Positioning:
The Holden VF series represented the pinnacle of Australian-made large sedans and performance vehicles. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair of these iconic Australian Fords.
Competitors:
Ford Falcon (FG/FG X), European luxury sedans in higher trims.
Features:
Covers a wide range of models and engine options, including performance variants (HSV). Detailed diagrams and procedural steps are critical for accurate repairs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, ESC), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, body control module (BCM), infotainment, power windows, central locking, airbags, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, seats, trim, HVAC system, safety restraints
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and replacement for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical faults, symptom-based diagnostics
Troubleshooting:
Detailed step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common and complex issues
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and body repair.
Engine Family:
GM High Feature V6 (LLT, LFX, LGX) and Gen IV V8 (L77, LS3)
Displacement V6:
3.0L, 3.6L
Displacement V8:
6.0L, 6.2L
Horsepower Range:
190 kW to 430+ kW (depending on engine and HSV variant)
Torque Range:
290 Nm to 740+ Nm (depending on engine and HSV variant)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (premium unleaded recommended for V8s and performance V6s)
Induction:
Naturally Aspirated, Supercharged (HSV models)
ECU:
Bosch Motronic (specific variant varies by engine and model year)
Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic (e.g., 6L80E, 6L90E), 6-speed manual
Transmission Type:
8-speed automatic (e.g., 8L90 for V8, 8L45 for V6 in later models), specific performance transmissions for HSV
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed within the manual for each transmission variant.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron VI (for 6-speed autos), DEXRON-HP (for 8-speed autos) - specific quantities and part numbers provided.
Ancap Rating:
5 Stars (VF Series II models generally)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard across range (ESC, TCS, ABS)
Driver Assistance Systems:
Available: Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (model dependent)
Airbags:
Front, side, curtain airbags standard; knee airbags available on some models.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned and load-limited seatbelts.
System:
Holden MyLink infotainment system (with touch screen, Bluetooth, USB, optional navigation).
Features:
Smartphone integration (e.g., Siri Eyes Free), Pandora, Stitcher apps (model/year dependent).
Advanced Features:
Heads-Up Display (HUD) on higher trims, rearview camera, parking sensors.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/oil type).
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs, transmission service, brake fluid flush at specific mileages (e.g., 60,000 km or as per manual).
Engine Oil V6:
SAE 5W-30 (Fully Synthetic) - API SM/SN, ILSAC GF-4/GF-5 (e.g., GM-LL-A-025 or equivalent)
Engine Oil V8:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (Fully Synthetic) - API SN, ACEA A3/B4, or GM-LL-B-025 (specifics for LS3 variant critical)
Coolant:
GM Holden Genuine Coolant (or equivalent meeting GM6277M specification) - Predominantly orange/pink colour.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity)
V6 Engine Wear:
Potential for piston ring wear or oil consumption in higher mileage LLT/LFX engines; timing chain issues on some early V6 models. (Manual provides diagnostic steps).
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Transmission fluid degradation, torque converter shudder on older 6-speed autos. (Manual covers fluid service and diagnostics).
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional issues with BCM, sensors, or infotainment systems. (Manual's electrical schematics are vital).
Heritage:
Holden, Australia's iconic automotive manufacturer, with a legacy dating back to 1856. The Commodore line, introduced in 1978, became a symbol of Australian motoring.
Evolution:
The VF series was a significant update of the Commodore platform, heavily revised from the previous VE. It featured a redesigned exterior, improved interior, and enhanced technology. It marked the final generation of locally manufactured Holden Commodores.
Production Period:
2013 - 2017
Manufacturing Location:
Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia
Prestigious Awards:
The VF Commodore, particularly the SS V Redline and HSV variants, consistently received accolades from Australian automotive media for its performance, handling, and value. Specific model awards vary.
Performance Ratings:
Highly rated for driving dynamics, particularly the V8 models and HSV performance variants, often compared favourably to international benchmarks.
Vehicle Certification:
Compliance with Australian Design Rules (ADRs) for safety and emissions.
