Positioning:
The Aston Martin V12 Vanquish (2001) represented Aston Martin's flagship grand tourer, a high-performance, hand-built luxury coupe.
Competitors:
Competed with other elite GT cars of its era, such as the Ferrari 456 GT, Bentley Continental GT, and Porsche 911 Turbo.
Design Philosophy:
Combines cutting-edge performance with traditional Aston Martin craftsmanship and bespoke luxury.
Availability:
Exclusively available for the 2001 model year with the V12 engine.
Intended Users:
Professional automotive technicians and discerning do-it-yourself mechanics with a passion for Aston Martin.
Powertrain:
Comprehensive coverage of the V12 engine, including lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, and exhaust systems.
Drivetrain:
Detailed information on the transmission (likely automatic), differential, and drive axles.
Suspension Steering:
In-depth coverage of the independent suspension systems, steering rack, and power steering components.
Braking System:
Extensive details on the hydraulic brake system, ABS, EBD, and associated components.
Electrical Electronics:
Full schematics, diagnostics, and repair procedures for the entire electrical system, including lighting, sensors, ECUs, and comfort features.
Body Chassis:
Procedures for body panel removal/installation, structural repairs, and chassis components.
Climate Control:
Detailed information on the HVAC system, including refrigerant handling and component repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Step-by-step guides for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and general servicing.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting trees, symptom-to-cause diagnosis, and fault code interpretation.
Repair Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for the disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components and systems.
Component Replacement:
Guidance on replacing specific parts, from spark plugs to engine control units.
Calibration Adjustment:
Procedures for calibrating sensors, adjusting systems, and performing initial setups after repairs.
Technical Specifications:
Inclusion of all critical torque values, clearances, pressures, and electrical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex overhauls.
Engine Code:
VH (Aston Martin's designation for its V-engines)
Displacement:
5.9 Liters (5935 cc)
Configuration:
Naturally Aspirated V12
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 79.5 mm (estimated)
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1 (estimated)
Horsepower:
420 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
400 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) via Bosch Motronic ECU
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
ECM:
Bosch Motronic M7.3 (or similar for the era)
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Type:
6-speed manual (in some early configurations, though the focus for 2001 was often the automatic)
Type:
Touchshift 5-speed automatic (often preferred for GT cruising)
Gear Ratios:
Detailed gear ratios for both manual and automatic transmissions will be found in the manual.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATFs like Mercon V or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
High-quality GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for exact spec).
Crash Test Results:
Specific official crash test ratings for this early model may be limited, but the chassis was designed with safety in mind.
Traction Control:
Yes (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Electronic Stability Control:
Likely present in some form, often integrated with ABS.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, likely side airbags.
Chassis Construction:
Bonded aluminum structure (lightweight and rigid) with composite body panels.
Audio System:
Typically a premium audio system, possibly from manufacturers like Linn or Alpine, with CD player.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronically controlled cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Not typically found in the 2001 model year; aftermarket solutions may exist.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise recommendation).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to the manual for scheduled major service intervals which may include spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection (if applicable), etc.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact API/ACEA specifications).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant with appropriate corrosion inhibitors (typically pink or red).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 High-Temperature Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific hydraulic fluid (refer to manual, often Pentosin or a similar high-quality fluid).
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many complex luxury cars of this era, some owners report occasional electrical gremlins, which this manual would help diagnose.
Clutch Wear Auto:
For automatic transmissions, wear on clutch packs can occur with high mileage and aggressive use; the manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to less precise handling and is a common maintenance item for high-performance vehicles.
Heritage:
Aston Martin has a long-standing reputation for producing luxury sports cars and grand tourers with a strong emphasis on performance and handcrafted quality.
Previous Models:
The V12 Vanquish succeeded models like the V8 Vantage and DB7, aiming to be a more technologically advanced and powerful flagship.
Design Inspiration:
Designed by Ian Callum, it drew inspiration from the Project Vantage concept car.
Production Period:
2001-2007 (with subsequent updates like the Vanquish S).
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England.