Positioning:
The Aston Martin DB9 represented a significant step for Aston Martin, blending luxury grand touring with sports car performance. It was positioned as a premium GT offering.
Competitors:
Competed with cars like the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Bentley Continental GT, and Porsche 911 Turbo during its production run.
Design Philosophy:
Iconic British luxury sports car design with a focus on elegance, performance, and a handcrafted feel.
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking a stylish, high-performance grand tourer with a prestigious marque.
Utility:
Essential resource for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the Aston Martin DB9, catering to both professional mechanics and dedicated owners. Provides detailed technical guidance and step-by-step procedures.
Engine Systems:
Engine, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Emission Control, Ignition System, Engine Management System
Chassis Systems:
Suspension, Frame and Mounting, Driveline, Brake System, Steering
Transmission Systems:
Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Clutch
Body Interior Exterior:
Body and Accessories, Interior, Exterior, Climate Control, Lighting
Electrical Electronics:
Power Supply, Information, Gauge and Warning, Audio System, Body Vacuum System, Electronic Control, Electronic Features
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements
Repair Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake component replacement, suspension component refurbishment, electrical system diagnostics and repair
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for various systems, fault code interpretation
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering detailed repair and overhaul procedures, diagnostic strategies, and technical specifications, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V12
Displacement:
6.0 Liters (5935 cc)
Engine Code:
VH (though specific variant might differ slightly)
Horsepower:
Approximately 450-470 hp (depending on model year and specific variant)
Torque:
Approximately 420-440 lb-ft (depending on model year and specific variant)
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 89.0 mm x 79.5 mm
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic (Touchtronic)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual (Rare, primarily for early models)
Automatic Features:
Paddle shifters, manual mode (Touchtronic), adaptive shift logic
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF fluid (e.g., Esso LT 71141 or equivalent, consult manual for exact part number/specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Specific manual gearbox oil (e.g., Castrol BOT 402 or equivalent, consult manual for exact part number/specification)
Length:
Approximately 4,720 mm (185.8 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1,800 mm (70.9 inches) excluding mirrors
Height:
Approximately 1,280 mm (50.4 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1,775 - 1,800 kg (3,913 - 3,968 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Consult specific vehicle documentation
Crash Test Results:
Not extensively tested by common agencies like NHTSA/Euro NCAP due to low production volume and price point. Relies on internal engineering and component safety standards.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Ceramic Composite Brakes (optional)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, optional curtain airbags
Body Structure:
Aluminum 'VH' platform chassis for rigidity and weight saving
Head Unit:
Integrated infotainment system with navigation (typically Garmin-based), radio, CD player. Later models may have updated systems.
Display:
Central LCD screen for infotainment and climate control functions.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors standard, front parking sensors optional.
Bluetooth:
Available on later models for hands-free calling.
Instrument Cluster:
Analogue dials with integrated digital display for trip computer and system information.
Major Service:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Specific interval for spark plug replacement, coolant flush, etc., will be detailed in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
Recommended change every 24 months
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace at every oil change
Engine Oil:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional A3/B4, consult manual for specific Aston Martin approval)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Aston Martin approved coolant required.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (High-performance, low-moisture content required, consult manual for specific spec)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (especially on manual versions), brake pads and discs, suspension bushings, ignition coils, and door release mechanisms.
Potential Electrical Gremlins:
Due to the complex electronics, occasional intermittent faults can occur. Software updates and diagnostic checks are crucial.
Early Model Concerns:
Some early models may have experienced issues with the Touchtronic transmission's software or certain interior trim fitments.
Aston Martin Legacy:
Aston Martin boasts a rich history of producing luxurious and high-performance sports cars, often associated with James Bond and elegant motoring.
Db Lineage:
The DB9 follows a long line of acclaimed 'DB' models, symbolizing the brand's grand touring heritage, named after founder David Brown.
Production End Year:
2012 (model year 2011 and later models were replaced by DB11, though the DB9 continued some production into early 2013 for certain markets)
Manufacturing Location:
Gaydon, Warwickshire, England
Platform:
Aston Martin VH platform (Vertical-Horizontal)
Design Awards:
The DB9 received acclaim for its design, often cited for its beauty and elegance, contributing to its status as a modern classic.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its powerful V12 engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior.
