Positioning:
The Holden Commodore VX represented a significant evolution of Holden's popular large car, aiming to provide a blend of performance, comfort, and refinement for the Australian market.
Competitors:
Primarily competed against other Australian-made or large sedans such as the Ford Falcon, and imported executive sedans.
Design Philosophy:
Continuation of the Commodore's rear-wheel-drive architecture, with updated styling and improved chassis dynamics over its predecessors.
Manual Advantage:
Provides owners and technicians with the authoritative factory information required for accurate maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting, potentially saving significant costs compared to dealership servicing.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive maintenance and repair procedures
Additional Coverage:
Troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, technical specifications
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), transmission (automatic and manual), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, driveline, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Complete electrical system schematics, lighting, ignition, charging system, starting system, body electronics, infotainment system
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, climate control system, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, inspections), fluid checks and replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Engine repair and overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, steering system overhaul
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical systems, fault code interpretation
Depth:
Extensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete component overhaul and diagnostics
Precision:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, component tolerances, and testing procedures
Format Details:
PDF, allowing zoom functionality for detailed inspection of diagrams and text
Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac
Reader Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text
Binding:
Not applicable (digital download)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital download)
Engine Options:
3.8L V6 (ECOTEC), 5.7L V8 (Gen III LS1)
3.8L V6 Power:
Approx. 150-175 kW (199-235 hp)
5.7L V8 Power:
Approx. 225-245 kW (302-328 hp)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
V6 Block Material:
Cast Iron
V8 Block Material:
Aluminum
V6 Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4L60-E)
V8 Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4L60-E)
V6 Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual
V8 Optional Transmission:
6-speed manual (Tremec T-56)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up
Manual Transmission Features:
Hydraulic clutch actuation
Australian Ancap Rating:
Likely 4-star for sedan variants (at the time of release, compared to contemporary vehicles)
ABS:
Standard on most variants, optional on some entry-level models
Traction Control:
Available on higher-spec models and V8 variants
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard, optional side airbags on some models
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory-fitted AM/FM radio with CD player, cassette player (on some models), and speaker systems (upgrades available)
Cruise Control:
Standard on most variants
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically standard; aftermarket solutions often used for aux/USB connectivity
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine oil type and capacity)
Air Filter Replacement:
Check at 30,000 km, replace as needed or at 60,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement:
V6: Approx. 100,000 km; V8: Approx. 160,000 km (refer to manual for exact types)
Engine Oil V6:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific grades)
Engine Oil V8:
API SJ/SL or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check manual for specific grades)
Coolant:
GM DEX-COOL or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, long-life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
GM DEXRON-III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific type and capacity)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
V6 Common Issue 1:
Ecotec V6 intake manifold gasket leaks (often addressed by updated gaskets)
V8 Common Issue 1:
LS1 V8 oil leaks (e.g., rear main seal, valve cover gaskets) and potential piston slap when cold
General Issue 1:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to fan speed issues
General Issue 2:
Power steering pump noise or leaks
Holden Legacy:
Holden has a long history of manufacturing iconic Australian vehicles, with the Commodore being its flagship model for decades.
Vx Generation Context:
The VX Commodore was the third generation to use the VT platform's underpinnings, introducing revised styling and handling improvements. It bridged the gap between the VT and the all-new VY generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia
