🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Commodore

Engine Variant:

3.8L V6

Engine Code Typical:

L36 (Naturally Aspirated, Buick derived)

👋 Introduction

Market Positioning:

The Holden Commodore has historically been a dominant force in the Australian automotive market, particularly as a family sedan and performance-oriented vehicle. This manual caters to owners and mechanics who maintain this popular Australian icon.

Competitive Vehicles:

Competed against vehicles like Ford Falcon, Mitsubishi Magna/380, Toyota Camry, and later Nissan Maxima.

Key Vehicle Features:

Rear-wheel drive platform (generally), spacious interior, robust V6 engine option, strong aftermarket support, and a legacy of local manufacturing in Australia.

Engine Reliability:

The 3.8L V6 (especially the Series II and III variants) is generally regarded as a robust and reliable engine with proper maintenance, making it a popular choice for daily driving and long-distance touring.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Systems:

Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Emission Control System, Engine Mechanical (Cylinder Head, Block, Crankshaft, Pistons, Camshaft), Engine Management System (ECU, Sensors, Actuators)

Vehicle Generations Covered:

Covers specific generations of Holden Commodore equipped with the 3.8L V6 engine. Typical coverage would span from the VN generation (circa 1988) through to the VZ generation (circa 2006) where the L36 was a primary engine.

Estimated Page Count:

500-700 (typical for comprehensive engine manual)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems Detailed:

Complete coverage of the 3.8L V6 engine, including: Engine Mechanical (Disassembly, Inspection, Reassembly), Cylinder Head and Valve Train, Piston and Connecting Rod Assemblies, Crankshaft and Main Bearings, Lubrication System (Oil Pump, Oil Filter, Oil Cooler), Cooling System (Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Fan), Fuel Injection System (Injectors, Fuel Pump, Pressure Regulator), Ignition System (Spark Plugs, Coils, Crankshaft Position Sensor), Emission Control Systems (Catalytic Converter, EGR, EVAP), Intake and Exhaust Manifolds, Engine Accessories (Alternator, Power Steering Pump, A/C Compressor Mounting)

Chassis And Suspension Engine Related:

While primarily an engine manual, it will likely contain details on engine mounting, exhaust system routing, and potentially basic information on engine-related sensors affecting ABS or traction control systems.

Electrical Schematics:

Likely includes wiring diagrams specific to the engine's electrical systems, including ignition, fuel injection, sensors, and ECU connections.

Emission Controls:

Detailed explanations of emission control systems like the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system, and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system, including their function and troubleshooting.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, component replacement, diagnostic procedures, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable for this engine variant), fuel injector cleaning and replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and refill, oil and filter change, seal and gasket replacement, troubleshooting engine performance issues, electrical system diagnostics related to the engine.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Detailed troubleshooting charts and flow diagrams for diagnosing engine starting problems, misfires, poor performance, fuel system faults, and emission control issues.

Diagnosis And Testing:

Includes step-by-step testing procedures for all major engine components, including fuel pressure tests, compression tests, ignition system tests, and sensor output checks.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major engine overhauls and advanced diagnostics. Includes detailed exploded views, torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information may include diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and procedures for using OBD-I or OBD-II scan tools (depending on the specific year of the Commodore).

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Provides a comprehensive list of DTCs, their meanings, and the symptoms associated with each code, along with troubleshooting steps to identify the root cause.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

High-resolution PDF, searchable text, bookmark navigation for easy access to sections.

Searchability:

Full text searchability within the PDF allows users to quickly find specific keywords, part numbers, or procedures.

Compatibility:

Compatible with all standard PDF readers on Windows, macOS, Linux, tablets, and smartphones.

Print Quality Suitability:

Optimized for printing, with clear diagrams, text, and schematics.

Binding Type Description:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type Description:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6 Petrol

Displacement:

3.8 Liters (3800 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

96.5 mm x 86.7 mm (typical for L36)

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1 (typical for L36)

Cylinder Head Design:

Overhead Valve (OHV) - Buick derived design, often referred to as the '3800 Series II'.

Horsepower Range:

147 kW - 150 kW (197 hp - 201 hp) depending on year and specific tune

Torque Range:

305 Nm - 310 Nm (225 lb-ft - 229 lb-ft) depending on year and specific tune

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating typically 91 or higher)

ECU Type:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel injection and ignition timing. Specific ECM part numbers would vary by year and model.

Sensors Covered:

Includes details on Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF), Oxygen Sensors (O2), Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP), Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP), Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS), Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), Knock Sensor, Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor (if applicable).

Ignition System Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil packs for each cylinder bank (typically).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

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

Optional Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (less common for 3.8L V6 variants, more prevalent in earlier or specific performance models)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, Lock-up torque converter.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan, Station Wagon, Ute (utility vehicle) - depending on the specific Commodore generation covered by the manual.

Wheelbase Range:

Approx. 2730 mm - 2815 mm (depending on generation and body style)

Kerb Weight Range:

Approx. 1500 kg - 1700 kg (depending on body style and features)

🛡️ Safety Features

Australian Ancap Ratings:

Varies significantly by generation. Later models achieved 4-5 star ratings. Early models may have lower or no formal ANCAP rating.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard or optional on higher trims. Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags (optional on later models), crumple zones, reinforced safety cell.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Varies greatly by generation and trim level. Base models might have basic AM/FM radio with cassette or CD player. Higher trims could feature premium sound systems, multi-disc CD changers, and early forms of colour LCD screens for information display.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by era. Cruise control was common. Later models might have had parking sensors or more advanced trip computers. The focus was generally on mechanical reliability over electronic driver aids.

Connectivity Options:

Basic connectivity in later models might include steering wheel audio controls. Bluetooth or USB connectivity was generally not standard until much later generations or aftermarket upgrades.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific model year).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Often around 100,000 km for iridium-tipped plugs, earlier for standard copper/platinum plugs.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial change at 5 years, then every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (using specific type coolant).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH/SJ or higher, meeting GM specification (e.g., GM-LL-A-025 where applicable, though often earlier specs are cited).

Coolant Specification:

GM Dex-Cool (Orange/Pink) or equivalent extended life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with deionized water.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or Dexron VI compatible ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/VI ATF.

Common Engine Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (common on earlier models), oil leaks from front/rear main seals and valve cover gaskets, potential for head gasket issues under severe stress or poor maintenance, some issues with coil packs or ignition modules, thermostat housing leaks.

Common Transmission Issues:

Torque converter shudder, transmission fluid leaks, worn solenoids leading to shifting problems (less common with proper maintenance).

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Heritage:

Holden is an iconic Australian automotive manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1948. Known for producing robust, Australian-designed and built vehicles.

Commodore Generations:

The Commodore has gone through multiple generations (e.g., VB, VC, VH, VK, VL, VN, VP, VR, VS, VT, VX, VY, VZ, VE, VF). The 3.8L V6 was a staple across many of these generations, particularly from the VN onwards.

3.8L V6 Variants:

The 3.8L V6 was available in naturally aspirated (L36) and supercharged (L67) forms. This manual specifically covers the 3.8L V6, implying the L36 unless otherwise stated, but knowledge of L67 maintenance would be a related benefit.

Production Timeline 3.8L V6:

The 3.8L V6 (Buick derived) was introduced into Holden Commodores in the late 1980s (VN generation) and remained a core engine option until its replacement by the more modern Alloytec V6 in later generations (e.g., VE).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Awards:

The Holden Commodore has won numerous 'Car of the Year' awards from various Australian automotive publications throughout its history, recognizing its blend of practicality, performance, and value. Specific awards depend on the generation.

Safety Ratings General:

As mentioned, safety ratings improved significantly with each generation, with later models being competitive in their respective classes.