Brand Heritage:
Aston Martin is synonymous with luxury, performance, and British automotive craftsmanship, with a legacy dating back to 1913.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and serious DIY enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge for repairs and maintenance.
Competitors:
The DB9 competed in the luxury grand tourer segment against models like the Bentley Continental GT, Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, and Mercedes-Benz SL-Class.
Design Philosophy:
The DB9 represented a significant step forward for Aston Martin, introducing the VH (Vertical/Horizontal) platform for improved rigidity and packaging, and a blend of classic Aston Martin styling with modern GT performance.
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain (including rear-wheel drive system).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, braking system, wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, including wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, ECUs, and diagnostic procedures.
Body:
Bodywork, exterior trim, interior components, climate control system.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulation.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, exhaust pipes, and oxygen sensors.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, expansion tank, cooling fan.
Air Conditioning System:
Compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant lines, climate control module.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lamps, and their control modules.
Interior Trim:
Seats, dashboard, door panels, carpeting, headliner, and their removal/installation procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspection procedures.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic codes, system analysis.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step repair and overhaul procedures for all major components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, essential for fault finding.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components to ensure correct assembly and safety.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approach to identifying and resolving common and complex faults, often with flowcharts.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.
Paint And Body Repair:
While primarily a mechanical manual, it often includes basic guidance on body panel removal and perhaps references for specialized bodywork.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds. Aimed at professional technicians but accessible to skilled DIY mechanics.
Engine Rebuild:
Procedures for engine disassembly, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), reassembly, and initial startup.
Transmission Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for the overhaul of the automatic transmission, including torque converter, valve body, and clutch pack procedures.
Suspension Geometry:
Information on suspension alignment specifications and adjustment procedures.
Electronics Diagnostics:
In-depth troubleshooting for complex electronic systems, including CAN bus communication, sensors, actuators, and control units.
Crash Test Data:
Specific crash test data for the 2004 DB9 may be limited publicly due to its niche market, but the VH platform was designed with safety in mind.
Braking System:
Ventilated ABS discs front and rear, typically with larger diameters for high performance. Manual will detail specific component specs and procedures.
Electronic Stability Control:
Traction Control (TC) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems are standard on such a high-performance vehicle.
Airbags:
Front, side, and potentially curtain airbags. Manual will detail airbag system diagnostics and replacement.
Major Service:
Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, with more detailed checks at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles). Manual will provide precise schedules.
Engine Oil:
Likely a high-performance synthetic oil, e.g., Castrol Edge 10W-30 or similar, meeting specific Aston Martin approvals. Manual will list precise specs and API/ACEA ratings.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, likely a long-life formulation with specific color/type. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 high-performance brake fluid. Manual will specify type and change interval.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF for the Touchtronic 6-speed gearbox. Manual will list the exact fluid type and capacity, crucial for transmission longevity.
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific hydraulic fluid for the power steering system. Manual will list type and capacity.
Differential Fluid:
Gear oil for the rear differential. Manual will specify the correct API and viscosity grade.
Common Problems:
Early DB9s might experience issues with door mechanisms, infotainment systems, or minor electrical gremlins. Catalytic converter degradation and potential cam cover leaks can occur with age. The manual will provide diagnostic and repair guidance for these.
