2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

The 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a beautiful and sporty grand tourer known for its elegant design, luxurious interior, and engaging driving experience. The most common engine found in the 2011 V8 Vantage is a 4.7L V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 346 lb-ft of torque. In addition to the 4.7L V8, some 2011 models may have the older 4.3L V8. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed Sportshift automated manual transmission. Owners appreciate the car’s stunning looks, exhilarating exhaust note, and the visceral feel of driving a hand-built sports car. However, some common complaints revolve around the car’s reliability, potentially high running costs, and the sometimes clunky operation of the Sportshift transmission.

Engine

4.7L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common on the 4.7L V8, often stemming from the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and oil pan. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. This may require removing engine components for access.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are frequently reported, particularly around the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses. Symptoms include visible coolant leaks, low coolant levels, overheating, and a sweet coolant smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty component and potentially flushing the cooling system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500 depending on the source and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

4.3L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4.7L, the 4.3L V8 is prone to oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and oil pan.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch can wear prematurely, especially with aggressive driving.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Sportshift Automated Manual Transmission

• Clunky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The Sportshift transmission is known for its clunky and sometimes jerky shifting, especially at low speeds. This is often described as a characteristic of the transmission design rather than a specific malfunction.
  • Solution: Software updates may improve shifting, but the inherent characteristics remain. Clutch replacement may be necessary if the clutch is worn.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Software update) - $3000+ (Clutch Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Sportshift transmission relies on a hydraulic pump to operate. Failures of this pump can lead to shifting problems, transmission failure, or an inability to engage gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the hydraulic pump and potentially other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission No Issues Found

Suspension

• Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension bushings, particularly in the front control arms, can wear out over time. This results in clunking noises, loose handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The V8 Vantage can experience excessive battery drain, especially when the car is not driven regularly.
  • Solution: Ensure proper battery maintenance, check for parasitic draws, and consider a battery tender.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Battery tender) - $500+ (Repairing parasitic draw)
  • Recalls: None Found
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors can fail, resulting in a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty TPMS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, particularly the electronic release mechanisms, can sometimes malfunction, leading to difficulty opening the doors.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle assembly or repairing the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory navigation and infotainment system can be outdated and prone to glitches or failures.
  • Solution: Replacing or upgrading the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, while a desirable sports car, is not without its potential issues. The most common problems revolve around oil leaks, the Sportshift transmission, and electrical glitches. Repairs can be costly, especially when dealing with specialized parts and labor. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. While not necessarily severe in terms of safety, these issues can be expensive and detract from the overall ownership experience.