Introduction
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Market Position
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Positioning:
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The Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage represents the pinnacle of the DB7 lineage, a grand tourer exuding luxury, performance, and exclusivity. This manual caters to owners and technicians who demand precision and thoroughness in maintaining such a sophisticated vehicle.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitors:
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Competed directly with high-performance luxury coupes and convertibles such as the Ferrari 456 GT, Bentley Continental GT, and Porsche 911 Turbo of its era.
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Key Features
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Distinguishing Features:
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Hand-built craftsmanship, naturally aspirated V12 engine, elegant styling, luxurious interior, and exceptional Grand Touring capabilities.
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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)
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Engine Management:
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ECU, Ignition, Fuel Injection, Emissions Control
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Transmission:
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5-Speed Automatic (Touchtronic) & 6-Speed Manual
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Drivetrain:
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Rear-Wheel Drive, Limited Slip Differential
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Suspension:
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Front: Double Wishbone, Rear: Independent Multi-Link
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Brakes:
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Front: Ventilated Discs (AP Racing Calipers), Rear: Ventilated Discs
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Steering:
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Hydraulic Power Assisted Rack and Pinion
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Electrical System:
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Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Accessories, Battery, Alternator
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Body And Chassis:
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Frame, Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim
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Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
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HVAC System Operation and Repair
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Safety Systems:
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Airbags, Seatbelts, ABS
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks
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Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Common Issues
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Repair:
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Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Servicing, Suspension Component Replacement
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Diagnostics:
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Detailed diagnostic steps for all major systems
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Disassembly Reassembly:
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Complete step-by-step instructions for component disassembly and reassembly
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Code:
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V12 6.0L
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Engine Type:
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Naturally Aspirated V12, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
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Performance
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Horsepower:
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420 bhp (313 kW) @ 6000 rpm
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Torque:
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400 lb-ft (542 Nm) @ 5000 rpm
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Fuel System
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Fuel Delivery:
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Multi-point Fuel Injection
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Fuel Type:
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Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
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Cooling System
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Coolant Type:
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Aston Martin specific coolant mixture (e.g., Ethylene Glycol based)
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Lubrication
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Oil Capacity:
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Approx. 12.5 liters (13.2 US quarts)
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Recommended Oil Viscosity:
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10W-40 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Annually or every 10,000 miles (16,000 km), whichever comes first (check manual for specifics).
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Major Service Interval:
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Refer to the Maintenance Schedule in the manual for detailed intervals for major component inspections and replacements (e.g., timing belt/chain, spark plugs).
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Fluid Specifications
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Brake Fluid:
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DOT 4 (High-performance).
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Power Steering Fluid:
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Refer to the manual for specific hydraulic fluid type.
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Spark plugs (due to V12 configuration), ignition coils, suspension bushings, and potential electrical gremlins common in older luxury vehicles. Cooling system components.
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Performance Considerations:
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Early V12 models sometimes required attention to throttle body synchronization and exhaust manifold gaskets. The manual provides detailed troubleshooting for these.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Heritage:
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Aston Martin has a long-standing legacy of producing iconic sports cars and grand tourers, known for their handcrafted quality, elegant design, and motorsport pedigree.
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Model Evolution
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Evolution:
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The DB7 V12 Vantage was the ultimate evolution of the DB7 platform, replacing the supercharged inline-six engine with a powerful V12. It introduced enhanced performance, revised styling, and updated luxury features.
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Production
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Production Period:
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The DB7 V12 Vantage was produced from 1999 to 2004.
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Manufacturing Location:
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Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England
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