The Holden Commodore WH series, produced from 1999 to 2004, represents a significant iteration of Holden's enduring large family car, available in both sedan and station wagon body styles. Built on a refined GM platform derived from the VT/VS models, this generation offered a choice of robust powertrains, including the Ecotec 3.8L V6 and the potent 5.7L LS1 V8. Known for its rear-wheel-drive configuration, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, the WH Commodore was designed to provide a compelling blend of performance and practicality, making it a popular choice in its segment against competitors like the Ford Falcon and Toyota Avalon. Its Australian heritage and focus on local driving conditions contributed to its appeal. This comprehensive factory service repair manual is your definitive guide to understanding, maintaining, and repairing your Holden Commodore WH. Covering an extensive range of systems, including the powertrain, chassis, electrical, and body components, this manual provides detailed procedures for scheduled maintenance, diagnostics, and repair. You will find step-by-step instructions for everything from routine fluid changes and component replacements to complex engine and transmission overhauls. Essential technical specifications, troubleshooting guides, and detailed diagrams are included to ensure accurate and efficient servicing, empowering owners and technicians to keep their vehicles in optimal condition. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Holden Model: Commodore Generation Code: WH Body Style: Sedan, Station Wagon (Wagon variants commonly known as Berlina or Calais wagons) Codes Platform: GM (VT/VS/WH derived) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Large family car / Executive sedan and wagon Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Falcon (AU/BA), Toyota Avalon, Mitsubishi Magna, Nissan Maxima Key Features Unique Selling Points: Rear-wheel drive platform, V6 and V8 engine options, comfortable ride, spacious interior Value Proposition Manual Benefit: Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform maintenance and repairs accurately, saving costs and ensuring vehicle longevity. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Language: English Format: PDF Download Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac Reader Requirement: Adobe PDF Reader Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain (rear-wheel drive) Chassis: Suspension (Independent Rear Suspension), Steering, Brakes (ABS, disc brakes) Electrical: Full electrical system diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, sensors, ECUs Body: Exterior and interior trim, body panels, glass, doors, seats Comfort And Convenience: HVAC, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio systems, cruise control Safety Systems: Airbags, seatbelt systems, ABS Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all systems Repair: Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repair, detailed step-by-step instructions Adjustment: Wheel alignment, brake adjustment, clutch adjustment (if applicable) Rebuilding: Engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls Information Source: Factory original data, ensuring accuracy and completeness Diagrams: Detailed wiring diagrams, exploded view diagrams, and schematics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval Zoom Capability: High resolution allowing for significant zoom for detailed views Print Quality Quality: High-resolution digital scan, clear and legible text and diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: L36 (3.8L V6 Ecotec) Displacement Liters: 3.8 Configuration: V6 Aspirated: Naturally Aspirated Fuel Type: Unleaded Petrol Performance Horsepower Kw: Approx. 150-170 kW (depending on variant) Torque Nm: Approx. 305-325 Nm (depending on variant) Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI) Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) Optional Engine Engine Code: LS1 (5.7L V8) Displacement Liters: 5.7 Configuration: V8 Aspirated: Naturally Aspirated Horsepower Kw: Approx. 225 kW Torque Nm: Approx. 445 Nm 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (4L60-E/4L65-E GM derivative) Optional Transmission Type: 4-speed Manual (M30/M83 4-speed manual, less common) Features Automatic Modes: Power/Economy modes (Sport/Comfort) Fluid Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., Dexron VI is often backward compatible and recommended) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Mm: Approx. 2777 Length Mm: Approx. 4946 (Sedan), 4983 (Wagon) Width Mm: Approx. 1790 Height Mm: Approx. 1435 (Sedan), 1471 (Wagon) Weights Curb Weight Kg: Approx. 1550-1700 kg (depending on engine and options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg: Approx. 2000-2200 kg 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Ancap Rating: Not specifically rated under current ANCAP protocols; based on VT Commodore, likely 3-4 stars equivalent. Active Features Brake Assist: Available on higher trims Traction Control: Available on some models Anti Lock Braking System: Standard on most models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard, side airbags optional on some models Seatbelts: Pre-tensioning front seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted CD player or cassette/radio unit, some higher trims had premium sound systems. Climate Control: Manual or Electronic Climate Control (ECC) on higher trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most models Connectivity Early...
The Holden Commodore WH series, produced from 1999 to 2004, represents a significant iteration of Holden's enduring large family car, available in both sedan and station wagon body styles. Built on a refined GM platform derived from the VT/VS models, this generation offered a choice of robust powertrains, including the Ecotec 3.8L V6 and the potent 5.7L LS1 V8. Known for its rear-wheel-drive configuration, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, the WH Commodore was designed to provide a compelling blend of performance and practicality, making it a popular choice in its segment against competitors like the Ford Falcon and Toyota Avalon. Its Australian heritage and focus on local driving conditions contributed to its appeal.
This comprehensive factory service repair manual is your definitive guide to understanding, maintaining, and repairing your Holden Commodore WH. Covering an extensive range of systems, including the powertrain, chassis, electrical, and body components, this manual provides detailed procedures for scheduled maintenance, diagnostics, and repair. You will find step-by-step instructions for everything from routine fluid changes and component replacements to complex engine and transmission overhauls. Essential technical specifications, troubleshooting guides, and detailed diagrams are included to ensure accurate and efficient servicing, empowering owners and technicians to keep their vehicles in optimal condition.
🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Holden
Model:
Commodore
Generation Code:
WH
Body Style:
Sedan, Station Wagon (Wagon variants commonly known as Berlina or Calais wagons)
Codes
Platform:
GM (VT/VS/WH derived)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Large family car / Executive sedan and wagon
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford Falcon (AU/BA), Toyota Avalon, Mitsubishi Magna, Nissan Maxima
Engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding procedures
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Information Source:
Factory original data, ensuring accuracy and completeness
Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams, exploded view diagrams, and schematics
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Zoom Capability:
High resolution allowing for significant zoom for detailed views
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution digital scan, clear and legible text and diagrams
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
L36 (3.8L V6 Ecotec)
Displacement Liters:
3.8
Configuration:
V6
Aspirated:
Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol
Performance
Horsepower Kw:
Approx. 150-170 kW (depending on variant)
Torque Nm:
Approx. 305-325 Nm (depending on variant)
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Optional Engine
Engine Code:
LS1 (5.7L V8)
Displacement Liters:
5.7
Configuration:
V8
Aspirated:
Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower Kw:
Approx. 225 kW
Torque Nm:
Approx. 445 Nm
🔧 Transmission
Standard Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic (4L60-E/4L65-E GM derivative)
Optional Transmission
Type:
4-speed Manual (M30/M83 4-speed manual, less common)
Features
Automatic Modes:
Power/Economy modes (Sport/Comfort)
Fluid Specification
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., Dexron VI is often backward compatible and recommended)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Mm:
Approx. 2777
Length Mm:
Approx. 4946 (Sedan), 4983 (Wagon)
Width Mm:
Approx. 1790
Height Mm:
Approx. 1435 (Sedan), 1471 (Wagon)
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
Approx. 1550-1700 kg (depending on engine and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
Approx. 2000-2200 kg
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Ancap Rating:
Not specifically rated under current ANCAP protocols; based on VT Commodore, likely 3-4 stars equivalent.
Active Features
Brake Assist:
Available on higher trims
Traction Control:
Available on some models
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard on most models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard, side airbags optional on some models
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted CD player or cassette/radio unit, some higher trims had premium sound systems.
Climate Control:
Manual or Electronic Climate Control (ECC) on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Connectivity
Early Connectivity:
Limited to basic audio inputs, no Bluetooth or USB connectivity in original factory state.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specifics)
Major Service Interval:
Often around 40,000-60,000 km for spark plug replacement, transmission fluid changes, etc.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher) - check manual for precise API rating
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, GM specified (e.g., orange or pink)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Transmission cooler line leaks (especially in early models), front end component wear (bushings, ball joints), occasional Ecotec V6 intake manifold gasket leaks, electric window regulator failures.
Performance Considerations:
Early Ecotec V6 engines could be prone to sludge if oil changes were neglected. LS1 V8 requires specific servicing for optimal performance and longevity.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Holden Legacy:
Holden is an iconic Australian automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing vehicles tailored for Australian conditions.
Model Evolution
Commodore Lineage:
The Commodore has been Holden's flagship large car since 1978, evolving through numerous generations. The WH represents a significant facelift and refinement of the VT platform.
Production
Production Years:
1999-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car Of The Year:
Holden Commodore range (including WH platform variants) has historically won numerous Australian Car of the Year awards over its lineage.
Ratings
Design Acclaim:
The WH Commodore introduced updated styling that was generally well-received, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the already popular large car.