Segment:
Large Family Sedan / Performance Sedan (Australia)
Key Competitors:
Ford Falcon, Toyota Camry (in terms of general market segment, though Commodore offered higher performance variants)
Body Styles:
Sedan, Ute (Pickup Truck - often covered in separate variants of the manual, but VE platform underpins them)
Australian Icon:
The Holden Commodore is a historically significant Australian-manufactured vehicle, known for its RWD platform and performance heritage.
Performance Variants:
The VE platform was also the basis for performance models like the SS, SS V, and HSV variants, which would be covered in detail within this comprehensive manual.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instruments & Gauges, Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Infotainment System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, HVAC System
Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Module (ECM) operation, sensors, actuators, and diagnostics.
Body Control Module:
Body Control Module (BCM) functions, including lighting, central locking, power windows, and interior electronics.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, service, and repair, including refrigerant handling.
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Electrical System Schematics
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all major fasteners, critical component clearances, alignment data, and fluid capacities.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for electrical fault diagnosis.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, specifications, and torque values.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Extensive troubleshooting trees and flowcharts for diagnosing common and complex faults.
Engine Rebuild:
Procedures for complete engine disassembly, inspection, machining, and reassembly.
Format Details:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
PDF format typically allows for text searching, enabling quick access to specific topics.
Printability:
Printable without restriction, allowing full or partial document printing.
Resolution:
High-resolution scans or digital creation ensure clarity of text and illustrations for printing.
Binding:
Digital Download (Not applicable to physical binding)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital format)
Engine Options:
While the manual covers multiple VE engines, 2012 models commonly featured: 3.0L V6 (LF1/LLT), 3.6L V6 (LWFN/LFX), 6.0L V8 (LS3), and potentially the 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder (A20NET) in specific models like the Calais V V-Sport or sporty variants. The manual would detail all these.
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron (V8) or Aluminum Alloy (V6) depending on engine.
Horsepower Range:
180kW (3.0L V6) to 310kW (6.0L V8) and upwards for supercharged/tuned variants.
Torque Range:
290Nm (3.0L V6) to 565Nm (6.0L V8) and upwards.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (91 RON minimum, higher octane recommended for performance variants)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) / Direct Injection (DI) depending on engine variant.
Manual Transmission:
6-speed Manual (M80/M86) for certain engine variants.
Automatic Transmission:
6-speed Automatic (6L50/6L80/6L90) standard on many models, with different variants for V6 and V8 engines.
Transmission Control:
Electronic control for automatic transmissions, with driver-selectable modes (e.g., Sport, Hold).
Ancap Rating:
5 Star ANCAP rating for VE Commodore.
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) standard across the range.
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver & passenger), Side airbags, Curtain airbags (depending on trim level).
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts with load limiters for front occupants.
Infotainment System:
Holden's 'iQ' infotainment system (or similar evolution for Series II) featuring touch screen, navigation (optional), Bluetooth, USB connectivity.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors, some models may have front sensors or a reversing camera.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models, adaptive cruise control available on higher trims.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for media playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 12 months or 15,000 km, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for specific engine oil types and capacities).
Major Service Interval:
Spark plug replacement, transmission fluid change, coolant flush typically recommended around 90,000 - 120,000 km.
Engine Oil Spec:
GM dexos1™ or equivalent SAE 5W-30 or 0W-40 synthetic oil recommended, depending on engine and climate. (Specific API and ILSAC ratings crucial).
Coolant Spec:
GM Formula 1 or equivalent Orange/Pink silicate-free long-life coolant (GMC 6277M approved).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
GM DEXRON®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid is typically specified.
V6 Timing Chain Wear:
Some early VE V6 engines could experience timing chain wear. The manual would cover inspection and replacement procedures.
Power Steering Pump:
Intermittent issues with power steering pumps can occur. Manual details troubleshooting.
Infotainment System Glitches:
Occasional software glitches with the infotainment system may require resets or updates.
Harmonic Balancer:
Potential for harmonic balancer wear over time, especially on V8 models. Manual would cover inspection and replacement.
Holden Legacy:
Holden is Australia's iconic automotive brand, with a history of producing locally designed and manufactured vehicles.
Ve Commodore Introduction:
The VE Commodore was a significant redesign, based on GM's global Zeta platform, first introduced in 2006. The 2012 model represents the Series II update.
Manufacturing Location:
Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia
Production Years Ve:
2006 - 2013