2016 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

The 2016 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a sports car celebrated for its elegant design, engaging driving dynamics, and luxurious interior. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 430 horsepower and 361 lb-ft of torque. For the 2016 model year, the V8 Vantage could be equipped with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed Sportshift II automated manual transmission. Owners generally praise the car’s beautiful styling, the visceral sound of the V8 engine, and the overall driving experience. Common complaints revolve around the infotainment system, which is considered dated compared to modern systems, and the car’s relatively high running costs.

Engine

4.7L V8

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are found on the sides of the engine around the valve covers. This can cause a burning smell as oil drips onto hot exhaust components. Low oil levels can result in engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets. In some cases, the valve covers may need to be resurfaced if warped.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• Oil Leaks from Rear Main Seal
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips underneath the vehicle, usually near the rear of the engine/transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear main seal. This is a labor-intensive job as the transmission often needs to be removed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a burning smell when the clutch is engaged.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the flywheel if it is damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Sportshift II Automated Manual Transmission

• Hesitation and Jerky Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission exhibits hesitation during acceleration and produces jerky or abrupt shifts, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM) to improve shift mapping. Fluid change or replacement of the clutch packs may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 (software update), $2000 - $5000+ (clutch pack replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Vague steering response.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn control arm bushings and/or sway bar bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software update to the infotainment system. Replacement of the head unit may be required if the issue persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $300 (software update, if available), $1000 - $3000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for extended periods.
  • Solution: Identification and repair of parasitic drains. This can involve testing various electrical components to find the source of the drain. Replacing the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window failing to roll up or down.
  • Solution: Window regulator replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle fails to actuate the door latch properly resulting in the inability to open or close the door from the outside.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2016 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, while a beautiful and engaging sports car, does have some potential issues that owners should be aware of. Engine oil leaks, transmission quirks, and electrical gremlins are among the most common complaints. The cost of repairs can be significant, especially for complex issues like transmission problems or engine resealing. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with Aston Martins to assess the overall condition of the car and identify any potential problems.