2017 Aston Martin V12 Vantage
2017 Aston Martin V12 Vantage
Overview
The 2017 Aston Martin V12 Vantage, a pinnacle of British automotive engineering, offers a compelling blend of raw power and refined luxury. While generally lauded for its performance and design, like any high-performance vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported concerns. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability issues, excluding routine maintenance and standard wear and tear, to provide a clear picture for potential owners and enthusiasts. The V12 Vantage is known for its potent V12 engine and robust construction, but attention to certain components can ensure its continued exceptional performance and longevity.
Engine
5.9L V12
Ignition Coil Failure
- Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light illumination, reduced engine power.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty ignition coil(s).
- Cost: $300 - $600 per coil
Coolant Leaks (Hoses/Pipes)
- Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, low coolant level warning, engine overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking coolant hoses or pipes.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Transmission
7-Speed Sportshift III (Automated Manual)
Clutch Actuator Malfunction
- Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, jerky gear changes, transmission warning light, inability to engage gears.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the clutch actuator and potentially associated hydraulic components.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Hydraulic Pump Issues
- Symptoms: Slow or hesitant gear changes, transmission warning lights, potential loss of transmission function.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the transmission hydraulic pump.
- Cost: $1,000 - $2,500
Suspension
Adaptive Damping System
Damper Leaks/Failure
- Symptoms: Harsh ride quality, excessive body roll, clunking noises over bumps, suspension warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty adaptive dampers.
- Cost: $800 - $1,500 per damper
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Infotainment screen becomes unresponsive, freezes, or restarts intermittently.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment module.
- Cost: $500 - $1,200
Battery Drain
Parasitic Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Battery dies unexpectedly, difficulty starting the vehicle after short periods of inactivity.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessory) and repair.
- Cost: $200 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Leather Upholstery
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Climate Control System
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Aston Martin V12 Vantage is a highly desirable supercar with a generally strong reliability record for its class. The primary areas that may require attention are related to the sophisticated automated manual transmission, particularly the clutch actuator and hydraulic systems, and potential issues with adaptive dampers in the suspension. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system glitches and parasitic battery drain, have also been noted. The V12 engine itself is robust, but routine maintenance and prompt attention to any reported symptoms like misfires or coolant leaks are crucial. While not immune to the complexities of a high-performance vehicle, with diligent care and addressing specific known issues, the V12 Vantage can provide an exhilarating and largely dependable ownership experience.