2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage
Introduction:
The 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a British-built sports car renowned for its sleek design and thrilling performance. Powered by a naturally aspirated 4.7L V8 engine, it produces 420 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The V8 Vantage was offered with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a Sportshift II 7-speed automated manual transmission.
Engine
- 4.7L V8 (AM11)
- Timing Chain Tensioners:
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the timing chain tensioners can lead to excessive chain slack, noise, and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioners and chains.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: N/A
- Valve Stem Seals:
- Description/Symptoms: Worn valve stem seals can cause excessive oil consumption and smoking from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacement of valve stem seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: N/A
- Timing Chain Tensioners:
- Transmission
- Sportshift II 7-speed Automated Manual Transmission:
- Actuator Motor Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the actuator motor responsible for shifting gears, leading to difficulty or inability to change gears.
- Solution: Replacement of actuator motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: N/A
- Actuator Motor Failure:
- Clutch Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the clutch can result in slipping or shuddering during gear changes, or an inability to engage gears.
- Solution: Replacement of clutch assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: N/A
- Sportshift II 7-speed Automated Manual Transmission:
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Electrical Wiring Harness Issues:
- Description/Symptoms: Faulty wiring harnesses can lead to various electrical malfunctions, such as intermittent power loss, flickering lights, or inoperability of certain components.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of faulty wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: N/A
Exterior
- Clearcoat Peeling:
- Description/Symptoms: Peeling or delaminating clearcoat on exterior surfaces, particularly on the hood and trunk lid.
- Solution: Repainting affected areas.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per panel
- Recalls: N/A
Interior
- Door Lock Mechanism Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of door locks to operate properly, resulting in difficulty unlocking or locking doors.
- Solution: Replacement of door lock mechanisms.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+ per door
- Recalls: N/A
Summary:
The 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a well-regarded sports car with a potent engine and a refined interior. However, it is not without its issues. Timing chain tensioner and valve stem seal problems with the V8 engine can be expensive to repair, while the Sportshift II transmission is prone to actuator motor failures. Electrical wiring issues can also cause a variety of problems, and exterior clearcoat peeling is a common cosmetic issue. Overall, the V8 Vantage is a desirable car, but buyers should be aware of these potential issues and associated repair costs.