🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Commodore

Sub Model:

Calais

Chassis Code:

VN / VP

Years Covered:

1988-1993

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Holden Commodore VN/VP owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs.

Value Proposition:

Provides significant cost savings compared to dealership or professional workshop labor rates by empowering owners to perform their own repairs.

Accessibility:

Instant digital download and multi-device compatibility ensures immediate access and ease of use.

Content Completeness:

Covers all service and repair procedures A-Z, leaving no stone unturned for comprehensive vehicle care.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Coverage Scope:

All Models, Engines, Trim Levels, and Transmission Types within VN and VP series

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, component inspection, rebuilding procedures, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor and EFI), ignition system.

Engine Management:

Engine Control Module (ECM) diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring diagrams for engine systems.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, component identification, clutch system, shift linkage, gearbox lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission diagnosis, hydraulic system, torque converter, valve body, transmission fluid cooler, complete rebuild procedures.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings, CV joints (if applicable to specific models).

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, bushings), rear suspension (independent or live axle depending on configuration), shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, steering rack or gearbox, steering column, tie rods, universal joints.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, front and rear brake components (discs, pads, calipers, drums, shoes), hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, hoses), ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, starting system, charging system (alternator), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, locks, hinges, weatherstripping, underbody protection, chassis repair.

Interior:

Dashboard removal and installation, instrument cluster, seats, trim panels, carpeting, headliner, climate control system (HVAC).

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, blower motor, ducting.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors, evaporative emissions control (EVAP).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, hangers, oxygen sensors.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

System-specific diagnostic charts, fault code interpretation (for EFI models), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing all major and minor components of the vehicle.

Rebuilding Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major mechanical assemblies.

Alignment Procedures:

Wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including engine, chassis, body, and comfort features.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specific tools required for certain repair procedures.

Torqure Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners during assembly and disassembly.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, ranging from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, and detailed electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (assuming OCR processing of original document)

Printability:

Printable (individual pages or full document)

Device Compatibility:

Compatible with PC, MAC, tablets, smartphones via Adobe Reader or compatible PDF viewer.

Image Clarity:

High quality (as per product description, implying clear diagrams and images)

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely includes 3.8L V6 (various iterations like Buick) and potentially 5.0L V8 (e.g., 304 Windsor) depending on specific VN/VP Calais variants.

Typical V6 Power:

Approx. 125-130 kW (93-97 kW for early injected models)

Typical V8 Power:

Approx. 165-175 kW

Injection System:

Likely Bosch or Holden EFI system for V6 and V8 variants. Some earlier VN models may have had carbureted options, but Calais typically featured EFI.

Spark Plug Type V6:

Consult manual for specific part numbers (e.g., NGK BPR5ES or equivalent)

Spark Plug Type V8:

Consult manual for specific part numbers (e.g., Champion RC12YC or equivalent)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Likely a 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., THM700R4 or Holden's in-house equivalent) for Calais models.

Optional Transmission:

A 5-speed manual transmission may have been available on some variants, but less common for the Calais trim.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2730 mm

Length:

Approx. 4920 mm

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm

Height:

Approx. 1430 mm

Kerb Weight V6:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg

Kerb Weight V8:

Approx. 1500-1600 kg

Gvm:

Refer to vehicle compliance plate, typically around 1950-2050 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Ancap Rating:

ANCAP ratings were not as standardized or publicly available during this period as they are today. Consult specific crash test data if available.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional or standard feature on higher-spec Calais models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag was becoming more common, potentially optional on early VN, and more standard on VP models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts in front and rear, with pre-tensioners on front belts on later models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with premium speaker options for Calais models. CD players became available later in the VP era.

Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control was a common option or standard on Calais variants.

Vehicle Diagnostics:

OBD-I diagnostic port (on-board diagnostics) for early EFI systems, with specific diagnostic codes accessible through jumper leads or diagnostic tools of the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact interval based on driving conditions).

Coolant Change Interval:

Typically every 40,000 km or 24 months, or as per manual specification using appropriate coolant.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter service recommended every 40,000 km or 24 months, especially for heavy-duty use.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (depending on climate and specific engine, consult manual).

Engine Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. GM-specific coolant may be recommended.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM power steering fluid or an equivalent specification (e.g., Dexron-III in some cases).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check cap or manual for exact type).

Common Wear Items:

Front end bushes and ball joints, sway bar links, heater core leaks, radiator support and fan shroud degradation, rear spring sagging.

Engine Electrical:

Idle Control Valve (ICV) issues on V6 engines, ignition coil pack failure, MAF sensor issues.

Transmission Auto:

Slipping or delayed engagement in older automatic transmissions, potential for torque converter issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Legacy:

Holden has a long and storied history in Australian automotive manufacturing, with the Commodore being its flagship model for decades.

Vn Generation:

The VN Commodore (1988-1991) marked a significant redesign, moving to a sleeker, more aerodynamic European-influenced styling, and adopting the GM 'V-body' platform shared with other global GM sedans. It introduced more advanced engine management and comfort features.

Vp Generation:

The VP Commodore (1991-1993) was a facelift of the VN, with updated styling, improved aerodynamics, revised interior trim, and refinements to the engine and suspension. It further solidified the VN's platform with incremental improvements.

Production Location:

Australia (primarily Holden's plant in Elizabeth, South Australia)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Australian Car Of The Year:

The VN Commodore platform was generally well-received, though specific awards for the Calais variant within the VN/VP generation might be less documented than for the base model. The Commodore line has historically won numerous Australian automotive awards.