Target Audience:
Professional mechanics, amateur mechanics, car owners seeking self-service
Manual Benefit:
Empowers users to perform repairs and maintenance confidently, provides comprehensive resources
Manual Utility:
Enables owners to perform basic repairs and upkeep, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Instructional Style:
Step-by-step illustrated procedures for clarity and ease of understanding.
Market Segment:
Australian full-size car segment, competing with Ford Falcon and Mitsubishi Magna.
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 Repair Manual
Software Recommendation:
Adobe PDF Reader
Searchability:
PDF format typically allows for text searching of the manual's content.
Estimated Page Count:
While not specified, comprehensive service manuals of this era are typically between 800 and 1500 pages.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Clutch, Gearbox, Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC (Heat & Air Conditioning), Bodywork, Chassis
HVAC Coverage:
Detailed procedures for servicing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling (where applicable for the era) and component diagnosis.
Drivetrain Coverage:
Detailed information on propeller shafts, rear axles, and differential components for repair and maintenance.
Procedures Included:
Repair, Maintenance, Basic repairs, Upkeep, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics
Technical Depth:
Dealer level instructional guides, comprehensive walk-through of procedures, mechanical instructions
Troubleshooting Approach:
Systematic troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for identifying faults and their causes.
Compatibility:
All Windows Operating Systems, Smartphones, Tablets
Features:
Searchable, Printable pages, Illustrated repair procedures, Technical information, Schematics
Print Quality:
High quality PDF with clear illustrations and schematics, optimized for printing.
Extraction Software:
WinRAR or 7-Zip (if provided as a zip file)
Page Layout:
Likely includes multiple pages per sheet print option for efficient printing.
Engine Options Covered:
Likely includes the popular V6 and potentially the 4-cylinder options common in the VS Commodore. Specific engine codes (e.g., Ecotec L36 3.8L V6) would be detailed within the manual.
Typical Performance Ranges:
Varies by engine, but typically around 140-150 kW for the 3.8L V6 Ecotec engines of this era.
Torque Specifications:
Torque figures for critical engine components like cylinder head bolts, main bearing caps, and connecting rod bolts will be provided for accurate assembly.
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Management System:
Details on the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and its functions, sensors, and actuators for the EFI system.
Common Engine Codes:
Likely to detail the 'Ecotec' 3.8L V6 (L36), and potentially the 4.2L V8 (if applicable to the VS era, though less common than V6). Details on specific engine variants and their differences are a key manual feature.
Transmission Options Covered:
Likely covers both the 4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L60-E) and 5-speed manual transmissions
Transmission Diagnostics:
Procedures for diagnosing and repairing common transmission issues, including hydraulic controls and electronic shifting logic.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) type required for automatic gearboxes, crucial for longevity.
Gear Ratios:
The manual would provide specific gear ratios for both manual and automatic transmissions, crucial for performance and diagnostic purposes.
Body Styles:
Sedan, Station Wagon (Wagon), Ute (Utility Vehicle)
Curb Weight Range:
Varies by body style and configuration, typically ranging from 1450 kg to 1650 kg for sedan models.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2730 mm for sedan and wagon models.
Track Width:
Specific front and rear track widths would be detailed, crucial for wheel alignment procedures.
Passenger Capacity:
Typically seats 5 occupants.
Safety Systems Coverage:
Braking systems (including ABS on some models), steering systems, potentially airbag systems if equipped.
Crash Safety Information:
While specific NCAP ratings for this exact period might not be detailed, the manual covers the systems that contribute to safety, allowing for proper maintenance and repair of these components.
ABS System:
Coverage of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) components, sensors, and diagnostic procedures if equipped.
Seatbelt System:
Information regarding seatbelt operation and maintenance, though detailed repair procedures for the mechanism itself might be limited.
Wiring Diagrams Coverage:
Comprehensive wiring schematics for all major electrical systems, including engine management, lighting, HVAC, and accessories.
Audio System Coverage:
Information related to the factory radio, speaker systems, and antenna systems, including troubleshooting and repair where applicable.
Cruise Control System:
Details on the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the vehicle's cruise control system, if factory-fitted.
Parking Assistance:
While basic, any factory-fitted parking sensors or related systems would be covered in the electrical section.
Wiring For Accessories:
Information on wiring harnesses for aftermarket accessories and factory-fitted options like power windows and mirrors.
Typical Maintenance Schedule:
Details for oil changes, filter replacements, coolant checks, brake fluid flushes, spark plug replacement, and other scheduled maintenance items will be found within the manual.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended intervals for automatic and manual transmission fluid changes, along with fluid type and capacity.
Engine Oil:
Likely specifies a 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG/SH or higher specification oil, depending on engine and climate. Exact capacity and type will be in the manual.
Coolant:
Typically a green ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Specifications for type and capacity are critical.
Brake Fluid:
Typically specifies DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. The manual will confirm the exact specification and recommended change interval.
Power Steering Fluid:
Likely a Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF) or a specific power steering fluid. Manual will specify.
Gearbox Oil Manual:
Specific manual transmission oil specification and capacity will be detailed.
Common Wear Items:
The manual would cover diagnosis and repair for common issues like power steering pump leaks, water pump failures, accessory belt wear, and suspension component wear.
Common Electrical Faults:
The manual's electrical section is invaluable for diagnosing common issues like intermittent dashboard lights, window regulator failures, or central locking problems.
Suspension Wear Points:
Guidance on inspecting and replacing worn suspension components such as ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, and shock absorbers.
Brake System Maintenance:
Guidance on brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake fluid bleeding, and checking for leaks.
Vs Generation Context:
The VS series was an update to the VR Commodore, introduced in 1995. It featured revised styling and further mechanical improvements.
Platform:
Built on Holden's V-body platform, derived from the Opel Omega.
Facelift Details:
The VS series represented a facelift of the VR Commodore, including revised front and rear styling, updated interiors, and engine enhancements.
Manufacturing Location:
Australia
