Aston Martin VH600 Engine (2020-2025) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Aston Martin VH600 is a 5,998 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. Developed in — house by Aston Martin, it features a 60° V12 configuration, DOHC 48 — valve heads, and dry — sump lubrication. In standard tune, it produces 510 kW (694 PS) and 700 Nm of torque, with a redline of 7,500 rpm, delivering high — revving performance and linear power delivery. The engine shares core architecture with the AM31 V12 but features revised intake, exha…

Aston Martin VH600 Engine
Compliance Note:

All VH600-powered vehicles comply with Euro 6d emissions standards .

Aston Martin VH600 Technical Specifications

The Aston Martin VH600 is a 5,998 cc naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring (2020–2025). It features a 60° aluminum block, DOHC 48-valve heads, and dry-sump lubrication to deliver strong mid-range torque and high-RPM power. Developed entirely in-house, it meets Euro 6d standards while supporting bespoke intake and exhaust tuning for Aston Martin’s acoustic signature.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
5,998 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
89.0 mm × 80.8 mm
Power output
510 kW (694 PS) @ 7,000 rpm
Torque
700 Nm @ 5,500 rpm
Fuel system
Direct injection, Bosch MD17.8.13 ECU
Emissions standard
Euro 6d
Compression ratio
11.8:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled, dual-circuit
Turbocharger
N/A
Timing system
Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts)
Oil type
Castrol Edge 5W-50 (Aston Martin Specification WSS-M2C947-A3)
Dry weight
245 kg

Aston Martin VH600 Compatible Models

The Aston Martin VH600 was used across Aston Martin's VH and MLA platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed entirely in-house for grand touring performance. This engine received model-specific calibrations-intake tuning in the DBS Superleggera and revised exhaust manifolds in the DB12-and from 2022 the DB12 adopted the VH600 Evo with higher-lift camshafts and optimized valve timing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2020-2023
Models:
DBS Superleggera
Variants:
DBS Superleggera, DBS Superleggera Volante
View Source
Aston Martin Group PT-2022
Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2023-2025
Models:
DB12
Variants:
DB12, DB12 Volante
View Source
Aston Martin Group PT-2022

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Common Reliability Issues - ASTON-MARTIN VH600 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

Intake manifold runner actuator failure
Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, hesitation under load, reduced power, fault codes P2004/P2006.
Cause: Plastic internal gears in pre-2021 actuators degrade over time, causing binding or incomplete flap movement in intake runners.
Fix: Replace with post-2021 reinforced actuator units per service bulletin; recalibrate via diagnostic tool after installation.
Oil consumption in high-mileage engines
Symptoms: Excessive oil usage (over 1 L/5,000 km), blue exhaust smoke under acceleration, carbon buildup in combustion chambers.
Cause: Wear in piston rings and valve stem seals, particularly in engines with extended oil intervals or improper viscosity.
Fix: Verify oil type and service history; consider compression/leakdown test. Severe cases may require top-end rebuild with updated seals.
Cooling system leaks and thermostat faults
Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, temperature fluctuations, heater inefficiency, steam from engine bay.
Cause: Age-related degradation of coolant hoses, radiator seams, and thermostat housing gaskets due to high underhood temperatures.
Fix: Inspect and replace coolant hoses, thermostat, and housing gasket; flush system and refill with OEM-spec coolant.
Throttle body motor wear
Symptoms: Limp mode, erratic idle, delayed throttle response, ECU fault codes related to throttle position sensor.
Cause: Carbon buildup and motor brush wear in electronic throttle bodies, especially in vehicles with infrequent maintenance.
Fix: Clean or replace throttle body; perform adaptation reset using OEM diagnostic system to restore proper operation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

ASTON-MARTIN VH600 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The VH600 is generally robust when properly maintained, but pre-2021 DBS Superleggera models are prone to intake actuator failures. Later revisions (post-2021) improved actuator durability. Regular oil changes with correct 5W-50 specification and cooling system maintenance are essential. Well-serviced engines can exceed 150,000 km without major issues.

The most frequent issues are intake manifold runner actuator failure (especially in early DBS Superleggera), oil consumption in high-mileage engines, cooling system leaks, and throttle body motor wear. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins and supported by dealer repair records.

The VH600 powers the DBS Superleggera (2020–2023) and DB12 (2023–2025). It is entirely in-house developed and features bespoke intake and exhaust tuning. Each application features model-specific calibration and thermal management systems tailored to grand touring or high-performance use.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the VH600 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.

Moderate for a high-performance V12. In a DBS Superleggera, expect ~18.6 L/100km (city) and ~12.1 L/100km (highway), or 15 mpg UK combined. Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style and fuel quality.

Yes. The VH600 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. Chain replacement is recommended every 120,000 km or 10 years, whichever comes first.

Aston Martin specifies Castrol Edge 5W-50 meeting WSS-M2C947-A3 standard. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or 2 years. Using incorrect oil can accelerate cam and chain wear due to the dry-sump system and high-pressure valve train design.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

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Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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