🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Aston Martin

Model:

V8 Vantage

Model Code:

VH Generation II

Generation Identifier:

VH II

Chassis Code:

VH

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage represents a pinnacle of luxury grand touring and sports car engineering, competing with marques such as Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini. This manual supports the maintenance and repair of a high-performance, handcrafted automobile.

Competitors:

Ferrari 430/458 Italia, Porsche 911 (997/991 generations), Lamborghini Gallardo.

Vehicle Characteristics:

Hand-built quality, powerful V8 engine, distinctive Aston Martin design language, premium interior materials, engaging driving dynamics.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data, diagnostic procedures, and repair instructions necessary for maintaining the performance, safety, and longevity of a sophisticated Aston Martin vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Electrical System, Climate Control, Bodywork, Interior Systems, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair Procedures, Specifications

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this caliber)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar, often distributed on DVD/USB in original OEM format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed coverage of the 4.3L and 4.7L V8 engines, including lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine mechanical, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, timing systems, and engine management (ECU).

Transmission:

Comprehensive details on the Sportshift (Automated Manual Transmission) and standard manual transmissions, including clutch, gearbox, torque converter, hydraulic systems, shift mechanisms, and adaptive learning procedures.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, including driveshafts, universal joints, differential, half-shafts, and axle bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., double wishbone, adaptive damping systems), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (e.g., ventilated discs, multi-piston calipers), ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and parking brake system.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering rack, and associated components. Includes fluid types and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Detailed wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, seats, and accessory circuits.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, air conditioning (A/C) refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and climate control module operation and diagnosis.

Bodywork And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, structural components, chassis rigidity, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, and convertible top (if applicable).

Interior Systems:

Seat adjustment mechanisms, airbag systems, seat belts, dashboard, center console, trim panels, and sound system integration.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for all major systems, common fault finding, and troubleshooting flowcharts.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, and general inspection points.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component repair, and body panel repair.

Installation:

Installation procedures for replacement parts, upgrades, and accessory components. Includes torque specifications for all critical fasteners.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for Aston Martin V8 Vantage servicing and repair.

Calibration And Reset:

Procedures for recalibrating systems after component replacement, such as throttle body alignment, steering angle sensor calibration, and adaptive transmission learning.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner-level maintenance checks to in-depth mechanical and electrical component overhaul and diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and dedicated enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - commonly searchable and printable.

Print Quality:

High-resolution images, clear diagrams, and legible text for ease of reproduction if printed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format) - if printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format) - if printed, would be high-quality, durable paper suitable for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Engine Displacement:

4.3 Liters (4300cc) and 4.7 Liters (4700cc) variants

Bore X Stroke 4 3L:

91 mm x 82.7 mm

Bore X Stroke 4 7L:

93 mm x 86 mm

Horsepower 4 3L:

380 bhp @ 7300 rpm

Torque 4 3L:

410 Nm (302 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower 4 7L:

420 bhp @ 7000 rpm (standard), 430 bhp @ 7000 rpm (V8 Vantage S)

Torque 4 7L:

470 Nm (346 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (standard), 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (V8 Vantage S)

Fuel Injection:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95-98 RON)

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic or equivalent

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Sportshift (6-speed automated manual transmission)

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Sportshift Features:

Paddle shifters, multiple shift modes (Normal, Sport), manual override, auto-blip downshifts.

Sportshift Fluid Type:

Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) as per Aston Martin specification (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).

Sportshift Fluid Capacity:

Refer to manual for precise capacity, typically around 9-11 liters for a full refill.

Manual Gearbox Oil Spec:

GL-4 or GL-5 rated manual transmission fluid (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4380 mm (V8 Vantage Coupe)

Width:

Approx. 1865 mm (excluding mirrors)

Height:

Approx. 1280 mm (Coupe)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2600 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1655 kg (V8 Vantage manual)

Luggage Capacity:

Approx. 150-200 liters (coupe trunk), variable for Roadster.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm

Standard Tire Sizes:

Typically 235/45 R18 (front) and 265/40 R18 (rear), with larger optional sizes available.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

While specific global crash test ratings (like Euro NCAP or NHTSA) may not be extensively published for this low-volume specialist car, it incorporates advanced safety structures and systems.

Traction Control:

Yes (ASC - Active Stability Control)

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:

Yes (EBD)

Anti Lock Braking System:

Yes (ABS)

Brake Assist:

Yes (EBA - Electronic Brake Assistance)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags, and potentially knee airbags. Specific configuration varies by model year and market.

Seat Belts:

Pre-tensioning seat belts with load limiters.

Chassis Design:

Lightweight bonded aluminum 'VH' architecture designed for torsional rigidity and impact absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Integrated navigation system, premium audio systems (e.g., Bang & Olufsen or Aston Martin Premium Audio), Bluetooth connectivity, CD player/changer.

Cruise Control:

Standard adaptive or standard cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking sensors are common; front sensors may be optional or standard on later models. Some models may feature a rearview camera.

Bluetooth Integration:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming (availability and functionality dependent on model year and software version).

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges with digital trip computer, warning lights, and performance readouts.

🔧 Maintenance

Minor Service:

Typically annually or every 10,000 miles (16,000 km), whichever comes first. Includes oil and filter change, comprehensive inspection.

Major Service:

Typically every 2-3 years or 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km). Includes all minor service items plus brake fluid flush, spark plug replacement, coolant inspection/change, gearbox/differential oil check.

Transmission Service Interval:

Sportshift and Manual gearbox fluid changes are often recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or as per manufacturer's specific schedule, depending on usage.

Engine Oil Specification:

Fully Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (e.g., Castrol EDGE or Mobil 1) meeting Aston Martin specifications (e.g., AMCC specification).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 7.7 liters (8.1 US quarts) for 4.3L and 4.7L V8 engines. Always verify with dipstick.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze coolant (e.g., Aston Martin 'Coolant' or similar OAT/HOAT formulation) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Class 6 High Performance brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear (especially with aggressive Sportshift usage), brake pad/disc wear, suspension bushings, exhaust manifold gaskets, and potential for catalytic converter issues. Electrical gremlins can also occur in older vehicles.

Engine Specific Points:

Early 4.3L models had some oil consumption concerns. Ensure proper engine warm-up and regular oil level checks. Some early Sportshift clutch actuation systems might require adjustment or calibration.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Aston Martin, founded in 1913, has a rich racing heritage and a legacy of producing iconic luxury sports cars, often associated with cinematic portrayals of espionage and high society.

Vantage Lineage:

The V8 Vantage nameplate has been used by Aston Martin for various models, with the VH generation V8 Vantage (introduced in 2005) representing a significant step forward in modern Aston Martin design and technology.

Vh Generation Ii:

This manual likely covers the V8 Vantage models from the VH II generation (post-2008 facelift and introduction of the 4.7L engine), representing a refinement of the original design with updated styling and improved performance.

Manufacturing Location:

Gaydon, Warwickshire, England

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Accolades:

The V8 Vantage has consistently received praise from automotive journalists for its design, performance, and driving experience, often winning awards for 'Best Luxury Sports Car' or similar distinctions in its class. Specific awards vary by year and publication.