Market Position:
The Holden Commodore VF represented the pinnacle of Australian-made large sedans and wagons, catering to families and performance enthusiasts. This manual serves DIY mechanics and professional workshops alike.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other large sedans and performance vehicles of its era. The VF Commodore offered a blend of comfort, performance, and practicality, with its V6 and V8 engine options.
Key Features:
Comprehensive A-Z coverage, step-by-step instructions with pictures, downloadable for permanent use on multiple devices, cost-saving for DIY repairs.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, engine management, turbocharging (where applicable).
Transmission Systems:
Automatic and manual transmission repair, service, diagnostics, torque converter, clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift control.
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD) systems, driveshafts, differentials, axles, CV joints.
Suspension Steering Systems:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering rack, power steering, alignment specifications.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, parking brake.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Climate Control Systems:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt mechanisms, safety restraint systems.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis component repair.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component repair and replacement, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension and steering linkage replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults across all vehicle systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures, including engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnosis, and bodywork.
Engine Options:
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (e.g., Opel derived for some markets), 3.0L V6 (SIDI LLT), 3.6L V6 (SIDI LFX), 6.0L V8 (LS3), 6.2L V8 (L77, LS3).
V6 Performance:
3.6L SIDI V6: Approximately 210 kW (282 hp) and 360 Nm (266 lb-ft) torque.
V8 Performance:
6.0L/6.2L V8 (LS3): Approximately 317 kW (425 hp) to 340 kW (455 hp) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) to 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) torque, depending on variant.
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) or Direct Injection (SIDI).
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Petrol (91 RON minimum, premium recommended for higher performance variants).
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic or equivalent sophisticated engine control units.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2915 mm (114.8 inches).
Overall Length:
Approximately 4966 mm (195.5 inches).
Overall Width:
Approximately 1897 mm (74.7 inches).
Overall Height:
Approximately 1478 mm (58.2 inches).
Kerb Weight:
Varies by model, typically from ~1600 kg to over 1800 kg.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 2200-2400 kg.
Ancap Rating:
Likely achieved a 5-star ANCAP safety rating for its generation.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Hill Start Assist.
Passive Safety Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), pre-tensioned seatbelts, crumple zones, reinforced safety cage.
Infotainment System:
Holden MyLink infotainment system with touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition, Pandora and Stitcher app integration (depending on spec).
Driver Assistance Features:
Reverse parking camera, parking sensors, Blind Spot Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert (available on higher trims).
Connectivity Options:
USB ports, AUX input, Bluetooth audio streaming and phone connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 12 months or 15,000 km (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions and oil type used (synthetic recommended).
Major Service Interval:
Includes timing belt/chain inspection/replacement (if applicable), spark plugs, coolant flush, brake fluid change around 60,000 km or 4 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
GM-LL-A-025 or Dexos1 (SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on engine and climate).
Transmission Fluid Specification Auto:
Dexron VI (for 6-speed automatic transmissions).
Coolant Specification:
GM's orange coolant (Dex-Cool equivalent) or compatible long-life coolant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4.
Common Issues:
Early VF models may have had some minor electronic glitches, some V6 engines can be prone to water pump leaks or timing chain wear if maintenance is neglected. Auto transmission torque converter shudder or shifting issues can occur with high mileage. Bushing wear in suspension components can lead to knocking noises.
Brand Heritage:
Holden, an iconic Australian automotive manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1948. The Commodore has been a flagship model for decades.
Model Evolution:
The VF Commodore was the final generation of the Australian-made Commodore, building upon the VE platform. It featured significant updates in styling, technology, and efficiency, including the adoption of electric power steering.
Production Location:
Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia.
Production Years:
2013-2017 (for VF generation).
