🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Aston Martin

Model:

V8 Vantage

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

VH2 (Gen 2)

Engine Code Variant:

Naturally Aspirated 4.7L V8 (VH2)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, part of the VH2 generation, represented a significant evolution of the Vantage line, blending potent performance with luxurious grand touring capabilities. It competed against established GT cars from brands like Porsche, Ferrari, and Bentley.

Competitors:

Porsche 911 (997 generation), Ferrari 430, Maserati GranTurismo, Bentley Continental GT

Design:

Elegant and muscular styling, characteristic Aston Martin grille, signature design cues.

Performance:

V8 engine providing strong acceleration and a distinctive exhaust note.

Handling:

Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, adaptive damping (often optional or standard on certain trims) for a blend of comfort and sportiness.

Interior:

Luxurious materials, hand-stitched leather, advanced infotainment for its era, a driver-focused cockpit.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Procedures for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage (2009 Model Year)

Secondary Coverage:

Electrical Systems, Diagnostics, Bodywork, Chassis, and Maintenance Schedules

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing systems, lubrication, cooling

Engine Management:

ECU operation, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensor diagnostics

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox assembly, clutch, shift mechanisms, lubrication

Transmission Automatic:

If applicable for specific markets/trims; gearbox, torque converter, control systems, fluid service

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, DSC, brake calipers, rotors, pads, bleeding procedures

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, dampers, springs, control arms, wheel alignment

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, column, alignment

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, body control modules

Climate Control:

HVAC system, refrigerant, A/C compressor, blower motor, climate control module

Infotainment Audio:

Navigation system, audio components, speaker integration, Bluetooth, connectivity

Bodywork Exterior:

Panel removal/installation, trim, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk, glass

Interior:

Seating, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, interior trim

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for major component removal and installation

Diagnostics:

OBD-II procedures, sensor testing, module programming (if applicable)

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of Aston Martin specific service tools

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically)

Printable:

Yes

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

Completeness:

Full Factory Service Manual

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Aston Martin AMV8

Displacement:

4.7 Liters (4735 cc)

Configuration:

DOHC 32-valve V8

Horsepower:

380 bhp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

480 Nm (354 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Induction:

Naturally Aspirated, Multi-Point Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON or higher)

ECU Manufacturer:

Bosch (typical)

Emissions Standard:

Euro 4 / EPA (market dependent)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Graziano 'Sportshift' Manual Transaxle

Type:

6-speed ZF Friedrichshafen 'Touchtronic 2' Automatic Transaxle

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive with Transaxle Configuration

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch (manual)

Gear Ratios:

Detailed in manual, varies between manual and automatic

Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific GL-rated gear oil and ATF specifications.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4395 mm (173.0 in)

Width:

1875 mm (73.8 in)

Height:

1290 mm (50.8 in)

Wheelbase:

2600 mm (102.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1705 kg (3759 lbs) manual, 1750 kg (3858 lbs) automatic

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 150 liters (5.3 cu ft)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Standard Wheel Size:

18-inch (front and rear)

Optional Wheel Size:

19-inch (front and rear)

Standard Tire Size Front:

235/45 R18

Standard Tire Size Rear:

275/40 R18

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

NHTSA and Euro NCAP ratings for this specific year may not be directly comparable due to Aston Martin's low-volume production. However, it was designed to meet rigorous safety standards.

Traction Control:

Yes (Aston Martin Tracking Control - ATC)

Stability Control:

Yes (Dynamic Stability Control - DSC)

ABS:

Yes (Anti-lock Braking System)

Ebs:

Yes (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags (door-mounted), often with head protection.

Body Structure:

Lightweight aluminum construction with strategically placed high-strength steel for crash energy management.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

System:

Aston Martin Premium Audio System with integrated navigation, CD player, and aux input.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming (depending on specific trim/options).

Parking Aids:

Rear parking sensors (standard on most models).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Headlights:

Bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights.

Keyless Entry:

Yes (Aston Martin Key Fob)

Seats:

Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function (often standard).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Major Service Interval:

Refer to manual, often around 30,000 miles or 3 years, involving more comprehensive checks and fluid changes.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

Refer to manual, typically every 3-4 years.

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., Mobil 1 5W-30 or equivalent) and API/ACEA specifications. Capacity approx. 8.5 liters.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically pre-mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Aston Martin specific part number recommended.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (High Performance) required.

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual; often a specific hydraulic fluid or ATF is required.

Transmission Oil Manual:

Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 specification gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.2 liters.

Differential Oil:

Refer to manual for specific LSD-compatible gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.5 liters.

Clutch Wear:

Can be subject to wear, especially with aggressive driving. Clutch replacement is a significant mechanical task.

Door Glass Mechanism:

The 'window drop' feature (glass lowers slightly when doors open) can sometimes experience issues with the motors or guides, requiring adjustment or repair.

Infotainment System:

Early infotainment systems can sometimes be slow or prone to minor glitches; software updates may address some issues.

Exhaust Valves:

The active exhaust system's vacuum actuators or control mechanisms can sometimes fail, affecting exhaust note and performance.

Engine Mounts:

Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration felt in the cabin. Replacement is recommended as part of scheduled maintenance if worn.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Aston Martin, founded in 1913, has a rich motorsport history and a legacy of producing iconic luxury sports cars, often associated with James Bond films.

Vantage Lineage:

The V8 Vantage, introduced in 2005, marked Aston Martin's return to a more compact and agile sports car segment, distinct from the larger DB models. The 2009 model year represents the second generation (VH2) with significant updates.

Vh2 Generation:

The VH2 generation, launched for the 2009 model year, featured the new 4.7L V8 engine, revised styling (subtle front and rear fascia updates), and improved interior appointments. It also included chassis enhancements for better handling.

Manufacturing Location:

Gaydon, Warwickshire, United Kingdom

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The V8 Vantage consistently received positive reviews from automotive journalists for its styling, V8 soundtrack, and balanced performance, often being praised as one of the best-looking sports cars on the market.

Design Awards:

Aston Martin vehicles, including the Vantage, have frequently been lauded for their timeless design and craftsmanship.