2003 Aston Martin Vanquish

The 2003 Aston Martin Vanquish is a grand tourer known for its stunning design, powerful V12 engine, and luxurious interior. The Vanquish was offered with a naturally aspirated 5.9L V12 engine producing 460 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Owners appreciate the car’s distinctive styling, performance, and exclusivity. Common complaints often revolve around the car’s complexity, running costs, and potential for expensive repairs, particularly related to its automated manual transmission.

Engine

5.9L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine or garage floor, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals. Thoroughly clean the engine after repairs to monitor for further leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and a check engine light. Diagnosis typically reveals faulty coil packs.
  • Solution: Replacing the failing coil packs. It’s often recommended to replace them in pairs or all at once.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Automated Manual (ASM)

• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, and jerky shifting. Due to the automated nature of the transmission, clutch wear can be accelerated if not properly maintained and driven.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch assembly. This also often includes replacing the clutch position sensor and potentially the actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The automated manual transmission relies on a hydraulic pump to operate the clutch and gear changes. Pump failures can lead to an inability to shift gears, transmission warning lights, and a loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacing the hydraulic pump and ensuring proper fluid levels and system pressures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Actuator Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, inability to select gears, or erratic shifting behavior. The actuator controls gear selection and clutch engagement.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the actuator unit. This may involve replacing solenoids or other internal components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Vanquish features adaptive dampers that can wear out or fail. This can lead to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty dampers. It’s recommended to replace them in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience issues such as flickering displays, inaccurate readings, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Rapid battery drain can occur due to various electrical issues, such as faulty relays, parasitic draws, or a failing alternator.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the battery drain. This may involve replacing faulty components or repairing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sticky Buttons
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic buttons and trim pieces in the interior can become sticky and degrade over time.
  • Solution: Refurbishing or replacing the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the extent of the issue and the components affected.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The original navigation system can become outdated or fail.
  • Solution: Replacing or upgrading the navigation system with a more modern unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Aston Martin Vanquish, while a beautiful and powerful car, is known for its potential for expensive repairs. The most significant issues revolve around the automated manual transmission, which can suffer from clutch wear, hydraulic pump failures, and actuator problems. Engine oil leaks and electrical issues, like instrument cluster failures, are also common. While some repairs might be relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly. Potential buyers should factor in these potential costs when considering a Vanquish and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified Aston Martin mechanic.