2018 Aston Martin Rapide

The 2018 Aston Martin Rapide S is a luxury four-door coupe known for its elegant design, powerful performance, and luxurious interior. It comes equipped with a naturally aspirated 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 552 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed Touchtronic III automatic transmission. Owners typically praise the Rapide S for its exhilarating driving experience, distinctive styling, and handcrafted interior. Common criticisms include the relatively cramped rear seating, limited trunk space, and high running costs.

Engine

6.0L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking 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, the radiator, or the water pump. Symptoms include a sweet coolant smell, visible leaks, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, radiator, or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and a check engine light. Diagnostic codes will indicate which cylinder is misfiring.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per coil, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Touchtronic III 8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, a software update or valve body replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the severity and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Could be due to low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body. Fluid check and potential transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid check) - $7,000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff ride, uneven handling, and suspension warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty adaptive damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per damper, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, failure to adjust ride height, air compressor malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacing the air struts, compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not used for a few days. Can lead to starting problems.
  • Solution: Identifying and resolving the source of the parasitic draw. Common culprits include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software updates, module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update resolves) - $2,000+ (module replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles failing to present/retract properly, requiring manual operation. Can be due to faulty sensors or motors.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle mechanism or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per handle, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Leather Shrinking/Pulling Away (Dashboard/Door Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Leather surfaces pulling away from the underlying substrate, especially on the dashboard and door panels, due to heat and humidity.
  • Solution: Re-trimming the affected area with new leather or vinyl.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and the materials used.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Stitching Coming Undone
  • Description/Symptoms: Stitching on the seats, dashboard, or door panels coming undone.
  • Solution: Restitching the affected area.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Aston Martin Rapide S, while a stunning and powerful vehicle, can be prone to some common issues. The engine and transmission issues, particularly oil leaks and rough shifting, can be costly to repair. Electrical and suspension problems can also contribute to the overall cost of ownership. While many of the issues are not catastrophic, the frequency and expense of repairs can make owning a Rapide S a significant investment. Addressing these potential problems proactively can help mitigate future expenses and ensure a more enjoyable ownership experience.