Segment:
Ultra-luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Philosophy:
Combines high-performance sports car dynamics with the comfort and refinement of a luxury vehicle.
Competitors:
Ferrari 456 GT, Bentley Continental GT, Aston Martin DB7 Vantage
Design:
Iconic Aston Martin styling, hand-built craftsmanship, carbon fiber composite body panels
Performance Focus:
Naturally aspirated V12 engine, rear-wheel drive, advanced chassis dynamics
Exclusivity:
Low production numbers, bespoke customization options
Engine:
V12 6.0L (e.g., VH platform specifics, internal components, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions)
Transmission:
Automatic (likely ZF 6HP26 or similar), including torque converter, hydraulics, electronic controls, and fluid service
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axles, and associated components
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, fluid, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, dampers, springs, control arms, bushings, geometry adjustment
Steering:
Power-assisted steering system, column, rack and pinion, fluid
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrumentation, power accessories, body control modules
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis structure, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, interior trim
Climate Control:
HVAC system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core, controls
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, ABS, traction control, stability control
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault codes, troubleshooting guides
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, overhauls, rebuilds
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
In-depth, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and component overhauls. Designed for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not subject to standard consumer safety ratings due to low volume production and intended market.
Traction Control:
Yes (ASR - Automatic Stability Regulation)
Stability Control:
Yes (ESP - Electronic Stability Program, or similar Aston Martin branded system)
ABS:
Yes (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Yes (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Airbags:
Driver, Passenger, Side Airbags (likely)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Construction:
Bonded aluminum and composite tub structure for rigidity and weight savings
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Major Service Interval:
As specified in the manual, often at 20,000-30,000 mile intervals or specific timeframes for comprehensive checks.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual; likely a high-quality synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-40, meeting specific Aston Martin approvals (e.g., API SN, ACEA A3/B4).
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/coolant meeting Aston Martin specifications (likely a silicate-free, long-life type).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1, high-performance racing fluid recommended for extreme use.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; often a specific hydraulic fluid or ATF type.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch (if applicable for manual variant, though this model is typically automatic), suspension bushings, ignition coils, catalytic converters.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older Aston Martins can sometimes experience minor electrical issues due to complex systems and age; the manual is crucial for diagnosis.
Special Considerations:
Requires specialized tools and knowledge for many repairs; consistent use of high-quality parts and fluids is essential.
Heritage:
Aston Martin has a long-standing heritage of producing elegant, high-performance sports cars and grand tourers since 1913.
Predecessor:
Aston Martin DB7
Successor:
Aston Martin DBS V12 (2007)
Production Years:
2001-2003 (first generation Vanquish)
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England
Series Designation:
First Series Vanquish (V12 Vanquish)