles in any condition, including those with a blown engine or failed gearbox.
We offer free car removal across Brisbane and pay cash on the spot. You can read more in our guide to cash for cars in Brisbane.
GDM Wrecking is rated 4.5 stars from more than 795 Google reviews. Our owner John has over 40 years in the industry, and we are a member of the Wreckers Hotline Group and a Capricorn Society preferred supplier.
We are a family-owned business, and we take pride in helping Brisbane drivers find the right part without the runaround.
If you need used Holden engines or a replacement gearbox in Brisbane, call GDM Wrecking with your vehicle details. We will check availability and pricing and help you work out what you need.
Visit our Holden wreckers Brisbane page, browse our used parts range, or contact us today.
Holden used several engine and transmission combinations across its range, so matching the correct unit to your car is essential. An engine that suits one Commodore generation may not bolt straight into another, and automatic and manual gearboxes are not interchangeable without additional parts. Before you order, have your VIN, build date and engine code ready so the team can confirm the exact unit. If you are unsure what is fitted to your car, the team can help identify it from those details.
It is also worth asking what comes with the unit. A used engine may be sold as a long or short motor, with or without ancillaries such as the alternator, starter, manifolds or injectors. Knowing exactly what is included helps you and your mechanic plan the job and avoid sourcing extra parts at the last minute.
A used engine or gearbox is a major component, so a smooth installation matters. Ask whether the unit has been tested, what its kilometres are where known, and whether the yard offers any cover on major mechanical parts. Fitting new seals, gaskets, a timing belt or a clutch at the same time is often sensible, as it is far cheaper to replace these while the unit is out. A good local wrecker will talk you through what is worth doing during the swap so the finished repair is reliable.
Yes, provided the engine matches your vehicle's model, variant and engine code. Accurate vehicle details are essential to getting the right unit.
A tested used gearbox from a reputable wrecker can be a reliable and cost-effective replacement. Ask about testing and condition before you buy.
Alloytec is the 3.6-litre V6 used in later models such as VZ and VE. Ecotec is the earlier 3.8-litre V6 used in models such as VT, VX, VY and VZ.
We stock and source a range of Holden engines, including LS-series V8 units. Call us with your requirements to check availability.
Yes. Give us your vehicle's make, model, year and variant, and we will help identify the correct engine or gearbox.