Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Competitors:
Ferrari 456 GT, Bentley Continental R, Jaguar XJS, Porsche 911 (993/996 generation)
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior, focus on comfortable long-distance touring with sporting credentials.
Manual Purpose:
To enable technicians and knowledgeable owners to perform all necessary maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs to a high standard, mirroring dealer-level service.
Powertrain:
Engine (disassembly, assembly, tuning), Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (disassembly, assembly), Drive Axles, Differentials (if applicable)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Braking System (including ABS if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Powertrain Control Modules, Body Electrical Systems
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Climate Control System (HVAC)
Fuel System Detail:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement, pressure testing, evaporative emissions control system.
Ignition System Detail:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable, though likely coil-on-plug), ignition timing, engine control unit (ECU) ignition mapping.
Lubrication System Detail:
Oil pump, oil sump, oil filter housing, oil pressure sensor, lubrication passages, oil cooler.
Exhaust Detail:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, exhaust pipes, hanger replacement, leak detection.
Maintenance:
Routine Servicing, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Tune-ups
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Overhauling of Major Assemblies, Diagnosis and Correction of Faults
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Engine Mechanics:
Cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod assembly, crankshaft and bearing replacement, camshaft timing and replacement.
Transmission Mechanics:
Manual gearbox rebuild, automatic transmission fluid and filter change, torque converter inspection, transmission mount replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Fuse and relay identification and testing, wiring harness repair, sensor testing (e.g., MAF, O2 sensors, crank/cam sensors), starter and alternator testing.
Bodywork Procedures:
Panel alignment, door mechanism adjustment, window regulator repair, exterior trim replacement, interior panel removal for access.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission disassembly and rebuilds.
Engine Type:
V8, Supercharged (Volumetric Efficiency through forced induction)
Displacement:
5.3 Liters (5340 cc)
Engine Code Example:
V8, 5.3L Supercharged (specific engine codes can vary, but this denotes the core specification)
Horsepower:
Approx. 335 hp @ 6000 rpm (initial models); later models (e.g., DB7 Vantage) saw increases
Torque:
Approx. 380 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (initial models)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (likely multi-point)
Supercharging:
Jaguar/Aston Martin designed Eaton Supercharger
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Major Service Interval:
Significant inspections and component checks usually recommended at 12,000 or 24,000 mile intervals, including spark plugs, belts, and ignition components.
Engine Oil:
Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (specific Aston Martin or equivalent specification recommended, consult manual for exact approval codes).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze/coolant mixture (e.g., OAT or HOAT type, typically 50/50 with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type and color).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 if specified for higher performance and wet boiling point).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent approved ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid), or ZF Lifeguard fluid for ZF transmissions.
Common Problems:
Potential issues can include intermittent electrical gremlins due to complexity, aging suspension bushings, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on early models), and wear on interior components due to age.
Supercharger System:
Regular checks of the supercharger belt, intercooler system integrity, and pulley bearings are advisable.
Aston Martin Legacy:
Aston Martin is a British manufacturer of luxury sports cars and grand tourers, renowned for its association with James Bond and a long history of motorsport and elegant automotive design.
Db7 Origin:
The DB7 was conceived by Aston Martin owner Victor Gauntlett, intended to revitalize the brand and compete in a more accessible luxury sports car market. It was based on the Jaguar XJS platform.
Production Timeline:
Introduced in 1994, the DB7 was produced through 2004, with various iterations including the Volante (convertible) and later the DB7 Vantage with a V12 engine. This manual covers the initial straight-six, supercharged phase.
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England