VF Commodore Thefts

Holden VF Commodore thefts on the rise in Australia

The Holden VF Commodore has become one of the most stolen cars in Australia. Once a proud symbol of Australian performance and engineering, it’s now a top target for thieves across the country — especially in Victoria.

Why thieves love the VF Commodore

The VF Commodore (built between 2013–2017) is highly sought after by car lovers. Its powerful V8 engine, sporty looks, and the fact that Holden no longer builds them make it a valuable car. But that same popularity makes it a magnet for thieves.

How bad is it?

• Holden thefts have increased by over 90% in Victoria in the past year.
• Police say up to 10 Commodores are being stolen every day in Victoria.
• In just one month, more than 240 Commodores were reported stolen.

Thieves are even stealing them in broad daylight, sometimes by towing them away from shopping center car parks.

How they’re being stolen

Thieves first gain access to the locked vehicle by targeting the factory horn assembly, which is positioned in a particularly vulnerable location. After disabling the horn, they proceed to the key barrel, often using a tool such as a flat-head screwdriver to damage the barrel until the vehicle unlocks. Once the door is opened, the factory alarm is triggered, but due to the disabled horn, it produces no audible alert. With the alarm effectively neutralised, the offenders then move on to the next stage of the theft process.

Criminals have learned how to bypass the VF’s factory security. Many models have keyless start systems that make it easier to attack electronically. Thieves use tools that plug into the car’s OBD2 port (the same port mechanics use) to reprogram a key, disable the immobiliser or in some cases, use their device as a key. Whilst for many scan tools there is a 10 minute process to enter key programming mode, new programmers can actually interact with the vehicle as its very own key is the space of 1 minute!

Once they gain access, the car can be started and driven off in minutes. joyrides and later abandoned.

Another easy steal would be the less common method of towing. Some thieves steal VFs by towing them away on flatbed tow trucks.

This method avoids the need to drive the car (which might draw attention) and makes it easier to transport stolen vehicles.

What are they doing with them?

Joyriding

• Some of the stolen VFs are simply being used for joyrides, this is generally youths that have learnt the process from the internet, social media or media in general.
• This is part of the crime spree, especially for “hot” or V8-powered Commodores.

Rebirthing / VIN Cloning

• A big operation involves “rebirthing” stolen cars: criminals transfer identifying parts (like VIN or chassis numbers) from other vehicles so the stolen car can be disguised as a different, legitimate vehicle.
• Police have made arrests related to these rebirthing rings.
• When cars are rebirthed, they may pose safety risks (because the work isn’t always done properly), and they can be re-sold or used in crime.

On-Selling / Export / Parts

• Some stolen Commodores are broken down for parts. According to research on vehicle crime, stolen cars may be dismantled, and their engines, panels, or other components are used in other builds.
• Parts like VINs, engine numbers, and ECUs can be especially valuable in illegal “rebirthing” operations.
• It’s not always clear how many are exported, but the rebirthing / on-selling network suggests a fairly organised criminal trade.

What owners can do

If you own a VF Commodore, you can take simple steps to protect it:

Most effective:

• Install an aftermarket canbus immobiliser (such as a PIN code) like Author Alarms IGLA.
• Install a paired GPS system such as TeleCompass 2 4g.

Least effective:

• Use a steering wheel lock or wheel clamp.
• Install a kill switch.
• Protect or relocate the OBD2 port so thieves can’t access it easily.
• Add a standard GPS tracker for attempted recovery if it’s stolen.
• Park in secure, well-lit areas whenever possible.
• Keep your keys safe and out of signal range for keyless systems.

While some think less effective items will “slow a thief down”, often they come prepared with the tools that they need in any circumstance.

See our blog on LEAST EFFECTIVE ANTI THEFT DEVICES.

The bigger picture

The VF Commodore isn’t the only target — many modern cars with keyless systems are being hit by tech-savvy thieves. But the Commodore’s high value and local popularity make it stand out.

Police are now focusing more on these thefts, but prevention is still the best defence.

Final thoughts

The Holden VF Commodore is an Australian icon, but its fame has made it a major target. If you’re lucky enough to own one, make sure it’s properly protected — because thieves are watching, and they know exactly what they’re after.

The strongest, most effective way to prevent these thefts is by fitting an engine immobiliser; specifically Author Alarm’s IGLA.