Holden enthusiasts, independent workshops, DIY mechanics, collectors of HSV vehicles.
Competitive Analysis
Value Proposition:
Offers hard-to-find information, including specialized HSV, Police, and Taxi supplements, at a significantly lower cost and higher accessibility than original dealer manuals.
Key Features
Highlight Features:
Comprehensive coverage of V6 and V8 engines, specific transmission details (4L60E, 6-speed manual), extensive wiring diagrams, and specialized variant information.
Getrag 260 5-speed (early VT, often on V6), T56 6-speed (later VT, VX, Monaro, V8)
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
4L60-E 4-speed automatic (GM) - commonly used across V6 and V8 models.
Features
Control Systems:
Electronic control for automatic transmission, various diagnostic modes.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Platform Based Variations:
Commodore (sedan/wagon), Statesman/Caprice (long wheelbase sedan), Monaro (coupe). Dimensions vary significantly between these body styles.
Weights
Kerb Weight Range:
Approx. 1550-1800 kg, depending on body style, engine, and drivetrain.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Ancap Rating:
VT/VX models generally achieved 4-star ANCAP ratings when equipped with dual front airbags. Specific ratings varied by year and equipment. (Note: This manual does not provide crash test results but covers SRS systems).
Active Features
Brake Assist:
Available on some later models and HSV variants.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags standard on most models. Side airbags available on higher trims and HSV.
Srs Coverage:
Detailed information on SRS module, impact sensors, airbag deployment circuits, and system diagnostics.
Available on higher-spec models and HSV variants (often labelled as TC or TCS).
Connectivity
Wiring Diagrams Importance:
Crucial for diagnosing electrical faults, aftermarket installations, and understanding vehicle communication networks.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Major Services:
Spark plugs, coolant flush, transmission fluid/filter service at intervals like 80,000-100,000 km or as specified.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH/SJ or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40 (refer to manual based on climate/engine variant).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III/VI (for 4L60-E) - Manual specifies exact type and capacity.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, suitable for Australian conditions. Manual specifies type and mix ratio.
Known Issues
Common V6 Ecotec Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, balancer shaft seal leaks (early Ecotec), ignition coil pack failures, supercharger snout seal leaks (L67).
Common Ls1 V8 Issues:
Cracked cylinder heads (pre-2002 models, though less prevalent in later VT/VX than earlier LS1), oil cooler line leaks, oil pump pickup tube issues (rare), exhaust manifold gasket leaks.
Common Chassis Issues:
Worn front suspension bushes, worn sway bar links, power steering hose leaks, radiator leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Holden Legacy:
Holden has a long history of producing Australian-made vehicles, with the Commodore being its flagship model for decades.
Model Evolution
Vt Vx Significance:
The VT series was a significant redesign based on the GM's new platform, offering improved aerodynamics, safety, and technology. VX was an update with styling and minor mechanical revisions.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car Of The Year:
Holden Commodore models (including VT/VX generations) frequently received 'Car of the Year' awards from Australian automotive publications for their class and performance.
Ratings
Consumer Reviews:
Praised for performance, handling, and comfort for their era, especially V8 and HSV variants. Criticisms sometimes focused on specific V6 engine reliability issues or interior plastics.
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