🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Aston Martin

Model:

DB9

Year:

2005

Model Variant:

Coupe / Volante (Convertible)

Chassis Code:

VH Platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)

Target Audience:

Affluent enthusiasts and owners of the Aston Martin DB9, requiring in-depth technical knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Competitors:

Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, Bentley Continental GT, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class.

Design Philosophy:

Elegant styling, powerful V12 engine, luxurious interior, refined performance, and exceptional craftsmanship.

Platform:

Aston Martin's VH (Vertical Horizontal) modular platform, designed for flexibility and rigidity.

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and independent specialists to perform accurate diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance, potentially saving significant costs associated with dealership servicing.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Aston Martin DB9 (2005 Model Year)

Secondary Coverage:

This manual likely covers early production models of the DB9 which utilized the VH platform, potentially extending to late 2004 build dates if serviced as a 2005 model.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely over 1500 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era and complexity).

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Secondary Type Indicated:

Shop Repair Manual, Troubleshooting Manual Guide, Maintenance Schedule, Wiring Diagram.

Primary Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for potential archive extraction).

Operating System Compatibility:

Windows, Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (V12), Transmission (automatic), Drivetrain (rear-wheel drive), Exhaust System.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, EBD, DSC), Wheels and Tires.

Electrical:

Engine Management System (ECU), Ignition System, Fuel System, Lighting, Power Windows, Seats, Mirrors, Climate Control, Audio System, Navigation System, Security System, Body Control Modules (BCM).

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Convertible Top Mechanism (for Volante model), Glass.

Maintenance:

Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, inspections.

Repair:

Component removal and installation, disassembly and assembly of major systems, specific repair techniques.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostics, live data interpretation, specific diagnostic tool procedures.

Wiring:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, component location charts, circuit tracing guidance.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical system diagnosis and repair, and bodywork procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF, allowing for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, enabling quick location of specific topics and components.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-hand reference in the workshop.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format).

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

AM11

Configuration:

6.0L (5935cc) Naturally Aspirated V12

Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 79.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.3:1

Valvetrain:

Quad Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder

Horsepower Hp:

450 bhp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

420 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with individual throttle bodies.

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (91 AKI or higher)

ECU Type:

Likely Bosch Motronic or similar sophisticated engine control unit.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Model:

ZF 6HP26 (likely).

Type:

N/A for 2005 model year DB9; later models introduced a manual option.

Shift Modes:

Sport Mode, Paddle Shifters (Steering Wheel Mounted).

Recommended Fluid:

Likely a specific ZF-approved ATF, such as Shell M-1375.4 or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4720 mm (185.8 in)

Width Mm:

1861 mm (73.3 in) (excluding mirrors)

Height Mm:

1287 mm (50.7 in)

Wheelbase Mm:

2740 mm (107.9 in)

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 1775 kg (3913 lbs) for Coupe, Approx. 1810 kg (3990 lbs) for Volante.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

Approx. 2150 kg (4740 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Specific official crash test ratings for this model year are not widely published by major agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP. However, Aston Martin vehicles are designed to meet rigorous global safety standards.

Traction Control:

Yes (Aston Martin Tracking Control - ATC)

Stability Control:

Yes (Dynamic Stability Control - DSC)

ABS:

Yes (Anti-lock Braking System)

Ebs:

Yes (Electronic Brake Force Distribution)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side Airbags.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioned Seatbelts with Force Limiters.

Body Structure:

Integrated roll-over protection structure (especially important for Volante model).

💡 Technology Features

System Brand:

Likely a premium branded audio system (e.g., Bang & Olufsen or Aston Martin's proprietary system) and integrated navigation.

Connectivity:

CD player, Radio, potentially an auxiliary input. Bluetooth integration was less common in base models of this era but may have been an option.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking sensors were often standard or optional.

Climate Control:

Automatic Climate Control with dual-zone functionality.

Seats:

Electronically adjustable heated sports seats.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for precise intervals.

Major Service Interval:

Often around 20,000 - 30,000 miles, involving more extensive checks and potential component replacements.

Engine Oil Type:

Likely a full synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 engine oil meeting specific API and ACEA specifications. Refer to manual for precise Aston Martin approved oils.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a pink or red long-life formulation. Consult manual for specific Aston Martin part numbers and specifications.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 High-Performance Brake Fluid.

Common Concerns:

Potential issues may include: door latch mechanisms, catalytic converter longevity, ignition coil failures, minor electronic glitches, and wear on suspension components due to the high-performance nature of the vehicle.

Manual Utility For Issues:

The factory service manual is invaluable for diagnosing and addressing these potential issues with accurate procedures and specifications.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage Summary:

Aston Martin, founded in 1913, is renowned for producing luxurious and high-performance sports cars, often associated with the James Bond franchise. The brand emphasizes craftsmanship, elegant design, and a unique driving experience.

Db Lineage:

The DB9 continues the prestigious 'DB' lineage, succeeding iconic models like the DB5 and DB7. It represents a significant technological advancement and design evolution for Aston Martin.

Design Era:

Designed by Ian Callum, the DB9's design language set the tone for subsequent Aston Martin models, characterized by flowing lines, a prominent grille, and muscular proportions.

Production Location:

Gaydon, Warwickshire, England

Production Years:

2003 - 2016 (with significant updates in 2012 as DB9 MY13).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

The DB9 received significant acclaim for its design and was often cited as one of the most beautiful modern sports cars.

Performance Awards:

Praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and usability as a grand tourer.