Positioning:
Premium Australian luxury sedan aimed at competing with imported executive cars. Offered a refined driving experience and spacious interior.
Competitors:
Ford Fairlane/LTD, Toyota Avalon, Mitsubishi Magna (top-tier variants), imported luxury sedans like BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6 (in terms of luxury positioning).
Key Selling Points:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, powerful V6 and V8 engine options, distinctive Australian styling, extensive standard equipment.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Electrical Systems, Fuel Systems, Power Unit, Lower Unit, Bracket Unit, Rigging Information, Technical Features and Description
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'a lot of information')
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic/manual, depending on variant), drivetrain components.
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting system, ignition system, fuel injection system, body electricals, instrument cluster, audio system, climate control electronics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), climate control system, lubrication, suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust, fuel, power unit, lower unit, bracket unit, rigging information, troubleshooting.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, brake inspections, tire rotation.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, internal engine repair, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, electrical component replacement, body panel repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams for fault finding.
Technical Adjustments:
Wheel alignment, engine timing, idle speed adjustments, clutch adjustments (if applicable).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Variant 1:
3.8L Ecotec L36 V6
Engine Variant 2:
5.0L Holden 304 Windsor V8 (last generation)
Engine Variant 3:
5.7L Gen III LS1 V8 (from Series II)
V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 147 kW (197 hp) for L36
V8 Horsepower 304:
Approx. 180 kW (241 hp)
V8 Horsepower Ls1:
Approx. 245 kW (328 hp) for early Gen III
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (ULP)
Crash Test Ratings:
No official ANCAP ratings for WH Statesman; based on its era and Holden platform, expected to be moderate by modern standards.
Active Safety Options:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control (often optional or standard on higher trims).
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, side intrusion beams.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette/CD player, often with premium speaker options. Some models featured steering wheel audio controls.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional dual-zone climate control system, including air conditioning.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on power accessories like windows, mirrors, and central locking. No integrated Bluetooth or USB in early models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact details).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement (V6/V8), coolant flush, transmission fluid change typically around 40,000-60,000 km.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual, but generally 5W-30 or 10W-30 for V6; 5W-30 or 10W-40 for V8 (e.g., Mobil 1 5W-30 often recommended for LS1).
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Holden coolant may be specified.
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension components (bushings, ball joints), rear brake pads, exhaust system components, sometimes radiator leaks on older models.
Engine Specific:
Minor oil leaks from rocker covers or sump gaskets on V8s, potential for thermostat issues on V6. LS1 can experience lifter tick if not maintained.
Transmission Specific:
Overheating can lead to premature wear on automatic transmissions if not properly cooled, especially under heavy load.
Heritage Context:
Holden has a long history of producing large sedans in Australia, with the Statesman lineage dating back to the late 1970s, representing the pinnacle of Holden's passenger car offerings.
Wh Generation:
The WH Statesman (1999-2003) was based on the Holden VT Commodore platform, sharing its underpinnings but featuring a longer wheelbase and distinct styling to emphasize its luxury status. It was part of the 'WH Caprice' family as well.
Production Years:
1999 - 2003
Manufacturing Location:
Australia
