Positioning:
Essential DIY and professional repair resource for Holden Commodore owners and mechanics, providing significant cost savings over dealership service.
Alternatives:
Dealer-provided service information, other third-party repair manuals (Haynes, Chilton equivalents). This manual aims for factory-level detail.
Features:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, wiring schematics, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, comprehensive system coverage, printable pages.
Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform repairs and maintenance confidently, saving money and extending vehicle lifespan.
Covered Models:
Holden Commodore VT, VX, VY, VU (Sedan, Wagon, Ute)
Estimated Page Count:
Highly detailed, likely exceeding 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Service & Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, troubleshooting, lubrication, cooling system, starting system, ignition system, emission controls, engine controls
Driveline:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, driveline components (axles, CV joints), brakes (hydraulic, power assist, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery and charging system, instrumentation and warning systems, lighting, audio systems, wiring schematics, power distribution, diagnostic procedures
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panel repair, interior trim, exterior trim, HVAC system, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints
Transmission Transaxle:
Automatic transmission, manual transmission, power take-off (if applicable), transmission service and repair
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspection schedules
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for all major systems, electrical system troubleshooting with wiring diagrams
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, assembly, and reinstallation
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostic codes, system performance checks, electrical system diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Includes detailed illustrations and wiring schematics.
Engine Options:
Varies by model year and trim. Common engines include: 3.8L V6 (ECOTEC L36, L67 Supercharged), 5.0L/5.7L V8 (Gen III LS1).
Horsepower Torque:
Specific figures vary by engine and year. For example, the L36 V6 produced around 147-150 kW, while the LS1 V8 produced around 245-255 kW. The L67 supercharged V6 offered higher output.
System Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) / Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) for most models. Specific fuel pressure, injector flow rates, and pump specifications are detailed within.
Block Material:
Cast Iron (V6), Aluminum Alloy (V8 Gen III)
Bore Stroke:
Specific to each engine (e.g., 3.8L V6 approx. 96.5mm x 86.5mm; 5.7L LS1 approx. 99mm x 94.6mm).
Standard Transmission:
Typically 4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L60-E) for many models. Manual transmissions (e.g., 5-speed Getrag) were also available on select trims.
Optional Transmission:
Availability of manual transmissions like the Getrag 260 (5-speed) or Tremec T56 (6-speed) on performance models.
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic on later models. Detailed torque converter specifications and clutch pack information included.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2788 mm (sedan/wagon), 3024 mm (long wheelbase variants)
Overall Length:
Varies by body style (Sedan, Wagon, Ute). Typical sedan length around 4900 mm.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and body style, generally ranging from 1500 kg to over 1700 kg.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specified by model and configuration, found in vehicle's compliance plate.
Ancap Rating:
ANCAP ratings vary by specific model year and testing protocols of the time. Later VT/VX models generally performed better than earlier ones.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on many models. Traction control (TC) available on higher trims and later models.
Passive Safety:
Front airbags standard on most models. Side airbags available on higher trims and later VX/VY models. Crumple zones, reinforced cabin structure.
Audio System:
Factory fitted cassette/CD players, often with integrated radio. Upgrades to aftermarket head units are common. Speaker system details and wiring for audio are covered.
ABS Tc:
Availability and troubleshooting for Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control (TC) systems, including sensor testing and module diagnosis.
Wiring Schematics:
Extensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, allowing for diagnosis and repair of lighting, sensors, ECUs, and accessories.
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on engine oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific intervals.
Major Service:
Includes timing belt (if applicable, though many later models used chains) or chain inspection, spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid changes at intervals typically around 60,000-100,000 km.
Engine Oil:
Typically API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2 rated. Viscosity grade varies by climate (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40). Refer to manual for precise specs for each engine.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific GM-approved coolants are recommended.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron-III (or equivalent GM specification such as). Manual transmission fluid: GL-4 or GL-5 specification gear oil.
Common Wear Items:
Ignition coils and leads (V6), harmonic balancer (V6), water pump, front suspension components (ball joints, bushes), rear main oil seal, transmission cooler lines (potential leaks).
Ls1 Specific:
Head gasket issues (less common but possible), oil cooler line leaks (later models), rear main seal leaks.
Holden Legacy:
Holden, an Australian automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing popular and robust vehicles for the Australian market. The Commodore is its flagship sedan.
Generation Overview:
The VT (1997-2000) was a significant redesign, introducing the new V-body platform shared with Opel. VX (2000-2002) brought styling updates and improved features. VY (2002-2004) saw further styling refinements and powertrain enhancements. VU (2000-2002) introduced the utility variant.
Manufacturing Location:
Australia (primarily Elizabeth, South Australia)
