Page 109 of 279
E - Security Systems
1-E-10
Alarm Key Fob - Range and Battery Replacement
The normal range of the alarm key fob is approximately 10 metres (30 feet).
If you need to come closer to the car before the key fob signal is effective,
the key fob battery probably needs replacing.
To replace the key fob battery, open the battery compartment using a small
flat bladed tool and remove the cover.
Lift out the two batteries noting the correct orientation (positive terminals
uppermost). Take care not to damage the upper electrical contact in the
battery compartment.
Fit replacement batteries (Two x Varta CR2016 3 volt batteries or similar),
observing the correct polarity. Refit the battery compartment cover and
press the outer end to engage the cover lock tab.
Test that the alarm system will arm/disarm when actuated using the key fob
from a range of approximately 10 metres (30 feet).
Page 112 of 279

F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-3
Parts and Lubricants
When undertaking a warranty servicing task, only parts, materials,
lubricants etc. that are specifically recommended by Aston Martin
Lagonda Limited should be used. Failure to do so can result in
damage to the vehicle and invalidate the New Car Warranty or
other warranties. Recommended lubricants, capacities, etc. may be
found in the Specifications section of this Owner's Guide, and are
recommended for use at all routine services whether or not under
warranty.
Emissions Warranty
The emission control systems fitted to cars for certain markets are
covered by a separate emissions warranty. A statement of the provisions
is given in the Warranty section of this Owner's Guide. You are
advised to familiarise yourself with all warranty conditions prior to
taking delivery of your car.
Engine Compartment Covers
The primary fluid level checks and reservoirs within the engine
compartment are all immediately accessible. The less frequently
maintained items are located under the engine compartment side
covers. To remove the covers, use a coin or the tool kit screwdriver
to turn the cover fasteners a quarter turn anti-clockwise. The fasteners
will pop-up and the covers can then be lifted off, along with a
rubber protection strip.
When replacing the covers, fit them into place and secure by pushing
down on each fastener and turn it a quarter turn clockwise until it
locks, then insert the rubber protection strip.
Page 117 of 279
F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-8
Engine Coolant Level Check
The engine coolant header tank (2) is mounted on the left-hand wheel arch
in the engine compartment. It is fitted with a pressure relief cap which
should not be removed unless the engine is cold. A thick cloth or glove must
be placed over the cap and the cap turned slowly in an anticlockwise
direction.
Allow any residual pressure to drop and then continue to turn the cap until
it is released from the header tank. Lift the cap clear and top up the tank with
an antifreeze mixture, of the correct strength, up to the maximum mark on
the side of the tank (see 'Specifications').
WARNING: Scalding can be caused by escaping steam or coolant. DO NOT
remove the pressure relief cap until the system is cold. In addition, use a cloth
or glove to protect hands. Protect your face and arms adequately. See warnings
given in SERVICING PRECAUTIONS.
Page 127 of 279
F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-18
The Vehicle Toolkit
On vehicles fitted with a space-saver spare wheel , the tool kit is stored in
the spare wheel insert.
On vehicles without the spare wheel option the vehicle toolkit is stored in
a well within the boot floor and covered by a boot floor liner panel. The
standard toolkit consists of the following items:
• 2 Tyre Inflation Aerosols and Warning Labels
• 1 Tyre Pressure Gauge
• 1 Towing Eye
• 1 Pair of Pliers
• 1 Screwdriver
• 1 Pair of Gloves
• 1 Locking Wheelnut Socket (UK only)
• 1 Bulb and Fuse Kit
• 1 Allen Key
Lift up the boot floor to access the toolkit.
Page 132 of 279
F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-23
Jacking and Wheel Changing
1. Place the vehicle on firm and level ground and secure the handbrake.
Place the chock from the toolkit under the wheel diagonally opposite to
the one to be removed. If parked on an incline, chock the 'downhill' side
of the wheel.
2. Remove the locking wheel nut
cap from the special nut using the
extractor tube from the toolkit.
Assemble the wheel nut wrench.
3. Using the wheel nut wrench from the tool kit, slightly loosen the four
normal wheel nuts in turn so that the nuts may be removed easily when
the wheel is raised from the ground.
4. Using the special socket from the toolkit, slightly loosen the fifth special
wheelnut.
Page 136 of 279

F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-27 The DB AR1 may then be winched onto a transporter or towed to a safe
location using a rope, provided that the following precautions are observed:
Transporting
If the vehicle is to be transported on a trailer or flat bed transporter, the
handbrake must be applied and the wheels chocked. Vehicles fitted with
Touchtronic transmission must have the gear selector lever moved to N or
D but NEVER in P. The parking lock may be damaged if the vehicle is
transported with the gear selector lever in P.
Four tie-down brackets are provided, two on each axle. These are NOT
suitable for solid bar towing.
Front Axle Tie-Down Rear Axle Tie Down
Vehicles with Defective Touchtronic Transmission
The vehicle must be carried on a transporter or towed with the rear wheels
clear of the ground (see suspended towing) or towed with the propeller shaft
disconnected at the final drive input flange. If the propeller shaft is
disconnected, it must be firmly secured away from the final drive flange.
Page 138 of 279

F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-29 3. Raise the vehicle using a 'spectacle frame' type lifting device with a cradle
positioned under each front wheel as shown below.
Rear 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/steering lock.
2. Raise the vehicle using a 'spectacle frame' style lifting device where a
cradle is positioned under each rear wheel as indicated below.
Towing by Another Vehicle
WARNING: When the engine is stationary, there will be no power assistance to
the steering or brakes. Therefore be prepared for relatively heavy steering and
the need for greatly increased brake pedal pressure.
The vehicle may be towed short distances by another provided that a speed
of 48 km/h (30 mph) is not exceeded. Do not tow for more than 24km (15
miles). When being towed, the vehicles gear lever, or gear selector lever
(automatic transmission), must be in Neutral or position N with the ignition
key turned to position II to release the steering lock and to render the horn,
indicators and brake lights operational.
Page 140 of 279

F - Owner Maintenance
1-F-31
WARNINGS:
To help avoid personal injury, do not use open flame, smoke, or cause an electric
spark when checking the battery, as gas generated by the battery is flammable
and can explode. Always shield your eyes and avoid leaning over the battery.
Do not ingest battery acid or fumes. If battery acid is ingested, drink large
quantities of water or milk followed by milk of magnesia, beaten egg or vegetable
oil. Call for medical assistance immediately.
Do not let battery acid come into contact with skin, eyes, hair, fabric or painted
surfaces. A solution of warm soapy water and baking soda may help neutralise
acid.
Used batteries contain sulphuric acid, lead and other potentially hazardous
materials. Dispose of unwanted batteries in authorised waste disposal facilities.
DO NOT discard unwanted batteries in household waste.
Quiescent Battery Drain
Any power drain from a battery after the ignition is switched off is referred
to as 'quiescent battery drain'. Your DB AR1, in common with many modern,
high technology motor cars, contains electronic circuits and sub-systems
which must be left activated at all times. For example, the clock, security
systems and in-car entertainment system continue to drain battery power
even with the ignition switched off. This quiescent drain will discharge a fully
charged new battery in approximately 30 days unless recharged by normal
engine running or an independent battery charger.
It is therefore vital that, when leaving your car unused for extended
periods, you use the battery disconnect switch to minimise quiescent
drain and that you use the battery conditioner to maintain battery
charge level.