Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking comprehensive repair and maintenance information for Holden Commodore VT, VX, VY, and VU series vehicles.
Diy Vs Professional:
Written for both the do-it-yourselfer and the experienced mechanic, bridging the gap in technical understanding.
Value Proposition:
Provides a cost-effective alternative to dealership service, empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves with expert guidance.
Features:
Complete official documentation, detailed illustrations and diagrams, extensive troubleshooting, printable sections, searchable text, instant download for immediate access.
Content Quality:
100% complete and intact, with no missing or corrupt pages/sections guaranteed.
Models Covered:
Holden Commodore VT Series, Holden Commodore VX Series, Holden Commodore VY Series, Holden Commodore VU Series (Ute)
Type:
Official Service & Repair Manual
Viewing Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip for extraction.
Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows & Mac.
Powertrain:
V6 Engines (2.5L, 3.8L naturally aspirated & supercharged), V8 Engines (5.0L VT Series 1, 5.7L Gen III LS1), Transmissions (4L60-E automatic, Getrag 260/290 manual, Tremec T56 6-speed manual), Drivetrain (tailshafts, differentials, driveshafts).
Chassis And Suspension:
Steering systems, Front suspension (including MacPherson strut), Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) for sedans/wagons, Braking systems (including ABS and ABS/ETC).
Electrical And Body:
Starting and charging systems, Ignition systems, Fuel injection (EFI), Cooling system, Emission controls, Exhaust systems, Fuel tank, Body electricals, Windscreen wipers/washers, HVAC and Climate Control (ECC), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Body panel repairs, interior trim.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on diagnostic connectors (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on model year), basic diagnostic procedures, and reference to specific diagnostic equipment relevant to the era.
Heating And Ac:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, including the Electronic Climatic Control (ECC) found on higher trims. Covers system operation, diagnosis, and component replacement.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump operation, fuel filter replacement, and EFI system diagnosis.
Diagnostic And Repair:
Comprehensive fault diagnosis, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems.
Maintenance And Rebuild:
Engine tune-up, scheduled maintenance, detailed rebuild procedures for V6 and V8 engines, transmission overhauls, suspension and brake component replacement.
Installation Replacement:
Procedures for replacing components such as headlights, taillights, mirrors, interior trim panels, and other body parts.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for V6 and V8 engine rebuilds, including disassembly, inspection, machining specifications, assembly, and break-in procedures.
Wheel Tyre Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment and tyre service.
Depth:
Covers basic maintenance to full component rebuilds, including detailed diagrams, exploded views, wiring schematics, and specifications for diagnostics and repair.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams are included, crucial for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults, covering all major electrical systems.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Hundreds of photos, detailed illustrations, and exploded diagrams guiding the user through each service and repair procedure.
V6 Variants:
3.8L Ecotec L36 (Naturally Aspirated), 3.8L Ecotec L67 (Supercharged)
V8 Variants:
5.0L Holden '10' (VT Series 1), 5.7L GM LS1 Gen III V8 (VT Series 2 onwards, VX, VY, VU)
V6 3 8L Ecotec:
Series II Ecotec V6 (L36 NA, L67 Supercharged) was the mainstay. Earlier L32 3.8L V6 also present in early VT.
V8 5 0L Holden:
The 5.0L V8 (commonly known as the '304' or '10-bolt' V8) was used in the VT Series 1.
V6 Naturally Aspirated Power Torque:
L36: Approx. 150-165 kW (200-220 hp) / 305-340 Nm (225-251 lb-ft), Supercharged L67: Approx. 170-180 kW (228-241 hp) / 370-380 Nm (273-280 lb-ft).
V8 5 0L Power Torque:
Approx. 190 kW (255 hp) / 400 Nm (295 lb-ft).
V8 5 7L Ls1 Power Torque:
Approx. 225-250 kW (300-335 hp) / 445-470 Nm (328-347 lb-ft), depending on model year and tune.
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all variants. Supercharger for L67 V6.
V6 Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (4L60-E) was common on most models. 5-speed Getrag 260 manual also available on some V6 models.
V8 Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (4L60-E) for 5.0L and early LS1. 6-speed Tremec T56 manual became standard or optional on performance V8 models (e.g., SS, Monaro).
V8 6Speed Manual:
Tremec TR-3650/T56 6-speed manual transmission available on performance V8 variants.
Transmission Control:
Electronic control for automatic transmissions, with diagnostic capabilities covered in the manual.
Audio System:
Factory fitted CD players, cassette decks, and radios, often with steering wheel audio controls on higher trim levels. The manual covers head unit removal and basic wiring.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) or Electronic Traction Control (ETC) available on many models, integrated with the ABS system. Coverage includes system operation and fault finding.
Cruise Control:
Factory-fitted cruise control systems are covered for operation and troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 km to 15,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to specific model/year recommendation in manual).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher, viscosity typically 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-30 depending on climate and engine (e.g., GM-LL-A-025 for some European specs if applicable, though typically domestic specs are used).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically orange or red (GM Dex-Cool or equivalent), with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III (GM specification) or Dexron VI for 4L60-E and later GM automatics.
Transmission Fluid Manual Getrag:
GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid or equivalent manual transmission fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual T56:
GM specification manual transmission fluid or equivalent. Specific fluid type crucial for smooth shifting.
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (Dexron III).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on ABS system requirements.
V6 Supercharged L67:
Potential for split intake manifold gaskets, supercharger coupler wear, and intercooler leaks. Oil leaks from rocker covers are common.
V8 Ls1 Gen Iii:
Rear main seal leaks (RMS), oil cooler lines on some performance models, intake manifold gasket issues, and lifter tick are commonly reported. Spark plug blowout on earlier LS1s.
Suspension And Steering:
Wear in front end components (ball joints, tie rod ends, bushes) leading to premature tyre wear and steering looseness. Rear IRS bush wear can cause handling issues.
Electrical:
Body control module (BCM) issues, power window regulator failures, and intermittent lighting issues can occur.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat failures, and coolant hose degradation are common maintenance points. The manual provides detailed replacement procedures.
Manufacturer:
Holden, an iconic Australian automotive manufacturer, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM).
Platform Progression:
VT (1997) introduced a completely new chassis and styling, replacing the previous VR/VS series. VX (2000) offered updates and refinements. VY (2002) brought further styling and mechanical changes. VU (2000) was the utility variant (Ute) based on the sedan platform.
Platform Design:
The VT Commodore marked a significant shift with its global GM platform (GM Auto) and modernised styling, setting the foundation for subsequent iterations.
Production Years:
1997-2004
