🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Commodore VU Series II

Generation:

VU

Series Update:

Series II

Platform Code:

VU

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Holden Commodore VU Series II represented a significant evolution of Holden's iconic rear-wheel-drive sedan and utility platform, targeting the Australian and New Zealand markets with a blend of performance, practicality, and comfort.

Competitors:

Primarily competed against other large Australian sedans and utes, as well as some imported models within a similar price bracket. Key competitors included Ford Falcon variants.

Features:

Robust chassis, powerful V6 and V8 engine options, choice of sedan, wagon, and utility body styles, rear-wheel drive platform.

Advantage:

Provides detailed, factory-authorized procedures for self-repair and maintenance, enabling cost savings and empowering owners with knowledge of their vehicle's systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Maintenance, repair, diagnostics, electrical, fuel, power unit, lower unit, bracket unit, general information, specifications, technical features, rigging information, troubleshooting, index, appendix

Estimated Page Count:

Unknown (Digital product, zoomable)

Type:

Service Repair Factory Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, exhaust systems

Drivetrain Systems:

Transmission (automatic/manual - specific models TBD by engine), driveline, axles, differentials

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front/rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels, tires

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, power accessories, electronic control units (ECUs), wiring diagrams

Body Systems:

Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, glass, HVAC system, safety restraints (airbags)

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, brake inspections, tire rotation

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, testing procedures for various components

Technical Adjustments:

Wheel alignment, steering system adjustments, lighting adjustments, idle speed adjustments (where applicable)

Engine Overhaul Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly, including critical torque values and clearances.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems, crucial for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts

Detail Level:

Step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams

Specific Data:

Includes detailed specifications for engine compression, valve clearances (if applicable), fuel pressure, and other critical operating parameters.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction, zoomable for clarity

Binding:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely included the 3.8L Ecotec V6 and the 5.7L Gen III V8 (LS1) (Specific availability depends on trim level and body style)

V6 Power Output:

Ecotec V6: Approx. 150-160 kW (190-215 hp)

V8 Power Output:

Gen III V8 (LS1): Approx. 225-250 kW (300-335 hp)

V8 Torque Output:

Gen III V8 (LS1): Approx. 440-470 Nm (325-347 lb-ft)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection (MPI) for V6 and sequential fuel injection (SFI) for V8

Coolant Type:

Typically Dex-Cool (Orange) or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water (Refer to manual for exact specification)

Engine Oil Type:

Likely 5W-30 or 10W-30 Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic (Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity)

V6 Engine Code:

L36 (Ecotec 3800 Series II)

V8 Engine Code:

LS1 (5.7L V8)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4L60-E for V8, likely 4L30-E or similar for V6)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual (M56 for V6, T56 for V8)

Automatic Features:

Electronic control, overdrive

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III / Mercon (Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-5 Gear Oil (Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade and capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2790 mm (109.8 inches)

Overall Length:

Approx. 4910-5000 mm (193.3-196.9 inches) (Varies by body style)

Overall Width:

Approx. 1790-1800 mm (70.5-70.9 inches)

Overall Height:

Approx. 1450-1500 mm (57.1-59.1 inches) (Varies by body style)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1550-1750 kg (3417-3858 lbs) (Varies significantly by engine and body style)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, consult manual

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm (Often 5 x 4.72 inches)

Common Wheel Size:

15-inch, 16-inch, 17-inch (Varies by trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ancap Rating:

Varies by model year and specific crash test, consult ANCAP records. Earlier VU models generally had lower ratings compared to later generations.

Active Safety:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard on most models, Traction Control (TC) available on some variants

Passive Safety:

Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags were an option on some higher-spec models.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic audio systems with AM/FM radio, CD player. Higher trims may have more advanced sound systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on ABS and traction control where fitted. Cruise control standard on most variants.

Connectivity Options:

Basic auxiliary inputs for audio may be present on later models. No integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (Refer to manual for exact interval based on driving conditions)

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 20,000-40,000 km or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type. Platinum plugs typically 100,000 km; standard plugs much less. Refer to manual for specific engine and plug type.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Typically every 40,000-60,000 km or 2-4 years

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Refer to manual for specific recommendation)

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III/Mercon or specific power steering fluid (Refer to manual)

Common Wear Items:

Front suspension components (bushings, ball joints), fuel pump (especially on early models), radiator and coolant hoses, ignition coils (LS1)

Electrical Quirks:

Window regulators, central locking actuators, body control module (BCM) issues can occur with age.

OBD Ii Scanner:

Supports OBD-II diagnostics, allowing for reading of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and live data.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Holden has a long-standing history in Australian automotive manufacturing, with the Commodore being its flagship passenger car for decades.

Evolution:

The VU was part of the third generation of the Commodore, succeeding the VT and preceding the VY. It introduced updated styling and technical refinements. The VU platform also formed the basis for the Holden Monaro coupe and the first generation of the Holden Ute.

Production Years:

VU Series II: Approximately 2002-2004

Manufacturing Location:

Australia (Elizabeth, South Australia)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

Specific awards for the VU Series II are less common than for other generations, but the Commodore platform consistently received recognition for its Australian engineering and suitability for local conditions.