2012 Aston Martin Rapide

The 2012 Aston Martin Rapide is a luxury grand tourer known for its elegant design, powerful performance, and exclusivity. It came equipped with a 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 470 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission. While praised for its stunning aesthetics, luxurious interior, and thrilling driving experience, some owners have reported experiencing certain issues. A common dislike is the relatively tight rear seating for a car of its size, and the running costs can be high due to maintenance and fuel consumption.

Engine

6.0L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue, often stemming from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or timing cover. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals is the typical solution. Thorough cleaning of the affected area after the repair is also necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coils
  • Description/Symptoms: The 6.0L V12 utilizes individual ignition coils for each cylinder. These coils can fail over time, leading to misfires, rough running, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s) is the standard fix. It is often recommended to replace all ignition coils at the same time to avoid future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per coil, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, often from hoses, the water pump, or the thermostat housing. Signs include a sweet smell, visible coolant leaks, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hose or component is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Touchtronic 2 Automatic

• Jerky Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing jerky or harsh shifts, particularly during low-speed driving. Hesitation when accelerating can also occur.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush with the correct Aston Martin-specified fluid can sometimes alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+ for a fluid flush, $1000 - $3000+ for valve body work.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The Rapide features an adaptive damping system that can experience malfunctions. Symptoms include a harsh ride, uneven handling, or warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Faulty dampers need to be replaced. Diagnostic tests are required to determine the specific problem before replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ per damper, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Many Aston Martin owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, particularly when the car is not driven frequently. This can lead to a dead battery and difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the parasitic drain is key. This could involve diagnosing faulty modules, improperly shut down systems, or aftermarket accessories. A trickle charger is often recommended to maintain battery health.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, while luxurious for its time, can experience issues such as freezing, glitches, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, if available, can sometimes resolve minor issues. In more severe cases, the unit may need to be replaced or repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the problem and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The flush-mounted door handles can sometimes fail to deploy properly. This can be due to mechanical or electrical issues within the handle mechanism.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the faulty door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per handle, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability of the navigation system to properly determine vehicle position or respond to input.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Aston Martin Rapide offers a unique blend of performance and luxury. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues such as oil leaks, ignition coil failures, battery drain, and infotainment system problems. The cost of repairs can be significant due to the car’s complexity and the high price of parts. Performing a thorough inspection by a qualified Aston Martin technician before purchasing a used Rapide is highly recommended. While some issues, like adaptive damper malfunctions and door handle issues, can be costly, addressing these concerns proactively can ensure a more enjoyable ownership experience.