🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Calais

Generation Code:

VX Series

Model Years Covered Implied:

2000-2002

Platform Code:

V platform (GM Zeta II)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Holden Calais VX represented the pinnacle of Holden's luxury sedan offering in the early 2000s, competing with premium vehicles from Ford and imported brands.

Competitors:

Ford Fairlane/LTD, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class (aspirational).

Vehicle Focus:

Emphasis on refined ride quality, spacious interior, and powerful V8 engine options.

Digital Benefits:

Enhanced clarity via zooming, easy navigation, and immediate accessibility after purchase.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Maintenance and Repair Procedures

Specific Systems Mentioned:

General Information, Specifications, Technical Features and Description, Rigging Information, Troubleshooting, Electrical System, Fuel System, Power Unit, Lower Unit, Bracket Unit, Maintenance, Index, Appendix

Additional Sections Mentioned:

Index, Appendix, Rigging Information.

Page Count Estimate:

Not specified, but comprehensive based on listed sections.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, component replacement, timing, and diagnostics.

Engine Management:

Covers fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Transmission:

Service and repair procedures for both automatic and manual transmissions.

Drivetrain:

Covers driveshafts, differentials, and associated components.

Suspension:

Detailed instructions for front and rear suspension systems, including alignment.

Steering:

Procedures for power steering system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Covers brake system diagnostics, component replacement (pads, rotors, lines), ABS, and parking brake.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, and accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Information on body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, and structural components.

Climate Control:

Service and repair for HVAC system, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.

Fuel System:

Covers fuel pump, injectors, lines, and evaporative emissions control.

Exhaust System:

Procedures for exhaust component replacement and diagnosis.

Cooling System:

Service for radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan operation.

Interior Components:

Information on seat mechanisms, trim panels, and interior electronics.

Power Unit:

Refers to engine and powertrain components.

Lower Unit:

Likely refers to drivetrain components such as the differential and axle shafts.

Bracket Unit:

Potentially refers to mounting brackets for engine, transmission, or other accessories.

Preventive Maintenance:

Detailed service intervals for oil changes, fluid flushes, filter replacements, and inspections.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides and symptom-based diagnostic procedures for various systems.

Repair And Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing or repairing virtually all vehicle components.

Overhaul:

Comprehensive rebuild procedures for major components like engines and transmissions.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, and fault finding for electrical issues.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners during assembly and disassembly.

Body Repair:

Includes procedures for panel alignment, dent repair, and replacement of body trim.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes information on diagnostic connectors, scan tools, and interpreting sensor data.

Diagnostic Codes:

Provides a comprehensive list of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their explanations.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within PDF reader.

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows & Mac.

Reader Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

Quality:

High clarity, zoomable on computer for precise viewing.

Type:

Digital (PDF download) - No physical binding.

Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options Implied:

V6 and V8 engines common in this generation.

Common V6 Engine:

3.8L Ecotec V6 (L36 or supercharged L67)

Common V8 Engine:

5.7L Gen III V8 (LS1)

Engine Displacement Common V8:

5.7 Liters (350 cubic inches)

Engine Displacement Common V6:

3.8 Liters (231 cubic inches)

V8 Performance Typical:

Approx. 300-325 hp and 340-360 lb-ft torque (LS1).

Injection Type:

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

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) for managing fuel, ignition, and emissions.

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox Options:

4-speed automatic (4L60-E for V8, 4L30-E for V6) and potentially a 5-speed manual (M82 for V6).

Transmission Options:

Supercharged V6 (L67) typically paired with the 4L60-E automatic.

Electronic Control:

Automatic transmissions feature electronic control for shift quality and performance.

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

Four-door Sedan.

Curb Weight Typical:

Approx. 1600-1750 kg depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ancap Rating Implied:

Likely achieved a reasonable ANCAP rating for its time, but specific VX data may vary.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) available, especially on V8 models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard, side airbags available on some models.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory radio/cassette/CD player with basic speaker system. Higher trims may have premium audio.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Typical:

Every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Typical:

Every 60,000-80,000 km for automatic transmission fluid and filter change.

Engine Oil V8:

API SG/SH/SJ rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for LS1 (check manual for exact specs).

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Dex-Cool equivalent) with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid (Type A).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) for 4L60-E and 4L30-E transmissions.

Ls1 Common Issues:

Potential for oil leaks (valley pan gasket, rear main seal), intake manifold gasket leaks, and PCV system issues.

V6 Common Issues:

Coolant leaks from the plastic intake manifold crossover, power steering pump noise.

General Common Issues:

Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, and minor electrical gremlins are not uncommon with age.

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Legacy:

Holden has a long history of producing Australian-made vehicles, known for robust engineering suitable for local conditions.

Vt Vx Platform:

The VX Calais is part of the VT/VX generation, which significantly modernized Holden's large car platform, sharing its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird.

Manufacturing Location:

Australia (Elizabeth, South Australia).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reception:

The VT/VX generation was well-received for its improved dynamics and modern features compared to predecessors.