Positioning:
The Aston Martin DB7, launched in 1994, represented a significant turning point for the brand, offering a more accessible yet still luxurious grand tourer. This manual caters to the crucial early years of this iconic model.
Competitors:
Ferrari 456 GT, Porsche 911 (993 generation), Bentley Continental R
Design Language:
Penned by Ian Callum, the DB7 showcased flowing lines and classic Aston Martin proportions.
Engine Development:
Initial models featured a 3.2L supercharged straight-six engine derived from Jaguar's AJ6/AJ16 family, offering impressive torque.
Target Audience:
Owners, independent workshops, and enthusiasts seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Benefit:
Enables accurate servicing, troubleshooting, and repair, saving time and expense compared to dealership-only service.
Engine:
3.2L Supercharged Inline-6 (DB7 Coupe/Volante), 5.9L V12 (DB7 Vantage, DB7 GT, DB7 GTA - subsequent models covered by separate manuals but may have overlap in some areas if specified in errata)
Transmission:
5-Speed ZF Automatic (DB7), 6-Speed Manual (DB7 Vantage)
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection System, Fuel Pump, Fuel Tank, Lines, and Filters
Ignition System:
Ignition Coils, Spark Plugs, Engine Control Unit (ECU) Diagnostics
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses, Coolant Specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifolds, Catalytic Converters, Mufflers, Pipes
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System, Brake Fluid Specifications, Bleeding Procedures
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Components, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Alignment Specifications
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Tie Rods, Steering Column
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting System
Body And Chassis:
Body Panel Removal/Installation, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Chassis Structure
Interior:
Seating, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Airbag System (where applicable within the generation)
Climate Control:
Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), OBD-II Information (if applicable to early models)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs
Repair:
Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostics for common and complex issues
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced engine and driveline repairs, including electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Type:
3.2L Supercharged Inline-6 (12-valve DOHC)
Bore X Stroke:
86 mm x 92 mm
Horsepower:
335 bhp (250 kW) @ 5000 rpm
Torque:
361 lb-ft (490 Nm) @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Eaton Supercharger
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2-96 or higher (Consult manual for specific viscosity grade, e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-40)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Litres (8.5 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Prestone or equivalent)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 Litres (11.1 US Quarts)
Crash Test Results:
Specific official crash test ratings from major bodies (NHTSA, Euro NCAP) are not readily available for this specific generation, typical of low-volume luxury sports cars of the era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point Inertia-reel Seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific recommendation.
Major Service:
Key services at 20,000 miles (e.g., spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush) and 40,000 miles (e.g., transmission fluid change, differential fluid change) are critical. Detailed schedule in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 recommended.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) typically specified.
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90). Consult manual for specific viscosity and type.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, clutch (if applicable to manual variants), brake components, and catalytic converters can be wear items.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this era, the electrical system can be complex; the manual provides critical diagnostic flowcharts.
Supercharger Belt:
Regular inspection and potential replacement of the supercharger drive belt is necessary.
Brand History:
Aston Martin, founded in 1913, has a storied history of producing elegant and powerful sports cars, often associated with James Bond films and racing heritage.
Db7 Introduction:
The DB7 marked a renaissance for Aston Martin under Ford ownership, designed by Ian Callum and built in Bloxham, UK. It replaced the Virage and was initially offered as a coupé and later a Volante convertible.
Engine Progression:
The 3.2L supercharged inline-six was the powerplant for the initial DB7. This was later succeeded by the 5.9L V12 engine in the DB7 Vantage model (introduced in 1999, outside the primary scope of this manual but part of the lineage).
Production Period:
1994-2004 (DB7 line); this manual specifically covers 1994-1999.
Manufacturing Plant:
Aston Martin Works, Bloxham, Oxfordshire, England.
