Holden Commodore 1997-2004 VT VX VY VU Workshop Manual
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The Holden Commodore, spanning the VT, VX, VY, and VU generations from 1997 to 2004, represents a significant chapter in Australian automotive history. As a flagship model, it offered a robust and versatile platform available in sedan, wagon, and utility (ute) body styles. Known for its strong engineering, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options, including the popular ECOTEC V6 and the potent Gen III V8, the Commodore was designed to meet the diverse needs of Australian drivers, from family transport to workhorse duties. Its enduring popularity and strong performance characteristics have cemented its status as a beloved vehicle. This comprehensive workshop service and repair manual provides extensive guidance for the Holden Commodore VT, VX, VY, and VU models. It covers all essential aspects of vehicle maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, including detailed procedures for engine mechanicals, driveline systems, electrical components, and bodywork. With step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, and detailed technical specifications, this manual is an indispensable resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians seeking to maintain, service, and repair their Commodore with accuracy and confidence, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Holden Model: Commodore Generation Generation Code: VT/VX/VY/VU Codes Production Years: 1997-2004 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Essential DIY and professional repair resource for Holden Commodore owners and mechanics, providing significant cost savings over dealership service. Competitive Analysis Alternatives: Dealer-provided service information, other third-party repair manuals (Haynes, Chilton equivalents). This manual aims for factory-level detail. Key Features Features: Detailed illustrations, diagrams, wiring schematics, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, comprehensive system coverage, printable pages. Value Proposition Benefit: Empowers owners to perform repairs and maintenance confidently, saving money and extending vehicle lifespan. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: Holden Commodore VT, VX, VY, VU (Sedan, Wagon, Ute) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Highly detailed, likely exceeding 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Workshop Service & Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, troubleshooting, lubrication, cooling system, starting system, ignition system, emission controls, engine controls Driveline: Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, driveline components (axles, CV joints), brakes (hydraulic, power assist, ABS), wheels and tires Electrical: Battery and charging system, instrumentation and warning systems, lighting, audio systems, wiring schematics, power distribution, diagnostic procedures Body Interior Exterior: Body panel repair, interior trim, exterior trim, HVAC system, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints Transmission Transaxle: Automatic transmission, manual transmission, power take-off (if applicable), transmission service and repair Procedures Included Maintenance: Regular servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspection schedules Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for all major systems, electrical system troubleshooting with wiring diagrams Repair Rebuild: Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, assembly, and reinstallation Diagnostics: Engine diagnostic codes, system performance checks, electrical system diagnostics Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Includes detailed illustrations and wiring schematics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Requirements: PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader) Print Quality Printability: Printable pages Binding Type Binding: Digital Download (no physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: Varies by model year and trim. Common engines include: 3.8L V6 (ECOTEC L36, L67 Supercharged), 5.0L/5.7L V8 (Gen III LS1). Performance Horsepower Torque: Specific figures vary by engine and year. For example, the L36 V6 produced around 147-150 kW, while the LS1 V8 produced around 245-255 kW. The L67 supercharged V6 offered higher output. Fuel System System Type: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) / Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) for most models. Specific fuel pressure, injector flow rates, and pump specifications are detailed within. Engine Mechanical Block Material: Cast Iron (V6), Aluminum Alloy (V8 Gen III) Bore Stroke: Specific to each engine (e.g., 3.8L V6 approx. 96.5mm x 86.5mm; 5.7L LS1 approx. 99mm x 94.6mm). 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: Typically 4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L60-E) for many models. Manual transmissions (e.g., 5-speed Getrag) were also available on select trims. Optional Optional Transmission: Availability of manual transmissions like the Getrag 260 (5-speed) or Tremec T56 (6-speed) on performance models. Features Automatic Features: Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic on later models. Detailed torque converter specifications and clutch pack information included. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 2788 mm (sedan/wagon), 3024 mm (long wheelbase variants) Overall Length: Varies by body style (Sedan, Wagon, Ute). Typical sedan length around 4900 mm. Weights Curb Weight: Varies significantly by engine and body style, generally ranging from 1500 kg to over 1700 kg. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Specified by model and configuration, found in vehicle's compliance plate. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Ancap Rating: ANCAP ratings vary by specific model year and testing protocols of the time. Later VT/VX models generally performed better than earlier ones. Active Features Active Safety: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)...
The Holden Commodore, spanning the VT, VX, VY, and VU generations from 1997 to 2004, represents a significant chapter in Australian automotive history. As a flagship model, it offered a robust and versatile platform available in sedan, wagon, and utility (ute) body styles. Known for its strong engineering, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options, including the popular ECOTEC V6 and the potent Gen III V8, the Commodore was designed to meet the diverse needs of Australian drivers, from family transport to workhorse duties. Its enduring popularity and strong performance characteristics have cemented its status as a beloved vehicle.
This comprehensive workshop service and repair manual provides extensive guidance for the Holden Commodore VT, VX, VY, and VU models. It covers all essential aspects of vehicle maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, including detailed procedures for engine mechanicals, driveline systems, electrical components, and bodywork. With step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, and detailed technical specifications, this manual is an indispensable resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians seeking to maintain, service, and repair their Commodore with accuracy and confidence, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Holden
Model:
Commodore
Generation
Generation Code:
VT/VX/VY/VU
Codes
Production Years:
1997-2004
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
Essential DIY and professional repair resource for Holden Commodore owners and mechanics, providing significant cost savings over dealership service.
Competitive Analysis
Alternatives:
Dealer-provided service information, other third-party repair manuals (Haynes, Chilton equivalents). This manual aims for factory-level detail.
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for all major systems, electrical system troubleshooting with wiring diagrams
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, assembly, and reinstallation
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostic codes, system performance checks, electrical system diagnostics
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Includes detailed illustrations and wiring schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Requirements:
PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader)
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable pages
Binding Type
Binding:
Digital Download (no physical binding)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options:
Varies by model year and trim. Common engines include: 3.8L V6 (ECOTEC L36, L67 Supercharged), 5.0L/5.7L V8 (Gen III LS1).
Performance
Horsepower Torque:
Specific figures vary by engine and year. For example, the L36 V6 produced around 147-150 kW, while the LS1 V8 produced around 245-255 kW. The L67 supercharged V6 offered higher output.
Fuel System
System Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) / Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) for most models. Specific fuel pressure, injector flow rates, and pump specifications are detailed within.
Engine Mechanical
Block Material:
Cast Iron (V6), Aluminum Alloy (V8 Gen III)
Bore Stroke:
Specific to each engine (e.g., 3.8L V6 approx. 96.5mm x 86.5mm; 5.7L LS1 approx. 99mm x 94.6mm).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
Typically 4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L60-E) for many models. Manual transmissions (e.g., 5-speed Getrag) were also available on select trims.
Optional
Optional Transmission:
Availability of manual transmissions like the Getrag 260 (5-speed) or Tremec T56 (6-speed) on performance models.
Features
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic on later models. Detailed torque converter specifications and clutch pack information included.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2788 mm (sedan/wagon), 3024 mm (long wheelbase variants)
Overall Length:
Varies by body style (Sedan, Wagon, Ute). Typical sedan length around 4900 mm.
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and body style, generally ranging from 1500 kg to over 1700 kg.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specified by model and configuration, found in vehicle's compliance plate.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Ancap Rating:
ANCAP ratings vary by specific model year and testing protocols of the time. Later VT/VX models generally performed better than earlier ones.
Active Features
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on many models. Traction control (TC) available on higher trims and later models.
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Front airbags standard on most models. Side airbags available on higher trims and later VX/VY models. Crumple zones, reinforced cabin structure.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted cassette/CD players, often with integrated radio. Upgrades to aftermarket head units are common. Speaker system details and wiring for audio are covered.
Driver Assistance
ABS Tc:
Availability and troubleshooting for Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control (TC) systems, including sensor testing and module diagnosis.
Connectivity
Wiring Schematics:
Extensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, allowing for diagnosis and repair of lighting, sensors, ECUs, and accessories.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on engine oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific intervals.
Major Service:
Includes timing belt (if applicable, though many later models used chains) or chain inspection, spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid changes at intervals typically around 60,000-100,000 km.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Typically API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2 rated. Viscosity grade varies by climate (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40). Refer to manual for precise specs for each engine.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific GM-approved coolants are recommended.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron-III (or equivalent GM specification such as). Manual transmission fluid: GL-4 or GL-5 specification gear oil.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Ignition coils and leads (V6), harmonic balancer (V6), water pump, front suspension components (ball joints, bushes), rear main oil seal, transmission cooler lines (potential leaks).
Ls1 Specific:
Head gasket issues (less common but possible), oil cooler line leaks (later models), rear main seal leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Holden Legacy:
Holden, an Australian automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing popular and robust vehicles for the Australian market. The Commodore is its flagship sedan.
Model Evolution
Generation Overview:
The VT (1997-2000) was a significant redesign, introducing the new V-body platform shared with Opel. VX (2000-2002) brought styling updates and improved features. VY (2002-2004) saw further styling refinements and powertrain enhancements. VU (2000-2002) introduced the utility variant.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Australia (primarily Elizabeth, South Australia)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Model Acclaim:
The Holden Commodore platform (VT-VZ) was a consistent bestseller in Australia, receiving numerous accolades and positive reviews for its blend of performance, comfort, and value.
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