2003 ASTON MARTIN DB AR1 Q ignition

C - Driving
1-C-19
The Braking Systems
The Footbrake System
Your DB AR1 uses a vacuum boosted hydraulic braking system with anti-
lock (ABS) function. This system ensures braking performance in keeping
with the vehicle performance.
The Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is continually monitored for correct
operation whilst the ignition is switched on. Should a fault occur, it will be
signalled by the Anti-Lock Warning Light.
Brake System Safety Features
The brake system tandem master cylinder is designed so that in the worst
case (barring major accident damage), only half the brake system could fail.
Even in the event of a major brake pipe fracture, at least two wheels will have
fully operative brakes.

C - Driving
1-C-22
Brake Warning Indications During Driving
Your DB AR1 electronic control units continue to monitor correct operation
of the braking sub-systems while the vehicle is being driven. Two brake
warning lights are of particular importance.
The Anti Lock Braking (ABS) Warning Light
The ABS system is monitored for correct operation while the
ignition is switched on. If a fault is detected, the Anti-Lock
warning light will illuminate and the ABS system will be partly
or fully disabled.
The normal braking system will continue to function without anti-lock but
with full vacuum boosted braking to all road wheels being maintained. In
the event of an ABS fault, consult your Aston Martin Dealer immediately.
WARNING: If the ABS warning light illuminates, you should be aware that
wheels could lock during extreme braking or when braking on slippery surfaces.
Take additional care to avoid the danger of wheels locking.
The Brake System Warning Light
The braking system is continuously monitored for fluid level.
If only the brake warning light illuminates, it indicates that the
brake fluid has fallen below the acceptable level. It is essential
that the braking system is checked immediately, preferably
by an Aston Martin Dealer.
WARNING: If the brake warning light illuminates, you should
immediately be prepared for possible increased stopping distances
and possible partial failure of the braking system.

E - Security Systems
1-E-2
Security Systems
The primary protection for your DB AR1 is provided by an electronic
security system. Protection is further enhanced by a passive anti-theft system
(PATS) which provides engine immobilisation measures if the wrong ignition
key is used. The total system has the following functions:
• Remote Arming/Disarming via a Key Fob.
• Perimeter Sensing via switches on the doors, boot lid and bonnet.
• Boot Release on the Key Fob.
• Panic Alarm triggered using the Alarm Key Fob.
• 120dB Siren with battery back-up (in markets where audible sirens are
permitted).
• Random Code Encryption to prevent electronic scanning or grabbing of
the key fob identity code.
• Passive Anti-Theft system.
Tracker System (Optional - UK only excluding Channel Isles)
• The Tracker hardware is fitted to UK cars only and may be activated for
any owners who wish to subscribe to this additional vehicle security
system. Please consult your dealer for system details and subscription
rates.

E - Security Systems
1-E-3
System Operation - Basic Controls
The system is controlled using the two button key fob. The left (key symbol)
button controls the normal locking/unlocking of the car and arms/disarms
the alarm system. The right (boot open symbol) button controls the
unlocking of the boot. The Panic Alarm feature is operated using the left key
fob button.
The security system aerial is located at the rear of the car. The key fob should
be pointed towards this area of the vehicle to ensure a strong signal. The
normal operating range of the key fob is approximately 10 metres (30 feet).
The Passive Anti-Theft feature is fully automatic and is operated via a
transponder in the ignition key head which communicates with the engine
immobiliser circuits.

E - Security Systems
1-E-7
The Passive Anti-Theft System (PATs)
The PATs system is a fully automatic engine immobiliser. The system consists
of a transponder inside the head of each ignition key and, around the
ignition lock, a transceiver aerial which communicates signals to the PATs
electronic control unit. The PATs control unit communicates with the engine
management controller to immobilise the engine until a valid code signal is
received from the ignition key.
Two coded keys are provided with the vehicle. These
keys fit both the door locks, the boot lock and the ignition
lock.
In the event of loss of one of the keys, duplicate keys can
be created and programmed from the other key by your
Aston Martin dealer.
Starting the Engine
When the alarm system is disarmed and the vehicle key is turned in the
ignition lock, the PATs controller sends a signal to the ignition key. The
ignition key must respond with a valid code before engine start will be
enabled. If a valid code is received, the ignition system will operate
normally.
If the key code is not received, or is invalid, engine start remains disabled.
Caution: To ensure a trouble-free signal exchange between the key and the vehicle,
do not cover the key head with any metal object (e.g. another key).
ASTON MARTIN

E - Security Systems
1-E-8
PATs Status
The PATs system state is shown by the red status
LED in the centre console.
The status LED will illuminate for three seconds
when the ignition is turned on and will extinguish
when a valid code is received from the ignition
key.
When the ignition is turned off, the status LED
will flash. This is the normal state when the
vehicle is parked with the ignition off and the
key removed.
If the status LED remains on when the ignition is switched on, the system is
in fail-safe mode. This means that the car will start, but PATs has a fault.
After one minute, the status lamp will flash a fault code. Your Aston Martin
Dealer can use this code to aid diagnosis of the PATs problem.
If the status LED continues flashing when the ignition is turned on, the
vehicle remains immobilised due to a fault in the system or an invalid key
code. Should this situation arise, try the spare key. If successful, source a
replacement for the faulty key. If problems persist with both keys, consult
your Aston Martin dealer.
During normal operation, the only indication that PATs is present is the PATS
status LED. The system is designed to be completely transparent to the
vehicle user.

F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-4
Servicing Precautions
To avoid personal injury, the following safety precautions must be observed
when the bonnet is open and the engine is running or the ignition is switched
on.
WARNINGS:
Keep hands, hair, tools, items of clothing and jewellery clear of all drive belts,
pulleys and operating mechanisms. The cooling fans may operate even though
the engine is not running. The windscreen wiper mechanism is fitted with an
intermittent delay facility and may operate unexpectedly if left switched on.
Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas and can cause unconsciousness and may be
fatal. Do not breathe exhaust gas as it contains carbon monoxide which by itself
has no colour or odour. Never start or leave the engine running in an enclosed,
unventilated area.
Avoid skin contact with all exhaust system and engine components, engine fluids
and escaping steam. They may be hot and will burn you.
Whenever possible work in the engine compartment with the engine cool, the
ignition switched off and the battery disconnected.
Do not work beneath the car with the vehicle lifting jack as the only support.
Place suitable stands under the car.
Keep children and pets clear of the car. Do not allow anyone inside the car unless
specifically working to your instructions.

F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-28
Suspended Towing
Do NOT tow with sling-type equipment since damage to the bodywork may
result.
Take care when using 'spectacle frame' type towing equipment that the
towing device is well clear of the front or rear apron. Body damage may
occur if the vehicles pass over uneven road surfaces.
Adhere to Towing Regulations
In certain countries the registration number of the towing vehicle and an ON
TOW sign or warning triangle must be displayed in a prominent position at
the rear of the vehicle being towed.
Front Suspended Tow
Caution: To prevent body damage ensure an adequate clearance is
maintained between the car body and (1) the ground and (2) the 'spectacle
frame' of the towing vehicle while your car is being towed.
1. Remove the ignition key from the ignition.
2. Vehicles with manual transmission: Place the gear lever in neutral.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Disconnect the propeller shaft at the final drive input flange.
Ensure that the propeller shaft is firmly secured away from the final drive
input flange.