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Introduction
This manual defines and explains the Warranty Policy and Procedures to be applied to
Aston Martin products by Aston Martin Authorised Dealers.
Aston Martin warranty policies have been formulated to ensure that owners are able to
have warranty repairs carried out with the minimum of inconvenience, and that Aston
Martin Authorised Dealers are able to recover expenses incurred in accordance with
procedures detailed in this manual.
Responsibility for the correct implementation of Aston Martin warranty policies is assigned
to Aston Martin Authorised Dealers who must ensure all appropriate staff are fully aware
of the requirements.
For ease of use, the manual is divided into individual sections by subject. From time to
time the manual may be re-issued or updated by Aston Martin through established dealer
communications. It is important that revised sections are downloaded or printed to keep
the manual up-to-date.
Where it is considered that market legislation or other constraints render any part of these
policies inappropriate to a specific country, full details must be forwarded to Aston Martin
Warranty Operations.
Note: The term 'supervisor' throughout this manual is defined as an employee who, in
general, does not carry out repairs. This could include workshop supervision or service
management.
SECTION
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A1SUMMARY OF VEHICLE WARRANTY
All members of staff involved in any aspect of warranty should be familiar with the contents
of the customer literature.
The period of warranty cover for each market is detailed in the Summary Of Worldwide
Warranty Terms.
See A5 Summary of worldwide warranty terms.
See B Guide to warranty terms and conditions.
The period of cover commences on the day the vehicle is handed over to the first retail
customer or their representative. Where a vehicle is purchased by an intermediary, the
period of cover commences when the vehicle is handed over to that intermediary. In the
case of dealer demonstrators the warranty starts on the day the vehicle is put into service.
All new vehicle registrations must be recorded promptly with Aston Martin in accordance
with local market procedures.
A1.1VEHICLE WARRANTY
Should any part of the vehicle require repair or replacement as a result of a manufacturing
defect, the part will be repaired or replaced completely free of charge by any Aston Martin
dealer, regardless of any change of vehicle ownership during the period of cover. All parts
fitted during warranty repairs are covered for the balance of the original warranty period.
In all repairs carried out by an Aston Martin dealer where a claim is submitted, genuine
Aston Martin approved parts (new or remanufactured to approved quality standards) must
be used and any displaced parts become the property of Aston Martin.
Note: Tyres are covered separately by the tyre manufacturer. The dealer should, however,
assist the customer with any tyre claim.
What is the warranty period?
The Vehicle Warranty starts on the day the vehicle is delivered to the first retail customer
or their representative. Where a vehicle is purchased by an intermediary, the period of
cover commences when the vehicle is handed over to that intermediary. The warranty
period applicable to each market is detailed in the Summary Of Worldwide Warranty
Terms.
See A5 Summary of worldwide warranty terms.
Note: The warranty period for dealer demonstrator vehicles starts on the day the vehicle
is put into service (not the day the vehicle is first sold retail).
Does this apply to accessories?
Any genuine Aston Martin accessories (excluding gift items) supplied and fitted by an Aston
Martin dealer within one month or 1000 miles / 1500 km (whichever occurs first) of a new
vehicle being put into service will benefit from the same warranty terms and duration as
the Vehicle Warranty.
SECTION A
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A1.2WARRANTY APPLIED TO PAINT SURFACE
Should the paint surface of the vehicle body require attention due to a defect in material
or applications then, subject to specified conditions of the Paint Surface Warranty, the
necessary repairs will be performed completely free of charge by any authorised dealer,
regardless of any change in vehicle ownership during the period of cover.
What is the warranty period?
The Paint Surface Warranty begins at the same time as the Vehicle Warranty.
See A5 Summary of worldwide warranty terms.
A1.3CORROSION PROTECTION WARRANTY
Should any part of the bodywork of the vehicle be perforated by rust corrosion, the panel(s)
affected by the perforation will be repaired or replaced by an authorised dealer completely
free of charge, regardless of any change in vehicle ownership.
Note¹: The term 'perforated' means a hole that penetrates through the bodywork caused
by corrosion from the inside or underside as a result of faulty manufacture or materials.
Note²: The term 'bodywork' does not include road wheels and attachments such as bright
trim, bumpers, mouldings and hinges.
What is the warranty period?
The Corrosion Protection Warranty begins at the same time as the Vehicle Warranty.
See A5 Summary of worldwide warranty terms.
A1.4WHO MAY PERFORM A WARRANTY REPAIR?
Only dealers who are appointed and receive full technical support from Aston Martin.
Under the terms of Aston Martin warranties, these dealers may repair, replace or readjust,
free of charge to the owner, any part or assembly proved to Aston Martin's satisfaction to
show a defect in materials or workmanship within the applicable period.
A1.5WEAR AND TEAR ITEMS
Items that are subject to wear and tear are generally divided into two categories, namely
those specified for replacement or adjustment during scheduled maintenance and those
that require replacement or adjustment dependent upon conditions of use.
Scheduled maintenance items
The items listed below are covered by the Vehicle Warranty up to the first point that
replacement or adjustment is required during scheduled maintenance operations:
• Drive belts
• Spark plugs
• Oil filters, air filters, pollen filters and fuel filters
• Lubricants
SECTION A
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Note: The period of warranty cover for any item may not exceed the time and distance
limitations of the Vehicle Warranty.
Wear and tear items
The items listed below are recognised as either having a limited service life or are subject
to wear or damage. However, these items are covered by the Vehicle Warranty for up to
one year or first service, whichever occurs first:
• Wiper blades.
• All light bulbs (interior and exterior).
Note: Xenon headlamp bulbs and instrumentation illumination bulbs are covered by the
full Vehicle Warranty.
• Wheel alignment / balancing.
• Adjustments, including but not limited to: headlamp and hinged panel adjustments,
suspension tightening, steering geometry adjustments, emission/fuel system checks,
lubrication and handbrake cable adjustments.
• Remote handset batteries.
Note: Brake linings, brake discs and any other friction related components are not covered
when replacement is due to wear and tear, but they are covered against manufacturing
defects for the duration of the Vehicle Warranty.
Consumable fluids
Replacement or 'top-up' of consumable fluids, e.g. oils, anti-freeze, brake fluid, windscreen
wash solution and refrigerant, is only covered when they are used as part of a warranty
repair.
A1.6OWNER'S RESPONSIBILITY
The owner’s literature describes the proper care and use of the vehicle. Proper maintenance
and use guard against major repair expenses resulting from misuse, neglect or inadequate
maintenance, and may help increase the value received when the owner sells their vehicle.
Vehicle warranty
The owner should:
• Make sure that all of the required maintenance is performed and that the materials used
meet Aston Martin's engineering specifications.
Note: Failure to perform maintenance promptly and in accordance with Aston Martin's
specified service intervals will invalidate warranty coverage on the parts affected.
• Make sure the vehicle is presented to a dealer for any warranty repair as soon as
practicable after a defect is detected. This will minimise the effect a defect has on the
vehicle and the nature of the repair needed.
Note: Aston Martin dealers have technicians who are trained and equipped to perform
required maintenance on the vehicle using genuine Aston Martin parts to keep it operating
to optimum levels.
SECTION A
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• Make sure that receipts for completed maintenance work are retained with the vehicle
and confirmation of maintenance work is always recorded in the vehicle documentation.
Paint surface and corrosion protection warranty
The owner should:
• Ensure that paint and bodywork is maintained by regular cleaning in accordance with
Aston Martin's instructions
• Ensure that the vehicle is presented to a dealer for any warranty repair as soon as
practicable after a defect is detected. This will minimise the effect a defect has on the
vehicle and the nature of the repair needed.
• Where applicable, ensure the body panels are examined annually by a dealer and that
this is recorded in the vehicle documentation. This examination is free of charge only
when carried out at the time of a main service.
A1.7WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTIES?
Vehicle warranty
Aston Martin is not responsible for any repair or replacement that is required as a direct
result of:
• Normal wear and tear.
• Failure to properly maintain the vehicle in accordance with Aston Martin maintenance
schedules and service instructions.
• Failure to use Aston Martin specified parts or fluids during a warranty repair (or parts of
equivalent quality during a retail repair). The failure in service of non-genuine parts or
the use of a product not recommended by Aston Martin is not covered by the Aston
Martin Vehicle Warranty. Additionally, any consequential damage caused by the
installation of a non-genuine part or recommended product will not be covered by the
Aston Martin Vehicle Warranties.
• Damage resulting from neglect, flooding, accident or improper use.
• Defects caused as a result of the vehicle being used in motorsport events or for any other
purpose than normal, private or commercial use.
• Any modification of the vehicle or parts which is not authorised by Aston Martin, including
any engine performance enhancement modifications.
• Refilling or topping-up with incorrect fuel, e.g. diesel used instead of petrol.
• Use of bio-ethanol alternative fuels in concentrations that exceed 5%.
• Use of supplemental additives and flushing agents for fuel or engine oil (unless specified
as part of an Aston Martin service requirement).
• Any vehicle that has had its vehicle identification number altered or removed, or on
which the odometer reading has been unlawfully changed.
• Damage caused during maintenance.
Paint surface and corrosion protection warranty
Aston Martin is not responsible for any repair or replacement that is required as a direct
result of the following:
SECTION A
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• Failure to properly maintain paint and bodywork by regular cleaning in accordance with
Aston Martin's instructions.
• Factors beyond Aston Martin's control, such as environmental hazards (including industrial
fall-out, storm damage, acid rain, bird droppings) and damage (including stone chips,
scratches and use of unsuitable cleaning agents).
• Accident repairs using materials or methods of repair that have not been approved by
Aston Martin.
• Alterations of the vehicle from Aston Martin's original specification.
• Failure to rectify on a timely basis any paint or corrosion damage as recorded in the
vehicle documentation by a dealer at the time of the annual inspection (where
applicable).
Other exclusions
The Aston Martin Warranty excludes liability for any lost time, inconvenience, loss of
transportation, or any other incidental or consequential damage the owner (or anyone else)
may incur as a result of a defect covered by this Warranty.
A1.8WARRANTY COVER WHEN TOURING
Aston Martin has a comprehensive service network in most parts of the world. Any authorised
dealer can carry out repairs under the Aston Martin Warranty. Under normal circumstances,
the customer should not be required to pay for any warranty work performed by a dealer.
When touring, it is the customer's responsibility to produce the warranty documentation
and the relevant maintenance and service records issued with the vehicle (which establishes
the right to warranty coverage). If they are unable do so, the dealer should seek advice
from Aston Martin. Under exceptional circumstances, the customer may be asked to pay
for repairs that are in fact covered by Aston Martin's warranty. If so, they should retain the
invoice and, where practical, any replaced parts so that upon returning home their local
dealer can arrange for prompt reimbursement as appropriate.
A1.9THE WARRANTIES AND CONSUMER LAW
The Aston Martin warranties are manufacturers' warranties that supplement and do not
affect the customer's legal rights under the vehicle purchase agreement with their selling
dealer or under applicable national legislation governing the sale of consumer goods.
A2PARTS AND ACCESSORIES WARRANTY
In addition to the Vehicle Warranty, which covers parts supplied as original equipment
when the vehicle was purchased, there is a separate Parts and Accessories Warranty for
genuine Aston Martin parts and accessories purchased by the customer from an Aston
Martin dealer.
Genuine Aston Martin parts and accessories have been specifically designed to help maintain
vehicles to comply with Aston Martin's safety and reliability standards. We therefore
recommend that only genuine Aston Martin parts and accessories for the vehicle are used.
SECTION A
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A2.1TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Should any genuine Aston Martin part or accessory require repair or replacement as a result
of a material or manufacturing defect, the part or accessory will be repaired or replaced
free of charge by an Aston Martin dealer. Labour charges will only be reimbursed if an
authorised dealer carries out the repair or replacement.
What is the warranty period?
The warranty commences on the date of purchase of the part or accessory and is applicable
for a period of 12 months or the stated service life of the part, whichever occurs first. All
parts fitted during warranty repairs are covered for the balance of the original warranty
period.
A2.2ACCESSORIES FITTED TO A NEW VEHICLE
Any genuine Aston Martin accessories (excluding gift items) supplied and fitted by an Aston
Martin dealer within one month or 1000 miles / 1500 km (whichever occurs first) of a new
vehicle being put into service will benefit from the same warranty terms and duration as
the Vehicle Warranty.
See A1.1 Vehicle warranty.
See A5 Summary of worldwide warranty terms.
A2.3WHAT IS NOT COVERED?
Aston Martin is not responsible for any repair or replacement required as a direct result of
any of the following:
• Normal wear and tear.
• The part or accessory has not been maintained in accordance with Aston Martin
recommendations.
• The part or accessory has been damaged by neglect, accident, improper use or fitting
or has been used for competitive purposes.
• The part or accessory has been altered from Aston Martin specifications or used for a
purpose for which it was not designed or intended.
• The part or accessory covered by the Parts Warranty is damaged due to the failure of
another part on the vehicle.
• The failure in service of non-genuine parts or the use of a product not recommended
by Aston Martin is not covered by the Aston Martin Vehicle or Parts Warranty.
Additionally, any consequential damage caused by the installation of a non-genuine part
or recommended product will not be covered by the Aston Martin Vehicle or Parts
Warranties.
A3ADDITIONAL WARRANTIES
A3.1EMISSIONS WARRANTY
In certain markets legislation requires that all vehicles are supplied with an emission warranty
covering specified components.
SECTION A
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A3.2END OF WARRANTY CLAIMS
It may happen that a customer reports a warranty defect within the warranty period, which
cannot be completed before the warranty period has expired. On these occasions, prior
approval may be required from Aston Martin.
See B Prior authority.
A4WARRANTY RESTRICTIONS
A4.1MODIFIED OR CONVERTED VEHICLES
The customer literature states that Aston Martin is not responsible for any repair or
replacement required as a direct result of unauthorised modifications of the vehicle or
parts.
See A1.7 What is not covered by the warranties?.
See A2.3 What is not covered?.
Vehicle conversions approved by Aston Martin are considered to be part of the original
specification. All other conversions must be considered unauthorised by Aston Martin and
will therefore invalidate the vehicle warranty on the affected area(s).
In the case of 'stretch' conversions, warranty cover on the power train and associated
electronics/wiring becomes immediately void.
A4.2SPECIFIC RESTRICTIONS
Aston Martin's Vehicle Warranties (except Recalls) will be fully cancelled on any vehicle
that has been written off by an insurance company.
It may be necessary for Aston Martin to restrict warranty cover in the following
circumstances:
• Vehicles that have been the subject of body or paintwork repairs, other than warranty
repairs.
• Where information has been provided that the vehicle has been stolen.
• Components affected by unapproved modifications, tuning or conversions.
Dealers are required to inform Aston Martin of any vehicles identified as being in the above
categories, using appropriate procedures as directed by Aston Martin.
Prior to undertaking a warranty repair, dealers should check Online Dealer Warranty (ODW)
to establish if the vehicle is subject to any warranty restrictions.
SECTION A
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A5SUMMARY OF WORLDWIDE WARRANTY TERMS
DB9 / V8DB7 / VanquishWarranty
(vehicles sold after 1st June
2004)
after 1st June 2004)
DistanceTimeDistanceTime
N/AN/AUnlimited2New Car Warranty
Unlimited3Unlimited3New Car Warranty
N/AN/AUnlimited2Corrosion
Unlimited10Unlimited3Corrosion (vehicles sold
SECTION A
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B2Vehicles purchased in or transferred to other markets
Vehicles purchased in other markets...................................................................
Vehicles transferred to other markets..................................................................
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B1GENERAL ITEMS
This section is intended to be a quick reference guide to the vehicle warranty policy. Full
details of the warranty terms can be found in Section A. See A Warranty terms and
conditions.
All appropriate staff in the Service Department must be aware of the contents of this section.
As a general rule, warranty repairs must always be undertaken in the most cost-effective
way consistent with legal obligations and customer satisfaction.
Where a time and distance limitation is applied to a policy the limitation will apply to
whichever criteria is reached first.
Detailed topics are listed below in alphabetical order:
ACCIDENT DAMAGE
All accident damage should be referred to the customer's insurance company, who will
communicate directly with Aston Martin if appropriate. If it is alleged that a manufacturing
defect has caused the accident full details must be advised immediately to Aston Martin.
See A4 Warranty restrictions.
ACCIDENT REPAIRS
Accident repairs completed by an Aston Martin dealer or an Aston Martin approved
sub-contractor in accordance with Aston Martin recommended procedures using genuine
Aston Martin parts will be covered by the normal Parts Warranty or the balance of the
applicable warranty supplied with the vehicle, whichever is the greater.
ADJUSTMENTS
The Vehicle Warranty does not cover items that are subject to adjustment during normal
service or maintenance operations (unless the work is required as a direct result of a
manufacturing defect).
See B Pre-delivery inspection.
AIR CONDITIONING
One refrigerant top-up is reimbursable following specific customer complaint of air
conditioning failure, up to and including the first scheduled service or 1 year, whichever
occurs first.
Refrigerant and hydraulic compressor oils used during warranty repairs are claimable. Claims
should reflect the amount of fluid displaced during the repair, up to the maximum published
system capacities. Dealers permitted to use specialist suppliers must ensure that the amount
of refrigerant shown on the subcontract invoice does not exceed maximum system capacities.
Labour charged must not exceed Aston Martin's scheduled labour times and rates.
SECTION B
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ALTERNATIVE FUELS
• LPG and CNG - Unless otherwise advised by Aston Martin, aftermarket conversion to
liquid petroleum gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas (CNG) is not covered by the vehicle
warranty. Claims against components affected by the conversion should be referred to
the converter.
• Bio-ethanol – The use of this petrol additive in concentrations above 5% causes damage
to unmodified vehicles. Aston Martin does not recommend or approve of such
conversions. Therefore, petrol containing a blend of more than 5% Bio-ethanol must
not be used. Damage caused as a result of using higher concentrations of Bio-ethanol
is not covered by the vehicle warranty.
ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORT
Not included within the Warranty Terms and Conditions. There may be coverage under a
local market roadside assistance package. In exceptional circumstances, locally advised
Aston Martin procedures should be followed or, if necessary, contact should be made with
Aston Martin.
AUDIO/COMMUNICATION/NAVIGATION
At PDI new units must be fitted where appropriate diagnosis and testing has taken place.
During the remaining part of the warranty period an exchange unit must be used where
available. Tape head cleaning and removal of foreign objects resulting from owner neglect
or poor maintenance are not claimable.
BATTERIES
Recharging or replacement is claimable if found necessary within 72 hours of vehicle
delivery by Aston Martin. Thereafter, battery care during vehicle storage becomes the
responsibility of the dealer. In all cases, the battery should be checked using an Aston
Martin approved battery tester and appropriate action taken (see Vehicle Storage and
Battery Care Procedures). Time to perform the battery check is not reimbursable.
After the vehicle has been put into use, recharging or replacement costs for battery failures
will only be accepted if the cause is due to a manufacturing defect. Acceptance is subject
to supplied data and normal warranty material returns procedures if applicable.
BRAKE LININGS
Claims are only acceptable for manufacturing or material defects, not for normal wear and
tear.
BULBS
Although recognised as being wear and tear items, bulbs are claimable up to and including
the first scheduled service or 1 year on the assumption that the failure resulted from a
material or manufacturing defect.
Note: Xenon bulbs and instrumentation illumination bulbs are covered by the full Vehicle
Warranty.
SECTION B
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CANNIBALISATION
See B Donor parts.
CLUTCHES (MANUAL)
Clutches (manual transmission) are not covered when replacement is due to wear and tear,
but they are covered against manufacturing defects for the duration of the warranty.
COMMUNICATION
At PDI new units must be fitted where appropriate diagnosis and testing has taken place.
During the remaining part of the warranty period an exchange unit must be used where
available.
CONSUMABLES
Workshop consumable items such as cleaning materials etc. are not claimable under
warranty; such items are a workshop overhead.
DAMPERS
Dampers that have covered under 12,000 miles (20,000 km) and are less than 1 year old
must be replaced as a single item.
DELIVERY DAMAGE
Dealers are responsible for ensuring that vehicles accepted from the delivery agent are in
good condition. Damage such as inward dents, scratches etc. are not covered under warranty
and must be recorded on the delivery note and referred to the delivery agent for payment.
See C1 Receiving new vehicles.
DIAGNOSIS/INVESTIGATION TIME
Appropriate diagnosis is included in the scheduled time. However, reasonable additional
diagnosis time may be claimed in exceptional circumstances provided that:
• The excess time has been used in a logical sequence of checks or measurements.
• The time used is evidenced and there is a record of the work performed including the
retention of readings or measurements where appropriate on the repair order. Diagnostic
equipment reports (where applicable) must be retained with the repair order.
• The excess time has not occurred due to a lack of technical skills, failure to use available
technical information or lack of appropriate equipment.
• If the root cause of the concern has not been identified within 2 hours then Dealer
Technical Support must be contacted before proceeding with further diagnosis.
Note: Repairs undertaken as a consequence of incorrect diagnosis or no fault found are
the responsibility of the dealer.
See F Service department processes and controls.
SECTION B
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DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC)
Any fault code displayed by the diagnostic system during the diagnosis routine must be
printed and attached to the repair order.
DONOR PARTS
The practice of using components removed from other vehicles whether it is due to
non-availability of parts, diagnosis by substitution or for any other reason is not
recommended and may only be used under exceptional circumstances following consultation
with Aston Martin. Prior authority is required if the component removed from the donor
vehicle is to remain on the vehicle being repaired.
See B Prior authority.
DRIVE BELTS
See B Scheduled maintenance items.
EXCHANGE PARTS (EXCLUDING AUDIO/COMMUNICATION/NAVIGATION)
Only new parts may be used for repairs at PDI or during the first 3 months or 3000
miles/5000 kilometres (whichever occurs first). Thereafter exchange parts must be used
where available under Aston Martin's exchange plan.
FIRE DAMAGE
The customer must be referred to their insurance company, who will communicate directly
with Aston Martin if appropriate. If it is alleged that the fire was caused by a manufacturing
defect, the known factual details of the incident must also immediately be advised to Aston
Martin.
GLASS
Glass crack/shatter noted at the time of delivery is subject to the delivery damage procedure.
Cracked windscreens may be replaced throughout the warranty period, provided there is
no visible evidence of impact damage and/or damage has not occurred as a result of a
separate vehicle repair. Glass or screens damaged during a repair must not be made the
subject of a warranty claim, but must be covered by the repairer. Failure of heated glass
elements is acceptable as a warranty item provided the cause of the failure is the direct
result of a manufacturing defect.
See C1 Receiving new vehicles.
INSURANCE TOTAL LOSS
Aston Martin's Vehicle Warranties (except Recalls) will be fully cancelled on any vehicle
that has been subject to a total loss by an insurance company. Dealers should forward
details of identified vehicles to Aston Martin.
SECTION B
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LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS AND SEALERS
Costs of lubricating oils, brake/clutch fluids and anti-freeze used during warranty repairs
are claimable. Claims should reflect the amount of fluid displaced during the repair, up to
the maximum published system capacities. If not purchased under part number from Aston
Martin, the cost of these materials must be claimed at the dealer's net cost price.
Lubricant and fluid top-ups can only be claimed at pre-delivery inspection. See D2 Recording
pre-delivery faults.
Note: Where not prescribed, synthetic oil will only be reimbursed in a warranty repair
where synthetic oil was drained from the vehicle.
The lubrication of any part of the vehicle is normally considered a service maintenance
operation and is chargeable to the customer.
MODIFIED OR TUNED VEHICLES
Aston Martin is not responsible for any repair or replacement required as a direct result of
unauthorised modifications of the vehicle or parts.
Dealers are required to inform Aston Martin of any vehicles identified as being modified
or tuned.
See A4 Warranty restrictions.
NAVIGATION
At PDI new units must be fitted where appropriate diagnosis and testing has taken place.
During the remaining part of the warranty period an exchange unit must be used where
available.
PARTS (NON-GENUINE)
Only genuine Aston Martin parts and recommended products must be used for warranty
repairs. If a warranty repair cannot be completed because Aston Martin is unable to supply
items required within a reasonable time, this must be discussed with Aston Martin.
See B Prior authority.
PARTS DISCREPANCY
Parts received that have been packaged incorrectly, are incomplete or damaged should be
returned to the parts department and not made the subject of a warranty claim.
Note: If it was not possible to identify any of the above problems until an attempt was
made to fit the part to the vehicle, a Parts Warranty claim may be made for the labour and
parts involved using the appropriate special coding. Should Aston Martin request the return
of the part, the return documentation must clearly identify the reason for replacement.
PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION
Claim instructions for work completed at the PDI are detailed in section D. Copies of the
signed and completed PDI sheets must be available for inspection by Aston Martin.
SECTION B
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Adjustments completed as part of the pre-delivery process are not reimbursable under
warranty where the item involved is already included in the standard pre-delivery inspection
time allowance. However, where topping-up of fluids is required, a warranty claim may
be made for the fluids used.
See D Pre-delivery and vehicle handover.
PRIOR AUTHORITY
Prior authority must be sought from Aston Martin before undertaking certain repairs. Failure
to obtain prior authority will lead to rejection of the warranty claim. When prior authority
is issued by Aston Martin to the dealer this will be valid for 60 days. Once the 60 days has
expired then prior authority must be re-obtained.
All dealers require prior authority on the following:
• Shortages and Incorrect Specification. See C1.1 Shortages and incorrect specification.
• Replacement of assemblies where parts are not available to complete a cost effective
repair. See B Repair or replace assemblies.
• Non-franchised repairs.
• Claims for diagnosis only.
SECTION B
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• Car hire.
• Towing/Recovery.
• Delayed submission repairs.
• Road tests.
There are occasions where prior authority is required for repairs not mentioned above.
This will be notified in a separate communication.
RECOVERY/TOWING CHARGES
Not included within the Warranty Terms and Conditions. There may be coverage under a
local market roadside assistance package. In exceptional circumstances, locally advised
Aston Martin procedures should be followed or, if necessary, contact should be made with
Aston Martin.
REMOTE HANDSET BATTERIES
Although recognised as being wear and tear items, remote handset batteries are claimable
for up to one year / first service.
REPAIR OR REPLACE ASSEMBLIES
It is important that warranty repairs are undertaken in the most cost effective manner.
Unless specifically advised, replacing assemblies, rather than repairing them, is only claimable
if parts needed for a repair are not available from Aston Martin or from other Aston Martin
dealers.
Note: Prior authority may be required.
REPEAT REPAIRS
Repeat repairs by the same dealer caused by faulty workmanship, poor diagnosis or incorrect
repair techniques are the repairer's responsibility and must not be claimed under warranty.
ROAD TESTING
Road testing is not claimable unless specifically authorised.
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE ITEMS
Parts that will be replaced as part of the normal service schedule are covered for
manufacturing defects.
The period of cover will apply up to the part's first scheduled service change point and not
exceed the time and mileage limitation of the vehicle warranty. Items covered under this
are:
• Spark plugs
• Oil filters, air filters, pollen filters and fuel filters
SECTION B
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• Drive belts
• Lubricants
Only genuine Aston Martin parts will benefit from the full Aston Martin parts warranty.
SHORTAGES AND INCORRECT SPECIFICATION (NEW VEHICLES)
See C1.1 Shortages and incorrect specification.
STONE CHIPS/PAINT DAMAGE
Damage to paintwork caused by the impact of stones or any other object is regarded as
wear and tear. Rectification of this damage is not claimable under any of the vehicle
warranties.
SUBCONTRACT REPAIRS
It is in the interests of the dealer to retain all repair work and only sub-contract to a specialist
where absolutely necessary. However, it is recognised that the use of specialist
sub-contractors may occasionally be required to complete certain repairs effectively. Where
sub-contracted repairs are necessary, the following must be noted:
• Sub-contractor repair costs claimed must not exceed the amount that would have been
incurred had the dealer conducted the repair in their own workshops.
• Claims for sub-contract repairs may not exceed the repairer's net invoice value.
• Genuine Aston Martin parts must be supplied where available.
• All claims must be supported by copies of invoices, relevant documents and where
applicable, completed paint silhouettes/reports, which must be attached to the repair
order.
See L3 Subcontract body and paint repairs.
See G1.4 Subcontract repairs.
SURCHARGES
Where applicable, surcharges on reconditioned units etc. should be recovered via the
dealer's parts department and are not refundable through the warranty system.
TRACKING AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Where adjustment is necessary, it is claimable once up to and including the first scheduled
service or 1 year, provided there is no evidence of damage, e.g. kerb impacts.
Note: The customer literature states that adjustments during normal service or maintenance
are not covered. However, this guideline should be followed in the interests of customer
satisfaction.
TYRES
Aston Martin passes on to the owner the original tyre manufacturer's warranty. The dealer
must resolve any problems on behalf of the customer with the tyre manufacturer's agent.
SECTION B
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TYRE WEAR
Excessive wear that is inconsistent with normal use may be acceptable under warranty only
if it has been caused by a manufacturing defect elsewhere on the vehicle.
See B Prior authority.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
See B Tracking and wheel alignment.
WHEEL BALANCING
Where balancing is necessary, it is claimable once up to and including the first scheduled
service or 1 year, provided there is no evidence of damage, e.g. kerb impacts.
Note: The customer literature states that adjustments during normal service or maintenance
are not covered. However, this guideline should be followed in the interests of customer
satisfaction.
WIPER BLADES
Although recognised as being wear and tear items, wiper blades are claimable up to and
including the first scheduled service or 1 year, on the assumption that the failure resulted
from a material or manufacturing defect.
B2VEHICLES PURCHASED IN OR TRANSFERRED TO OTHER
MARKETS
VEHICLES PURCHASED IN OTHER MARKETS
Owners of vehicles purchased in other markets are entitled to the Vehicle Warranty cover
originally provided with the vehicle, and this must be supported by any Aston Martin dealer
worldwide.
It is the owner's responsibility to prove entitlement to warranty by producing the relevant
customer literature issued with the vehicle. Assistance must be provided following usual
warranty procedures and under normal circumstances no charge should be made to the
customer for warranty work undertaken. If necessary, authority should be requested from
Aston Martin.
No responsibility will be accepted by Aston Martin for the following:
• The vehicle, as manufactured, does not meet the operational specification of a market
for which it was not specified, including any legal requirements or penalties imposed
by Government or other authority.
• The effects of any vehicle modifications undertaken to comply with legal or local
requirements of a market for which it was not specified, unless authorised by Aston
Martin.
Note: Where applicable, Aston Martin dealers may, at the customer's expense, carry out
authorised modifications to meet legal or operational requirements of a market.
SECTION B
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VEHICLES TRANSFERRED TO OTHER MARKETS
On those occasions where a dealer sells a new or used vehicle to a dealer or customer in
another market, it is the responsibility of the selling dealer to inform Aston Martin of the
full name and address of the customer in order to transfer the responsibility of the vehicle
over to another market / dealer.
SECTION B
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Table of Contents
CReceiving and storing new vehicles
C1Receiving new vehicles
C1.1Shortages and incorrect specification..................................................................
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C1RECEIVING NEW VEHICLES
All vehicles must be examined upon initial delivery to confirm that they are free from
damage. Delivery damage is not the responsibility of Aston Martin and must not be made
the subject of a warranty claim.
Vehicles should then be checked as soon as possible to ensure there are no shortages and
that the specification matches the order. If there are any parts missing, or incorrect
specification is identified, claims must be submitted within a specified period of receiving
the vehicle, using the procedure detailed below.
See C1.1 Shortages and incorrect specification.
Note: Only damage identified and recorded on the delivery documentation at the factory
despatch area may be made the subject of a warranty claim.
C1.1SHORTAGES AND INCORRECT SPECIFICATION
Shortages and Incorrect specification are defined as follows:
• Shortages – parts or factory ordered options missing on receipt of a vehicle.
• Incorrect Specification – when a vehicle does not match the specification as ordered
from, or invoiced by Aston Martin.
Claim procedure
The following guidelines must be adhered to:
• All concerns must be rectified within 2 months of the vehicle retail delivery.
• Claims must be submitted on ODW using Customer Concern Code A99.
• Dealers must ensure that there is no delay between identifying a shortage or incorrect
specification and entering it in to ODW.
• Prior Authority must be obtained from Aston Martin. See B Prior authority.
Note: It is the retailing dealer's responsibility to ensure that the delivered vehicle matches
the agreed customer order. Only one claim per vehicle will be accepted. Therefore, it is
essential that the submitted claim contains all the parts and labour operations required to
rectify the vehicle. Any subsequent complaint for a shortage or incomplete specification is
the responsibility of the dealer to rectify.
Parts supply
All parts required to rectify Shortages or Incorrect Specification must be either taken from
dealer stock or obtained from Aston Martin Parts using normal ordering procedures.
C1.2VEHICLE TRANSFERS
Claims must not be made against Aston Martin following secondary deliveries, dealer
transfers, inter-market transfers or repurchases undertaken between third parties. Any claims
or disputes arising after such actions must be resolved entirely between the parties involved.
SECTION C
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C2STORING NEW VEHICLES
Proper storage procedures must be observed, including periodic maintenance, as detailed
in the New Vehicle Storage Procedures.
Claims arising from deterioration caused by improper storage, maintenance or handling is
not Aston Martin's responsibility.
Aston Martin will not accept claims on any component that has been subject to deterioration
during storage.
C2.1BATTERY CARE
Battery failure is the most frequent reason for vehicle breakdown and requirement for
roadside repair services. Caring for batteries while vehicles are in storage will minimise the
risk of failure during early service life. Battery condition must be checked on initial receipt
and it must be ensured that standing loads do not slowly discharge the battery to an
irrecoverable state.
Recharging or replacement is claimable if found necessary within 72 hours of vehicle
delivery by Aston Martin. Thereafter, battery care during vehicle storage becomes the
responsibility of the dealer. In all cases, the battery should be checked using an Aston
Martin approved battery tester and appropriate action taken. Time to perform the battery
check is not reimbursable.
After the vehicle has been put into use, recharging or replacement costs for battery failures
will only be accepted if the cause is due to a manufacturing defect. Acceptance is subject
to supplied data and normal warranty material returns procedures if applicable.
Refer to Vehicle Storage and Battery Care Procedures for full details.
SECTION C
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Table of Contents
DPre-delivery and vehicle handover
D1Preparation of the new vehicle
D2Recording pre-delivery faults
D2.1Authorisation of warranty repairs at pre-delivery...............................................
D2.2Parts used for warranty repairs at pre-delivery...................................................
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D1PREPARATION OF THE NEW VEHICLE
The introduction of the customer to their new vehicle is an important moment and may
significantly influence the future relationship between your dealership and the customer.
The dealer must ensure that the new vehicle is prepared in accordance with the instructions
set out in the relevant Pre-Delivery and (or) Vehicle Handover guidelines.
All faults that are found during the pre-delivery inspection must be rectified prior to
presenting the new vehicle to the customer.
D2RECORDING PRE-DELIVERY FAULTS
All faults that are found on the new vehicle during the course of the pre-delivery inspection
must be recorded on the repair order / pre-delivery check sheet.
A copy of the completed pre-delivery check sheet must be attached to the repair order.
If the dealer chooses to raise a separate repair order then it must be cross-referenced to
the pre-delivery inspection repair order.
D2.1AUTHORISATION OF WARRANTY REPAIRS AT PRE-DELIVERY
Workshop supervision must inspect and confirm that there is a fault before any work is
undertaken.
To authorise the work to be carried out as a warranty repair, refer to the requirements in
Section F.
See F3.6 Inspect and verify add-on repairs.
See F4.2 Report the need for additional work.
To prevent further repairs being added, the repair order should then be ruled off after the
last repair.
All warranty controls detailed in Section F with regard to the issue and control of the repair
order and the conduct of the repair itself apply equally to pre-delivery repairs. For body
and paint repairs, staff must also refer to Section L for guidance.
See F Service department processes and controls.
See L Paint surface and corrosion protection warranty.
D2.2PARTS USED FOR WARRANTY REPAIRS AT PRE-DELIVERY
Only new genuine Aston Martin parts are to be used on any repair during the pre-delivery
process.
D3NEW VEHICLE PRESENTATION
The dealer should complete the customer literature that accompanies the new vehicle with
the following information:
SECTION D
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• Customer name and address
• Vehicle identification number
• Warranty start date
• Dealer stamp
It is important that care is taken to ensure that the details are entered accurately and in
full. This information will enable the customer to prove entitlement to warranty if the vehicle
should visit another dealership.
When presenting the new vehicle to the customer, it is essential that, in addition to
explaining the features and controls of the vehicle, the opportunity is taken to fully explain
the warranty benefits and conditions. In particular, the following points should be covered:
• Identify to the customer a point of contact for service or warranty assistance.
• Ensure the customer fully understands what is covered by the warranty terms and
conditions.
• Ensure that the customer is aware of the vehicle maintenance requirements.
D3.1NEW VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS
All new vehicle registrations must be recorded promptly with Aston Martin using the New
Car and Warranty Acceptance system.
Where Aston Martin communicates directly with the customer, that communication will
rely on the customer details supplied by the dealer. As first impressions are always important
and safety issues may be involved, it is imperative that the dealer makes all efforts to ensure
that the details are correct where communicated to Aston Martin.
If it is known that a customer will take the vehicle permanently to another country, it is
emphasised that the following actions are still required:
• Fully complete the customer literature.
• Enter the retail delivery date to the system.
• In addition, dealers must inform the Warranty Department in the receiving market of
the full customer name and address and vehicle details.
SECTION D
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Table of Contents
EGeneral Authorised Dealer responsibilities
E1General responsibilities
E1.1Obligations of all Authorised Dealers.................................................................
E1.2Warranty and technical training..........................................................................
E1.3Warranty related publications.............................................................................
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E1GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
E1.1OBLIGATIONS OF ALL AUTHORISED DEALERS
Dealers are required to provide a prompt, efficient and cost-effective service for warranty
repairs and to ensure the integrity of all claims submitted to Aston Martin. In fulfilling these
requirements, dealers must comply with the following:
Undertaking of warranty repairs
Carry out repairs under the terms of the Vehicle Warranty, Paint Surface Warranty, Corrosion
Protection Warranty and the Parts and Accessories Warranty without cost to the owner,
regardless of where the vehicle or genuine Aston Martin part was purchased.
See B Vehicles purchased in other markets.
Quality of personnel
Employ suitably trained and motivated personnel who are capable of correctly carrying out
all technical, supervisory and administrative aspects of warranty work.
Where technician competence levels are prescribed, warranty repairs must be performed
by technicians who have the appropriate competence according to the level stated.
Quality of service
Apply customer handling and Aston Martin repair processes that ensure service to a
consistently high standard.
Quality of repair
• Maintain an inventory of tools and equipment as specified or recommended by Aston
Martin for the completion of a quality repair.
• Ensure only genuine Aston Martin parts are used in warranty repairs.
• Dealers are responsible for the quality of their workmanship.
Provision of body and paint repairs
Make available an Aston Martin approved vehicle body repair and paint service to the high
standards detailed in Section L. Dealers who do not have their own body and paint repair
facility must make alternative arrangements for rectification work to be carried out to Aston
Martin standards.
See L Paint surface and corrosion protection warranty.
Workshop procedures
Comply with the procedures detailed throughout this manual.
Claim submission
Submit claims for reimbursement promptly and accurately in line with current procedures.
See G Warranty administration.
SECTION E
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E1.2WARRANTY AND TECHNICAL TRAINING
Regular training must be undertaken and recorded to maintain the required standards of
technical and administrative competence.
Training should take into consideration aspects such as cover for key staff, new staff induction
and familiarisation, on-going training development and training plans for successors.
Regular warranty training courses and support are available. For further information, contact
should be made with Aston Martin.
E1.3WARRANTY RELATED PUBLICATIONS
Ensure all relevant staff have access to and fully understand the following Aston Martin
current publications:
1. Warranty Policy and Procedures Manuals, with amendments as issued.
2. Published standard repair times.
3. Published technical literature.
4. Field Actions.
5. Parts Retail Price list.
6. Any other warranty related communications.
E1.4AUDITABLE WARRANTY DOCUMENTATION
Dealers must retain all records that substantiate warranty claims. In order to support warranty
audit requirements, records must be retained for at least two years after payment of the
claim.
Required records include:
1. Pre-delivery, scheduled service and used vehicle check sheets.
2. Repair orders relating to warranty claims together with any customer written notes and
diagnostic forms/printouts.
3. Retail and internal repair orders relating to subsequent warranty repairs.
4. Detailed accounting records of paid claims.
5. Technician time sheet/attendance records, as used for payroll preparation. This includes
records relating to staff who may have left the company during the relevant period.
6. Records of parts issued to the workshop.
7. Invoices and purchase orders for sub-contracted repairs or services, including hire
vehicles, together with records of payments and details of discounts obtained.
8. Retail repair and parts sales invoices supporting all warranty claims.
9. Completed Vehicle Silhouette for Paint Surface and Corrosion Protection Warranty
repairs.
10. Evidence of any claim approval given by an Aston Martin representative.
11. New vehicle delivery documentation.
12. Evidence of vehicle warranty start date.
13. Parts purchase invoices, where specifically linked to claims.
SECTION E
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14. Service appointment register.
15. Documentation relating to any extended warranties sold.
The above records may be stored in hard copy or electronic form (and backed up in
accordance with a disaster recovery process). They must be legible and easily retrievable.
In the case of electronically stored data, dealers are responsible for ensuring that their
system provides a secure audit trail identifying any amendments made during the course
of a repair or after the completion of a repair, e.g. add-on work. Such amendments can
only be made by supervisory staff under password control. Printouts must be available on
request.
E2DEALER SELF-AUDIT
It is in the best interests of all dealers that warranty operations are managed in an efficient
and effective manner. This will not only ensure that the claim process operates smoothly,
it is also a key factor in achieving quality objectives which in turn contribute to increased
levels of customer satisfaction.
An important element of monitoring and controlling the standard of warranty administration
is the regular and disciplined use of self-auditing. It is a proven management tool and
provides an internal performance monitor.
The key points are as follows:
• Action Plans should be defined and implemented.
• Senior management should review the findings.
• Self-Audits are recommended at least every three months.
• It is recommended that copies of the completed forms should be retained for a minimum
of two years.
The procedure contained in the Dealer Self-Audit Pack covers the core items that should
be checked, but there is no reason why the list should not be extended to include other
subjects that are of particular interest or concern to individual dealers - a blank check sheet
is included for this purpose.
See E2.1 Dealer self-audit pack.
E2.1DEALER SELF-AUDIT PACK
Warranty self-audit completion guide
The following guide will assist Dealers to successfully complete warranty self-audits.
To ensure that this process operates correctly, it is vital that self-auditing is carried out by
a responsible person who is not placed in a conflict of interest by performing this task. It
is recommended that a self-audit should be carried out at least every three months. The
General Manager or Dealer Principal should review the results of the self-audit with service
management and ensure that action plans are not only agreed, but acted upon to rectify
any concerns. Should self-audit reveal irregular claims, underpayments or overpayments
by Aston Martin, the Dealer should promptly notify Aston Martin Warranty Operations.
SECTION E
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Method
Select a representative sample of paid claims (not less than twenty claim lines). The Warranty
Administrator will supply the claim supporting documents, including repair orders, warranty
credit notes and any other relevant documentation.
Using the Claims Logging Sheet, each claim in the sample should be carefully and objectively
checked against the categories listed. A tick or a cross should be entered in the relevant
column as appropriate. A tick should also be entered to indicate that particular errors have
been investigated. A Comments section is provided to record details of corrective actions
that have been agreed with the Service Manager for implementation. See E2.1 Claims
logging sheet. Any issues that have not been resolved should be noted and made the subject
of further discussions so that Action Plans can be developed. See E2.1 Review.
The self-audit sheet does not provide an exhaustive list of categories to be checked. A blank
self-audit sheet is included, on which additional categories can be added to suit individual
Dealer requirements. Any comments relating to additional categories should be recorded
in the Comments section. See E2.1 Blank claims logging sheet.
When all claims in the sample have been assessed, the total number of crosses should be
entered in the box at the right hand side of the sheet so that the average number of errors
(if any) per claim can be calculated. The resulting figure will provide a useful measure of
the overall quality of all operations related to the administration of warranty.
The self-audit should include the examination of two or more vehicles on which warranty
repairs have been completed and are awaiting return to customers. The Vehicle Inspection
sheet provides guidance on completing the examinations. See E2.1 Vehicle inspection. A
form is provided to record the findings. See E2.1 Vehicle inspection record.
Finally, a review of the self-audit should be carried out. See E2.1 Review. This will involve
completing the Warranty Self Audit - Summary & Action Plans sheet, which records the
overall findings of the self-audit and also summarises the Action Plans that have been agreed
to address any outstanding issues. See E2.1 Summary and action plans.
The following notes provide guidance on how each of the listed categories should be
assessed. The relevant Warranty Manual section number is also included for reference:
1. Are vehicle and customer details correctly entered on the repair order?
Ensure that all customer and vehicle details are correctly recorded to enable prompt
processing of warranty claim.
See F2.1 Defining the customer concern.
See F2.5 Details required for repair order.
2. Are all claim supporting documents (including repair order) available?
Documents necessary to support the claim are the repair order with attached parts issue
documentation, diagnostic print out sheets (where applicable), copies of any sub-contractor
orders and invoices. If a paint repair is involved, a completed Vehicle Silhouette should
also be attached to the repair order.
See F2.1 Defining the customer concern.
See F4.3 Record test results and other specification readings.
See F5.1 Record on repair order details of all materials issued.
SECTION E
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See E1.4 Auditable warranty documentation.
3. Additional work verified and authorised per item?
Are there any repairs that are additional to the owner’s complaints (or to the standard PDI
sheet if applicable)? If so, make sure that any such additional work has been verified and
authorised on the source repair order by technical supervision prior to the commencement
of the repairs.
See D2.1 Authorisation of warranty repairs at pre-delivery.
See F2.6 Additional customer instructions.
See F3.6 Inspect and verify add-on repairs.
See F4.2 Report the need for additional work.
4. Is the repair the manufacturer's responsibility?
Repairs may not be the responsibility of the manufacturer. Check that repeat repairs and
the rectification of faulty workmanship have not been made the subject of a warranty claim.
Remember warranty responsibility can only be as a result of a manufacturing defect.
See F2.3 Check for potential repeat customer concerns/repairs.
5. Technician diagnosis and rectification details recorded?
Has the repairing technician recorded full diagnosis and rectification details on the repair
order in a manner that supports the time being claimed? Have pre and post repair
measurements been recorded, and are diagnostic equipment print-outs attached (where
applicable)?
See F3.1 Conduct/arrange any necessary primary diagnosis.
See F4.1 Conduct any appropriate secondary diagnosis.
See F4.3 Record test results and other specification readings.
6. Is any non–standard time claimed fully supported?
This item links into the previous item. The time claimed must be based on the workshop
supervisor’s repair instructions, the technician’s description of the repair and the recorded
(on/off) elapsed time. Did the technician have appropriate skills, tools and equipment to
complete the work? Also check that the non-standard time claimed excludes any
non-recoverable time such as road testing, waiting for parts or technician meal breaks etc.
See F3.4 Non-standard operations.
See F6.3 Review non-standard time.
7. Was repair done in accordance with Workshop Manuals/TSBs?
Was the completed repair carried out in accordance with Aston Martin's published repair
procedures and any relevant Technical Bulletins? An indication of a short cut method of
repair could be the time recorded on the supporting repair order. For example, if an SRO
time is published at 4.50 hrs and the technician claims he has done the work in 1.10 hrs,
this could bring into question the repair method used.
See F4.1 Conduct any appropriate secondary diagnosis.
8. Are SROs correct for the repair carried out?
SECTION E
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Are the Standard Repair Operation numbers and the time claimed correct for the repair
carried out? Ensure the time claimed agrees with current SRO publications and that the
appropriate SROs have been selected.
See G2 Allocation of labour times.
9. Have repairs been prior authorised where required?
Is the repair subject to Prior Authority? If so, was this obtained before the repair was carried
out?
See B Prior authority.
10. Is the Part claimed correct for the repair undertaken?
Check for clerical errors, i.e. wrong part numbers can result in incorrect payments.
See F5.1 Record on repair order details of all materials issued.
11. Allowance made for repair overlap?
Do any of the repairs include overlapping work? If so, has an allowance been made for
this? If two or more repairs are carried out at the same time and the work content of the
SROs overlap, only the SRO with the greatest time should be claimed. The remaining time
must be claimed by either using published combination times or non-standard time.
See G2.1 Standard repair operation numbers.
See G2.2 Non-standard operations.
12. Is claim date of repair correct?
The date of repair on the claim should match the date on which the repair was completed
and should correspond to the technician's last time recording.
See F6.1 Ensure the repair is clocked off.
13. Are repairs orders cross-referenced where required?
Repair orders must be cross-referenced to any other current and, where applicable, relevant
previous repair orders. This should ensure that repeat repairs are identified and that a drive
in/drive out allowance is only claimed where permissible.
See G2.3 Drive in/drive out.
See F2.3 Check for potential repeat customer concerns/repairs.
14. Owner, or owner representative's, signature obtained?
Obtaining the owner or owner representative's signature (or written instructions) is an
important requirement. If this is not present on the repair order has a note been made
explaining why this was not obtained?
See F2.1 Defining the customer concern.
15. Technician On/Off times recorded and cross-referenced?
Are the technician’s clocked “on/off” repair times recorded on the repair order? Have any
hand-written times been verified, authorised and signed off by supervision?
See F3.5 Ensure the repair time is accurately recorded.
See F6.1 Ensure the repair is clocked off.
SECTION E
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16. Displaced warranty parts stored and labelled?
Have all parts replaced during the course of a warranty repair been stored in a secure area.
Can they be easily located? Has a label identifying the part number, job number and reason
for replacement been securely attached to the part?
See F4.5 Displaced parts.
See H1.1 Displaced parts storage.
17. All Recall and Service Actions carried out?
Ensure that when the vehicle was in the workshop the opportunity was taken to complete
all applicable Recall and Service Action Notifications.
See F2.4 Check for outstanding field actions.
See F3.6 Inspect and verify add-on repairs.
See J1.1 Dealer responsibilities.
18. Has the claim been submitted within the Aston Martin claim submission time limits?
See G3.1 Claim submission.
19. Correct?
Enter the total number of correct actions that have been indicated by a tick.
20. Incorrect?
Enter the total number of incorrect actions that have been indicated by a cross.
21. Errors Investigated?
Tick when all errors against each claim have been investigated. Where necessary make
notes under Comments on the Claims Logging Sheet provided detailing the results of
investigations and the corrective actions taken.
See E2.1 Blank claims logging sheet.
SECTION E
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Claims logging sheet
Is repair manufacturer's responsibility?
For the period of:
C.I Code or Dealer Number:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19 20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
Notes on how to use this form:
Comments, including details of any remedial action taken should be recorded on the Comments Sheet.
Name:
Retain a copy for audit purposes.
Claim Number
Errors Investigated?
Are SROs used correct for repair carried out?
Are all claim supporting documents (including repair order) available?
Additional work verified and authorised per item?
Is any non-standard time claimed fully supported?
Have repairs been prior authorised where required?
Is claim date of repair correct?
Is the part claimed correct for the repair undertaken?
Allowance made for any repair overlap?
Are repair orders cross-referenced where required?
Displaced warranty parts stored and labelled?
Claim submitted within submission time limits?
E89276
Signature:Date:
Should a cross be present, fully discuss the reason with the Service Manager and record details of actions taken on the Comments Sheet.
WARRANTY SELF-AUDIT - Claims Logging Sheet
Add a tick where the requirement has been met. Add a cross where the requirement has not been met. Where there is no requirement to be met, add the letter 'N'.
Vehicle & customer details correctly entered on the repair order?
Technician diagnosis and rectification details recorded?
Was repair done in accordance with Workshop Manuals/TSBs?
Owner, or owner's representative, signature obtained?
Technician's On/Off times recorded & cross referenced?
All Recall and Field Service Actions carried out?
Total Correct? (tick per claim)
Total Incorrect? (crosses per claim)
Average Errors Per Claim (Total No. Crosses / Total No. Claim) =
Note: This form is subject to Aston Martin audit.
Total crosses =
SECTION E
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Comments sheet
For the period of:Date:
COMMENTS
Retain a copy for audit purposes.
E89277
SECTION E
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Blank claims logging sheet
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Name:
E89278
Date:
Claim Number
For the period of:
C.I Code or Dealer Number:
Notes on how to use this form:
Comments, including details of any remedial action taken should be recorded on the Comments Sheet.
Retain a copy for audit purposes.
Signature:
Should a cross be present, fully discuss the reason with the Service Manager and record details of actions taken on the Comments Sheet.
WARRANTY SELF-AUDIT - Claims Logging Sheet
Add a tick where the requirement has been met. Add a cross where the requirement has not been met. Where there is no requirement to be met, add the letter 'N'.
Average Errors Per Claim (Total No. Crosses / Total No. Claim) =
Note: This form is subject to Aston Martin audit.
Total crosses =
SECTION E
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Vehicle inspection
1. Go to the workshop and select two or more vehicles on which warranty work has been
completed and which are awaiting return to the customer.
2. Obtain and review the appropriate repair orders.
3. Invite the Service Manager/Supervisor to demonstrate evidence, where possible, that
the work shown on the repair order has been completed as described. Examples of this
may include:
– Door adjustment – visual evidence that striker/hinges have been moved.
– Paint repairs – visual inspection or use paint thickness gauge.
– New parts – visually identify and confirm that new parts have been fitted.
4. Record findings, which will show that either the work has been completed or that no
evidence exists to support the claim.
SECTION E
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Vehicle inspection record
Repairs
Model:
VIN:
Registration number:
Repair order number:
Owner:
Date of repair:
Date of sale:
Comments
Repairs
Model:
VIN:
Registration number:
Repair order number:
Owner:
Date of repair:
Date of sale:
Comments
Repairs
Model:
VIN:
Registration number:
Repair order number:
Owner:
Date of repair:
Date of sale:
Comments
Date:Signature:
E89279
WARRANTY SELF-AUDIT
VEHICLE INSPECTION RECORD
Self Audit Number:
SECTION E
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Review
• Summarise the results and agree necessary Action Plans.
• Review with the Service Manager or Dealer Principal, including follow up on previous
Actions Plans.
Note: The opportunity should also be taken to check the efficiency of key processes, in
particular:
• All items on the repair order have been correctly charged, e.g. internal, customer or
warranty.
• Claim submissions are within specified time limit.
• Claim rejections properly managed, e.g. corrected and re-submitted or written off as
• Warranty parts returns area is properly managed, including scrapping parts where
necessary.
• The latest SRO and technical publications are in use.
SECTION E
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Summary and action plans
Dealer Name
CI Code
Dealer Number
Self-Audit Period
Date
Number of claims included in sample
Total number of errors
Average number of errors per claim
If similar errors were found during an audit conducted by Aston Martin Warranty Operations, this could have led to claim charge-backs.
Number of vehicles included in Self-Audit
Action Plans agreed are:
Originator
Position
Date
ResponsibilityTarget DatePlan
Completion
Confirmed
Date reviewed by
Principal
Signature
SECTION E
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E3WARRANTY COUNSELLING PROCESS
The Warranty Counselling Process (WCP) is a systematic approach to addressing dealer
warranty performance deficiencies. This process is designed to develop efficient and properly
controlled action plans by focusing on the cause(s) of individual dealer warranty performance
deficiencies and implementing the necessary process improvements.
E4WARRANTY AUDIT
All paid claims are subject to audit. The basis of reimbursement is to cover all justifiable
costs incurred in accordance with Aston Martin's Warranty Policy & Procedures Manual.
In order to maintain proper and consistent controls, Aston Martin operates a policy of
delegating to dealers the appropriate level of self-authority, whilst monitoring performance
and reserving the option to conduct audits. Where audits are conducted they will normally
be based on a sample of claims paid during the previous 12 months. Details of the audit
procedure will be provided at the commencement of the audit. The main purpose of an
audit is to ensure dealers fully understand Warranty Policy and Procedures and will usually
include checks to establish that:
• The work claimed has actually been carried out. This may involve customer contacts
and/or vehicle examinations.
• Claims have been made in accordance with Warranty Policies and Procedures.
• Labour claimed, including non-standard time, is properly supported in accordance with
requirements.
• Parts claimed are appropriate for the warranty repairs carried out.
• Where applicable, displaced warranty parts have been retained and support claims
submitted. Where material is debited for an administrative reason, the part will not be
returned to the dealer.
• Sublet claims are substantiated and properly supported by relevant documentation.
Where necessary, Action Plans will be developed with the dealer on completion of an audit
in order that an agreed course of action will be taken by the dealer to address any areas
of concern.
Aston Martin reserves the right to conduct an extrapolation audit at any time. If an audit
establishes the need for charge-back, due to incorrect or overpaid claims, this will be
extrapolated over the period audited.
SECTION E
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F7.1Repair Process A..................................................................................................
F7.2Repair Process B..................................................................................................
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F1MANAGEMENT
F1.0MANAGEMENT
Aston Martin encourages its dealers to achieve and maintain the highest levels of customer
satisfaction and service. This section of the manual explains how best practices and controls
should be implemented. It has procedures that are easy to follow, enabling all Service
Department staff to deliver these objectives, regardless of whether they are dealing with
retail, internal or warranty related work.
It is strongly recommended that the process control requirements detailed in Section F are
applied to all categories of work to ensure an efficient operation of the workshop. However,
in the case of warranty repairs, specified procedures must be followed to ensure satisfactory
process and cost control. Documentary records must be maintained for audit purposes.
See E1.4 Auditable warranty documentation. The key tests for any repair are:
• Was it necessary?
• Was it carried out correctly?
Responsibility for effective controls is delegated to the Dealer Principal who, within the
limits prescribed in this manual, assigns this responsibility to staff under his management.
This section describes the procedures involved in ensuring the integrity of warranty repairs
and subsequent claims and applies equally to all Aston Martin warranties.
F1.1REPORTS AND CONTROLS
Management must ensure that systems exist to evaluate repair orders, technician attendance,
productivity and efficiency records. In addition, warranty reports provided by Aston Martin
must be regularly monitored and reviewed. Adverse trends must be investigated and
corrective action taken and documented. It is recommended that technician efficiency
calculations are based on actual productive time and not attendance hours.
A robust operating control should be maintained at all times to provide full analysis of
labour and parts sales by category of work. These records must be available for Aston Martin
review.
Management objectives should reflect controls to monitor the quality of repairs completed.
This should include random checks and/or road tests as appropriate, the results of which
should be fully documented.
Self-audit
Aston Martin strongly recommends that management carry out their own regular Self Audit
which must be available for Aston Martin review.
See E2 Dealer self-audit.
SECTION F
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F2SERVICE RECEPTION
F2.1DEFINING THE CUSTOMER CONCERN
Following discussion with the customer, ensure all requirements and concerns are clearly
identified. These details must be written on the repair order (as far as possible in the
customer’s own words) in a concise manner, giving enough detail to enable workshop staff
to carry out an accurate diagnosis and repair. The 4-stage checklist below may help to
pinpoint the customer's concern. Where the customer is unable to be precise about the
repair required (e.g. rattle, noise, misfire etc.) then an appointment should be made for
the vehicle to be appraised by a technical specialist with the customer prior to the job being
passed to the workshop.
A Customer Concern Code (CCC) must support all warranty claims (with the exception of
Field Service Actions). This code should reflect what the customer's perception of the
concern was before the repair takes place. This code should be added to the job card
before work commences and should be entered by the customer facing staff after discussing
the concern with the owner or driver.
Note: Where the repair carried out is additional to any owner complaint, the most accurate
CCC should be selected for the condition identified.
In the case of Paint and Corrosion Protection warranty repairs the manufacturing defect
must be recorded on a paint silhouette, detailing the nature, scale and location of the
concern, and retained with the repair order. See L1.1 Paint rectification.
Customer Concern Diagnosis Checklist
1. Is the concern something the customer can:
• See?
• Hear?
• Feel?
• Smell?
2. Does the concern occur when:
• Accelerating?
• Decelerating?
• Starting?
• With a hot or cold engine?
• At certain engine speeds?
• Under certain road conditions?
• After a certain distance?
• Under certain weather conditions?
3. Does the concern occur:
SECTION F
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• In a general area?
• In a specific area?
4. What is the history of the concern?
• When did it start?
• Is it apparent all the time?
• How long has it been occurring?
• When was the vehicle last serviced?
Having established that all the customer’s requirements have been included on the repair
order and the items numbered, customer-facing staff must 'rule off' the repair order by
drawing a line under the last customer instruction. This will clearly identify if any repairs
have been added after the customer’s instructions. In the case of computer generated repair
orders, it may be possible to configure the system to 'rule off' automatically.
On completion of the booking-in procedure, customer-facing staff should endeavour where
possible to obtain the customer’s signature on the repair order. Where it is not possible to
obtain a customer signature, an explanation for this should be written on the repair order.
When a customer takes the opportunity to leave the vehicle outside normal business hours,
the customer’s written instructions must be retained as supporting documentation and
attached to the repair order.
F2.2CONFIRM THE WARRANTY STATUS
Before accepting a repair as warranty, staff must ensure that all conditions of the warranties
have been fulfilled.
Vehicles must be within the relevant warranty period or distance limits.
For repairs under the Corrosion Protection Warranty, it must be confirmed that the vehicle
has had the required annual corrosion check(s) (where applicable) completed by an Aston
Martin dealer and had any identified concerns repaired.
Entitlement to Parts Warranty must be confirmed by reference to the date of the original
parts purchase invoice or relevant previous repair order.
Note: Recalls are not restricted by Vehicle Warranty time or distance limitations. Service
Actions are not restricted by Vehicle Warranty time or distance limitations unless stated in
the relevant Service Action.
See A2.1 Terms and conditions.
F2.3CHECK FOR POTENTIAL REPEAT CUSTOMER CONCERNS/REPAIRS
Checks for potential repeat customer concerns/repairs must be carried out by discussion
with the customer and by reference to a vehicle history file. Repeat repairs by the same
dealer caused by faulty workmanship, poor diagnosis or incorrect repair techniques are
the responsibility of the original repairer and must not be charged to the customer or Aston
Martin. Where a repeat repair is confirmed, the vehicle history should be drawn from the
SECTION F
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dealer's (and if necessary manufacturer's) files and assessed by supervision before a decision
is made on the way to proceed. Repeat repairs should be clearly identified on the repair
order.
F2.4CHECK FOR OUTSTANDING FIELD ACTIONS
All customer and dealer owned vehicles, regardless of country of origin, must be checked
to identify any outstanding Field Actions. Dealers should endeavour to complete identified
Field Actions before the vehicle leaves the workshop.
All unsold new and used vehicles in stock must be checked and any necessary Field Actions
completed prior to handover.
See J Field actions.
F2.5DETAILS REQUIRED FOR REPAIR ORDER
The customer’s instructions may include retail and warranty repairs. In such cases a dealer
may raise a separate repair order for each category of repair necessary. Alternatively, if the
dealer's system allows for multiple billing, a single repair order may be used. Repair orders,
displaying the dealer's name and address, should be used in sequential order.
The following information is required:
• Date vehicle is received for repair.
• Customer details including name, address, contact telephone number and, where
necessary, the delivery driver's name and contact telephone number.
• Vehicle model, derivative and registration number.
• Full vehicle identification (17 character VIN).
• Vehicle warranty commencement date or expiry date.
• Odometer reading (if applicable, note any adjustment as a result of a speedometer
• Parts Warranty details including invoice number and date of fitting / sale (where
applicable).
• Customer requirement(s) and signature. See F2.1 Defining the customer concern.
• Customer Concern Code.
• Service Receptionist name.
• Major unit serial number, when replaced.
If the dealer uses un-numbered repair orders, a unique number must be allocated to the
repair order set before the top and bottom copies are separated. Repair order numbers
must be sequential, not duplicated within a twelve-month period and properly accounted
for in order that lost repair orders may be identified. Where two or more repair orders are
raised for one vehicle they must be cross-referenced to each other.
SECTION F
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F2.6ADDITIONAL CUSTOMER INSTRUCTIONS
There may be occasions where the customer will add further repair instructions after the
repair order has been completed. Under these circumstances, customer-facing staff may
detail the additional repair on the original repair order below the line drawn under the last
customer instruction. Alternatively, a fresh repair order may be completed, cross-referenced
to the original. In both instances, customer-facing staff must sign the repair order against
each additional item, identifying the source of additional repairs.
F3WORKSHOP SUPERVISION (PRE-REPAIR)
F3.1CONDUCT/ARRANGE ANY NECESSARY PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS
On receipt of the repair order, workshop supervision should identify any customer concern
that has not been properly defined. If necessary, workshop supervision may involve a
technical specialist to evaluate the vehicle in order to determine the nature and cause of
the concern. In some instances, this will involve inspection of the vehicle with the customer.
Alternatively, a brief road test with the customer may be required. Where the customer is
unavailable at the time and the concern cannot be reproduced, the customer should be
contacted for further information before proceeding. It may be necessary to make reference
to technical information to define the concern and most effective repair procedure more
accurately.
Note: Conducting primary diagnosis and issuing precise written repair instructions to the
technician is the responsibility of supervision and is therefore considered an overhead of
the business. It is not claimable as a separate element of the repair.
See F7 Reimbursement of diagnosis time.
F3.2SECONDARY DIAGNOSIS
Dealers that follow a structured approach to primary diagnosis will, in the majority of cases,
be able to issue precise repair instructions to workshop staff. However, in certain situations
the concern may be clear but identification of the cause of the problem will require
secondary diagnosis.
See F4.1 Conduct any appropriate secondary diagnosis.
See F7 Reimbursement of diagnosis time.
F3.3RECORD PRECISE REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS ON THE REPAIR ORDER
Workshop supervision must enter precise repair instructions to enable effective control of
the repair and allow the scheduled time to be determined at a later stage. Staff fulfilling
the control function should ensure all technicians are allocated work that is suitable to their
levels of skill and expertise.
F3.4NON-STANDARD OPERATIONS
Where a published repair time does not exist for the repair, a non-standard time may be
claimed. The time allocated must be based on the workshop supervisor's repair instructions,
the technician's repair write-up and the elapsed time recorded for all the warranty work
SECTION F
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carried out. In addition, consideration must be given to the technician having the appropriate
skills, tools and equipment and that any associated, published, service information has
been taken into account.
See F3.5 Ensure the repair time is accurately recorded.
See G2.2 Non-standard operations.
F3.5ENSURE THE REPAIR TIME IS ACCURATELY RECORDED
Workshop supervision must ensure all repair times are accurately recorded by use of an
appropriate and secure clocking system. The repair must be 'clocked on' and 'clocked off'
for each category of work e.g. warranty, retail and internal. This is the only way that true
technician efficiencies can be calculated. Each separate clock-time must be cross-referenced
to the repair(s) to which it relates so that the time spent on each category can be clearly
identified.
When a job is not being worked on, the repair must be clocked off by the person fulfilling
the clocking requirement. When the repair can be continued, the repair must be clocked
on again before work commences. The above action is also valid for body and paint repairs.
Examples where the repair must be clocked off include meal/tea/coffee breaks, excessive
time spent researching documentation or assisting another technician, where parts are not
available, where a road test is required or at the end of the day.
Handwritten times will be acceptable only in exceptional circumstances such as temporary
failure of the clocking system. On such an occasion workshop supervision must record the
reason for not using the clocking system, confirm that the on/off times are accurate and
verify each handwritten time by a signature.
F3.6INSPECT AND VERIFY ADD-ON REPAIRS
If during the course of a warranty repair, the need for additional warranty repairs is
identified, this must be recorded on the repair order. Each proposed add-on repair must
be inspected and verified by workshop supervision. If the need for repair is agreed, workshop
supervision is required to pre-authorise the repair, confirming the authorisation with a full
signature against each approved item on the repair order. One signature for multiple repairs
is not acceptable. Where the need for warranty work is identified during a retail repair,
service or PDI it must be verified and authorised as above on the source document.
Repairs can only be added to a previously completed repair order where they are correctly
and individually authorised. This includes handwritten instructions on computer generated
repair orders. All add-on repairs must be clearly identified and handwritten onto the
workshop copy of the repair order and authorised as previously indicated. The repair order
must not be reassembled to write an add-on repair from the top copy through to the repair
order.
The customer should be informed about any add-on repairs undertaken when the vehicle
is handed back.
SECTION F
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F4TECHNICIAN
The repair order issued should contain instructions from supervision detailing specific
repair(s) to be completed. Alternatively, where the cause of the concern is unclear after
primary diagnosis, supervision will detail the secondary diagnosis to be carried out.
F4.1CONDUCT ANY APPROPRIATE SECONDARY DIAGNOSIS
Where appropriate, supervision may instruct technicians to use specialised equipment and
report any findings to determine how to proceed with the repair. Acting upon the findings,
supervision may continue to authorise further diagnosis until precise repair instructions can
be issued.
Supervision may perform secondary diagnosis, which Aston Martin will normally reimburse
providing start and finish times are recorded and a detailed repair write-up is provided.
See F4.3 Record test results and other specification readings.
See F4.4 Write a concise report of all work completed.
Where fault tracing involves non-standard labour time, supervision must ensure that time
allocated to the repair is based upon inspection and observation of the repair in progress.
Technicians should be given an initial investigation time, with reasonable additional time
being authorised where appropriate.
Note: To ensure proper workshop control is not compromised by excessive supervisory
involvement in diagnosis, it is recommended that management maintain records of the
time spent by supervisors conducting secondary diagnosis.
Aston Martin will reimburse reasonable secondary diagnosis time providing:
• It was performed by qualified workshop personnel.
• Reference has been made to all relevant technical information to establish the most
effective repair procedure.
• Adequate control has been maintained throughout the repair; if the root cause of the
concern has not been identified within 2 hours then Dealer Technical Support must be
contacted before proceeding with further diagnosis.
• The repair rectified the customer concern.
See F7 Reimbursement of diagnosis time.
Technical support
Where all normal methods of diagnosis have been exhausted, dealers should contact Aston
Martin for advice. The person calling should be in possession of all documentation relating
to the concern, and be able to provide full details of the primary and secondary diagnosis
completed.
All contacts with Aston Martin must be documented on the repair order, including a brief
summary of the advice issued and, where applicable, any reference numbers issued.
SECTION F
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Contact with Aston Martin may result in the involvement of a specialist engineer. Assistance
may be in the form of a telephone call or, in exceptional circumstances, a visit to the dealer
to evaluate the subject vehicle. The repairing technician may be involved and must record
on the repair order the results of all contacts and visits.
F4.2REPORT THE NEED FOR ADDITIONAL WORK
If, during the course of a repair, the technician identifies the need for additional work, this
must be recorded on the original repair order and authorised in writing by workshop
supervision prior to commencing the repair.
See F3.6 Inspect and verify add-on repairs.
F4.3RECORD TEST RESULTS AND OTHER SPECIFICATION READINGS
Pre and post repair specification readings relevant to the definition and rectification of the
identified concern must be recorded on the repair order by the technician. Any fault code
displayed by the diagnostic system during the diagnosis routine must be printed and attached
to the repair order.
F4.4WRITE A CONCISE REPORT OF ALL WORK COMPLETED
On completion of a repair, or at each stage of a complex repair, the repairing technician
must write a concise report (write-up) in the space provided on the repair order. Write-ups
for multiple repairs must be cross-referenced to the sequential repair item from the
customer's concern description and initialled by the repairing technician. If there is
insufficient space left on a repair order for an adequate report, a continuation repair order
may be used. A single signature or initials is acceptable if the same technician performs all
write-ups and initials are clear enough to identify who conducted the repair.
Each write-up must clearly identify:
• Details of the diagnosis, including the results of any tests/checks undertaken using
diagnostic equipment (including those that do not indicate a fault).
• Rectification work completed.
• Confirmation of concern resolution.
• Serial numbers of original and replacement major units
F4.5DISPLACED PARTS
All parts displaced during the course of a warranty repair must be kept in good condition
and stored in a secure area. It is recommended that the person responsible for storing
warranty parts signs the repair order and the displaced part label to confirm receipt.
• Where appropriate, all parts containing fluids must be drained. If blanking or protective
plugs are fitted these must be transferred from the new part to the displaced part. Failure
to transfer the plugs can result in contamination and prohibits testing of the component,
which will result in the claim being rejected/debited.
• The displaced part should be put in the packaging from which the new part was removed.
• A label identifying the part number, job number and reason for replacement must be
securely attached to the part.
SECTION F
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See H Displaced parts procedures.
F5PARTS STAFF
F5.1RECORD ON REPAIR ORDER DETAILS OF ALL MATERIALS ISSUED
Parts staff must record on the repair order the part number(s) and quantities issued. In the
case of computer-controlled parts issue, attaching the computer-generated picking slip will
assist with claim submission. Alternatively, parts issue details must be accessible within a
system that provides a secure audit trail.
F6WORKSHOP SUPERVISION (POST-REPAIR)
F6.1ENSURE THE REPAIR IS CLOCKED OFF
Workshop supervision must ensure that on completion of the repair, or when the job is
not being worked on, the repair is clocked off.
F6.2VERIFY THAT THE REPAIR ORDER IS COMPLETED CORRECTLY
Workshop supervision must verify that the required work has been completed correctly
and that the repair order contains adequate details of the diagnosis and rectification work
carried out. The repair order must also demonstrate a logical repair sequence to enable
accurate labour time allocation to be completed.
F6.3REVIEW NON-STANDARD TIME
When the repair is completed, workshop supervision must check that any non-standard
labour claimed is reasonable when compared to the elapsed time and confirmed on the
repair order. Where there is non-standard labour included on the repair order, this will
normally be the time authorised by workshop supervision or the clocked time, whichever
is less. Appropriate deductions must be made where the elapsed time includes
non-productive functions.
Where repairs involve both standard and non-standard labour the maximum non-standard
time claimed must not be established by subtraction of the standard times from the clocked
time, as this will not take into account the ability of the technician to complete standard
repairs more quickly (or slowly) than the published time.
F6.4QUALITY CONTROL
To maintain the highest levels of customer satisfaction random quality checks on completed
repairs should be performed. The results should be fully documented on the repair order
and referenced in a separate log.
See F1.1 Reports and controls.
SECTION F
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F7REIMBURSEMENT OF DIAGNOSIS TIME
DIAGNOSIS STAGEDIAGNOSTIC TIME REIMBURSABLE?
Stage 1 - Customer Concern Reporting
During the reception process can the customer's concerns
be defined exactly enabling precise repair instructions to be
issued to the technician?
YES - See F7.1 Repair Process A.
DIAGNOSIS TIME NOT REIMBURSABLE FOR STAGES 1 AND 2.
DIAGNOSIS TIME IS REIMBURSABLE FOR STAGES 3 AND 4
(SUBJECT TO SECTION F REQUIREMENTS)
NO - Go to Stage 2 below
Stage 2 - Primary Diagnosis
After initial appraisal has been undertaken by a technical
specialist, can the cause of the problem be defined enabling
precise repair instructions to be issued to the technician?
YES - See F7.1 Repair Process A.
NO - Go to Stage 3 below
Stage 3 - Secondary Diagnosis
After clocking-on and using the appropriate dignostic equipment, does the technical specialist's report identify the cause
of the problem enabling precise repair instructions to be
issued to the technician?
YES - See F7.2 Repair Process B.
NO - Go to Stage 4 below
Stage 4 - Contact Dealer Technical Support
After clocking-on, perform the test/diagnosis recommended
by Aston Martin. This should identify the cause of the problem
enabling precise repair instructions to be issued to the technician. If not, further contact with Aston Martin will be
required.
YES - See F7.2 Repair Process B.
F7.1REPAIR PROCESS A
BASIC REPAIR PROCESS
The repair order is completed. The Parts Department is informed of parts required to
enable pre-picking. Precise repair instruction issued to the technician.
See F3.3 Record precise repair instructions on the repair order.
F7.2REPAIR PROCESS B
BASIC REPAIR PROCESS
Supervision issues precise repair instruction to the technician and ensures the repair time
is accurately recorded.
See F3.3 Record precise repair instructions on the repair order.
See F3.5 Ensure the repair time is accurately recorded.
SECTION F
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G1CLAIM PREPARATION
G1.1INITIAL WARRANTY CHECKS
The following checks should be completed prior to claim submission:
Terms and Conditions
• Ensure that all items are covered by the relevant Aston Martin warranty terms and
conditions and are within any time or distance limitations.
Repeat Repairs
• Establish liability for identified repeat repairs. If it is not Aston Martin responsibility, the
repair should not be claimed under warranty.
Repair Description
• Check that the repair description and work claimed under warranty accurately reflects
the actual work carried out by the technician. The repair text should include: fault, cause
and corrective action. Any DTCs or battery test codes should also be included.
Add-On Repairs
• Ensure that all add-on repairs have been correctly verified and authorised.
Repair Time Recording (On/Off Clockings)
• Ensure the labour hours claimed are supported by the elapsed repair time.
Displaced Parts
• Ensure all displaced parts are deposited in a secure area, and that they are returned
promptly, or retained for the period specified. Where a part is identified for scrapping,
proper disposal should be arranged.
See H Displaced parts procedures.
Secondary Diagnosis Time
• Check in conjunction with Section F requirements that repair orders detailing secondary
diagnosis include:
– Details of the primary diagnosis previously undertaken, demonstrating that a structured
approach has been followed.
– Precise diagnostic instructions by supervision that is logical in relation to the customer's
complaint and primary diagnosis already performed.
– Technician write-ups that include the pre and post results of tests/checks undertaken
using any diagnostic equipment (including those that do not indicate a fault).
– That technicians are adequately trained for the area of vehicle under investigation.
– That where fault tracing involves non-standard labour time, the time claimed is
reasonable.
See F Service department processes and controls.
Additional Time
• Where the time taken to carry out a warranty repair exceeds the published repair time,
this may only be claimed where it can be demonstrated that the additional work is not
included in the repair procedure required to complete the repair.
SECTION G
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Parts Warranty
• Check that all relevant Parts Warranty claim details are available. The Parts Warranty
Form may be used for direct customer sales.
See G5 Parts warranty form.
G1.2PROBLEM CODES
Causal part number
The causal part number is used on a warranty claim to identify the part that failed and
made the repair necessary. It is important that the causal part number used identifies what
has caused the problem and not the effect.
Customer concern codes
A Customer Concern Code (CCC) must support all warranty claims (with the exception of
Field Service Actions). This code should reflect what the customer's perception of the
concern was before the repair takes place. This code should be added to the repair order
before work commences and should be entered by the customer facing staff after discussing
the concern with the owner or driver.
Note: Where the repair carried out is additional to any owner complaint, the most accurate
CCC should be selected for the condition identified.
G1.3TECHNICAL INFORMATION FEEDBACK
The data required in the technician narrative field within ODW must include details of the
complaint, cause of the defect (including Diagnostic Trouble Codes where applicable) and
rectification carried out. The technical narrative is vital to support problem resolution and
is made available direct to Aston Martin engineers.
G1.4SUBCONTRACT REPAIRS
Occasionally the use of specialist sub-contractors may be required to complete repairs
effectively. Where sub-contracted repairs are necessary, the following must be noted:
• The dealer should not allow sub-contractor repair costs to exceed those that would have
been incurred had the dealer conducted the repair in their own workshops.
• Claims for sub-contract repairs may not exceed the net invoice value.
• Genuine Aston Martin parts must be supplied and claimed using the relevant part number.
• The repair date to be used on a claim for a sub-contract operation is taken as the date
the vehicle is collected from the sub-contractor.
• Claims for the sub-contracted repairs must be claimed using the appropriate process.
See B Subcontract repairs.
See L3 Subcontract body and paint repairs.
SECTION G
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G1.5ZZZ-PART NUMBERS
Where no Aston Martin part number exists for parts or services used in a warranty repair,
the net cost of the amount involved (less taxes) may be claimed by using a ZZZ part number.
If the use of a ZZZ part number is appropriate, this will be detailed in the relevant section
of this manual. For ease of reference the chart below summarises the various applications
of the ZZZ part numbers.
ConsumablesZZZ 001
Dealer sourced partsZZZ 002*
Car hireZZZ 003*
Vehicle recoveryZZZ 004*
Consequential costsZZZ 005*
Sub-contract repairsZZZ 006
Paint materials allowanceZZZ 010*
* Requires prior authority. See B Prior authority.
G1.6SHORTAGES AND INCORRECT SPECIFICATION
See C Receiving and storing new vehicles.
Shortages and Incorrect specification are defined as follows:
• Shortages – parts or factory ordered options missing on receipt of a vehicle.
• Incorrect Specification – when a vehicle does not match the specification ordered from
or invoiced by Aston Martin
Claim procedure
The following guidelines must be adhered to:
• All concerns must be rectified within 2 months of the vehicle retail delivery.
• Claims must be submitted on ODW using Customer Concern Code A99.
• Dealers must ensure that there is no delay between identifying a shortage or incorrect
specification and entering it in to ODW.
• Prior Authority must be obtained from Aston Martin. See B Prior authority.
Note: It is the retailing dealer's responsibility to ensure that the delivered vehicle matches
the agreed customer order. Only one claim per vehicle will be accepted. Therefore, it is
essential that the submitted claim contains all the parts and labour operations required to
rectify the vehicle. Any subsequent complaint for a shortage or incomplete specification is
the responsibility of the dealer to rectify.
Parts supply
All parts required to rectify Shortages or Incorrect Specification must be either taken from
dealer stock or obtained from Aston Martin Parts using normal ordering procedures.
SECTION G
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G2ALLOCATION OF LABOUR TIMES
G2.1STANDARD REPAIR OPERATION NUMBERS
Standard repair operation numbers published by Aston Martin must be used to allocate
repair times wherever possible. The processing system will limit any payment against a
standard time to the maximum published time.
Overlap of standard times
If two or more repairs are carried out at the same time and the work content of the standard
times overlap, only the largest standard time can be claimed. The remaining time must be
claimed by either using specific published times that allow for the overlap or a non standard
operation and reduced time.
See G2.2 Non-standard operations.
G2.2NON-STANDARD OPERATIONS
If a standard operation is not available for a repair, a non-standard operation number can
be used. For the use of non-standard operation numbers, refer to the relevant repair time
publications.
Note:
• Non-standard times must not be used to compensate for failure to complete an operation
within the allocated standard time.
• The time allocated must be based on the workshop supervisor's repair instructions, the
technician's repair write-up and the elapsed time recorded for all the warranty work
carried out.
See F3.5 Ensure the repair time is accurately recorded.
• Workshop supervision must allocate the repair to the technician who has the appropriate
skills, tools and equipment and access to published service information.
• Non-productive time must not be claimed.
• Claims containing non-standard operation numbers are subject to assessment by Aston
Martin.
G2.3DRIVE IN/DRIVE OUT
An allowance may be claimed for driving a vehicle into the workshop for warranty repairs
and returning it to the car park after completion of the work. The allowance is claimable
once for each workshop visit, not for each repair undertaken.
The allowance is not claimable if any of the following conditions apply:
• The whole repair being claimed is a non-standard operation.
• The vehicle is in the workshop for other repair/maintenance work (including servicing/PDI
etc).
• Field Actions (included in the time allowed where applicable).
SECTION G
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This allowance is applicable for Aston Martin DB9, Vanquish and AMV8. For Aston Martin
DB7 models, an allowance is included within each repair time, therefore additional time
may not be claimed.
G3CLAIM SUBMISSION
G3.1CLAIM SUBMISSION
Where electronic claim submission is available, all claims must be submitted within 14
days of completion of the repair.
Battery claims must be submitted within 7 days of completion of the repair.
Note: The date of repair is the technician's last clock time recording for the repair.
For details of electronic claim submissions, refer to your systems specific user guide.
G3.2CLAIM DISCREPANCIES
Queries or appeals on claim decisions must be received within 28 days of notification from
Aston Martin.
Aston Martin must be advised of any claims submitted for which no payment or rejection
notice has been received within 60 days. Before contacting Aston Martin, every effort must
be made to ensure that all necessary records and documents are checked to confirm
non-payment or rejection.
Discrepancies reported for under or overpayment of £5.00 or less (or equivalent local
currency) cannot be investigated.
G4ACCOUNTING
Dealers will receive a Self Billing Invoice (SBI) or credit note periodically, which should be
reconciled with their own records.
It is recommended that dealers maintain a warranty debtor account for unpaid claims. The
value of all claims is debited and the value of SBIs or credit notes is credited to this account.
Any differences should, if not queried, be written off and not shown as outstanding.
Rejections that Aston Martin will not accept as resubmissions must be written off. The
balance carried forward at any month end will therefore represent original claims submitted,
but not yet paid, together with any rejections which have been, or will be, re-submitted.
SECTION G
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G5PARTS WARRANTY FORM
Parts Warranty Form
Information required where a genuine Aston Martin part previously sold by the Parts
Department is returned due to a manufacturing defect:
Invoice number detailing original sale
1
(attach copy)
Date of sale2
Make and type of vehicle3
Vehicle Identification Number4
Distance covered by part since fitment5
Concern (Note: Faulty is not sufficient. Please record specific concern.)6
Part description and part number7
Customer's name and address8
Dealer stamp9
Invoice number against which replacement
10
unit provided
Customer's signature and date11
This information, together with the replaced part, to be forwarded to your Warranty
Administrator.
Note: All warranty policy & procedures and any prior authority requirements must be
adhered to. Please refer to the Warranty Policy & Procedures manual for full guidance.
All claims are subject to audit.
Office use only:
SECTION G
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Table of Contents
HDisplaced parts procedures
H1Introduction
H1.1Displaced parts storage.......................................................................................
H1.2Parts returns time limit........................................................................................
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H1INTRODUCTION
In order to achieve quality and commercial objectives Aston Martin requires selected parts
to be returned promptly to the Material Returns Centre. The selection of parts required is
regularly reviewed and dealers will be notified which parts are to be returned.
Parts Return Procedure
Dealers will be notified of parts requested for return via the On-Line Dealer Warranty
System. Parts requested must be packed and ready for collection.
UK - Weekly Collections
Overseas - Monthly Collections
Documentation will be sent to the dealer from Aston Martin’s freight forwarder. The
documentation will include:
For the UK
• Consignment Note
For Overseas
• Consignment Note
• Air Way Bill
The supplied documentation is complete, dealers must not alter any information on the
Warranty Returns Advice Note.
If the above instructions are not complied with then Aston Martin may recharge to the
dealer any costs incurred.
Please refer to the published routing order for the contact details of Aston Martin’s Freight
Forwarding Agent.
H1.1DISPLACED PARTS STORAGE
• Dealers must ensure all displaced parts are deposited in a dedicated racking system
within a secure area. It is recommended that the repair order is signed by the person
responsible for the displaced parts. This will help effective control of displaced parts.
Parts that are identified for destruction for claims that have been accepted by Aston
Martin Warranty, must be kept for 28 days before they are destroyed.
See F4.5 Displaced parts.
• For identification during storage, a label detailing the part number, job number and
reason for replacement must be securely attached to the displaced part.
See H2.1 Warranty returns label.
• In markets where a returns process is operational, parts must be retained until disposal
instructions are received from Aston Martin. A part destruction date will be given on
the Return Parts screen of the DCS system.
SECTION H
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• Parts identified for disposal/scrapping must be rendered unusable and may not, under
any circumstances, be sold or reconditioned. It is recommended that this is done on a
weekly basis.
• Where appropriate, all parts containing fluids or lubricants must be drained. If blanking
or protective plugs are fitted to the new part these must be transferred to the displaced
part. Failure to transfer the plugs can result in contamination and prohibits testing of the
component, which will result in the claim being debited.
• The displaced part should be returned in the packaging from which the replacement
was removed.
Note: Storage, return or scrapping of parts, and disposal of fluids must be carried out in
accordance with local environmental regulations.
H1.2PARTS RETURNS TIME LIMIT
It is important that dealers return parts in accordance with returns procedures at the earliest
opportunity. Unless otherwise specified, the claim will be rejected/debited for parts not
received by the Material Returns Centre within 28 days of notification. Parts received after
reject/debit action has been taken will not be reinstated and will not be returned to the
dealer.
H1.3WARRANTY RETURN LABEL COMPLETION
Where parts are replaced following the use of electronic diagnostic equipment a copy of
the resulting printout must be attached to the WR label. Additionally, for complex fault
descriptions attach a copy of the repair write up.
Note: If the WR label relates to a major assembly the serial number of the displaced unit
must be recorded in the space provided.
See H2.1 Warranty returns label.
H1.4PACKING PARTS FOR RETURN
When packing parts for return it should be ensured that:
• The return label should be placed in a plastic bag and securely attached to the correct
part with all required information fully accessible.
• The parts department must carefully pack pallets or boxes for return, with heavy items
placed at the bottom and more fragile parts at the top. Items which are likely to be stolen
should be put into the returns pallet or box just prior to it being sealed for return.
• Major units such as engines and gearboxes must be returned as a single item in a separate
pallet or box.
• All returned parts must be:
– Securely packaged to avoid damage using the packaging from which the replacement
part was removed.
– Cleaned and drained of oil (unless otherwise requested).
– Fitted with protective plugs (where applicable).
– Identified with claim details.
– Accompanied by any relevant test sheets.
SECTION H
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It should be noted that returned parts are required for supplier inspection to validate claims
and provide valuable product data, they are not returned for scrapping purposes.
H1.5BATTERY RETURNS
Where requested, displaced batteries must be returned to the Material Returns Centre,
where they will be re-tested using the approved battery tester.
• Claims for batteries found to have failed due to incorrect maintenance during storage
will be debited. In these cases batteries will not be returned to the dealer.
• Claims for batteries that have been replaced unnecessarily, when only a recharge was
required, will be debited. In these cases batteries will be returned to the dealer.
See C2.1 Battery care.
See B Batteries.
In the interests of safety and the environment, all battery returns must comply with Aston
Martin and country specific requirements:
• The positive terminal must be capped.
• Batteries must be sealed in a plastic bag.
• Batteries must be placed and secured within a specified separate stabilising container
for return and not mixed with other parts.
• Only Aston Martin approved packaging and transport methods may be used.
If this process is not followed, warranty claims may be rejected/debited.
Where these requirements have not been met, the parts carrier has been advised to refuse
collection. Batteries received at the Material Returns Centre which do not comply with the
requirements will be rejected/debited. In such cases batteries will not be returned to the
dealer.
H1.9EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE REPAIRS
Where an Assistance Engineer changes a component on a vehicle that is covered by
warranty, the engineer will submit the displaced part to an Aston Martin dealer for claim
purposes and request to be supplied with a replacement part.
An Emergency Service Report provided by the Assistance Engineer will contain sufficient
information to enable the dealer to submit a warranty claim for the material only. The claim
must not include labour as the Assistance Engineer carried out the work.
The dealer must ensure that the Aston Martin Assistance Engineer has identified the displaced
part(s) by attaching green self adhesive labels to both the part and its packaging.
The Emergency Service Report must be retained with the dealer's repair order for audit
purposes.
H1.10 PARTS RETURNED TO DEALER
Parts will be inspected on receipt at the Material Returns Centre. Where repair and return
procedures have not been met, the claim will be debited and parts may be returned to the
dealer. Typical examples include:
SECTION H
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• Part received does not match description on the return label.
• Part not returned in the correct manner, e.g. blanking plugs missing, dismantled or
incomplete assemblies.
• Sealed units which have been opened, e.g. CD players, ECUs.
• Part damaged, e.g. careless removal from vehicle or damaged in transit due to poor
packaging.
• Supporting documents not returned with part, e.g. diagnostic equipment printouts,
battery test code, test sheets, audio service forms.
• The condition of the component is inconsistent with the age and mileage of the vehicle.
• No fault is found during testing.
Parts rejected and returned to the claiming dealer must not be re-charged to the
customer or used for warranty repairs.
SECTION H
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H2DISPLACED PARTS ATTACHMENTS
E88764
H2.1WARRANTY RETURNS LABEL
SECTION H
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J2.4Completion of customer literature......................................................................
J3Service actions
J4Quarantine notices
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85
85
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J1FIELD ACTIONS
Field Actions, which consist of Field Service Actions and Quarantine Notices, are conducted
by Aston Martin to ensure the systematic rectification of design or construction defects.
Dealers must advise Aston Martin immediately if they encounter failures that they believe
may have placed people or property at risk of damage or injury, or rendered the vehicle
illegal.
Depending on the nature and scope of the defect, one of the following actions may be
taken:
• Field Service Action, including:
– Recall Action
– Service Action
• Quarantine Notice
J1.1DEALER RESPONSIBILITIES
All customer and dealer owned vehicles, regardless of country of origin, must be checked
at the point of booking in to identify any outstanding Field Service Actions. Dealers should
endeavour to complete identified Field Service Actions before the vehicle leaves the
workshop.
See F2.4 Check for outstanding field actions.
This work must be completed free of charge to the customer and warranty claims submitted
in accordance with the warranty claim instructions.
All unsold new and used vehicles in stock must be checked and any applicable Field Service
Actions completed prior to handover.
Where vehicles have been transferred to another dealer it is the responsibility of the original
recipient to advise the subsequent recipient that a Field Action is required on the subject
vehicle prior to sale.
Claim procedures
All claims must be submitted in accordance with the appropriate Field Action instructions.
This will enable Aston Martin to monitor progress and meet obligations to report the status
of the Field Action to the appropriate authority.
J1.2FIELD ACTION PARTS
Parts that have been specifically supplied for use on a particular Field Action must not be
used for any other type of repair.
SECTION J
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J2RECALL ACTIONS
J2.1LEGISLATION OR CODE OF PRACTICE ON VEHICLE SAFETY DEFECTS
Aston Martin will fully support Codes of Practice formulated by any government legislation
or recognised national manufacturers' associations covering vehicle recalls. Where such
legislation or codes of practice do not exist, appropriate steps must be taken to ensure that
all vehicles affected by a safety related fault are promptly rectified regardless of the age or
mileage of the vehicle.
Where vehicle owner name and address details are available from a local official source,
Aston Martin must make every effort to contact owners of affected vehicles. In those
countries where it is not possible to obtain owner name and address details from a local
official source, it is the responsibility of Aston Martin to obtain this information from an
appropriate source.
See J2.3 Owner notification.
Upon the launch of a Recall Action, Aston Martin must immediately take steps to:
• Advise the appropriate authority where required.
• Advise all dealers and provide full details of the Recall Action.
• Advise all owners of affected vehicles. See J2.3 Owner notification.
• Export Aston Martin dealers are responsible for contacting the owner.
• Monitor the number of repairs completed and where necessary take action to ensure
all subject vehicles are rectified.
J2.2NOTIFICATION TO DEALERS
Dealers will receive formal notification of a Recall Action which will give full details of
vehicles involved, the work required and warranty claim procedures.
J2.3OWNER NOTIFICATION
Aston Martin will distribute with the formal notification a prepared customer letter that the
dealer is to use when contacting the owner.
J2.4COMPLETION OF CUSTOMER LITERATURE
Upon completion of the Recall, the dealer must enter relevant details of the Recall Action
in the space provided in the customer literature.
J3SERVICE ACTIONS
Service Actions are introduced to address known product issues where action must be
taken in the interests of customer satisfaction. It is quite acceptable to undertake the
necessary repair or modification when the vehicle next visits a dealer for service. The owner
may or may not be notified. Dealers will receive formal notification of a Service Action
which will give full details of vehicles involved, the work required and warranty claim
procedures.
SECTION J
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J4QUARANTINE NOTICES
Problems occasionally arise where action must be taken quickly on a very limited number
of vehicles, if possible before delivery to the retail customer. In such situations a Quarantine
Notice will be introduced.
Where involved, dealers will receive formal notification of a Quarantine Notice which will
give full details of vehicles involved, the work required and warranty claim procedures.
SECTION J
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K1GOODWILL
K1.1INTRODUCTION
In today's highly competitive environment, customers are becoming increasingly demanding
and have ever-higher quality expectations of both products and services. Aston Martin,
together with our dealer network, will only survive and prosper if we aim to meet these
expectations in everything we do.
Clearly, this philosophy implies a need to invest in our customers if we are to retain them
within our family.
This section sets a minimum international standard reflecting the brand values that our
customers have come to expect from us.
Commitment to customer care should not cease at the end of the warranty period. Aston
Martin customers expect fair and sympathetic treatment over the longer term if unexpected
post warranty product problems occur. We are determined to work with our dealer networks
in order to meet reasonable customer expectations even when the warranty has expired.
K1.2AUTHORISATIONS AND CONTROLS
Goodwill is controlled in the following ways:
• All Aston Martin dealers are required to seek prior authority from Aston Martin for all
goodwill contributions. See B Prior authority.
• Only Aston Martin Aftersales Executives, Aston Martin Technical Service and Aston
Martin Customer Service may give approval for the contribution.
The objectives of customer satisfaction and retaining brand loyalty are clearly of benefit to
all concerned and therefore Aston Martin expects that there will be occasions where dealers
will contribute towards customer goodwill costs.
K1.3GUIDELINES
A zero contribution may well be the correct decision where no positive extenuating
circumstances are evident.
The following are purely minimum guidelines and are applicable to all customers fulfilling
the criteria within this document, regardless of country of purchase or vehicle specification.
Markets may expand these minimum criteria in order to satisfy local customers in accordance
with local market characteristics.
The following points must be taken into account when considering goodwill contributions:
• Goodwill payments must be deemed to increase customer satisfaction and/or repurchase
intention.
• Goodwill payments will be calculated based on warranty rates for parts and labour and
not the dealer retail rates.
• A contribution is not to be given as an automatic right. Any contribution should only be
at the dealer's discretion following a request from the customer. The decision to provide
goodwill assistance must be made on an individual case-by-case basis.
• All customers must be treated fairly, regardless of where the vehicle was purchased.
SECTION K
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• Is there evidence available to show a full service history carried out within the Aston
Martin franchise?
• The percentage reduction on the customer's invoice must reflect the same percentage
as the authorised goodwill contribution. The dealer will be reimbursed using standard
Warranty terms and conditions and the difference between warranty and retail rates
must not be charged to the customer.
K1.4EXCLUSIONS
The following are specifically excluded from goodwill consideration and therefore must
not be made the subject of a claim.
• Repairs covered by any other warranty.
• Any repair on dealer used-car stock.
• Vehicles written-off by an insurance company or identified as previously having relevant
restricted warranty cover. See A4.2 Specific restrictions.
• Items under Warranty Restrictions. See A4.2 Specific restrictions.
K1.5CONTROLS
Goodwill repairs are subject to Service Department Processes and Controls, including
warranty audit. In addition, displaced parts may be requested for return for inspection.
See F Service department processes and controls.
On those occasions where a customer requests a goodwill contribution after the repair has
been completed, the repair order should be endorsed "Late Request".
Note: When a goodwill contribution is less than 100% the parts replaced are covered by
a full Parts Warranty effective from the date of repair.
SECTION K
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L1WARRANTY APPLIED TO PAINT SURFACE
Should the paint surface of the vehicle body require attention due to a defect in material
or applications, the necessary repairs will be performed completely free of charge by any
authorised dealer, regardless of any change in vehicle ownership during the period of cover.
Full details of 'owner's responsibilities' and 'what's not covered' are available in Section A.
See A1.6 Owner's responsibility.
See A1.7 What is not covered by the warranties?.
Note: Claims will not be considered where the problem has resulted from the fitment of
non-approved accessories, or incorrect fitment of approved accessories.
L1.1PAINT RECTIFICATION
Warranty paint rectification must only be carried out by an Aston Martin approved paint
repairer, whether this is the dealer's own approved facility, another approved Aston Martin
dealer or an Aston Martin approved sub-contractor. If another Aston Martin dealer carries
out the rectification they must use their own warranty account to submit the claim.
Prior to carrying out any warranty repair the identified manufacturing defect must be
recorded on a vehicle silhouette, including details of the nature and extent of the problem,
and its location. The completed silhouette must be filed with the repair order for audit
purposes.
A digital photograph may be used to support the claim.
L1.2REPAIR QUALITY
All warranty paint repairs must be completed using processes that ensure the most cost
effective repair.
For the warranty to remain valid and to ensure quality repairs:
• Only genuine Aston Martin replacement parts and approved paint products may be
used.
• Paint repairs must be carried out in accordance with the paint manufacturer's instructions.
Note: The above statement applies equally to dealer and sub-contract repairs.
L1.3PRIOR AUTHORITY
Dealers must obtain authority for all paint repairs from Aston Martin.
L1.4LABOUR ALLOWANCE
The standard times, as issued by Aston Martin, must be used.
A reasonable amount of additional labour time may be claimed if the removal and re-fitment
of approved accessories is necessary to complete a warranty paint repair. Where this is
required, a separate claim line must be submitted.
SECTION L
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L1.5MATERIAL ALLOWANCE
The material allowance for warranty paint repairs is based on the area of the panel and
reflects the cost of paint and sundries used to complete the repair.
• Refer to section L3 for sub-contract repairs. See L3 Subcontract body and paint repairs.
• The net cost of paint materials used during warranty repairs carried out in a dealer's
bodyshop should be claimed using the sundry part number ZZZ 010. See G1.5 ZZZ-Part
numbers.
L1.6PREVIOUS REPAIRS
Where a visual inspection identifies an unsatisfactory previous repair, contact should be
made with Aston Martin for guidance before commencing the repair.
L2CORROSION PROTECTION WARRANTY
Should any part of the bodywork of the vehicle be perforated by rust corrosion, the panel(s)
affected by the perforation will be repaired or replaced by an authorised dealer completely
free of charge, regardless of any change in vehicle ownership. See A Warranty terms and
conditions.
Note¹: The term 'perforated' means a hole that penetrates through the bodywork caused
by corrosion from the inside or underside as a result of faulty manufacture or materials.
Note²: The term 'bodywork' does not include road wheels and attachments such as bright
trim, bumpers, mouldings and hinges.
Full details of 'owner's responsibilities' and 'what's not covered' are available in Section A.
See A1.6 Owner's responsibility.
See A1.7 What is not covered by the warranties?.
L2.1VEHICLE BODYWORK INSPECTION
It is a condition of the Corrosion Protection Warranty that an Aston Martin dealer must
inspect the vehicle annually. Damage to the bodywork, paint finish, under body sealer or
any evidence of corrosion must be detailed by the technician on the inspection report.
On completion of the inspection, any necessary repairs should be listed in the space
provided in the Customer Literature. Additionally, the owner should be strongly advised
to have the required work carried out as soon as possible by an Aston Martin approved
Body and Paint Repairer in order to maintain the benefits of the Corrosion Protection
Warranty. Dealers should only stamp the ‘Above Repairs Completed’ box in the Customer
Literature when the work has been carried out to the required standard.
Prior to considering a repair under the Corrosion Protection Warranty the customer's
Customer Literature must be examined to confirm that an authorised Aston Martin dealer
has carried out the required annual inspections and that any necessary repairs have been
completed.
SECTION L
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L2.2CORROSION PROTECTION WARRANTY REPAIRS
Corrosion Protection Warranty repairs must only be carried out by an Aston Martin approved
Body and Paint Repairer, whether this is the dealer's own approved facility, another
approved Aston Martin dealer or an Aston Martin approved sub-contractor. If another Aston
Martin dealer carries out the rectification they must use their own warranty account to
submit the claim.
Prior to carrying out any Corrosion Protection Warranty repair the location of the perforation
must be clearly identified on a vehicle silhouette. The completed silhouette must be filed
with the repair order for audit purposes.
L2.3REPAIR QUALITY
All Corrosion Protection Warranty repairs must be completed using processes that ensure
the most cost effective repair.
For the warranty to remain valid and to ensure quality repairs:
• Only genuine Aston Martin replacement parts and approved paint products may be
used.
• Corrosion Protection repairs must be carried out in accordance with the paint
manufacturer's instructions.
Note: The above statement applies equally to dealer and sub-contract repairs.
All panel repair work must be carried out in accordance with the instructions given in Aston
Martin's Body Repair Manual.
L2.4PRIOR AUTHORITY
Prior authority is required from Aston Martin for all Corrosion Protection Warranty repairs.
L2.5LABOUR AND MATERIAL REIMBURSEMENT - IN DEALER REPAIR
Labour and material costs will be agreed as part of the prior authority procedure.
• The authorised labour time should be claimed using standard times where applicable,
unless other specific instructions are given.
• The authorised paint material value should be claimed using the specified code. See
G1.5 ZZZ-Part numbers.
• Unless otherwise authorised, genuine Aston Martin parts must be used and claimed
using the appropriate part numbers.
Following authorisation for a warranty repair to be undertaken and subsequent completion
of the repair, the claim should be submitted via the normal warranty claims procedure.
L2.6PREVIOUS REPAIRS
Where a visual inspection identifies an unsatisfactory previous repair, contact should be
made with Aston Martin for guidance before commencing the repair.
SECTION L
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L3SUBCONTRACT BODY AND PAINT REPAIRS
Only Aston Martin approved sub-contractors may carry out warranty body and paint repairs.
Where warranty repairs are carried out by sub-contractors, it remains the responsibility of
the dealer to ensure that the customer handling process is maintained. The requirements
detailed below are specifically relevant to sub-contract repairs:
• An official order must be issued to the sub-contractor detailing precise repair instructions,
including panel or panels affected and the prices agreed.
• Sub-contractor repair costs claimed must not exceed the amount that would have been
incurred had the dealer conducted the repair in their own workshops. Claims for
sub-contract repairs may not exceed the net invoice value.
• Dealers must ensure that rectification has been completed in accordance with Aston
Martin procedures and guarantee the work on behalf of the sub-contractor.
• Genuine Aston Martin parts must be supplied where available.
• The sub-contractor's invoice must identify:
– All panels that have been repaired.
– The repair process used on each panel.
– The cost of repairing each panel.
Note: All claims must exclude tax.
• Claims for the subcontracted repairs must be claimed using the specified code.
Note: Any parts fitted during a paint repair must be claimed separately.
• The repair date to be used on a claim for a sub-contract operation is taken as the date
the vehicle is collected from the sub-contractor.
• If another Aston Martin dealer carries out the rectification they must use their own
warranty account to submit the claim.
• All supporting documentation, including vehicle silhouette (and digital images if taken),
copy order and copy invoice for sub-contract paintwork, must be retained with the
repair order.
L4BODYSHOP PROCESSES AND CONTROLS
In order to ensure efficient operation of the bodyshop it is strongly recommended that the
process control requirements in Section F are applied for all body and paint repairs.
However, in the case of warranty repairs, specified procedures must be followed to ensure
satisfactory process and cost control. Documentary records must be maintained for audit
purposes.
See F Service department processes and controls.
See E1.4 Auditable warranty documentation.
SECTION L
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Table of Contents
MWarranty reimbursement
M3Warranty reimbursement
M3.1Dealer labour rate review....................................................................................
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M3WARRANTY REIMBURSEMENT
M3.1DEALER LABOUR RATE REVIEW
All warranty labour rate review applications must be received in writing by the Warranty
Manager, Aston Martin Warranty Department for consideration. A labour rate review will
only be considered on an annual basis. The warranty rate agreed by Aston Martin will be
based on a combination of the retail price index and analysis of competitor rates in the
local area of the specific dealer requesting a rate increase. The dealer will be notified in
writing when the new rate has been established. The new rate will not be applied until the
dealer returns a signed copy of the acknowledgment form attached to the new rate
notification. The new rate will only be applicable to warranty claims completed on or after
the new rate implementation date agreed with Aston Martin.
See M4 Warranty labour rate review form.
M3.2PARTS REIMBURSEMENT
Aston Martin will reimburse the part price based on the date of the dealer’s original parts
invoice. The warranty system holds on record a history of the dealer’s part purchase orders.
The warranty system will automatically reimburse the part price based on the purchase
order selection made by the dealer. Where the part has been ordered as VOR then the
system will automatically reimburse the VOR price.
M3.3TAXATION
Aston Martin will comply with all local taxation rules in respect of warranty claims. Where
it is a requirement, then tax will be automatically reimbursed with the warranty claim. The
dealer is expected to understand their own local taxation rules and notify Aston Martin of
any changes in local regulations.
SECTION M
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M4WARRANTY LABOUR RATE REVIEW FORM
E88774
SECTION M
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