Target Audience:
Holden Commodore and Lexcen owners, independent mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, automotive repair shops.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, often superior to aftermarket manuals in detail and accuracy.
Content Detail:
Hundreds of pages, detailed photos, exploded diagrams, step-by-step instructions.
Licensing:
Unlimited usage across multiple devices, no expiry dates.
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission (automatic & manual), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (front & rear, ABS), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, instrument cluster, accessories, body electrical
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, electrical component repair
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, parking brake adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full mechanical and electrical system overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and component-level repair.
Engine Options:
V6 (3.8L) and V8 (5.0L) naturally aspirated petrol engines.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 175-200 hp (V6) to 220-240 hp (V8), depending on specific variant and year.
Torque Range:
Approx. 300-330 Nm (V6) to 400-430 Nm (V8).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Common Engine Codes V6:
L36 (3.8L Ecotec V6 - late VS), 10/12=V6 (original 3.8L OHV V6)
Common Engine Codes V8:
L23 (5.0L Pushrod V8 - Holden Gen III, 5.7L)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L60E).
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag).
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Dexron-III/Mercon ATF (or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto Qt:
Approx. 7.5-9.5 quarts (7.1-9.0 liters) depending on model and torque converter.
Ancap Rating:
ANCAP ratings for this era were not as standardized or publicly available as modern ratings. Expect basic safety features for its time.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (standard); Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag often standard on later models/higher trims, passenger airbag generally not standard across the range.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models, standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Available as an option on some models, particularly those with V8 engines or higher trim levels.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on basic vehicle functions and audio. No modern Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Typically 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement Km:
Recommended every 20,000-30,000 km or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Varies by plug type; platinum plugs could be up to 100,000 km, standard copper plugs around 30,000-40,000 km.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or later, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Holden recommends specific Long Life coolants.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Failures V6:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on early 3.8L OHV), harmonic balancer wear, thermostat housing leaks.
Common Failures V8:
Minor oil leaks, potential for radiator issues due to age.
Transmission Issues:
Slight hesitation on shifts, potential for 'torque converter shudder' on older automatics.
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushes, and shock absorbers are common due to age and mileage.
Electrical Issues:
Degrading wiring insulation, sensor failures (e.g., crank angle sensor), instrument cluster problems.
Brand Origin:
Holden is an iconic Australian automotive manufacturer, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM).
Platform Relation:
The VR/VS series represented a significant styling and engineering update over the previous VP series, based on GM's GM2900 platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Australia (primarily Adelaide, South Australia).
Market Reception:
Highly popular in the Australian market, known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong V8 performance in performance variants (e.g., SS).
Consumer Awards:
Consistently ranked highly in Australian automotive sales charts for its segment during its production years.
