Market Segment:
Ultra-luxury Grand Tourer
Competitors:
Ferrari 575M Maranello, Lamborghini Murciélago, Bentley Continental GT
Design Philosophy:
Hand-built craftsmanship, powerful V12 engine, elegant styling
Target Audience:
Discerning automotive enthusiasts seeking performance and luxury
Engine:
V12, DOHC, 48-valve, Naturally Aspirated (6.0L)
Transmission:
6-Speed Automated Manual (Touchtronic)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive
Suspension:
Independent Front (Double Wishbone), Independent Rear (Multi-link)
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Ventilated Discs, ABS, EBD
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Assisted Rack and Pinion
Electrical:
Full Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, ECU Diagnostics
Body Chassis:
Aluminum Body Panels, Composite Structure
Interior:
Trim Removal/Installation, Climate Control, Infotainment
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection, Fuel Pump, Injector Diagnostics
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fans, Thermostat, Coolant Specifications
Exhaust System:
Catalytic Converters, Mufflers, Sensor Diagnostics
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Troubleshooting:
System-Specific Diagnostics, Fault Code Interpretation
Repair:
Component Removal, Installation, Rebuilding Procedures
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Procedures, Specific Diagnostic Tools and Techniques
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed Engine Disassembly and Reassembly
Transmission Service:
Automated Manual Transmission Servicing and Adjustment
Brake System Service:
Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Bleeding Procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring Harness Repair, Sensor Testing
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, collision repair guidance, material specifications for body panels.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment.
Tire Specifications:
Recommended tire sizes and pressures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics.
Engine Code:
4.0 Litre V8 (for early Vanquish), 6.0 Litre V12 (later models, including 2006)
Displacement:
5935 cc (5.9 Litres)
Configuration:
V12, 60° Bank Angle
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 48 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower:
520 bhp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
565 Nm (417 lb-ft) @ 5800 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-point Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (95 RON or higher)
Coolant Type:
Proprietary Aston Martin Coolant (e.g., Havoline XCL or equivalent)
Type:
Graziano GT-Shift 6-Speed Automated Manual (Touchtronic)
Optional Transmission:
None (Touchtronic was standard for this year/model)
Gear Selection:
Steering Wheel Mounted Paddle Shifters
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) – Consult Manual for exact specification and capacity.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not formally tested by agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for this niche model.
Traction Control:
Yes (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation)
Electronic Stability Control:
Yes (ESC - Electronic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioner Seatbelts
Audio System:
Premium Aston Martin branded audio system, often with navigation integration.
Navigation:
Optional factory fitted navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Bluetooth:
May be available on later production models or as an aftermarket addition, but not a standard feature on all 2006 models.
Oil Change:
Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Interval:
Refer to manual for detailed schedule
Engine Oil:
Fully Synthetic 5W-30 (API SN or equivalent recommended - consult manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 11.5 Litres (12.2 US Quarts) (with filter change - verify in manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High-Performance Brake Fluid
Coolant:
Aston Martin Approved Coolant (typically pink or orange color, ethylene glycol based).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent specified by Aston Martin.
Clutch Wear:
The automated manual transmission's clutch pack can experience wear over time due to its nature and driving style. The manual will detail clutch inspection and replacement.
Suspension Bushings:
Age-related degradation of rubber suspension bushings is common in vehicles of this era, potentially affecting handling and comfort. The manual will cover their inspection and replacement.
Door Mechanism:
The distinctive gullwing-inspired doors, while iconic, can sometimes exhibit issues with seals, alignment, or internal mechanisms. The manual will provide guidance on their adjustment and lubrication.
Electronics:
As with many high-end vehicles of the early 2000s, electronic gremlins can occur. The manual's diagnostic sections are crucial for addressing issues with ECUs, sensors, and body control modules.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Requires specific Aston Martin part number - consult manual or parts catalog.
Air Filter Part Number:
Requires specific Aston Martin part number - consult manual or parts catalog.
Heritage:
Aston Martin has a long-standing heritage in producing luxurious, high-performance sports cars with a focus on elegant design and powerful engines.
Vanquish Generation:
The 2006 model represents the later iteration of the first-generation Vanquish (codename VH21), succeeding the original 2001 model with various updates.
Updates For 2006:
While specific '2006' updates are part of ongoing VH platform refinements, the V12 Vanquish saw continuous development, including enhancements to the powertrain and chassis.
Manufacturing Location:
Gaydon, Warwickshire, United Kingdom