SECTION 0B - LUBRICATION AND SERVICE
IMPORTANT:
Before performing any Service Operation or other procedure described in this Section, refer to Section 00
CAUTIONS AND NOTES for correct workshop practices with regard to safety and/or property damage.
1. GENERAL I NFORMATI O N
This Section provides details of the lubricants recommended for VU Series Models. Also included in this Section
are instructions on the time or distance intervals at which services should be carried out.
CAPACITIES CHART
LITRES
CAPACITIES (APPROXIMATE) V6 GEN III V8
Engine Oil Pan Refill (Less oil filter) 4.5 4.7
Add for Oil Filter 0.3 0.3
Manual Transmission 2.0 4.4
Automatic Transmission
• dry total 7.9 10.6
• service refill 4.8 5
Cooling System 12 12
Coolant Concentrate HN2043 at 50% GM6277M at 50%
Brake Hydraulic System 0.616 0.616
Final Drive 1.7 1.7
Power Steering 0.70 0.65
Techline
Techline
Techline
2. ENGINE LUBRI CATION AND SERVICE
2.1 ENGINE OIL VISCOSITY RECOMMENDATIONS
The grade of crankcase oil should be selected to give the best performance under the climatic and driving
conditions in the territory in which the vehicle is operated. When the crankcase is drained and refilled, the
crank case oil should be s elected, not on the basis of the existing tem perature at the time of the change, but on the
ambient temperature range anticipated for the period during which the oil will be used.
2.2 ENGINE OIL CLASSIFICATION RECOMMENDATIONS
VU Series Models use 10W /30 ILSAC GF2 engine oil for general use and high ambient temperatures in both 3.8
litre V6 and 5.7 litre GEN III V8 engines . This oil is als o to be used for vehicles which operate f or prolonged periods
of time in snow areas, however, if this oil is unavailable SG, SH or SJ may be used. If none of these oils are
available, 20W/50 or 15W/40 viscosity grade oil can be used.
The recommeded engine oil for V6 vehicles with LPG is SAE 15W-40 SH CG4 quality engine oil to Holden
Specification HN 2314
NOTE:
1. Non-detergent and low quality oils are specifically not recommended.
2. Only low phos phorous engine oils m ust be used. J ust as lead can c ontaminate the ceram ic m onolith inside the
catalytic converter, so c an phos phorous . Mos t leading br ands of engine oil now limit phosphorus levels to “safe”
limits.
3. ‘Break-in’ oils, ‘tune-up’ compounds, ‘friction reducing’ compounds and other additives should not be used
unless recommended by Holden.
Their use will only increase operating costs and may contaminate the ceramic monolith inside the catalytic
converter, rendering it unserviceable.
2.3 CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL
CHECK
1. Ensure engine is at normal operating
temperature (idle for 10 minutes or equivalent).
2. Park vehicle on level surface as this will affect
the accuracy indicated on dipstick. (This is a
critical requirement).
3. Do not check oil level for at least 10 minutes
after engine shut down to allow oil to drain back
into the oil pan.
4. Remove dipstick and wipe clean.
5. Reinstall dipstick, ensuring that it is fully
seated. Slowly remove to avoid smearing, then
hold horizontally or with the lower end slightly
down, to avoid oil running along dipstick.
NOTE: Reinstall V6 engine dipstick with the
FULL/ADD marks facing towards centre line of
engine. This aspect is very important due to the
angle that the dipstick enters the oil in the oil pan.
6. Observe the oil level where it passes over the
centre line of the dipstick.
If the engine oil level is below the ADD mark on
the dipstick, using the specified engine oil
(refer 2.2 ENGINE OIL CLASSIFICATION
RECOMMENDATIONS in this Section), top up
oil level until the oil reaches the full mark;
FULL mark on V6 engines.
Line after the hatched section on GEN III V8
engines.
7. When topping up the engine oil, allow
approximately 10 minutes for the oil added to
fully drain into the oil pan.
T20B003
Figure 0 B - 1 V6 e ngi ne oi l dipstick
T20B002
Figure 0B-2 GEN III V8 engine oil dipstick
2.4 ENGINE OIL - CHANGE
NOTE: Quicker and more complete draining will
occur if the engine oil is at operating temperature.
However, care must be taken to avoid scalding
from the hot oil.
1. Raise the engine hood and remove the oil fill
cap.
2. Raise the vehicle front and support with safety
stands. Refer to Section 0A GENERAL
INFORMATION.
3. On vehicles with GEN III V8 engines, remove
the four oil pan under tray securing bolts (2)
and remove under tray (1).
4. Clean any foreign material from around the oil
pan drain plug.
5. Place an oil drain tray beneath the engine.
6. Using a suitable wrench r emove the drain plug,
taking care to avoid sc alding with the hot waste
oil.
Figure 0B-3 GEN III V8 oil pan under tray
7. When the oil has drained sufficiently, reinstall
the drain plug, after inspecting and c leaning the
threads. The drain plug O-ring seal may be re-
used if not cut or damaged. Tighten the drain
plug to the correct torque specification.
8. On vehicles with GEN III V8 engines, reinstall
the oil pan under tray and tighten securing bolts
to the correct torque specification.
V6 ENGI NE OIL PAN DRAIN PLUG
TORQ UE SPECI FI CATI O N 30 - 60 Nm
GEN III V8 ENGINE OIL PAN DRAIN
PLUG TORQUE SPECIFICATI ON 30 - 6 0 Nm
OIL PAN UNDER TRAY SECURI NG
BOLT TORQUE SPECIFICATI ON 30 - 35 Nm
9. Lower the vehicle and fill the crankcase with the
specified engine oil, refer 2.2 ENGINE OIL
CLASSIFICATION RECOMMENDATIONS in
this Section.
10. Start the engine and check for oil leaks.
Figure 0 B - 4 V6 Engi ne oi l pa n dra in plug
Figure 0B-5 GEN III V8 engine oil pan drain plug
2.5 ENGINE OIL FILTER
The full-f low oil filter , filter s all the engine oil delivered by the oil pump. Ac cordingly, the oil filter should be replac ed
at the time or distance intervals specified in 7.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this Section (or the VU Owner’s
Handbook) or whenever the engine oil is contaminated by foreign material and/or liquids.
Under prolonged dusty conditions, it is recommended that the oil filter be replaced more often.
NOTE: Whenever the oil filter is replac ed, an additional quantity of the r ecomm ended engine oil mus t be added to
fill the dry filter. Refer to the CAPACITIES CHART in this Section.
REPLACE
1. Raise the vehicle front and support with safety
stands. Refer to Section 0A GENERAL
INFORMATION.
2. On vehicles with GEN III V8 engines, remove
the four oil pan under tray securing bolts (2)
and remove under tray (1).
Figure 0B-6 GEN III V8 oil pan under tray
3. Place an oil drain tray beneath the engine and
remove the oil filter (1), using a commercially
available tool, taking care to avoid being
scalded with the hot waste oil.
4. After checking that the filter seal has not
adhered to the f ilter m ating sur fac e, inspect the
oil filter sealing surface for scratches or other
damage and check the oil filter adaptor threads
for damage.
NOTE: If necessary, refer to relevant Engine
Mechanical Sections in this Service Information for
information on how to remove and install the oil
filter adaptor.
5. Sm ear some new engine oil onto the new filter
seal, then install filter assembly to engine.
6. V6 engine; screw filter into place until the seal
contacts the mating surface of the adaptor,
then tighten a further 2/3 of a turn.
GEN III V8 engine; Tighten oil filter to the
correct torque specification.
GEN III V8 ENGINE OIL FILTER
TORQ UE SPECI FI CATI O N 30 Nm
7. Clean any excess oil of filter and adaptor.
8. On vehicles with GEN III V8 engines, reinstall
the oil pan under tray and tighten secur ing bolts
to the correct torque specification.
OIL PAN UNDER TRAY SECURI NG
BOLT TORQUE SPECIFICATI ON 30 – 35 Nm
9. Lower the vehicle and check the oil level. Start
engine and check for leaks. Repair as
necessary.
NOTE: The oil level needs to be rechecked and oil
added as necessary, after running the engine, to
compensate for oil used to refill the oil filter. Refer
to 2.3 CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL in this
Section for the recommended checking procedure
Figure 0 B - 7 V6 e ngi ne oi l filt e r
Figure 0B-8 GEN III V8 engine oil filter
2.6 ENGINE VENTILATION SYSTEM
All VU Series Model engine ventilation systems,
use a P.C.V. valve and utilise engine vacuum to
draw blow-by gases into the combustion chambers
where they are recycled through the combustion
process.
The location of the P.C.V. valve on a V6 engine is
in the inlet manifold (Fig. 0B-9) and on GEN III V8
engine it is externally mounted between the valve
cover and the throttle body (Fig. 0B-10).
For service instructions covering the testing, and
the removal and reinstallation procedures of the
P.C.V. valve, depending on the engine variant,
refer to Section 6E1 EMISSION CONTROL - V6
ENGINE or Section 6E3 EMISSION CONTROL -
GEN III V8 ENGINE.
Figure 0 B-9
Figure 0B-10
2.7 FUEL FILTER
The f uel filter (1) is located on the pressure side of the high pressure f uel pump and is attached to the f loor pan
of the vehicle, adjacent to the Evaporative Emission Control (EEC) canister assembly.
Refer to Fig. 0B-11 for filter locations.
The fuel filter must be replaced at the time or distance intervals specified in the Owner’s Handbook.
For service instructions covering the removal and installation of the fuel filter, refer to 3.11 FUEL CONTROL
SYSTEM in Section 6C1 POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT - V6 ENGINE or 3.15 FUEL CONTROL SYSTEM in
Section 6C3 POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT – GEN III V8 ENGINE in the VX Series Service Information.
Figure 0B-11
2.8 AIR FILTER
The air filter may be partially cleaned of dust by
lightly tapping the elem ent. It s hould not be washed
or oiled. The time or distance intervals at which the
element requires servicing depend on vehicle
operating conditions. Under dusty conditions the
element should be checked for restriction more
often than for normal city operation. Fig. 0B-12
shows a typical air cleaner assembly.
For service instructions covering the removal and
installation of the air cleaner element, refer to
3.11 FUEL CONTROL SYSTEM in
Section 6C1 POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT - V6
ENGINE or 3.23 AIR CLEANER ASSEMBLY in
Section 6C3 POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT -
GEN III V8 ENGINE in the VX Series Service
Information.
Figure 0B-12
2.9 EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL CANISTER
The Evaporative Emission Control (EEC) canister (1) is attached to the underbody, refer to Fig. 0B-13.
The canister should be serviced at the time or distance intervals specified in the Owner’s Handbook.
For service instructions covering the testing, and the removal and reinstallation of the EEC canister,
refer to Section 6E1 EMISSION CONTROL - V6 ENGINE in the VT Series I Service Information or
Section 6E3 EMISSION CONTROL – GEN III V8 ENGINE in the VT Series II Service Information.
Figure 0B-13
2.10 COOLING SYSTEM
V6 ENGINE
The c ooling system is f illed initially with a coolant mixtur e c omprising 50% water and 50% inhibited ethylene
Glycol to Holden Specification HN 2043.
CAUTION: Do not remove the radiator cap w hen the engine and radiator are hot. Scalding fluid and steam
can be blown out under pressure if the cap is removed.
The c ooling system is designed to us e f or mulated coolant ( a mixtur e of inhibited ethylene glycol and water) , rather
than plain water. The coolant solution must be used year round.
Inhibited ethylene glycol conforming to Holden Specification HN 2043 is named ‘New Formula Long Life All
Seasons Coolant’, and is available in the following quantities:
1 Litre, P/N 92140054*
5 Litre, P/N 92140057*
20 Litre, P/N 92140055*
* Always check with the latest Holden spare parts information for the correct part number before ordering parts.
NOTE: Do not mix different types of anti-freeze or corrosion inhibitors as they may be incompatible. If a different
type has been used in the cooling system, flush the system with clean water.
The water used fo r mix ing with inhibited glycol concentrate m ust be of low dissolved s alt content, preferably tank
water or demineralised water.
CHECK
Turn the coolant dipstick cap one eighth of a turn
anti-clockwise and slowly pull out the dipstick.
There ar e two triangles on the dipstick repr esenting
the Minimum △ and Maximum ▽ levels.
When the coolant is cold, the coolant level should
be at or above the Minimum △ triangle mark on the
dipstick. After the engine has been driven and the
engine is at the normal operating temperature, the
level should be somewhere between the Minimum
△ and Maximum ▽triangles.
If the coolant level is correct, replace the dipstick
and turn the cap one eighth of a turn clockwise to
secure.
If the coolant level is low, add enough of a pre-
mixed coolant solution of water and a good quality
inhibited ethylene glycol (meeting Holden
Specification HN 2043) to bring the level up to the
proper mark.
When the level is correct, replace the dipstick and
turn the cap one eighth of a turn clockwise to
secure.
It is of the utmost importance to maintain the
correct concentration level of glycol in the cooling
system.
To ensure the specified glycol concentration is
maintained in the engine coolant, the coolant
concentration must be checked at the time or
distance intervals outlined in 7.2 MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE in this Section or in the Owner’s
Handbook.
Check coolant concentration as outlined in
Section 6B1 ENGINE COOLING - V6 ENGINE in
the VT Series I Service Information.
It is recom mended that the coolant be drained, the
system flushed and refilled with clean water and
radiator coolant at the tim e or distance intervals set
out in 7.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this
Section or as in the Owner’s Handbook.
T20B013
Figure 0B-14
Aluminium radiators should be protected at all times by a coolant that is specifically recommended for use with
aluminium. Aluminium radiators may be destroyed by the caustic solutions found in some cleaners or the
chemicals used in some antifreeze’s and inhibitors.
For cooling system filling instructions, refer to Section 6B1 ENGINE COOLING - V6 ENGINE in the VT Series
Service Information.
GEN III V8 ENGINE
CAUTION: Do not remo ve radiator overf low reservo ir cap when th e engine and radiator are h ot. Scalding
fluid and steam can be blown out under pressure if the cap is removed.
The cooling system is designed to use a specific coolant (a mixture of DEX-COOL® coolant to GM Specif ication
6277M coolant additive and water), rather than plain water.
IMPORTANT: Do not use coolant other than DEX-COOL®.
The use of this orange coloured coolant additive also raises the boiling point and increases the cooling system
efficiency. For this reason, it is of the utmost importance that the correct concentration level of DEX-COOL® is
maintained in the cooling system.
Addition of plain water into the cooling system when 'topping-up' may dilute the coolant mixture to a point where
the specific properties of DEX-COOL® become ineffective.
The coolant should comprise of a mixture 50% DEX-COOL® (GM Specification 6277M) with 50% clean, good
quality water.
NOTE: Do not mix different types of antifreeze or corrosion inhibitors as they may be incompatible. If a different
type has been used in the cooling system, flush the system with clean water, refer to
Section 6B3 ENGINE COOLING - GEN III V8 ENGINE in the VT Series II Service Information.
The water us ed for m ixing with DEX- COOL® coolant mus t be of low dissolved salt content, pr eferably tank water
or demineralised water.
CHECK
The coolant level can be externally checked at the
radiator overflow reservoir. With the engine cold,
the coolant level should be at the FULL COLD
mark on the front of the radiator overflow reservoir.
Pre-mixed coolant (50% DEX-COOL® to GM
Specification 6277M with 50% clean, good quality
water) may be added as necessary to bring the
level shown on the coolant radiator overflow but
only when the engine is cold.
It is of the utmost importance to maintain the
correct concentration level of glycol in the cooling
system.
To ensure the specified glycol concentration is
maintained in the engine coolant, the coolant
concentration must be checked at the time or
distance intervals outlined in 7.2 MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE in this Section or in the Owner’s
Handbook.
Check coolant concentration as outlined in
Section 6B3 ENGINE COOLING - GEN III V8
ENGINE in the VT Series II Service Information.
It is recom mended that the coolant be drained, the
system flushed and refilled with clean water and
radiator coolant at the tim e or distance intervals set
out in 7.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this
Section or the Owner’s Handbook.
Figure 0B-15
Aluminium radiators should be protected at all times by a coolant that is specifically recommended for use with
aluminium. Aluminium radiators may be destroyed by the caustic solutions found in some cleaners or the
chemicals used in some antifreeze’s and inhibitors.
For cooling system filling instructions, refer to Section 6B3 ENGINE COOLING – GEN III V8 ENGINE in the VT
Series II Service Information.
3.2 CHECKING TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVEL
The transmission fluid level dipstick (1) is located
on the right hand side of the engine, refer to
Fig.0B-16.
1. Bring transmission to normal operating
temperature (82 - 94°C) (or drive vehicle for a
distance of 24km).
NOTE: As temperature affects transmission fluid
levels, this operation must be carried out with the
transmission at normal operating temperature. If
the vehicle is not at normal operating temperature,
and the proper checking procedures are not
followed, the result could be a false reading of the
fluid level on the dipstick.
2. Park vehicle on level ground.
3. Place selector lever in ‘P’ (PARK) position.
4. Apply park brake.
5. Let engine idle for three minutes with
accessories (i.e. air conditioning) turned off.
6. Lift the coloured dipstick locking lever, remove
dipstick and check fluid level.
The fluid level should be within the HOT
(hatched) area of the dipstick. If the level is
below this area, add only enough Dexron® III
fluid to bring the level into the HOT (hatched)
area of the dipstick.
NOTE 1: Inaccurate readings will result if the fluid
level is checked immediately after the vehicle has
been operating under one of the following
conditions:
• In high ambient temperatures above 32°C.
• At sustained high speeds.
• In heavy city traffic during hot weather.
• Towing
• In commercial use (i.e. taxi).
If the vehicle has been operating under any of the
above conditions, switch off the engine and allow
the vehicle to cool for approximately 30 minutes,
then restart the vehicle and continue from Step 2.
NOTE 2: The cold m arkings on the dipstick should
only be us ed as an indicator when initially filling the
transmission after the fluid has been completely
drained. The fluid should be rechecked when the
transmission is hot.
NOTE 3: Due to the shape of the filler tube, level
readings may be misleading. Look carefully for full
fluid ring on both sides of the dipstick. Recheck if
any doubt of fluid level occurs.
NOTE 4: Also check the fluid for contamination,
discolouration or if it smells burnt. This gives an
indication that frictional materials within the
transmission may need replacement. Refer to
Section 7C3 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
HYDRAULIC DIAGNOSIS in the VX Series Servic e
Information for additional information.
Figure 0B-16
0.5 lt .
T20B006
Figure 0B-17
3.3 FLUID CHANGE
The transmission fluid and strainer should be changed at the time or distance intervals specified in
7.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this Section or in the Owner’s Handbook.
When changing the transmission fluid, refer to Section 7C4 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION – ON VEHICLE
SERVICING in the VX Series Service Information.
4. BRAKE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM SERVICE
4.1 RECOMM ENDED FLUID
The recommended fluid for VU Series Models brake hydraulic system is a heavy duty brake fluid to Holden
Specification HN1796.
4.2 BRAKE FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Check that the fluid level is between the MIN and
MAX level markings on the translucent reservoir
housing.
NOTE: If the fluid is between the markings, do not
rem ove r eser voir c ap, as brake fluid ex pos ed to the
atmosphere will quickly absorb moisture.
Should the addition of fluid be required, wipe clean
the sides of the reservoir cover, then unclip and
remove the reservoir cap. Top up fluid using heavy
duty brake fluid to Holden Specification HN 1796.
T20B014
Figure 0B-18
4.3 BRAKE FLUID REPLACEMENT
The entire f luid content of the br ake hydraulic system m ust be changed at the tim e or dis tance intervals spec ified
in 7.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this Section or in the Owner’s Handbook.
Due to the complexities of the brake fluid replacement procedure, refer to Section 5A STANDARD BRAKES in
the VT Series Service Information, noting the following:
When bleeding brakes on vehicles with ABS or ABS/ET C, r ef er to Section 12L ABS & ABS/ETC in the VT Series
Service Information.
5. FINAL DRIVE LUBRICATION AND SERVICE
5.1 RECOMM ENDED LUBRICANT
Refer to the following chart for recommended lubricant specifications and applications.
RECOMMENDED
LUBRICANT
ENGINE &
TRANSMISSION TYPE Exc LSD LSD
V6 Automatic
Mineral
Hypoid Gear
Oil
SAE 90
Mineral Hypoid
Gear Oil
SAE 90 LSD
such as:
BP Limslip 90,
CASTROL
LSX90,
MOBIL Lubri te
LS90,
SHELL DIFF
OIL
All GEN III V8 and V 6
Manual
Synthetic Hypoid Gear Oil
SAE 80W-140 such as:
CASTROL SAF-XA
CALTEX Synstar GL.
5.2 CHECKING FINAL DRIVE LUBRICANT LEVEL
The final drive lubricant level should be checked
at the time or distance intervals specified in the
Owner’s Handbook.
To check Final Drive level:
1. Ensure the vehicle is level.
2. The final drive assembly is cold.
3. Clean the area around the filler plug.
4. Remove the filler plug, refer to Fig.0B-19.
5. The level is correct when the lubricant is at the
bottom of the filler plug hole.
6. Inspect filler plug for damage, if satisfactory,
refit into final drive housing.
LEGEND
1. Filler plug.
2. Lubrication tag.
3. Drain plug.
Figure 0B-19
5.3 PERIODIC SERVICING
Periodic draining of the final drive assembly is not
necessary.
Check for lubricant leaks at every service. If there
is evidence of leakage, repair leak and add
lubricant, if necessary, to the correct level.
The IRS final drive breather should be checked
regularly to ensure that the hose is not kinked or
damaged.
The breather hose (2) top end should be inserted at
least 25 mm into the vehicle underbody
crossmember hole (1).
Figure 0B-20
6. POWER STEERING
6.1 RECOMM ENDED FLUID
The recomm ended f luid for the VU Series Model power s teering syst em is autom atic transm ission fluid, qualif ied
to Dexron ® III.
6.2 CHECKING POWER STEERING FLUID LEVEL
V6 ENGINE
The power steering fluid level is checked by
viewing the fluid through the transparent plastic
side of the reservoir (refer Fig.0B-21), which is
mounted to a bracket attached to the cooling fan
shroud.
If the fluid is cold, the level should be in the COLD
range. Similarly, if it is hot, the f luid should be in the
HOT range. If the fluid level is at the low side of
either range, fluid should be added to bring the f luid
to the correct level.
Figure 0B-21
GEN III V8 ENGINE
With the engine dress cover removed the power
steering fluid level is checked in the same way as
the V6 engine power steering fluid is checked,
noting the following:
The power steering reservoir is mounted on the
front left hand side of the engine, above the power
steering pump.
With the engine dress cover installed check the
power steering fluid level by viewing the fluid
through the cut away in the engine dress cover at
the front of the engine.
The fluid level should be in the range of MIN COLD
and MAX HOT depending on the temperature of
the fluid. If the fluid level is below the Min cold
mar k, fluid should be added to bring the f luid to the
correct level.
T20B016
Figure 0B-22
6.3 PERIODIC SERVICING
Except under abnormal driving conditions (refer 7.1 ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS in this Section),
periodic draining of the power steering fluid is not necessary.
Check system for fluid leaks at every service. If there is evidence of leakage, repair leak and add fluid, if
necessary, to the correct level.
7. SERVICING
7.1 ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
If the car is driven under any of the abnormal conditions listed below it is recommended that some items be
serviced more frequently than in the maintenance plan.
The extra services are only required while the car is driven under the abnormal conditions. If any of these
conditions are encountered on a one off basis, then any additional servicing should be for that time only. As a
guide, if the car is operated continually over a period of one month or 1000 km under the abnormal conditions,
then additional servicing may be required.
ABNORMAL CONDITIONS
A When driving less than 10000 km in six months.
B Dust, dirt, loose road material.
C Muddy and wet areas.
D Cold weather (below 5°C) and when most trips are less than 5km.
E Stop-start driving, excessive idling or low speed operation as experienced in inner city driving
i.e. Taxi, door to door delivery.
F Caravan or trailer towing.
G Extended heavy load high speed operation in temperatures above 35°C.
H When driving more than 250000 km per 5 years.
EXTRA SERVICES REQUIRED
SERVICE REQUIRED ABNORMAL CONDITION
Change engine oil @ 6 months A
Change auto trans fluid and strainer @ 4 years A
Change automatic transmission fluid and strainer @ 20000 km E F G
Inspect front suspension and steering for leaks, wear or damage @
5000 km B C
Replace engine oil filter @ 5000 km or 3 months (whichever comes
first) B
Change engine oil @ 5000 km or 3 months (whichever comes first) B D F G
Relace air cleaner element @ 20000 km B
Inspect and clean park brake linings @ 20000 km B C
Change differential oil @ 20000 km F G
Change brake fluid @ 1 year if 1600 kg (or higher) tow bar fitted * F
Change power steering fluid @ 50000 km F G
GEN III V8 only: change engine coolant H
* Brak e fluid deterior ates with tim e and should norm ally be replaced every two years . However, heavy duty towing
requires fresher fluid due to the higher demand on the brake system. Therefore, brake fluid should be replaced
each year if a 1600 kg ( or higher) tow bar is fitted, so that the brak e system can c ope with the next year’s towing
requirements.
7.2 MAINTE NANCE SCHEDULE
The following chart pr ovides the m aintenance schedule, together with a ref erence of where to f ind the necessary
service information for VU Series Models.
Use odometer readi ng or years, whichever occurs
first. x 1000
km 1.5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110
UNDER HOOD
Extra
Change engine oil and engine oil filter (Ref er this
Section). * X X X X X X X X X X X
Check f l ui d l evels : brake, power steering, automatic
transmi ssion, washer (Refer th i s Sect i on & 12C
WIP E RS/WA SHERS & INSTRUMENTS).
X X X X X X X X X X X
Check c ool ant inhibitor % with tester and check level
(pressure test system if level is low). (Refer Section
6B1 ENGINE COOLI NG -V 6 ENGINE or 6B3
ENGINE COOLI NG - GE N III V8 E NGI NE).
X X X X X X X X X X X
Check bat tery electrol yte and fluid level, if applic abl e
(Refer Sec t i on 12A BATTERY). X X X X X X X X X X X X
Engine accessory drive belt s, check length i ndi cator
and belt condi t i on (Refer Sect i on 6A 1-1 ENGINE
MECHANI CAL - V6 ENGINE or 6A3-3 ENGINE
MECHANI CAL - GEN II I V8 ENGINE).
X X X X
Check f or signs of deterioration and/ or l eaks from
engine, flui d reserv oi rs, air ducts, all hoses and
clamps.
X X X X X X X X X X X
(V6 engine) Drain and refill cooling s ys tem with
recommended inhi bi tor, clean outside of radi ator and
A/C condenser (Refer Sec tion 6B1 ENGI NE
COOLING -V6 ENGINE).
Change every 2.5 years (regardless of km s)
(GEN III V 8 engine) Drain and refill cooling syst em
wi t h recommended inhibi tor, clean outside of
radiator and A/ C condenser (Refer S ection 6B3
ENGINE COOLI NG - GE N III V8 E NGI NE).
* Change every 5 years
Replace engine air cleaner element (Ref er Section
6C1-3 POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT - V6
ENGINE or 6C3-3 P O WERTRAIN MANA GEMENT -
GEN III V8 ENGINE).
* X X
(V6 engine) Replac e spark plugs (Refer Sect i on
6D1-3 IGNITION SYSTEM - V6 ENGINE). X X
(GEN III V8 engine) Replace spark plugs (Refer
Secti on 6D3-3 IGNITION SY STEM – GEN II I V8
ENGINE).
X
NOTE: All items marked with an asterisk in the ‘Extra’ column, require additional servicing under some driving
conditions. Refer to 7.1 ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS in this Section.
UNDER CAR
Use odometer readi ng or years, whichever occurs
first. x 1000
km 1.5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110
Extra
Replace fuel filter (Refer Section 6C1-3
POW ERTRAI N MANAGE MENT – V6 ENG or 6C3-3
POWERTRAIN MANAGE M ENT – GEN III V 8 ENG).
X X
Check f i nal dri ve oil l evel (Ref er this Section). X X
Check f i nal dri ve and auto t rans for leak s. X X X X X X X X X X X X
Change auto trans fluid and strainer (Refer Section
7C-4 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION). * X
Change differential oil (Refer Section 4B FINAL
DRIVE & DRIVE SHAFTS). * Change not required under normal driving c ondi tions
Inspect front and rear disc pads for wear and disc
surface condition (Refer Section 5A STANDARD
BRAKES. Rotate wheels (Refer Section 10
W HEELS & TYRES).
X X X X X X X X X X
Check park brake linings and drums for wear (Refer
Section 5A STANDARD BRAKES). * X X
Inspec t tyres for i rregul ar wear or damage. Check for
damaged wheels. Check air pressures. (Refer
Sect i on 10 WHEELS & TYRES).
X X X X X X X X X X X X
Drain, refill and bleed brake system, check brake
performance when road testi ng (Refer this Section). * Change every 2 years (regardl ess of kms) under normal dri ving
conditions
Check all brake and fuel lines and hoses for
conditi on, attachment and routing. X X X X X X X X X X X
Inspect front and rear suspension and steering
system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs
of wear or lack of lubric ation. Ins pect power steering
lines and hoses for condition, attachment and
routing, leaks, etc. Check condition of all rubber
boots and c overs.
* X X X X X X X X X X X
Inspect exhaust and adjacent underbody. Look for
damaged, missing or out-of-position parts, open
seams, holes, or l oose connect i ons.
X X X X X X X X X X X
Inspect constant velocity joint for damage or torn
boot. X X X X X X X X X X
Clean and lubricate automatic transmission shift
linkage. X X X
Clean out air c ondi tioning drain tubes. X X
Check carbon canister for leaks or restrictions
(Refer Section 6E1 EMISSION CONTROL - V6
ENG. or 6E3 EMISSION CONTROL - GEN III V8
ENG).
X
X X
CAR INTERIOR
Check park brake operation. X X X X X X X X X X X
Inspect seat belts, check webbing condition, buckle
operation and retrac tor mechanism. X X X X X
CAR EXTERIOR
Check operat i on of all exterior l i ghts. X X X X X X X X X X X X
Lubricate hood catch, door hinges, door links and
lock cylinders. X X X X X
Check t ransmitt er range of security system . X X X X X X X X X X X
ROAD TEST
Check braking, steering, engine response and
transmission operation. Check operation of cruise
control. Check park pawl operation. Check A/C
performance. Check neut ral start s witch.
X X X X X X X X X X X X
NOTE: All items marked with an asterisk in the ‘Extra’ column, require additional servicing under some driving
conditions. Refer to 7.1 ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS in this Section.
8. LUBRICANT RECOMMENDATIONS
APPLICATION LUBRICANTS
Body - Door Lock Striker Bolts
Door Lock Fork Bolts
Instrument Compartment Lid Lock Tongue
Engine Hood Catch
Engine Hood Lock
Engine Hood Hinge
Door Hinge and Hold Opens
Endgate Hinge
Door Window Regulators
Door Window Guides and Cams
Front Seat Adjuster
Front Seat Recliner Assembly
Window Regulator Friction Surfaces
Front Door Lock Cylinder
Ignition and Steering Lock Cylinder
Instrument Panel Compartment Lock Cylinder
Starter Motor Drive Mechanism
Starter Motor Bearings
Park Brake Shoe Assemblies
Brake Adjusting Screw and Nut
Park Brake Shoe Actuator Pivots
Brake and Clutch Hydraulic System
Final Drive
V6 Automatic exc LSD
V6 Automatic with LSD
All GEN III V8 and V6 with Manual
Transmission
Engine Oil:
GEN III V8 and V6 excluding LPG
V6 LPG
Clutch Throw-Out Bearing - Getrag 5 speed
manual transmission (V6)
Bearing Face of Clutch Throw-Out Bearing, input
shaft splines and spigot - Tremac 6 speed manual
transmission (GEN III V8)
Clutch and Brake Pedal Pivots and Bushes
Accelerator Pedal Pivots
Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission Control Pivot Points
Power Steering Gear
Solidoil
NLGI No. 1 Lithium Grease (with Zinc Oxide) meeting Holden
Specification HN 1225
Lithium Based Grease Holden Specification HN 1416
Powdered Graphite (applied through key aperture, do not oil)
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN 1271
Engine Oil at Overhaul
Special HT Grease to Holden Specification HN 1227
Special HT Grease to Holden Specification HN 1227
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN 1587
Fluid to Holden Specification HN 1796 (Part No.92026651)
Mineral Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 90
Mineral Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 90 LSD (BP Limslip 90, Castrol
LSX90, Mobil Lubrite LS90 or SHELL XD90LS)
Synthetic Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 80W-140
(Mobilube SHC ID, Castrol SAF-XA or equivalent to
Holden Specification HN 2040)
10W-30 ILSAC GF2 Quality Engine Oil (or 20W-50 SG, SH or SJ)
SAE 15W-40 SH CG4 Quality Engine Oil To Holden
Specification HN 2314
Lithium Grease to Holden Specification HN 1147
Molybdenum disulphide grease to Holden Specification HN 1271
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN 1271
Lithium Grease to Holden Specification HN 1225
Dexron® III Automatic Transmission Fluid
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN 1416
Dexron® III Automatic Transmission Fluid
APPLICATION LUBRICANTS
Manual Transmission
Getrag 5 speed (V6 Engine)
Tremac 6 Speed (GEN III V8 Engine)
Windshield Wiper Pivot Points
Coolant Concentrate V6 Engine
Coolant Concentrate GEN III V8 Engine
Check Link Housing
Check Link Arm
Castrol VMX 80W oil to Holden Specification HN 1855
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid to Holden
Specification HN2126
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN 1271
Inhibited Glycol Coolant to Holden Specification HN 2043 only,
at 50% by Volume in water.
DEX-COOL® Coolant to GM Specification 6277M only, at 50% by
Volume in water.
NLGI No. 2 Polyurea Grease (Mineral Oil Base) - 1.2g Applied to
Arm
NLGI No. 2 Lithium Complex Grease - 1.2g Applied to Housing