🚗 What cars support ALDL?

ALDL (Assembly Line Diagnostic Link) was used in many Holden vehicles from the late 1980s through to the early 2000s. Below are the most commonly supported models:

✅ Supported Holden Models (Australia):

• VN Commodore (1988–1991)
  
  • 160 baud ALDL
  
  • 6-pin diagnostic connector under dash
• VP Commodore (1991–1993)
  
  • 160 baud ALDL
  
  • Same physical connector as VN
• VR Commodore (1993–1995)
  
  • 8192 baud ALDL
  
  • Switched to 16-pin OBD-style port (not OBD2)
• VS Commodore (1995–1997)
  
  • 8192 baud ALDL
  
  • Commonly used with TunerPro & PCMHacking tools
• VT Commodore Series 1 (1997–1999)
  
  • 8192 baud ALDL
  
  • Early PCMs, no flash support
• VT Commodore Series 2 (1999–2000)
  
  • 8192 baud ALDL
  
  • Some hardware variation between models
• VX Commodore (2000–2002)
  
  • 8192 baud ALDL
  
  • Still ALDL, flash tuning possible with right setup
• VY Commodore (2002–2004)
  
  • 8192 baud ALDL
  
  • Flash-based PCM, supported by many tools
  
  • Used for flashing/tuning via PCMHacking or compatible software
• WH/WK Statesman (1999–2004)
  
  • Uses same PCM and ALDL protocols as VT–VY
• Holden Astra / Barina / Vectra (pre-2005)
  
  • Some models use ALDL, varies by engine and ECU
  
  • VIN-specific lookup recommended

🛠️ What engines support ALDL?

ALDL was used in a range of Holden engine platforms—mostly V6s and early V8s—from the late ’80s to early 2000s. Below is a breakdown by engine type:

✅ Common ALDL-Compatible Holden Engines:

• 3.8L Buick V6 (VN–VS)
  
  • Found in VN, VP, VR, and early VS Commodores
  
  • 160 or 8192 baud depending on model
• 3.8L Ecotec V6 (VS Series 2 – VY)
  
  • Introduced mid-VS, continued through to VY
  
  • 8192 baud
  
  • VY used Flash-based PCM (still ALDL protocol)
• 5.0L Holden V8 (304ci) (VN–VS)
  
  • Used MEMCAL ECUs
  
  • Fully ALDL-compatible for datalogging and tuning
• 5.7L LS1 V8 (VT Series 2 – VY)
  
  • Uses ALDL for some diagnostics
  
  • Later models begin shifting toward OBD2
• 4-Cylinder Family II Engines
  
  • Found in older Astras, Barinas, and Vectras (pre-2005)
  
  • ALDL support varies by model and market—check specifics 

Installing your Paddock Performance ALDL Cable is quick and easy! Just follow these steps:

1. Plug in the Cable
   Connect the ALDL cable to your computer via any USB port.
   
2. Download the Drivers
   Go to the official FTDI driver page here:
   👉 https://ftdichip.com/drivers/vcp-drivers/
   
3. Select Your Operating System
   Scroll down and click the download link that matches your computer (e.g. Windows, MacOS, Linux).
   
4. Install the Driver
   Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the prompts. It’ll install the Virtual COM Port (VCP) drivers needed for your cable.
   
5. Restart (if needed)
   Some systems may require a quick restart after install. If your cable isn’t showing up, restart your computer.
   
6. Check COM Port Assignment (Windows Only)
   Open Device Manager → expand Ports (COM & LPT) → look for something like USB Serial Port (COM3).
   Make note of this COM number—your tuning software will need it.
   
7. Done!
   You’re ready to connect to your Holden Commodore. Open your preferred tuning or diagnostic software and select the COM port from Step 6.