Segment:
Australian large sedan/utility market
Competitors:
Ford Falcon (AU/BA series), Toyota Camry (XV20/XV30), Mitsubishi Magna (TR/TS series)
Platform:
Based on the VT/VX Commodore platform, featuring rear-wheel drive architecture.
Body Styles:
Offered as a ute (utility vehicle) for the VU series, including single cab and dual cab variants.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, throttle body, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), driveline, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, starting and charging system, ignition system, body control modules, infotainment
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical diagnostics and repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete disassembly and reassembly, including advanced diagnostics and specifications.
Engine Options:
Likely covers the 3.8L V6 (L36/L67 Supercharged) and 5.7L V8 (LS1) engines common to the Commodore platform.
Horsepower Torque 3.8L V6:
L36: Approx. 150-170 kW (201-228 hp), L67 Supercharged: Approx. 170-180 kW (228-241 hp)
Horsepower Torque 5.7L V8 Ls1:
Approx. 245-255 kW (328-342 hp)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) for V6, Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) for V8.
ECM Type:
Likely Delco Electronics or ACDelco Engine Control Modules (ECMs)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (4L60-E/4L65-E) widely used. Manual transmission options may also be covered.
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., M56 Getrag or T5 Tremec) likely available depending on variant.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid specifications will vary.
Ancap Rating Vhi Vehicles:
While VU specific ANCAP data may be limited, VT/VX based vehicles generally had lower ratings by modern standards. Safety features were evolving.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) generally standard or optional on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags were standard on most VU Series II models.
Audio Systems:
Factory fitted cassette or CD players, with optional premium sound systems and amplifier integration.
Cruise Control:
Cruise control was a common feature, particularly on higher trim levels.
Phone Integration:
Limited or no factory Bluetooth connectivity; aftermarket solutions common.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 5 years, then every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH/SJ or higher, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific engine).
Coolant Type:
GM-spec coolant (orange coloured) or equivalent to protect against corrosion and freezing.
Common V6 Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, balancer shaft seal leaks, spark plug blowouts (early 3.8L), water pump issues.
Common V8 Ls1 Issues:
Cracked exhaust manifold, oil cooler line leaks (if fitted), piston slap (cold start), valve seal issues.
Common Transmission Issues:
Torque converter shudder, transmission fluid leaks, potential for overheating in heavy-duty use.
Filter Part Numbers:
Oil filter, air filter, fuel filter part numbers specific to engine and year, detailed in manual.
Australian Icon:
The Holden Commodore is an iconic Australian-designed and built vehicle, synonymous with performance and practicality.
Vu Series Introduction:
The VU Commodore was introduced in late 2000 as a major redesign, primarily focusing on the utility (ute) segment. Series II arrived in late 2002.
Manufacturing Plant:
Produced at Holden's Elizabeth plant in South Australia.
