2005 Aston Martin Vanquish

The 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish is a grand tourer celebrated for its stunning design, luxurious interior, and powerful performance. It is powered by a 5.9-liter V12 engine producing 460 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The Vanquish also comes equipped with a six-speed automated manual transmission. Owners generally praise the car’s head-turning looks, exhilarating driving experience, and the exclusivity that comes with owning an Aston Martin. However, potential drawbacks include high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and the automated manual transmission, which some find clunky and outdated compared to modern automatics.

Engine

5.9L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and extent of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light illumination. Often attributed to individual coil pack failures.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per coil, depending on labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, especially from hoses and radiator.
  • Solution: Replacing deteriorated hoses, repairing or replacing the radiator, ensuring proper coolant levels and pressure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the components needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automated Manual (ASM)

• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, jerky shifts, inability to move. The clutch is a known weak point in the ASM transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+ including labor, potential flywheel resurfacing.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the transmission’s hydraulic pump leading to loss of hydraulic pressure, resulting in inability to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, error messages displayed on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and either repairing or replacing the TCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ depending on the repair or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking shocks, bouncy ride, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing failed dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$4,000+ depending on OEM or aftermarket parts.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension noise, vague handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2,000+ depending on extent of bushing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car fails to start after being parked for a short period.
  • Solution: Diagnosing parasitic draw and addressing the faulty component (often related to alarm system or other aftermarket electronics).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights (ABS, traction control, etc.), performance issues. Can be related to wheel speed sensors, crankshaft position sensors, etc.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alarm System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, inability to disarm the alarm, immobilizer malfunction.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the alarm system components, reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1,500+ depending on the extent of the problem.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Cracking/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become cracked or yellowed, reducing light output.
  • Solution: Replacing or refinishing the headlight lenses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the method and if done at a shop or DIY
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door doesn’t lock or unlock correctly.
  • Solution: Replacing door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,500+ depending on the door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system screen goes blank, malfunctions, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the repair or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Stereo System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Speaker failure, amplifier malfunction, head unit problems.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the component and repair complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish, while a desirable vehicle, has several common issues that prospective owners should be aware of. The automated manual transmission is a significant area of concern, with potential for expensive clutch replacements and other failures. Engine oil leaks, electrical issues, and suspension problems are also frequently reported. Repairs can be costly due to the car’s complexity and the need for specialized parts and labor. Potential buyers should factor these potential maintenance costs into their ownership expectations and have the car thoroughly inspected by a qualified Aston Martin technician before purchase.