2016 Aston Martin Rapide

The 2016 Aston Martin Rapide S is a luxury grand tourer celebrated for its elegant design, powerful performance, and luxurious interior. It’s powered by a 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, producing 552 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. The Rapide S offers a blend of thrilling driving dynamics and comfortable touring capabilities. Owners often praise its distinctive styling, exhaust note, and exclusivity. Conversely, some criticisms include the relatively cramped rear seats for a car of its size, the outdated infotainment system, and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

6.0L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a recurring issue reported by owners. These leaks can originate from various points, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips beneath the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the leak and replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, radiator, or water pump. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Replace leaking hoses, radiator, or water pump. Pressure test the cooling system to identify the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the leak and parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coils
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires can occur due to faulty ignition coils. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+, depending on how many coils need to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Touchtronic III 8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of rough or delayed shifting, particularly during cold starts or aggressive driving. This can manifest as jerky gear changes or hesitation between shifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and software update. In some cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 for a fluid flush to $2,500+ for valve body work.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a shuddering feeling at low speeds, which could be caused by a faulty torque converter. Other signs include abnormal transmission noises.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The Rapide S utilizes adaptive dampers to adjust the suspension based on driving conditions. These dampers can sometimes fail, leading to a noticeably degraded ride quality, warning lights on the dashboard, and uneven handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per damper, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: A common complaint is excessive battery drain, especially when the car is left unused for extended periods. This can result in difficulty starting the engine or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the parasitic drain by testing individual circuits. Replacing a faulty module, such as the infotainment system or alarm system, that is causing the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can have issues with freezing, crashing, or unresponsive touch screen.
  • Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the infotainment module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on if the module needs to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The flush-mounted door handles can occasionally malfunction, failing to present when unlocked or becoming difficult to retract.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Leather Shrinkage
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the leather on the dashboard can shrink over time, especially in hot climates. This can lead to unsightly gaps and distortion.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected leather trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation not working properly.
  • Solution: Update software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0-500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Aston Martin Rapide S presents a unique ownership experience with its stunning design and powerful V12 engine. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues reported by owners. Engine oil and coolant leaks, as well as transmission issues like rough shifting, can be costly to address. Electrical problems, particularly battery drain, also need attention. Interior trim issues, while cosmetic, can detract from the overall luxury feel. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant repairs. Overall, prospective owners should factor in higher-than-average maintenance costs when considering a 2016 Aston Martin Rapide S.