Page 45 of 279
B - Controls
1-B-9 Headlights (Blue)
Shows when the main beam of the headlights are in use.
Instrument Pack Chime
A warning chime will sound briefly to attract your attention if any of the
following warning lamps illuminate - ABS, Low brake fluid, Low coolant
level, Low fuel level, Low oil pressure, Boot open or a Frost warning.
The warning will be repeated each time the ignition is switched on until the
cause is cleared.
Instrument Panel Illumination
The level of instrument illumination can be adjusted using the rotary control
on the left hand side of the steering column.
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B - Controls
1-B-17 The centre console contains the following controls:
• Clock and PATS Status Light
• Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning Controls
• Fog Lamp, Screen Heater and Seat Heater Switches
• Radio Cassette Player (Control for the CD autochanger)
• Hazard Light Switch
• Starter Button
• Traction Control Switch
• Window Lift Switches
• Boot Release Switch
• Cigar Lighter and Ashtray
The Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning Systems are fully described
in the Air-Conditioning section of this Owner's Guide.
Clock
The clock in the centre of the air conditioning control panel is set using the
buttons on the clock panel.
The left button is used to retard the time and the
right button to advance the time.
The small light between the time set buttons is the
PATS Status Light which is described in the Security
section of this Owner's Guide.
ASTON MARTIN
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B - Controls
1-B-19 Seat Heater Switches
Press to switch on the heater. Press the button a second
time to switch off the heater. The heater is thermostatically
controlled and maintains a constant seat temperature until
either the heater is switched off or the ignition is switched
off.
Boot Release Switch
Press to open the boot at any time when the alarm system
is switched off and the ignition is switched on.
Radio/Cassette/CD Player
The radio/cassette player is located beneath the console switch panel. The
CD changer is fitted in the boot (trunk). Manufacturers operating instructions
for the in-car entertainment system are included with this Owner's Guide.
Hazard Warning Lights
The hazard warning light switch is located beside the
radio cassette player. When pressed, the external indicator
lights and side repeater lights will flash in unison.
Press the switch again to turn off the hazard lights.
Caution: Observe local laws on the use of hazard lights
Page 59 of 279
B - Controls
1-B-23
Bonnet (Hood) and Boot (Trunk)
Bonnet (Hood) Release
The bonnet release lever is situated
on the outside of the left hand front
footwell. Pull the lever to release the
bonnet latches. The bonnet will be
released and will rise until captured
by the bonnet safety catch.
Bonnet (Hood) Safety Catch
The bonnet safety catch is located under the
bonnet rear edge on the drivers side of the car
(left side on left hand drive, right side on right
hand drive).
Push down slightly on the bonnet rear edge
whilst pushing forward on the bonnet safety
catch to release it. Lift the bonnet until fully
open. The bonnet is held open by two gas
struts.
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B - Controls
1-B-24
Closing the Bonnet (Hood)
To close the bonnet, hold near the centre of the rear edge and lower until
approximately 18 inches (450 mm) from the latch mechanisms and then
release it. After closing the bonnet, ensure that both left and right hand
latches have fully engaged by pulling up at either side of the bonnet rear
edge.
WARNING: Before closing the bonnet, ensure that no one is obstructing the
closing area and that hands and clothing are clear. Remove tools, cleaning cloths,
etc. from the engine compartment.
Boot (Trunk) Release
There are four methods for opening the boot.
1. The boot lid may be released at any time using the right hand button on
the key fob.
ASTON MARTIN
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B - Controls
1-B-25 2. The boot may be opened from outside the car
using the ignition key when the alarm system is
switched off. Lift up the Aston Martin badge to
access the boot lock.
3. The boot may be opened by pressing the boot
release switch located on the center console at
any time when the alarm system is switched off
and the ignition is switched on.
4. The boot may be opened from inside by
pulling the luminous emergency release handle.
The handle will latch on the edge of its housing.
To retract the handle, pull, lift and release so that
it may withdraw into the housing.
Boot (Trunk) Closing
Close the boot gently and press down the lid until the lock engages.
Slamming of the boot lid may damage the lock mechanism or the boot seals.
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B - Controls
1-B-26
Accessory Socket
The accessory socket is mounted in the centre armrest beside the boot open
switch and may be used to power any 12 volt vehicle accessory requiring a
current of less than 15 amps.
The accessory socket is only live when the ignition key is inserted and the
switch is turned to position I or II.
WARNING: Damage to the electrical circuits will result if more than 15 amps is
drawn from the accessory socket.
Only connect accessories which are designed for use in a motor vehicle.
Read the manufacturer's instructions and ensure that you do not connect any
device which would exceed the current rating of the accessory socket.
Page 67 of 279

C - Driving
1-C-2
Checks Before Driving
Inspect the car to make sure that everything is according to the information
and specifications in this Owner's Guide.
Check the wheels, wheel nuts and tyres.
Check that all windows, mirrors and lights are clear and unobstructed.
Check that the boot and bonnet are closed.
Once you are in the car, check that the doors are closed.
Check that the seat, mirrors and steering wheel adjustments are correct.
Check that all gauges and indicators are reading correctly.
Check that the seat backs are in an upright position.
Check that all occupants have fastened their seat belts.
Fuel
DB AR1 uses 95/98 RON Unleaded Fuel only (USA - Premium Unleaded).
For optimum performance and extended high speed driving, the use of 98
RON fuel is recommended.
Caution: Do not use unleaded petrol containing metal based additives, such as those
based on Manganese (often sold as MMT) and Iron (often sold as Ferrocene). The use
of fuel containing such additives could lead to catalyst failure which is not covered by
the vehicle warranties.
The DB AR1 total fuel capacity is 82 litres (18 Imp gallons / 21.5 US gallons).
Note: Approximately 7 litres of the total fuel capacity specified above is required
to prime the fuel system and is therefore not usable.