2020 Aston Martin Vantage

The 2020 Aston Martin Vantage is a luxury sports car known for its stunning design, powerful performance, and engaging driving dynamics. It’s powered by a Mercedes-AMG sourced 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 503 horsepower and 505 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the Vantage’s head-turning looks, exhilarating acceleration, and the distinctive Aston Martin brand cachet. On the other hand, common criticisms include a somewhat cramped interior, limited storage space, and a potentially firm ride depending on the road conditions. Reliability concerns and high maintenance costs are also frequently mentioned as potential drawbacks. A 7-speed manual transmission was available starting in 2021, so 2020 models are only equipped with the ZF 8-speed automatic.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals. Thoroughly clean the engine to remove any residual oil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers, including premature failure or reduced boost. Symptoms include a lack of power, unusual noises from the engine, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnose the turbocharger system. Replace the faulty turbocharger(s) if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $7000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8-Speed Automatic

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly at lower speeds. This can manifest as a clunking noise or a noticeable lag during gear changes.
  • Solution: A software update of the transmission control module may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacement of the valve body or the entire transmission may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ for software update; $2000 - $8000+ for valve body or transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping can occur between gears, noticeable during acceleration. The engine RPMs may increase without a corresponding increase in speed.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and software re-learn of the transmission. If slippage is severe, transmission replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ for fluid flush/re-learn; $5000 - $10,000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The Vantage features adaptive dampers to adjust ride firmness. Failures can manifest as a noticeably harsher or bouncier ride, or uneven handling. Warning lights related to the suspension system may illuminate.
  • Solution: Diagnose the adaptive damper system, often requiring specialized equipment. Replace the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ (per damper)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, which controls navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions, can be prone to freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ for software update; $2000 - $5000+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle (e.g., parking sensors, tire pressure sensors) can fail.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the door handles, particularly with the flush-mounted design. This can include difficulty opening the doors, or the handles failing to retract properly.
  • Solution: Lubricate and adjust the door handle mechanism. If the mechanism is damaged, it needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticking Buttons
  • Description/Symptoms: Buttons and switches sticking within the interior of the vehicle. The specific button having issues varies.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loose Trim Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior trim panels detaching from their location.
  • Solution: Fasten the panels to the vehicle or replace the panel/fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Aston Martin Vantage, while undeniably stylish and exciting to drive, does present potential owners with some reliability concerns. Issues range from relatively minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. The cost of repair can be substantial, reflecting the vehicle’s luxury status and the specialized nature of its components. While not every Vantage will experience these issues, it’s essential to be aware of them and to thoroughly inspect any potential purchase, as well as budget for higher-than-average maintenance costs.