|
Introduction
|
|
Market Position
|
|
Segment:
|
Grand Tourer (GT)
|
|
Positioning:
|
High-performance luxury sports car, blending potent V12 power with elegant styling and refined comfort.
|
|
Competitive Analysis
|
|
Competitors:
|
Ferrari 456 GT, Bentley Continental GT, Porsche 911 Turbo (996 generation), Mercedes-Benz CL 600.
|
|
Key Features
|
|
Engine Highlight:
|
Naturally Aspirated 6.0-liter V12 engine derived from Jaguar's AJ-V8, significantly enhanced by Aston Martin.
|
|
Design:
|
Timeless styling by Ian Callum, featuring classic Aston Martin proportions and elegant lines.
|
|
Performance Focus:
|
Balanced performance, offering exhilarating acceleration and high-speed cruising capability.
|
|
Manual Coverage
|
|
Systems Covered
|
|
Engine Mechanical:
|
V12 Engine (6.0L), Cylinder Head, Pistons, Crankshaft, Camshafts, Valve Train
|
|
Engine Management:
|
ECU (Engine Control Unit), Fuel Injection System (Bosch Motronic), Ignition System, Emission Controls
|
|
Transmission:
|
Manual Transmission (Getrag 6-speed) and Automatic Transmission (Tiptronic)
|
|
Drivetrain:
|
Rear-Wheel Drive, Differential, Driveshafts
|
|
Suspension:
|
Front and Rear Suspension Systems, Dampers, Springs, Bushings, Anti-Roll Bars
|
|
Brakes:
|
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Calipers, Rotors, Fluid Lines
|
|
Steering:
|
Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Column
|
|
Electrical System:
|
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Wiring Harnesses, Fuses, Relays
|
|
Body And Chassis:
|
Body Panels, Frame Structure, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism (Volante)
|
|
Climate Control:
|
Air Conditioning System, Heater, Ventilation
|
|
Interior:
|
Seats, Dashboard, Trim, Upholstery, Airbags
|
|
Procedures Included
|
|
Maintenance:
|
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement
|
|
Diagnostics:
|
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Error Code Interpretation
|
|
Repair:
|
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Repair, Brake Service
|
|
Adjustment:
|
Valve Clearance Adjustment, Clutch Adjustment, Door Alignment
|
|
Specifications:
|
Torque Specifications, Tightening Sequences, Clearances
|
|
Wiring Diagrams:
|
Detailed Electrical Schematics for all Systems
|
|
Technical Depth
|
|
Depth Of Coverage:
|
Complete vehicle disassembly and reassembly, from basic maintenance to complex overhauls.
|
|
Target Audience:
|
DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
|
|
Technology Features
|
|
Infotainment
|
|
Audio System:
|
Premium audio system, often with CD player. Specific manufacturer (e.g., Linn, Alpine) may vary by option.
|
|
Navigation:
|
Optional navigation system, typically a period-correct CRT or LCD screen unit.
|
|
Driver Assistance
|
|
Cruise Control:
|
Standard electronic cruise control.
|
|
Parking Sensors:
|
Optional rear parking sensors.
|
|
Connectivity
|
|
Bluetooth:
|
Not typically integrated in the 2000 model; aftermarket solutions may exist.
|
|
Comfort Features
|
|
Seats:
|
Electrically adjustable leather sports seats with lumbar support.
|
|
Climate Control:
|
Automatic climate control with cabin air filtration.
|
|
Maintenance
|
|
Service Intervals
|
|
Oil Change Interval:
|
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to the manual for precise recommendations.
|
|
Major Service Interval:
|
Significant inspections and component replacements often recommended at intervals such as 30,000 miles or 3 years.
|
|
Fluid Specifications
|
|
Engine Oil:
|
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-40) and API/ACEA specifications. High-quality synthetic oil is recommended.
|
|
Coolant:
|
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Aston Martin approved coolant recommended.
|
|
Brake Fluid:
|
DOT 4 or higher specification brake fluid.
|
|
Transmission Fluid Manual:
|
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specification (e.g., API GL-4 or GL-5).
|
|
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
|
Refer to manual for specific ATF specification, often a proprietary blend or high-quality DEXRON/MERCON equivalent.
|
|
Power Steering Fluid:
|
Refer to manual for specific fluid type, often a hydraulic fluid or ATF.
|
|
Known Issues
|
|
Engine Reliability:
|
While the V12 is generally robust, potential issues can include ignition coil failures, lambda sensor issues, and oil leaks from various seals due to age.
|
|
Suspension Components:
|
Wear on suspension bushings, ball joints, and dampers can occur over time due to the car's performance nature.
|
|
Electrical Gremlins:
|
As with many older luxury vehicles, occasional electrical issues can arise, often related to aging wiring harnesses or module failures. The manual's wiring diagrams are crucial for diagnosis.
|
|
Paint And Bodywork:
|
The aluminum body panels can be susceptible to minor dings and scratches; the manual covers proper care and repair techniques.
|
|
Maintenance Schedule Importance
|
|
Schedule Adherence:
|
Strict adherence to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is vital for preserving the performance, reliability, and longevity of the V12 engine and complex systems.
|
|
Vehicle History
|
|
Brand Heritage
|
|
Aston Martin Legacy:
|
Aston Martin has a long-standing heritage of producing luxurious, high-performance sports cars with a distinctive British character.
|
|
Model Evolution
|
|
Db7 Introduction:
|
The DB7 was introduced in 1994, succeeding the Virage. The V12 Vantage model was introduced in 1999, replacing the supercharged inline-six variant and significantly elevating performance.
|
|
V12 Development:
|
The V12 engine was a joint development with Jaguar and Ford, forming the basis of what would become the Jaguar XJ220's V12 and later Ford's own V12 offerings.
|
|
Production
|
|
Production Period:
|
DB7 V12 Vantage produced from 1999 to 2003.
|
|
Manufacturing Location:
|
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England.
|
