The Holden Commodore VP series, produced between 1991 and 1993, represents a significant chapter in Australian automotive history as a full-size car known for its robust engineering and comfortable ride. This generation offered a range of powerful engine options, including the 3.8L V6 and the 5.0L V8, both equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection. The Commodore was designed to meet the demands of Australian driving conditions, offering a blend of performance and practicality that made it a popular choice for families and enthusiasts alike. Its solid construction and rear-wheel-drive platform contributed to its reputation for reliability and driving dynamics, positioning it as a strong contender in its market segment.
This comprehensive Service and Repair Manual provides in-depth technical information for the Holden Commodore VP series in English. It covers a wide array of systems, including the engine, clutch, gearbox, driveline, suspension, steering, brakes, bodywork, chassis, and electrical systems. The manual details diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, routine maintenance schedules, and step-by-step repair instructions, complete with illustrations. It is an essential resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the vehicle, offering dealer-level instructional guides for everything from basic upkeep to complex overhauls, including detailed wiring diagrams.
Production Years:
1991-1993
Market Segment:
Full-size car
Market Position:
The Holden Commodore VP series was a significant model in the Australian automotive market, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and practicality. This manual caters to owners and mechanics needing comprehensive support for this era of Australian-made Holden vehicles.
Competitors At Time:
Ford Falcon EA/EB/ED, Toyota Camry (larger variants), Mitsubishi Magna TF/TH.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive service and repair information, enabling users to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, reducing reliance on external repair services and empowering owners with detailed knowledge.
User Benefit:
Empowers owners and mechanics with the ability to diagnose, maintain, and repair the vehicle, potentially saving significant costs on professional servicing and enabling a deeper understanding of the vehicle's mechanics.
Coverage Areas:
General Information, Engine, Clutch, Gearbox, Propeller Shafts, Rear Axles, Front Axle, Front and Rear Suspensions, Wheels and Tyres, Steering System, Brakes, Bodywork and Chassis Frame, Maintenance, Electric/Electronic System
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
File Delivery:
Downloadable
Illustrations:
Step-by-step illustrated repair procedures
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by manual provider, but typically several hundred pages for a comprehensive service manual.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, powertrain (clutch, gearbox, driveline), suspension, steering, braking, electrical systems, bodywork, chassis, heating and air conditioning
Procedures Included:
Diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, routine maintenance, repair procedures, component overhaul, wiring diagrams, component specifications
Technical Depth:
Dealer-level instructional guides for basic repairs to complex overhauls, including mechanical and electrical system repairs.
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers diagnostic procedures that can be performed with common hand tools and basic electrical testers, as well as references to factory diagnostic equipment codes if applicable for the era.
Electric Electronic System Details:
Covers wiring diagrams for all major systems including lighting, ignition, starting, charging, fuel injection, instruments, wipers, washers, HVAC, and power accessories.
Troubleshooting Methods:
Detailed troubleshooting charts and symptom-based diagnostic guides for common problems.
Print Quality:
High (suitable for printing pages)
Searchable:
Likely searchable if digitally generated PDF, but not explicitly stated.
Portability:
Highly portable and accessible on various digital devices.
Compatibility:
All Windows Operating Systems, smartphones, and tablets capable of opening PDF files.
Installation Required:
No installation required, operates directly from PDF reader.
Engine Options:
3.8L V6 (VN/VP V6), 5.0L V8 (VN/VP V8)
Typical V6 Output:
Approx. 125-130 kW (168-174 hp), Torque: Approx. 290-300 Nm (214-221 lb-ft)
Typical V8 Output:
Approx. 165 kW (221 hp), Torque: Approx. 370-380 Nm (273-280 lb-ft)
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for both V6 and V8 engines.
Common V6 Code:
L36 (3.8L Ecotec V6 introduced later, but earlier versions of the 3.8L were prevalent)
Common V8 Code:
LB9 (5.0L V8)
Timing Belt Chain:
V6 and V8 engines use a timing chain, which is generally considered a long-life component and does not require periodic replacement like a timing belt.
Manual Transmission:
5-speed Manual (e.g., Getrag)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., TH700-R4 / 4L60)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Manual: approx. 2.0-2.5 litres; Automatic: approx. 8-10 litres (subject to model and specific transmission variant).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2731 mm (107.5 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4926 mm (193.9 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1395 mm (54.9 inches)
Tare Weight:
Varies by model and engine, generally around 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs)
Era Safety Standards:
Designed to meet Australian automotive safety standards of the early 1990s. ABS often optional or standard on higher trims.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often optional or standard on higher trim levels (e.g., Berlina, Calais).
Airbags:
Driver airbag typically optional or standard on higher trims; passenger airbags not common for this period.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning and heating systems, with optional climate control on premium models.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models, particularly higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (check specific manual for precise recommendations).
Major Service Interval:
Spark plugs, coolant, transmission fluid often recommended at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 40,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions (refer to manual for specific grade).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specify type (e.g., green inorganic acid technology coolant).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent.
Common V6 Issues:
Head gasket leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor drive issues, thermostat housing leaks.
Common V8 Issues:
Oil leaks (sump, rocker covers), lifter noise, exhaust manifold leaks.
General Issues:
Suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), aging electrical components, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills), transmission cooler line leaks.
Spark Plug Part Numbers:
Varies by engine and plug type (e.g., AC Delco, NGK). Manual will specify exact part numbers and gap settings.
Holden Legacy:
Holden has a long-standing history in Australia as a manufacturer of popular and robust vehicles, with the Commodore being its flagship model for decades.
Vp Introduction:
The VP Commodore was an update to the VN series, primarily featuring styling revisions (e.g., revised front grille, headlights, tail lights) and minor mechanical refinements. It continued the long-wheelbase Statesman and premium Calais variants.
Vp Variants:
Included base Commodore, Executive, Acclaim, S, Berlina, and Calais. Statesman WB-series was also based on this platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Australia (e.g., Adelaide, South Australia)
Market Reception:
The Commodore platform consistently received positive reviews for its Australian engineering and suitability for local conditions, often winning 'Car of the Year' awards in various Australian automotive publications for different iterations.
