Automotive Segment:
Ultra-luxury Grand Tourer
Key Competitors:
Ferrari 575M Maranello, Bentley Continental GT, Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Design Philosophy:
Hand-built, bespoke craftsmanship, performance with luxury, discreet elegance.
Production Era:
First generation, representing a significant step forward in Aston Martin design and technology.
Manual Utility:
Essential for owners and specialists seeking to maintain the integrity and performance of a high-value, complex automobile.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, lubrication system, cooling system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine diagnostics.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (e.g., Touchtronic), clutch system, transmission control module, transmission diagnostics.
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshafts, differential, rear axle, wheel bearings.
Brake Systems:
Brake hydraulics, ABS, traction control, parking brake, brake pad/rotor replacement, brake caliper service.
Suspension Steering Systems:
Front suspension, rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting systems, instrument cluster, body control module, ECU, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, glass, interior trim, chassis components, structural repair.
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system diagnostics and repair.
Airbag System:
Airbag system components, deployment, diagnostics.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, component removal and installation, adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, circuit testing, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for rebuilding major components like the engine and transmission.
Refurbishment:
Guidance on restoring and refurbishing various vehicle components.
Depth Of Information:
Professional Technician Level, suitable for DIY mechanics.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, photos, enlarged insets for critical parts, and wiring diagrams.
Notes Cautions Warnings:
Critical information highlighted with notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter.
Instruction Format:
Numbered, step-by-step instructions with bold figure numbers for easy reference.
Diagnostic Tools:
Implied knowledge and use of diagnostic tools and equipment by professional technicians.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not subject to standard NHTSA/Euro NCAP testing due to low production volume and price point. Safety features reflect class standards.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated), ABS, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution).
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or similar.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, possibly curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
High-strength aluminum construction, impact-absorbing zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact intervals.
Major Service Interval:
Major services with comprehensive checks and fluid changes usually every 20,000 miles or 24 months.
Engine Oil Specification:
Specific synthetic engine oil required, e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 0W-40 API SM/SL, ACEA A3/B3/B4. Consult manual for precise Aston Martin approved spec.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (e.g., Aston Martin branded or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid.
Common Concerns:
Potential for electrical gremlins, clutch wear (especially if driven hard), suspension component wear, and aging rubber seals/hoses. Routine maintenance is critical.
Specific Component Notes:
The VH platform can require specialized knowledge for certain structural repairs. Engine oil cooler lines and differential seals are areas to monitor.
Brand History:
Founded in 1913, Aston Martin is renowned for its association with James Bond, luxury grand tourers, and motorsport heritage.
Vanquish Origin:
The Vanquish (Project VH) replaced the Virage and V8 Vantage as Aston Martin's flagship model, showcasing the new VH (Vertical/Horizontal) platform architecture.
Production Years:
First generation: 2001-2007. The 2006 model year is part of this original 'Vanquish' series before the 'Vanquish S' designation and later the new Vanquish model.
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England.
