🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Commodore

Generation:

VL

Years Covered:

1986-1988

Chassis Code:

VL

Body Styles Covered:

Sedan, Station Wagon

Trim Levels Covered:

SL, SL Wagon, Berlina, Berlina Wagon, Calais

Engine Codes Covered:

6 Cylinder EFI, V8

👋 Introduction

Market Positioning:

The Holden Commodore VL was positioned as Holden's flagship large sedan and wagon in the mid-to-late 1980s, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and Australian engineering. It was a direct competitor to vehicles like the Ford Falcon.

Key Competitors:

Ford Falcon (EB/ED series), Mitsubishi Magna, Toyota Camry (later models).

Vl Commodore Key Features:

Introduction of the Nissan RB30 engine (inline-6), refined styling, improved aerodynamics, availability of V8 power, and luxury features in Berlina and Calais trims. The manual covers the transition from Holden's own engines to Nissan units.

Vl Commodore Platform:

Based on the GM 'V' platform, shared with other Opel and Chevrolet models globally, but heavily localized by Holden.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive workshop repair and service manual covering all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems for the Holden Commodore VL series.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Extensive troubleshooting sections for common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 800-1200+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era and scope)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine tune-up, maintenance, inline 6 cylinder EFI, V8 engine maintenance and rebuild, emission control, cooling system, ignition system, fuel systems (6-cylinder and 8-cylinder).

Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch, automatic transmission, manual transmission, tail and driveshaft, rear axle.

Chassis Systems:

Steering, front and rear suspension, brake system, exhaust system, fuel tank and fuel pump, wheel and tire.

Electrical Systems:

Starter system, alternator system, electrical wiring and fuses, instruments.

Body And Comfort Systems:

Body, bumper bars, windscreen wipers and washers, heating & air conditioning.

Bodywork And Trim:

Repair and adjustment procedures for doors, hoods, trunks, interior trim panels, and bumper bars. Corrosion prevention and repair might be touched upon.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, lubrication.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilds (V8), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor service, exhaust system repair, fuel system component replacement, starter/alternator repair, wiring harness troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, fault diagnosis for engine, transmission, electrical, and braking systems.

Engine Tune Up Details:

Detailed instructions for ignition timing, carburetor adjustment (V8), EFI system checks, spark plug replacement, and air filter servicing.

Transmission Repair Details:

Step-by-step rebuild procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including component identification, wear limits, and assembly sequences.

Brake System Service:

Front and rear brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, bleeding procedure, parking brake adjustment, and ABS system diagnostics (if applicable).

Heating And Air Conditioning:

Diagnosis and repair of HVAC systems, including refrigerant charging (pre-R134a), component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core), and blower motor issues.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Wheel alignment specifications, tire wear diagnosis, and recommended tire pressures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Highly detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes diagnostic procedures, specifications, torque values, and step-by-step repair instructions for major overhauls.

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Includes comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive listing of torque specifications for all critical fasteners, essential for proper engine, chassis, and drivetrain assembly.

Emission Control Details:

Information on emission control devices, vacuum routing diagrams, and diagnostic procedures for meeting emissions standards of the era.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics.

Print Quality:

High resolution, designed for clear viewing and printing of diagrams, illustrations, and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Options:

3.0L 6 Cylinder EFI (Nissan RB30E), 5.0L V8 (Holden 308 cubic inch V8).

3.0L Inline 6 Power Torque:

RB30E: Approximately 114 kW (153 hp) at 5000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (standard EFI tune).

5.0L V8 Power Torque:

308 V8: Typically around 126 kW (169 hp) to 136 kW (182 hp) depending on tune (e.g., Brock or HSV variants may differ). Torque figures around 330-360 Nm (243-265 lb-ft).

3.0L Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch LE2-Jetronic or similar.

5.0L Fuel System:

Carbureted (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet or similar) or potentially early forms of EFI on later V8 models, though carburetion was common for standard V8s.

3.0L Inline 6 Design:

Nissan RB30E: Inline-6 cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head.

5.0L V8 Design:

Holden 308 V8: V-configuration, pushrod (OHV) V8, cast iron block, cast iron cylinder heads.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual was typically standard on lower trims (SL).

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Turbo Hydramatic (THM) automatic (e.g., THM200-4R) was common, with 4-speed automatics available on higher trims or performance models.

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, repair, and maintenance procedures.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2820 mm (111 in)

Length:

Sedan: Approx. 4900 mm (193 in), Wagon: Approx. 4860 mm (191 in)

Kerb Weight Range:

Approx. 1350 kg to 1500 kg (depending on engine and body style)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Safety standards of the mid-to-late 1980s. Early versions may lack modern safety features like airbags or advanced ABS.

Active Safety Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), power-assisted steering. Optional ABS was introduced on some later VL models.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts, reinforced body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic radio/cassette player, analog instrumentation. Higher trims (Berlina, Calais) might have improved audio systems and more features.

Driver Assistance Features:

Power steering, power windows (optional on some trims), central locking (optional/standard on higher trims). ABS was an option on later VL models.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 km or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter: typically every 20,000-40,000 km or 12-24 months. Manual transmission fluid: typically every 40,000-60,000 km.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or equivalent, viscosity 15W-40 or 20W-50 often recommended for Australian conditions. Check manual for specific EFI requirements.

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Holden or GM coolant types may be recommended.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent for JATCO transmissions.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent.

Common Vl Issues:

Head gasket failures (RB30), oil leaks (V8), cooling system issues (overheating), electrical gremlins, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills), carburetor issues (V8).

Manual Utility For Issues:

The manual provides diagnostic procedures and repair guides to address these common problems.

Rb30 Specific Issues:

Oil pump wear, timing belt tensioner issues, exhaust manifold cracks.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.0 litres (4.7 US quarts) for both 6-cylinder and V8 engines, including filter (check manual for exact figures).

Cooling System Capacity:

Approx. 10-12 litres (10.5-12.7 US quarts) depending on engine and radiator size.

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Heritage:

Holden is Australia's iconic automotive manufacturer, with a long history of producing popular vehicles tailored to Australian conditions, often based on General Motors platforms.

Vl Commodore Evolution:

The VL was a significant update to the VK Commodore, introducing Nissan mechanicals, most notably the RB30 engine and JATCO automatic transmissions, alongside updated styling and aerodynamic improvements. It marked a significant shift in Holden's technical sourcing.

Special Editions Vl:

Included performance variants like the Calais, and later HSV (Holden Special Vehicles) editions like the VL SS Group A SV.

Vl Commodore Production Dates:

1986-1988. It was succeeded by the Holden VN Commodore.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards Vl:

While specific awards for the VL are less documented compared to modern vehicles, it was a significant sales success for Holden and critically well-received for its modern styling and improved mechanicals (especially the RB30 engine).