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2019 Aston Martin Rapide

The 2019 Aston Martin Rapide S is a luxurious and powerful four-door grand tourer. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 552 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed Touchtronic III automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the Rapide S for its elegant design, exhilarating performance, and handcrafted interior. However, potential drawbacks include high running costs, limited rear passenger space, and occasional electronic glitches.

Engine

6.0L V12

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from various locations, including valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Noticeable oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level warnings, and burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Thorough cleaning of the engine bay after repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the source and complexity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from hoses, connections, or even the water pump. Low coolant level warnings and overheating issues.
    • Solution: Replacing faulty hoses, tightening connections, or replacing the water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Touchtronic III

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed gear changes, especially when cold. Hesitation during acceleration or when downshifting.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. Software update of the transmission control module (TCM). In severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for fluid flush. $1,500 - $5,000+ for valve body or rebuild.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine RPMs increase without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. Jerking or shaking during acceleration.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of worn clutch packs or other internal components. Transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard indicating a fault with the adaptive damping system. Stiff or unpredictable ride quality.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty damper(s) and replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per damper.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after the car has been sitting for a few days.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain. Potential sources include faulty control modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Infotainment System Glitches
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, or intermittent functionality of the infotainment system. Navigation errors.
    • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for Software updates; $1,000 - $4,000+ for full unit replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: ABS, TPMS, or parking sensor malfunctions, triggered by sensor malfunction.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on which sensor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The flush-mounted door handles not properly extending or retracting, causing difficulty opening the doors.
    • Solution: Replacement of the door handle mechanism or related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per door handle.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Navigation System Glitches
    • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate GPS positioning, incorrect mapping, or system freezes.
    • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the navigation system module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for Software updates; $500 - $2,000+ for module replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Motor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to adjust in one or more directions.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor or associated components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per seat.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Aston Martin Rapide S, while a beautiful and high-performing vehicle, can suffer from several common issues. The most frequently reported problems involve oil and coolant leaks from the engine, rough shifting with the transmission, battery drain, and glitches with the electronics. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with associated costs potentially exceeding several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls and carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history before making a purchase.

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