Positioning:
High-performance luxury grand tourer, exclusive and powerful successor to the DB7 lineage.
Competitors:
Ferrari 456 GT, Bentley Continental GT (later models), Porsche 911 Turbo (996 generation), Mercedes-Benz SL600 AMG.
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on the V12 engine's power delivery, refined handling, and luxurious GT experience.
Usability:
Designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, simplifying complex repair procedures.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service, maintenance, and repair
Specific Models Covered:
Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage 2002
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 1000+ pages (typical for full service manuals of this era and complexity)
Type:
Full Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
V12 Engine (5.9L, Naturally Aspirated), Ignition System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Engine Management System (ECU)
Transmission:
ZF 6-speed Manual Transmission, Touchtronic Automatic Transmission (if applicable to 2002 V12 Vantage), Clutch System, Drive Axles
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System, Wheel Alignment
Brakes:
Brake System (Front and Rear Discs, Calipers), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Fluid Service
Electrical:
Complete Electrical Schematics, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Distribution, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Body Control Modules (BCM)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, Air Conditioning (HVAC), Convertible Top Mechanism (for Volante)
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Bodywork Repairs
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic procedures, Common faults and solutions
Depth:
Expert Level (covering complete disassembly and reassembly, advanced diagnostics, and calibration)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V12
Displacement:
5.9 liters (5935 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 92.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
420 bhp (426 PS; 313 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
400 lb-ft (542 Nm) @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (95 RON / 91 AKI)
ECU Type:
Likely a Lucas/Visteon or similar advanced ECU for the era
Crash Safety Design:
Designed with advanced safety cell and crumple zones for its era, though official crash test ratings from modern bodies may not be directly applicable.
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned Seatbelts
Audio System:
Premium audio system, often with CD player and amplifier.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system, typically a CRT-based unit.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Auxiliary Inputs:
Limited by era; typically no USB or Bluetooth connectivity without aftermarket modifications.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Major services at 20,000 or 30,000 mile intervals, including checks on all major systems.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for exact Aston Martin approved specifications)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion inhibitors (e.g., Aston Martin's specified coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High-Performance Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (specific Aston Martin part number recommended)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mercon V or equivalent ATF (refer to manual for specific ZF Touchtronic fluid)
Engine Reliability:
Generally robust V12, but requires diligent maintenance. Potential for ignition coil or sensor issues.
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners report minor electrical issues, particularly related to aged wiring or connectors, due to the complex electrical systems of the era.
Suspension Wear:
Wear on bushings and damper components over time, common in high-performance vehicles.
Cooling System:
Ensure regular coolant flushes to prevent corrosion and maintain efficiency.
Legacy:
Aston Martin's long history of creating iconic luxury sports cars and grand tourers.
Predecessor:
DB7 (with inline-six engine), which was a significant revival for the brand.
Vantage Introduction:
The V12 Vantage represented a significant performance upgrade, using the more powerful V12 engine derived from the Virage/V8 Vantage.
Production Period:
DB7 V12 Vantage produced from 1999 to 2003.
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England.
Automotive Press Acclaim:
Widely praised by automotive press for its styling, V12 engine performance, and the blend of luxury and sportiness.
Model Significance:
Considered a modern classic, representing a peak of Aston Martin's design and engineering before newer models.
