🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Calais

Generation:

VX Series

Platform Code:

VT/VX

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Premium large sedan offering luxury, comfort, and performance within the Australian market

Competitors:

Ford Fairlane, Toyota Avalon, Mitsubishi Magna (higher trims)

Standout Features:

Supple ride quality, spacious interior, powerful V6 and V8 engine options, comprehensive standard features for its class

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Holden Calais VX Series (All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical factory service manual exceeding 1000 pages)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, throttle body, lubrication system, cooling system, emission control systems

Drivetrain Systems:

Transmission (automatic and manual), driveline, differential

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes, wheels, tires

Electrical Systems:

Complete electrical system, battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body control modules

Body And Trim:

Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections

Repair Procedures:

Complete disassembly and reassembly, component replacement, specialized repairs

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems

Depth Of Information:

Factory-level, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Print Restriction:

Printable without restriction

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

Reader Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

Delivery:

Instant Download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.8L V6 (L36/L67 Supercharged), 5.0L V8 (Gen III LS1)

3.8L V6 (L36):

Approx. 150 kW / 305 Nm

3.8L V6 Supercharged (L67):

Approx. 171 kW / 380 Nm

5.0L V8 (Ls1):

Approx. 225 kW / 446 Nm

Injection Type:

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

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed automatic (4L60-E/4L65-E), 5-speed manual (M80), 4-speed performance automatic (4L65-E with higher torque capacity for V8)

Optional Gearbox:

Not applicable, options are model/engine dependent

Automatic Features:

Overdrive, torque converter lock-up

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2790 mm

Length:

Approx. 4970 mm

Width:

Approx. 1795 mm

Height:

Approx. 1445 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1550-1650 kg (depending on engine/options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Achievements:

ABS standard on all models, limited airbags (front driver/passenger standard, optional side airbags on some trims)

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) on some models

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, Crumple zones, Side impact beams

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium audio system with CD player, cassette, AM/FM radio. Optional premium sound systems with amplifiers.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Phone Integration:

Limited by era; typically no integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000 km or 6 months (check manual for specific engine/oil type)

Major Service Interval:

Spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant typically at 60,000-100,000 km intervals (refer to manual)

Engine Oil Specification:

5W-30 or 10W-30 API SJ/SL (check manual for specific viscosity and ILSAC/API ratings, e.g., Castrol Magnatec common OEM recommendation)

Coolant Specification:

GM Dex-Cool (Orange) or equivalent G8139 antifreeze/coolant, mixed 50/50 with de-ionised water

Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (for 4L60-E/4L65-E) or Dexron VI (later revisions/recommendations)

Common Problems:

Cracked intake manifold gaskets (LS1 V8), transmission issues (especially early 4L60-E variants), rear main seal leaks, cooling system leaks (hose degradation), electrical gremlins (window motors, central locking), ignition coil failure (LS1).

Oil Filter Example:

Ryco Z410, Fram PH5795, ACDelco PF1218 (V6); Ryco Z204, Fram PH356, ACDelco PF2053 (LS1 V8)

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Legacy:

Australia's iconic automotive manufacturer, known for robust and locally relevant vehicles

Vx Series Positioning:

The VX Series (2000-2002) was an update to the VT Commodore platform, offering revised styling, improved features, and enhanced safety, with the Calais representing the luxury flagship trim.

Manufacturing Location:

Australia (Elizabeth, South Australia)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

The Holden Commodore/Calais platform consistently received positive reviews for comfort, ride, and performance in Australian motoring publications during its era.