Introduction
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Market Position
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Positioning:
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High-performance luxury grand tourer, representing Aston Martin's pinnacle of automotive engineering for its era.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitors:
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Ferrari 456 GT/M, Bentley Continental GT, Porsche 911 Turbo (996), Mercedes-Benz SL (R230)
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Key Features
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Design Philosophy:
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Elegant styling, powerful V12 performance, luxurious interior, handcrafted quality.
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Value Proposition:
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Provides owners and technicians with the authoritative information needed to maintain and repair this exclusive vehicle, saving on dealership costs and ensuring proper care.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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V12 engine (6.0L naturally aspirated), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control
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Transmission:
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Manual (e.g., Tremec T-56) and Automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP30) transmission service, repair, and specifications
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Drivetrain:
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Rear-wheel drive, driveshafts, differential, axle components
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Suspension:
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Front and rear suspension geometry, components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs
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Brakes:
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Hydraulic system, ABS, brake pads, rotors, calipers, bleeding procedures
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Steering:
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Power steering system, steering rack, column, alignment
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Electrical System:
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Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, ECU diagnostics
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Body And Chassis:
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Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable), chassis structure, corrosion protection
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Comfort And Convenience:
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HVAC system, interior trim, seats, infotainment (basic for the era), power accessories
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement
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Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, specific component testing
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Repair:
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Step-by-step repair instructions for major and minor components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical component replacement
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Diagnostics:
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Fault code interpretation, diagnostic tool usage, live data analysis (for the era)
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Specifications:
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Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, engine parameters, electrical system voltages
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive, covering from basic preventative maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting guides.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise recommendation).
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Major Service Interval:
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Significant service at 30,000 miles or 36 months, often including spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid change.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil:
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API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3/B4, Viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic. (Verify with manual).
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Coolant:
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Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Aston Martin specified or equivalent OAT/HOAT). Capacity approx. 12.5 liters. (Verify with manual).
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Brake Fluid:
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DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 High-Performance Brake Fluid.
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Transmission Fluid Manual:
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GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 Synthetic). Capacity approx. 1.8 liters. (Verify with manual).
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Transmission Fluid Automatic:
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ZF LifeguardFluid5 or equivalent. Capacity approx. 7.5 liters (dry fill). (Verify with manual).
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Differential Fluid:
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API GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil, Viscosity 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity approx. 1.5 liters. (Verify with manual).
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Clutch wear, suspension bushings, catalytic converters, ignition coils, door lock actuators, window regulators.
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V12 Specific Considerations:
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Spark plug access can be challenging, requiring specific procedures. Early V12 engines had some minor teething issues that were addressed in later production.
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