Holden Commodore VT VX VU VY 1997-2004 3.8L Ecotec V6 Advance Exhaust Headers A229

Advance A229 headers (extractors) are designed for Holden Commodore VT, VX, VU and VY models fitted with the naturally aspirated 3.8L Ecotec V6 petrol engine.

These Australian-made headers feature an interference design intended for standard or mildly modified street engines, with an emphasis on improving exhaust flow, torque and throttle response throughout the usable engine-speed range.

IMPORTANT: VY fitment is limited to VY Series I.

A229 is for the naturally aspirated 3.8L Ecotec V6. It is NOT the header for the factory-supercharged L67 engine. Advance A229SC is the separate supercharged application.

Gaskets are included.

Please check availability and current lead time before ordering.

Key Features

• Suits Holden Commodore VT, VX, VU and VY Series I
• Suits naturally aspirated 3.8L Ecotec V6
• Interference header design
• Designed for street performance applications
• Suitable for standard or mildly modified engines
• Gaskets included
• Heavy-duty construction
• Press-bent construction
• Australian Made

Construction

Advance A229 headers are Australian Made and feature heavy-duty, press-bent construction.

The interference design is intended for street applications where improved low- and mid-range torque and responsive everyday performance are important.

Additional Options

Please contact Best Mufflers for advice on replacement exhaust components, catalytic converters, gaskets and installation parts for your particular VT-VY Commodore application.

Vehicle Fitment

• Make: Holden
• Model: Commodore
• Series: VT / VX / VU / VY Series I
• Year Range: 1997-2004 depending on model and body style
• Engine: 3.8L Ecotec V6
• Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
• Drive: Rear-wheel drive

VT: 1997-2000

VX: 2000-2002

VU Ute: 2000-2002

VY: Series I application only

Engine Note: The 3.8L Ecotec V6 continued through the VT, VX and VY Commodore generations before being replaced by the 3.6L Alloytec V6 with the introduction of the VZ.

Fitment Notes

VY SERIES I ONLY: Current Advance application information restricts this header application to VY Series I. Please check the vehicle build details before ordering for a VY Commodore.

Naturally Aspirated Engine Only: A229 is intended for the standard naturally aspirated 3.8L Ecotec V6.

Will NOT suit the factory-supercharged L67 V6. Advance manufactures the separate A229SC header for the supercharged application.

Because these vehicles are now commonly modified, check whether the engine, exhaust system, catalytic converters or other components have previously been changed before ordering.

What's Included

• Advance A229 header assembly
• Header/manifold gaskets

Bolts and other installation hardware should not be assumed to be included unless confirmed with the current product before ordering.

Recommended With

Inspect the existing catalytic converters, exhaust system, engine mounts, oxygen sensors, EGR components and mounting hardware before installation.

Contact Best Mufflers if you require advice on completing the exhaust system from the A229 headers.

Why Good Headers & Exhaust Systems Matter

At 4,000 rpm, the 3.8L Ecotec V6 theoretically draws approximately 7,600 litres of intake air per minute at 100% volumetric efficiency.

Using an illustrative hot exhaust volume at approximately 600°C, this represents around 22,800 litres of exhaust gas per minute.

A well-designed header and exhaust system helps manage this high gas flow efficiently, reducing restriction and improving exhaust scavenging, torque, throttle response and engine performance.

Installation Tips

Professional installation is recommended. Before installation, check the condition and position of the existing exhaust system, catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR components and engine mounts.

Lubricate threaded fasteners with WD-40 or a similar penetrating lubricant before removal to assist with easier removal and installation.

Protect the headers during trial fitting and confirm clearance around the steering, transmission and surrounding components before completing installation.

After installation and several heat cycles, inspect the exhaust system for leaks and recheck accessible fasteners where appropriate.

Warranty & Compliance

The vehicle's required catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR system and other emissions-control equipment must remain correctly installed and operational.

Installation must comply with applicable Australian state or territory requirements relating to emissions, exhaust noise and vehicle modifications.

FAQ

What vehicles do Advance A229 headers fit?
A229 is designed for selected Holden Commodore VT, VX, VU and VY Series I models fitted with the naturally aspirated 3.8L Ecotec V6.

Does A229 fit a VT Commodore 3.8L V6?
Yes. The naturally aspirated VT 3.8L Ecotec V6 is an A229 application.

Does A229 fit the VU Commodore Ute?
Yes. The VU is included in the Advance VT-X-U-Y application for the naturally aspirated 3.8L Ecotec V6.

Does A229 fit a VY Commodore?
Yes, but current Advance application information specifies VY Series I only. Please confirm the vehicle build details before ordering.

Does A229 fit the supercharged L67 V6?
No. A229 is for the naturally aspirated Ecotec V6. Advance uses the separate A229SC for the factory-supercharged L67 application.

Are gaskets included?
Yes. The supplied A229 product information specifies that gaskets are included.

Are bolts included?
The supplied A229 information confirms gaskets but does not state that bolts are included. Bolts should not be assumed to be supplied.

Can I pick up from the store?
Yes. Pick up is available but must be pre-arranged before collection.

How much is freight?
Freight varies depending on your delivery location and where stock is available. Please contact us for freight charges before ordering. Where possible, we can arrange dispatch from the nearest available product location to help reduce freight costs and delivery times.

Do you ship to the USA?
Yes. Best Mufflers regularly ships exhaust systems and exhaust parts to customers throughout the United States.

Please note that import duties, tariffs, taxes, and customs clearance fees are not included in the product or shipping price. Once your order is processed and the applicable charges are calculated, we will send you a secure payment link to finalise the import duties and tariff charges before dispatch.

Customer Support

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