Positioning:
The Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage represents the pinnacle of the DB7 lineage, a grand tourer exuding luxury, performance, and exclusivity. This manual caters to owners and technicians who demand precision and thoroughness in maintaining such a sophisticated vehicle.
Competitors:
Competed directly with high-performance luxury coupes and convertibles such as the Ferrari 456 GT, Bentley Continental GT, and Porsche 911 Turbo of its era.
Distinguishing Features:
Hand-built craftsmanship, naturally aspirated V12 engine, elegant styling, luxurious interior, and exceptional Grand Touring capabilities.
Engine:
V12 Engine (6.0L Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Management:
ECU, Ignition, Fuel Injection, Emissions Control
Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic (Touchtronic) & 6-Speed Manual
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive, Limited Slip Differential
Suspension:
Front: Double Wishbone, Rear: Independent Multi-Link
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Discs (AP Racing Calipers), Rear: Ventilated Discs
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Assisted Rack and Pinion
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Accessories, Battery, Alternator
Body And Chassis:
Frame, Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC System Operation and Repair
Safety Systems:
Airbags, Seatbelts, ABS
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Common Issues
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Servicing, Suspension Component Replacement
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic steps for all major systems
Disassembly Reassembly:
Complete step-by-step instructions for component disassembly and reassembly
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V12, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
420 bhp (313 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
400 lb-ft (542 Nm) @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
Aston Martin specific coolant mixture (e.g., Ethylene Glycol based)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 12.5 liters (13.2 US quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-40 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (Touchtronic)
Touchtronic Operation:
Steering wheel mounted paddle shifters or console lever.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercon V or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (check manual for specific viscosity and type)
Crash Test Data:
Detailed crash safety information is typically proprietary to Aston Martin, but the vehicle is equipped with modern safety features for its era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point Inertia Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Audio System:
Premium sound system (e.g., Linn or Alpine) with CD player.
Navigation:
Optional factory satellite navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio and phone integration (if equipped).
Oil Change Interval:
Annually or every 10,000 miles (16,000 km), whichever comes first (check manual for specifics).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule in the manual for detailed intervals for major component inspections and replacements (e.g., timing belt/chain, spark plugs).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (High-performance).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to the manual for specific hydraulic fluid type.
Common Wear Items:
Spark plugs (due to V12 configuration), ignition coils, suspension bushings, and potential electrical gremlins common in older luxury vehicles. Cooling system components.
Performance Considerations:
Early V12 models sometimes required attention to throttle body synchronization and exhaust manifold gaskets. The manual provides detailed troubleshooting for these.
Heritage:
Aston Martin has a long-standing legacy of producing iconic sports cars and grand tourers, known for their handcrafted quality, elegant design, and motorsport pedigree.
Evolution:
The DB7 V12 Vantage was the ultimate evolution of the DB7 platform, replacing the supercharged inline-six engine with a powerful V12. It introduced enhanced performance, revised styling, and updated luxury features.
Production Period:
The DB7 V12 Vantage was produced from 1999 to 2004.
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England
