2014 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2014 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, categorized by component and specific engine/transmission options.

The 2014 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a stunning sports car known for its elegant design, exhilarating performance, and luxurious interior. The V8 Vantage offered a blend of British craftsmanship and thrilling driving dynamics. The car is typically praised for its beautiful styling and engaging driving experience, while some criticisms include tight interior space and relatively dated infotainment technology for its time. For the 2014 model year, the V8 Vantage was available with a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 420 hp and 346 lb-ft of torque (or 430 hp in some versions), paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission, a 7-speed Sportshift II automated manual transmission, or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

4.7L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, oil consumption, and burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ (depending on the location and complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty oxygen sensors can trigger a check engine light and affect fuel economy and engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (depending on location and if multiple sensors)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, the water pump, or the radiator. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ (depending on the component and labor involved)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Sportshift II 7-Speed Automated Manual Transmission

• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Sportshift II transmission is known for potential clutch wear issues, especially with aggressive driving. Symptoms include slipping, jerky shifts, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement and potential software recalibration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the hydraulic pump can prevent the transmission from shifting correctly. Symptoms include the inability to shift gears, error messages on the dashboard, and a complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional harsh or jerky shifting. This can be due to a variety of factors, including fluid condition, valve body issues, or solenoid problems.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter replacement, or valve body or solenoid replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ (depending on the complexity of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of suspension bushings, particularly in the front control arms, can lead to clunking noises, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings or entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the components replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced unexplained battery drain, particularly if the car is not driven frequently. This can be due to parasitic draws from various electronic components.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic draw, which may involve testing and replacing faulty modules or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, while stylish, can suffer from glitches, freezing, and slow response times.
  • Solution: Software updates (if available) or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ (depending on the solution)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles can be prone to actuator failures, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door handle actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (per door)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Stitching/Trim Detachment
  • Description/Symptoms: In some cases, stitching on the leather dashboard or door panels can come loose, or trim pieces can detach.
  • Solution: Re-stitching or re-attaching the trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Aston Martin V8 Vantage presents a mixed bag of potential issues. The engine is generally reliable but prone to oil leaks. The Sportshift II transmission can be a significant concern due to clutch wear and hydraulic pump failures. Electrical gremlins and interior trim issues can also arise. Repair costs can be substantial, especially for transmission and hydraulic issues, due to the complexity of the car and the high cost of parts and labor. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchase decision, as well as ensure a thorough pre-purchase inspection.