🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden / Isuzu

Model:

Colorado / D-MAX / Rodeo

Chassis Code:

RA7

Generation:

Second Generation (RA)

Model Years Covered:

2008-2011 (Note: Does not cover the latest 2012 Colorado model)

Vin Decoder Information:

Manual may contain information or references to VIN decoder elements relevant to identifying specific configurations.

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Holden Colorado and Isuzu D-MAX/Rodeo (RA7) were popular choices in the light commercial vehicle segment, known for their ruggedness, utility, and capability, particularly for work and off-road applications. This manual caters to owners and mechanics who rely on these vehicles for demanding tasks.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Triton, Ford Ranger, and Nissan Navara. The manual's comprehensive coverage of various engine and transmission options reflects the model's market versatility.

Key Features:

Factory-level repair information, detailed illustrations and diagrams, step-by-step instructions, extensive coverage of mechanical, electrical, and body systems, diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, and maintenance schedules.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All 4x4 and 4x2 variants including Single Cab, Dual Cab, and Space Cab; Engine Mechanical, Cooling System, Fuel System, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Speed Control System, Cruise Control System, Heating & Ventilation, Frame & Cab, Steering, Suspension, Wheels & Tires, Axle, Brake System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Body & Accessories, Restraints, Cab Interior/Exterior, Security, Parts Manual.

Page Count:

Over 6000 pages

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control Systems, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Speed Control, Cruise Control, HVAC, Frame and Chassis, Steering System, Front and Rear Suspension, Wheels and Tires, Driveline/Axles, Hydraulic and Pneumatic Brake Systems, Automatic Transmissions (4L60E, AW30-40LE, JR405E), Manual Transmissions (MSG, MUA, MUX), Body Structure, Interior and Exterior Trim, Safety Restraint Systems (SRS), Security Systems, Electrical Systems, Diagnostics.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, diagnostic procedures, step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, overhaul procedures, troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams, component removal and installation, adjustments, specifications, and torque values.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

Electrical Systems Coverage:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major systems (engine, transmission, lighting, HVAC, power windows, audio, safety systems), component location charts, diagnostic flowcharts for electrical faults, fuse and relay identification.

Bodywork Coverage:

Includes procedures for body panel replacement, door mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, seat adjustments, tailgate/bed mechanisms, and alignment procedures for doors and panels. Also covers exterior lighting and trim.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTCs:

Lists and explains common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to engine management, transmission control, ABS, airbags, and other electronic systems. Includes procedures for reading and clearing DTCs.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners, including engine components, suspension parts, brake assemblies, and body fasteners. Essential for correct assembly and preventing component failure.

Wheel Tire Specifications:

Information on wheel types, rim sizes, bolt patterns (e.g., 6x139.7 mm), tire sizes, and recommended inflation pressures. Covers tire rotation and balancing procedures.

Frame Chassis Coverage:

Details on the vehicle's ladder frame construction, chassis alignment, rust prevention, and common repair procedures for frame damage or modifications.

Restraints Coverage:

Detailed information on seatbelts, pretensioners, airbags, and the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) control module. Includes diagnostic procedures and safety precautions when working with SRS components.

Security System Coverage:

Information on the vehicle's immobilizer system, key programming, alarm systems (if fitted), and central locking mechanisms. Includes troubleshooting for security system faults.

Parts Manual Inclusion:

The manual includes a comprehensive parts manual section with diagrams and part numbers, aiding in the identification and sourcing of replacement components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

File Size:

90 MB

Viewing Requirements:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free Download)

Extraction Requirements:

WinZip or WinRAR (Free Download available)

Print Quality:

Printable pages with clear, detailed illustrations and diagrams. High-quality reproduction of original factory documentation.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (Printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.0L 4JJ1-TC Turbo-Diesel (Commonly found in these models)

Engine Options:

3.6L HFV6 (LY7) Petrol V6, 2.4L C24SE Petrol, 2.5L 4JA1 Turbo-Diesel, 2.5L 4JH1 Turbo-Diesel, 2.5L 4JK1 Turbo-Diesel, 3.0L 4JJ1 Turbo-Diesel.

Power 3 0L 4Jj1:

Approx. 120-130 kW (160-175 hp) @ 3600-4000 rpm (varies by specific tune)

Torque 3 0L 4Jj1:

Approx. 360-380 Nm (265-280 lb-ft) @ 1800-2800 rpm (varies by specific tune)

Fuel System:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for diesel engines; Port Fuel Injection (PFI) for petrol engines. Manual covers fuel filter replacement, injector diagnostics, fuel pump testing, and fuel system bleeding.

Engine Codes Covered:

HFV6 (LY7), C24SE, 4JA1, 4JH1, 4JK1, 4JJ1

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Manual Transmission (MSG, MUA, MUX variants)

Optional Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (4L60E, AW30-40LE, JR405E variants)

Transmission Features:

Manual covers clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, gear selection mechanisms. Automatic covers valve body diagnostics, torque converter operation, transmission fluid flush and replacement, electronic control unit (ECU) interfaces, and shift solenoid testing.

Transmission Codes Covered:

4L60E, AW30-40LE, JR405E, MSG, MUA, MUX

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by cabin configuration (e.g., 3095mm for standard wheelbase, 3395mm for long wheelbase)

Ground Clearance:

Typically around 200-220 mm (7.9-8.7 inches), depending on suspension and tire configuration.

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 1700 kg to 2100 kg, depending on configuration (4x2/4x4, cab type, engine).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 2800-3000 kg.

Payload Capacity:

Varies significantly by model, generally between 800 kg and 1200 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ancap Rating:

ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program) ratings for this era varied, often achieving 3-4 stars for models of this generation. Specific ratings should be verified for individual vehicles.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on later models, Traction Control System (TCS), limited-slip differential (LSD) or locking differentials on 4x4 models. Manual covers ABS system diagnostics and component testing.

Passive Features:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, seatbelt pretensioners. Manual includes procedures for airbag system diagnostics, replacement, and SRS component identification.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic infotainment systems for the era, typically including AM/FM radio, CD player, and auxiliary input. Higher trims might feature basic navigation or Bluetooth. Manual covers basic troubleshooting of audio systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS, ESC, and TCS. Manual covers the calibration and diagnostics of these systems.

Connectivity:

Basic connectivity through auxiliary input jacks. Bluetooth phone integration was an option on higher trims. Manual provides basic guidance on any factory-fitted Bluetooth systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000 km or 6 months for severe use, 10,000 km or 12 months for normal use (check specific manual for exact recommendations based on engine and driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 20,000-40,000 km or as needed based on driving environment. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 40,000-60,000 km for diesel, varies for petrol. Manual details replacement procedure, including bleeding for diesel.

Engine Oil Specification:

For 3.0L 4JJ1-TC: API CI-4 or CH-4, SAE 5W-30 or 15W-40 diesel engine oil. Manual will specify exact viscosity and API rating. Petrol engines require appropriate API SN/SM/SL grade oils, typically SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30.

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Manual specifies type and mixture ratio (e.g., 50/50). Typically orange or pink colored coolant.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III H or equivalent for 4L60E, AW30-40LE. JR405E often requires Dexron VI. Manual lists precise fluid specifications and capacities.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Manual specifies exact type and capacity.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on the specific system. Manual details the correct type and replacement procedure.

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific hydraulic fluid for power steering systems. Manual will denote the correct type and capacity.

Known Issues:

Potential issues include DPF regeneration problems (on some diesel models), EGR valve issues, injector failures (diesel), turbocharger wear, and minor electrical gremlins. Manual provides diagnostic procedures for these common faults.

Chassis Lubrication Points:

Includes greasing points for suspension components, steering linkage, and driveshaft U-joints. Manual details location and recommended lubricant.

Recommended Tire Pressure:

Typically around 28-35 PSI (190-240 kPa) for standard tires, varies by load and tire size. Found on the vehicle's B-pillar or door jamb placard. Manual may provide general guidance.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Holden, an iconic Australian automotive brand, has a long history of producing robust utility vehicles. The Colorado nameplate succeeded the Holden Rodeo, continuing the legacy of reliable pickup trucks.

Model Evolution:

The RA7 generation represents a significant update to the Rodeo platform, with Holden branding becoming more prominent. Isuzu's engineering expertise in diesel engines and robust drivetrains is a core aspect of these vehicles.

Production Location:

Assembly primarily took place in Thailand (for Isuzu D-MAX) and then adapted for the Australian market as Holden Rodeo/Colorado.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2008-2012 RA7 generation may not be widely publicized, the Isuzu D-MAX platform is globally recognized for its durability and reliability in the utility vehicle segment, often earning praise in its class for toughness.