Working on a VS Commodore can be satisfying when things go right, but it can also lead to a few headaches, especially when new parts do not quite line up. Trying to refresh parts on a car this age is never without its surprises, but one of the most common issues we see is missing mount points on replacement parts. Whether it is a trim piece, bracket, or something under the bonnet, it is frustrating to stop mid-job and realise there is nowhere to bolt it on.
During late summer in Western Australia, the heat in the shed is already making jobs tougher. Add in parts that do not fit immediately, and that project you were looking forward to can turn into a real chore fast. That is why it makes a big difference to know in advance why some VS Commodore parts might come without proper mount points, and what to check before you get stuck into the install.
Why Some Parts Do Not Come with Mount Points
Not all parts are made the same, and that is especially true when you are dealing with older models like the VS. A lot of the issue comes down to the type of part you are getting.
• Genuine parts usually follow the factory specs, but they are getting harder to find and are not always brand new.
• Aftermarket parts can vary in quality and accuracy. Some are cast or moulded without small mounting tabs or screw points to keep manufacturing costs down.
• Modded or generic versions of parts are often made to work across multiple models, which means they may not include mounting points unique to the VS.
The most common problems show up in interior trims, engine bay plastics, bracketry, and even some exterior parts. Sometimes, a piece is listed as compatible with the VS, but on closer look, it might be a carryover from an earlier or later model. If the mounting locations changed between years, that “fitment” is not going to get you far.
Some replacement parts may also have differences in the quality of materials used, leading to concerns not only about mounting but also about longevity and how the part interacts with surrounding components. Inexpensive generic replacements may skimp on mounting features or necessary fitting hardware. Understanding the background of each part, who manufactured it, and what model it was meant for can clarify whether it will fit properly out of the box or need modification. On cars like the VS that span several years of production, these small inconsistencies are common.
Fitment Errors When Mixing Models
The VS Commodore shares a fair bit with the VR, and some general shapes carried into the VT as well. But even though they look alike in certain areas, the fine details can change just enough to cause problems.
• Series I and Series II VS models have differences that affect brackets and mounting spots, especially around the dash and front end.
• Many trims and body pieces from higher-spec variants will not mount cleanly into the more basic trims without drill work or modification.
• It is common to try pulling parts from a sedan and fitting them into a wagon, or the other way around, but body panel contours and bracket positions may not line up.
You might get something physically in place, but without the right mounts, it is not a clean install. This kind of mismatch can waste time and might lead to more rattles or wear down the track.
Understanding the subtle variations among models is crucial when planning a part swap. Details such as the spacing of dashboard support brackets, the way wiring harnesses are routed, or the contour of wheel arch lining can create fitting challenges even when two models look nearly identical from the outside. Mistakes here often result in frustrating trial and error, where the part must be removed and reinstalled several times before a solution is found.
Missing Mounts Can Mean More Than Just Annoyance
It is tempting to shrug off a missing clip or bracket. But over time, not having proper mounts can cause more harm than you think.
• Loose trims or panels move around as you drive, leading to squeaks, wear marks, and sometimes cracked plastic.
• Wiring looms that are not secured properly can chafe against metal, short out, or become a fire hazard.
• In the engine bay, a poorly fitted duct or cover can affect cooling, airflow, or even snag belts.
And when a part shifts unexpectedly, it can knock out nearby components that were installed correctly. So while a missing tab might feel like a minor issue, the knock-on effects end up bigger.
The risk increases as the age and mileage of the car go up, because age-related wear means the original mounting points are sometimes already weakened or compromised. Any addition of ill-fitting components or missing clips can speed up this process, making it even more important to address the fitment from the outset. Problems that start as simple movement or vibration can eventually cause electrical faults, panel damage, or in some rare cases, create safety risks on the road.
How to Spot a Problem Before You Boltin
Some mismatches only show up once you are halfway into the job. Other times, the differences are obvious if you do a quick check before bolting anything down.
• Set your old part next to the replacement and look for missing tabs, screw holes, or moulded clips.
• If a part is marked “VS-compatible” but was originally off a different series, take a second look. The basic shape might match, but the mounting points are often in different spots.
• Often it is clear from how a part is packaged. If there are no screws, clips, or supports included, the mounts might never have been part of the design.
It is better to spot that early before you are three bolts deep and something does not line up.
Packaging or instructions may offer valuable clues about how the part should be installed or whether the manufacturer expects you to re-use original hardware. Details like diagrams, included hardware, or advisory notes can help you confirm if what you have actually fits the VS or whether you will be hunting for extra brackets and fasteners at the last minute. Taking a slow, methodical approach to the first mock-up and giving every mount point a double check saves frustration.
Getting It Right from the Start
The biggest favour we can do ourselves when working on a VS is to take a bit of time upfront. Giving a part a proper once-over before the install saves time and trouble later.
• A 10-minute fit check can save you from hours of head-scratching and hunting for alternate brackets or extra fasteners.
• Where possible, line up parts against the vehicle or your existing bits to confirm those mount points are where they should be.
It takes patience, especially when you are sweating through the late summer heat, but getting the right part with the proper mounting setup keeps the job clean and predictable. Less swearing, less adjusting, and a much smoother finish when everything is buttoned back up.
If a replacement part appears to lack some necessary mounting features but fits most of the key locations, sometimes small modifications or sourcing compatible brackets from specialist suppliers can make it work. However, avoid quick fixes that could cause failures later, such as relying solely on adhesives or cable ties. Taking careful notes about the parts that worked and any adjustments you needed in your current project will also help with future repairs or upgrades on similar models.
When you are tackling a repair or restoration, having the right design and mounting setup makes all the difference. We have helped countless customers avoid the setbacks caused by mismatched parts, and our best advice is always to choose components made specifically for your build, especially for trims, brackets, and panels. Explore our full range of VS Commodore parts to keep your project moving smoothly. If questions about fitment come up, get in touch with Holdcom and we will make sure you are sorted.
