🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Calais VT Series II

Generation:

VT Series II

Body Style:

Sedan

Platform Code:

VPC (based on GM's V-body platform)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury/Executive Sedan

Target Audience:

Owners seeking detailed DIY repair and maintenance information, independent workshops

Competitors Australia:

Ford Fairmont/Fairlane, Toyota Avalon, Mitsubishi Magna

Manual Advantage:

Direct correlation of parts to page numbers for easy reference

📋 Manual Details

Primary Regions Covered:

Australia, New Zealand

Model Variants Covered:

Holden Calais VT Series II

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (exact count not specified, but implied to be extensive for a factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Reader Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (disassembly, assembly, diagnostics), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic and manual options, overhaul, diagnostics), Drive Axles, Driveshafts, Differential

Chassis:

Suspension System (front and rear), Steering System, Brake System (hydraulic, ABS), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM)

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Body Repair, Rigging Information

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections

Repair:

Component-level repair and overhaul for all major systems

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures and fault finding for common and uncommon issues

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) interpretation, specific system diagnostics

Depth:

Factory-level detail, including specifications, torque values, clearances, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and wiring diagrams

Scope:

Comprehensive from basic upkeep to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital Download (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text-based PDF due to factory origin, enhancing ease of use

Print Quality:

Optimized for digital viewing and printing, with clear diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Likely L36 (3.8L V6), L67 (3.8L Supercharged V6), LS1 (5.7L V8) depending on specific Calais II variant

Engine Type:

V6 or V8, Naturally Aspirated or Supercharged (depending on variant)

Displacement V6:

3.8 Liters (3800cc)

Horsepower V6 Na:

Approx. 205 hp @ 5000 rpm (L36)

Torque V6 Na:

Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (L36)

Horsepower V6 Sc:

Approx. 235 hp @ 4400 rpm (L67)

Torque V6 Sc:

Approx. 275 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (L67)

Displacement V8:

5.7 Liters (5735cc)

Horsepower V8:

Approx. 300-325 hp @ 5200 rpm (LS1)

Torque V8:

Approx. 340-350 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (LS1)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating specified in manual)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-speed Automatic (e.g., 4L60-E)

Transmission Type Opt:

5-speed Manual (e.g., Getrag 260, though less common on Calais)

Transmission Features:

Driver-selectable modes (e.g., Power/Normal) on automatics

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4969 mm (195.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 1795 mm (70.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1438 mm (56.6 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1600-1750 kg (3527-3858 lbs) depending on engine/options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specified in manual, typically around 2000-2100 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Ancap Rating:

Specific rating for VT Series II Calais not readily available, but VT series generally offered good safety for its era. Later Holden models improved significantly.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) often standard or optional

Passive Safety:

Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side Impact Protection beams

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM Radio, Cassette/CD Player, often with premium sound system options. Limited digital integration by modern standards.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, sometimes parking sensors (rear) on higher trims.

Connectivity Options:

Limited. Primarily analog audio inputs. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity natively.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months (check manual for specific engine/oil type recommendations)

Air Filter Replacement:

Refer to manual, usually around 30,000-60,000 km or as needed based on driving conditions

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine type: V6 may be 100,000-160,000 km (iridium), V8 LS1 typically 160,000 km (iridium)

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API service classification (e.g., SJ, SL) based on engine and climate.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Dex-Cool compatible or specific Holden specification)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for automatics, manual transmission fluid (e.g., GL-4) for manuals.

Common Issues:

Lower intake manifold gaskets (3.8L V6), coolant leaks, ignition coil pack issues, sometimes minor electrical gremlins, potential transmission issues with high mileage

📚 Vehicle History

Brand:

Holden, an iconic Australian automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing performance and luxury vehicles.

Vt Series Introduction:

The VT Commodore/Calais series was a significant redesign, based on GM's global V-body platform, launched in 1997.

Vt Series Ii Update:

The Series II update (introduced in 2000) brought minor styling tweaks, improved features, and potential powertrain enhancements.

Production Period:

VT Series II production spanned from 2000 to 2002.

Manufacturing Location:

Australia (Elizabeth, South Australia)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

The VT Commodore platform, on which the Calais is based, received widespread critical acclaim for its design, refinement, and handling, often winning 'Car of the Year' awards from Australian automotive publications in its launch year.