Segment:
Australian large family sedan/sedan and wagon market
Key Competitors:
Ford Falcon (XD/XE/XF), Mitsubishi Sigma (GJ), Toyota Camry (V20), Nissan Pintara (U11)
Body Styles:
Sedan, Station Wagon, Berlina (Luxury Sedan), SS (Performance Sedan), SL/SLE (Standard/Luxury trims)
Performance Variants:
VK Commodore SS often featured 5.0L V8 engines
Design Influence:
Significant styling update from the VH Commodore, with a sleeker, more aerodynamic profile and updated interior.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission (Automatic & Manual)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instruments, Gauges, Wiring Diagrams, Body Electrical
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seating, Glass
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common faults, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all components and systems, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, and body repairs
Adjustments:
Carburetor adjustment, ignition timing, brake adjustments, suspension alignment specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Codes Common:
RB30, LV2, L30, LB9, L69 (High Output 308 V8)
Displacement Options:
1.9L (3800cc V6 - less common for VK), 3.3L (202ci Inline-6), 4.2L (253ci V8), 5.0L (308ci V8)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 100-115 hp (Inline-6) to 160-200+ hp (V8 variants)
Torque Range:
Approx. 150-170 Nm (Inline-6) to 300-350+ Nm (V8 variants)
Induction Types:
Carbureted (Stromberg, Holley), Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic for some V6/V8 models)
Spark Plug Type:
Refer to manual for specific engine variants (e.g., Champion RN12YC, NGK BP5ES)
Ignition Timing:
Refer to manual, typically 8-12 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC) at idle for V8s, less for inline-6
Manual Transmission:
4-speed Muncie/ Saginaw (often on 6-cyl), 5-speed Getrag (often on 6-cyl and some V8s)
Automatic Transmission:
3-speed Turbo Hydramatic 350 (TH350), 3-speed Turbo Hydramatic 400 (TH400) (often for V8s), 4-speed Turbo Hydramatic 700R4 (4L60) becoming available
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate (manual)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Australian Ancap Rating:
Not available for this era (ANCAP established later)
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes (Ventilated on V8s/SS), Rear Drum Brakes. Power assistance standard.
Suspension Setup:
Independent front suspension (McPherson strut), Live rear axle with Panhard rod and trailing arms
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts fitted as standard
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced roof structure (as per Australian design standards of the era)
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems available on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning and heating systems, with optional climate control on Berlina models.
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher specification models, particularly V8 variants.
Trip Computer:
Not typically fitted as standard in this era, but basic trip meters were common.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Typically every 10,000 km or 12 months (refer to manual for exact mileage based on operating conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km or 12 months, or as needed based on dusty conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-40,000 km, depending on plug type and engine
Coolant Flush:
Every 24 months or 40,000 km
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 15W-40 API SF/CD (or equivalent) for most engines. SAE 20W-50 might be recommended for high-performance V8s or hot climates. Check manual for specific engine type.
Engine Oil Capacity Litres:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 litres (depending on engine)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based anti-freeze/anti-boil solution, typically a 50/50 mix with water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Rust Areas:
Wheel arches, rear quarter panels, sills, around window seals, floor pans
Engine Wear Points:
Timing chain wear (inline-6), oil leaks from rear main seal, tappet noise
Electrical Gremlins:
Degradation of wiring insulation over time, faulty ignition switches, issues with voltage regulators
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, worn tie rod ends, sagging springs
Maintenance Schedule Highlight
Initial Service:
First service typically around 1,000-1,500 km or 1 month, focusing on oil and filter change, check of all fluid levels and bolts.
Holden History:
Holden is Australia's iconic automotive manufacturer, with a long history dating back to the early 20th century, particularly known for its large, rear-wheel-drive sedans and performance variants.
Commodore Lineage:
The Commodore replaced the Holden Torana and was initially based on the Opel Rekord platform. The VK was the fourth generation of the Commodore, representing a significant styling and engineering update.
Vk Generation Development:
The VK was launched in March 1984, sharing its platform with the previous VH but featuring a distinct front-end design heavily influenced by the European Opel Rekord E2, a more aerodynamic profile, and updated interior.
Manufacturing Location:
Australia (General Motors-Holden's Plant, Elizabeth, South Australia)
Production Period:
March 1984 - February 1986
Vk Ss:
The VK SS was a performance hero, often featuring the 5.0L V8 with a high-output option (L69 'Blue' V8 with 4-barrel carburetor and improved breathing), upgraded suspension, and distinctive body styling.
Automotive Journal Awards:
While specific awards for the VK are not as widely documented as modern vehicles, it was generally well-received for its styling and Australian suitability. It competed strongly in its class.
Comparative Reviews:
Consistently reviewed as a comfortable and capable Australian-made vehicle, praised for its ride and handling balance, especially in performance variants.