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2021 Aston Martin Vantage

The 2021 Aston Martin Vantage is a stunning sports car known for its exhilarating performance and luxurious appointments. Equipped with a potent Mercedes-AMG sourced 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 engine producing 503 horsepower and 505 lb-ft of torque, the Vantage delivers blistering acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. While most owners rave about the Vantage’s gorgeous styling, agile handling, and powerful engine, some common complaints include the infotainment system’s complexity, some interior trim quality concerns, and the car’s firm ride. Transmission options include an 8-speed automatic.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger area, loss of power, check engine light. Could be a problem with turbocharger seals or bearings.
    • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $7,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warning. Can occur from various seals and gaskets on the engine.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty seal or gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+, depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable clunking or jerking during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. May also include a delay in shifting.
    • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM), or, in severe cases, valve body replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Total loss of transmission function, vehicle will not move, or severe slipping between gears.
    • Solution: Full transmission replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Adaptive Damper Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Stiff or uncomfortable ride, suspension warning light, uneven handling. One or more adaptive dampers may have failed.
    • Solution: Damper replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ per damper, plus labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
    • Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the infotainment unit in some cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $3,000+ (unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights on the dashboard related to systems like tire pressure monitoring (TPMS), parking sensors, or blind-spot monitoring.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty sensor and replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the sensor and location.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining quickly, especially if left unattended for a short period.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw, could be a faulty module not going to sleep.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the cause of the drain.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening the doors, the handle not fully releasing, or the electronic mechanism failing to respond.
    • Solution: Door handle replacement, or repair of the electronic latch mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per door handle.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Trim Pieces Coming Loose
    • Description/Symptoms: Interior trim panels, especially around the dashboard or center console, becoming detached or not fitting properly.
    • Solution: Re-securing the trim pieces or replacement of damaged clips or fasteners.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the location and severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Electric seats unable to move in one or more directions.
    • Solution: Seat motor replacement or repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the motor affected.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Aston Martin Vantage, while an exceptional sports car, has some common issues. The most serious and expensive problems often relate to the engine (turbocharger failure and oil leaks) and the transmission (harsh shifting and complete failure). Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system, are a frequent source of frustration. Suspension and exterior/interior trim issues are also reported, though generally less severe. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision, as repairs on an Aston Martin can be costly.

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