🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Commodore

Series:

VT, VX, VU, VY Series II

Vehicle Type:

Passenger Car, Ute

Generation:

Third Generation (GMT360 platform derived)

Platform Code:

VT/VX/VU/VY

👋 Introduction

Intended Audience:

Holden owners undertaking DIY repairs, independent workshops, and automotive enthusiasts seeking in-depth technical knowledge.

Value Proposition:

Provides professional-grade repair and maintenance information, enabling significant cost savings on servicing and repairs compared to dealership labor rates.

Completeness:

Covers all aspects of the vehicle, from basic maintenance to major overhauls, ensuring comprehensive support for a wide range of repair needs.

Clarity Of Instructions:

Features easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions with detailed illustrations and diagrams, making complex procedures accessible to various skill levels.

📋 Manual Details

Market:

Australia, New Zealand (and potentially other RHD markets where Holden models were rebadged)

Specific Models Covered:

Commodore sedan (VT, VX, VY), Commodore Ute (VU, VY Series II Ute), Statesman (derived models may have some shared components)

Estimated Page Count:

Extremely detailed (specific count not provided, but indicative of a comprehensive workshop manual, likely 1000+ pages)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

V6 (Ecotec) and V8 (Gen III LS1) engine mechanicals, including disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and overhaul.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, control modules, timing.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, hoses, coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes, emissions control.

Transmission:

Automatic (e.g., 4L60-E, 4L65-E, 4HP24, 5HP30) and Manual (e.g., T5, T56) transmission repair, rebuild, fluid specifications, and diagnosis.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, universal joints, rear axle assembly, differentials, CV joints (if applicable).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, pump, fluid specifications.

Braking System:

Front and rear brakes (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, ABS), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire size recommendations, rotation, balancing, bolt patterns.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, power windows, central locking, and diagnostic procedures.

Bodywork And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass, weatherstripping, structural components.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, climate control system diagnosis and repair.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt mechanisms, ABS operation and diagnosis.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid level checks, belt replacements.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all major systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.

Rebuild:

Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures, including torque specifications and assembly sequences.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, including use of diagnostic tools and interpretation of sensor data.

Adjustment:

Adjustments for brakes, clutch, parking brake, and other mechanical systems.

Disassembly Assembly:

Comprehensive instructions for dismantling and reassembling all major vehicle components.

Depth Of Coverage:

Complete workshop level, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.

Diagrams Illustrations:

Detailed step-by-step diagrams, exploded views, and wiring schematics for clarity and ease of use.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval (standard for modern digital manuals).

Printability:

All pages are printable.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Common Engines V6:

3.8L Ecotec L36 (Naturally Aspirated), 3.8L Ecotec L67 (Supercharged)

Common Engines V8:

5.7L Gen III LS1 V8

V6 Ecotec L36 Power Output:

Approx. 150-170 kW (190-230 hp) depending on year and specific tune.

V6 Ecotec L67 Supercharged Power Output:

Approx. 170-180 kW (230-240 hp).

Ls1 V8 Power Output:

Approx. 225-250 kW (300-335 hp) depending on year and specific tune.

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI) for V6, Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) for V8.

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating as per owner's manual, typically 91 RON or higher).

🔧 Transmission

Common Automatic:

GM 4L60-E / 4L65-E (4-speed automatic), ZF 4HP24 (V8, earlier models), ZF 5HP30 (V8, later models).

Common Manual:

Getrag/Tremec T5 (V6), Tremec T56 (V8 - 6-speed manual).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent) for 4L60-E, Dexron VI for later transmissions, ATF for ZF units (specific type required by ZF).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan, 2-door Ute (VU/VY Series II).

Kerb Weight Range:

Approximately 1500kg - 1750kg, varying significantly with engine and body style.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ancap Rating:

VT/VX series generally rated 4-star ANCAP. Later VY models may have improved safety features and ratings.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, optional on some base variants.

Airbags:

Dual front airbags standard, side airbags and curtain airbags available on higher trims or later models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted cassette/CD players, AM/FM radio, with optional premium sound systems and amplifier units.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, electronic speed control.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; typically analogue systems. Features like remote central locking became more common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).

Major Service Points:

Spark plugs (e.g., 40,000-60,000 km), coolant flush (e.g., 40,000-60,000 km), transmission fluid service (e.g., 60,000-100,000 km).

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 litres (with filter), check specific engine variant. Recommended oil: 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic blend/full synthetic.

Engine Oil Capacity V8:

Approx. 5.7 litres (with filter), check specific engine variant. Recommended oil: 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic blend/full synthetic.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10-12 litres. Recommended coolant: GM-specified Long Life Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free OAT coolant).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification and suitability).

Common V6 Issues:

Head gasket leaks (especially on earlier L36), intake manifold gasket leaks, supercharger belt issues (L67), ignition coil pack failures.

Common V8 Issues:

Oil leaks (rear main seal, sump gasket), intake manifold gasket leaks (common on early LS1), coolant leaks (water pump, hoses), PCV system issues.

Common Transmission Issues:

4L60-E / 4L65-E: Torque converter shudder, clutch pack wear, solenoid issues. T56: Gear synchro wear, clutch issues.

Common Suspension Issues:

Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, strut top mounts, power steering rack leaks.

Common Electrical Issues:

Window regulator failures, central locking issues, dashboard warning light malfunctions, sensor failures (e.g., ABS sensors, crank angle sensors).

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Legacy:

Holden has a long and storied history in Australian automotive manufacturing, with the Commodore being its flagship model for decades, representing Australian automotive engineering and performance.

Vt Series:

Introduced in 1997, the VT was a significant redesign, based on GM's global V-body platform. It offered improved aerodynamics, safety, and refinement.

Vx Series:

Launched in 2000, the VX was a facelift of the VT, with updated styling, improved interior features, and minor mechanical revisions.

Vu Ute:

The VU ute (2000-2002) was the first Commodore-based ute, offering a blend of car-like comfort with utility, based on the VT/VX sedan chassis.

Vy Series Ii:

The VY Series II (late 2003-2004) was a significant update to the VY, featuring refreshed styling, updated interiors, and further mechanical refinements, including an evolution of the V8 and improved Ecotec V6 performance.

Manufacturing Location:

Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

While specific awards for the VT/VX/VU/VY Series II might not be individually listed, the Commodore line consistently received praise from Australian motoring journalists for its value, performance (especially V8 models), and suitability for Australian conditions during its production run.