Holden WOVI Guide

Buying a written-off Holden at auction can be a smart way into a near-new car for a fraction of the retail price - but only if it passes a Written-Off Vehicle Inspection (WOVI) and re-registers cleanly in Queensland. With Holden now discontinued, write-off Commodores and Colorados are popular rebuild projects - buyers chase them for parts availability and enthusiast value.

Common Holden repairable write-offs

The Holden models you'll see most often listed as repairable write-offs include:

• Commodore
• Colorado
• Cruze
• Captiva
• Astra
• Barina

Documenting parts on a Holden WOVI

Used Holden parts are plentiful, but assessors still require receipts for safety items; keep documentation for every airbag, seatbelt and structural repair.

Before you bid on a written-off Holden

1. Run a PPSR check on the Holden to confirm the exact write-off category and that there's no finance owing.
2. Confirm it's a repairable write-off (WOVR repairable), not a statutory write-off, which cannot be re-registered.
3. Study the damage photos for signs of structural, flood or fire damage that will be hard to document.
4. Budget for genuine or certified safety parts, not just panels and paint.
5. Factor auction fees and transport into your total cost before setting a maximum bid.

Once the Holden is repaired, you'll need to pass a WOVI before re-registering. Download our free checklist to make sure your paperwork is complete.

The Holden WOVI process step by step

1. 1

   Verify the write-off status

   Use a PPSR and WOVR check to confirm the Holden is a repairable write-off before you commit.

2. 2

   Complete and document repairs

   Repair all damage to standard and keep receipts and photos for every part, especially safety items.

3. 3

   Book your WOVI inspection

   Secure a slot at your nearest Queensland inspection station, or let us monitor for cancellations.

4. 4

   Pass the inspection

   Present the Holden with your evidence so the assessor can match repairs to the recorded damage.

5. 5

   Re-register in Queensland

   Take your WOVI approval to Transport and Main Roads to complete registration.