🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Commodore

Generation:

VR/VS

Trim Level:

Calais, Statesman

Production Years Covered:

1993-1997

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners and independent repair shops seeking comprehensive technical information for the Holden Commodore VR/VS Calais and Statesman models.

Value Proposition:

Provides a cost-effective alternative to dealership service, empowering users to perform a wide range of repairs and maintenance tasks.

Illustrations:

Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and photographs to clarify repair procedures.

Step By Step:

Numbered, step-by-step instructions for ease of use.

Troubleshooting Electrical:

Combined troubleshooting and electrical service procedures with detailed wiring diagrams.

Searchability:

Likely offers searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Varies significantly based on specific model year and engine variant, but typically comprehensive, often exceeding 1000 pages for full coverage.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, throttle body, fuel pressure regulator.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition control module, timing.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, fan operation.

Starting Charging System:

Starter motor, battery, alternator, charging circuit diagnostics.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 4L60-E, 4L30-E) and manual transmission (e.g., Getrag 5-speed) overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications.

Driveline:

Driveshafts, universal joints, CV joints, rear axle assembly, differential.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (multi-link, independent), shock absorbers, springs, bushings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, steering column, tie rods, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, emission controls.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components, refrigerant, diagnosis, service procedures.

Electrical System:

Wiring schematics, component location, fuses, relays, power distribution, lighting systems, instrumentation, warning systems.

Body Interior Exterior:

Door panels, seats, trim, body panels, bumpers, glass replacement, seals.

Emission Controls:

EGR system, PCV system, evaporative emission control system.

Audio Systems:

Radio, speakers, antenna, wiring.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for various systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems.

Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.

Restoration:

Guidance on refurbishing and restoring various vehicle components.

Diagnostics:

Engine codes, sensor data interpretation, electrical system diagnostics.

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Highly detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Requirements:

PDF Reader software

Printability:

All pages are printable for use in a workshop environment.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.8L V6 (Naturally Aspirated and Supercharged), 5.0L V8 (Gen III Holden V8).

V6 Power Output:

Approx. 147-165 kW (197-221 hp) for naturally aspirated; 165 kW (221 hp) for supercharged Ecotec.

V8 Power Output:

Approx. 179 kW (240 hp) for the 5.0L V8.

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) for V6 and V8 engines.

Engine Codes:

Examples: L36 (3.8L V6), L67 (3.8L Supercharged V6), LT1 (5.0L V8 - later VS models).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L60-E) was common, especially in higher trims. 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag) available on some models.

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Automatic Features:

Electronic control, lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan, Station Wagon, Ute (for some derivatives), Long Wheelbase (Statesman).

Curb Weight:

Varies by body style and engine, typically ranging from 1500 kg to over 1800 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Australian Ancap Rating:

Ratings for this era are generally not directly comparable to modern ANCAP standards. Focus on the available safety features of the time.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option or standard on higher trims and later models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was standard on most Calais and Statesman models. Passenger airbag became available later in the VS series.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners (on front seats) were common.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-fitted radios with cassette players and CD players (on higher trims/later models), often with AM/FM reception. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was a common feature, particularly on Calais and Statesman models.

Antenna:

Integrated antenna or a power-retractable antenna on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500 km or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific engine/oil type.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 40,000-60,000 km for automatic transmissions. Manuals typically longer.

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40) and API service classification based on engine and climate.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a green or orange type depending on the formulation used at the time. Proper mix ratio with distilled water is crucial.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific power steering fluid or Dexron-III ATF depending on system design.

Common Wear Items:

Radiator hoses, fuel pump, thermostat, water pump, suspension bushings, exhaust system components, interior trim degradation.

V6 Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on earlier 3.8L non-Ecotec V6), oil leaks, potential for head gasket issues if overheated.

Supercharger Issues:

Belt slippage, tensioner wear on supercharged Ecotec (L67).

V8 Issues:

Oil leaks, potential for distributor housing leaks on Gen III V8s.

Transmission Issues:

Transmission fluid leaks, torque converter shudder, worn clutch packs in automatics if not maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Legacy:

The Holden Commodore is an iconic Australian-manufactured large car, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and rear-wheel-drive dynamics.

Vr Vs Generation:

The VR (1993-1995) was a significant update over the previous VP model, featuring new styling and improved aerodynamics. The VS (1995-1997) was a facelift of the VR, introducing the supercharged Ecotec V6 and further refinements.

Manufacturing Location:

Australia (primarily Adelaide, South Australia)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Acclaim:

The Commodore, particularly the Calais and Statesman variants, was consistently popular in the Australian market for its luxury, performance, and value.