Generations
DB9-era — First Generation V8 Vantage
2005–2017
4.3L V8, 4.3L V8 S, 4.7L V8
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Aston Martin V8 Vantage problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Suspension component corrosion and damage (DB9-era)
MOT data shows suspension component failures at 195 times the national fleet average on 4.3L models, indicating severe premature corrosion or structural failure of suspension arms, bushes, or mounting points. This is an unusually high failure rate suggesting a design or material specification issue specific to this model. The aluminium space frame construction may be creating galvanic corrosion where steel components interface with the chassis.
What happens if ignoredSuspension component failure can cause immediate loss of vehicle control, wheel detachment, or collapse of the suspension geometry. The car should not be driven if structural suspension damage is suspected. Repair typically requires specialist knowledge of the aluminium space frame construction.
Specialist
£800–£2,500
Main dealer
£1,500–£4,000
Parts only
£300–£1,200
Dangerous
Brake hose ferrule corrosion (DB9-era)
MOT data shows brake hose ferrule corrosion failures at 14.3 times the fleet average across all mileage ranges including very low mileage cars. The ferrules (metal crimped ends that connect flexible brake hoses to rigid brake pipes) are corroding excessively, potentially leading to brake fluid loss and brake failure.
What happens if ignoredCorroded ferrules can fail catastrophically causing complete brake fluid loss and total brake failure. This is a critical safety defect. If ferrule corrosion is visible, the brake system should be inspected immediately by a qualified technician before further driving.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£300–£600
Main dealer
£500–£1,000
Parts only
£100–£300
Dangerous
Brake pipe corrosion (DB9-era)
MOT data shows brake pipe corrosion failures at 3.3 times the fleet average, primarily on 4.7L models between 20,000-60,000 miles. The rigid steel brake pipes are corroding prematurely, potentially due to salt exposure or inadequate corrosion protection during manufacture.
What happens if ignoredCorroded brake pipes can burst without warning causing catastrophic brake failure. This represents an immediate safety risk. Any visible corrosion or fluid loss from brake pipes requires immediate professional inspection and likely replacement of affected sections.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£800
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£400
Major
Shock absorber failure and leakage (DB9-era)
MOT data shows shock absorber failures at 15.6 times the fleet average, with failures occurring even on very low mileage examples (0-20k miles). This suggests premature seal failure or manufacturing quality issues with the dampers rather than normal wear. The high-performance nature of the suspension may place unusual demands on damper seals.
What happens if ignoredFailed dampers reduce vehicle stability, increase stopping distances, and cause premature tyre wear. While not immediately dangerous, the high-performance nature of this car makes effective damping critical for safe handling. Replacement typically required in pairs per axle.
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Main dealer
£1,000–£2,000
Parts only
£400–£800
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Aston Martin V8 Vantage fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 195x the fleet average
Sample: 1,117 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 443 tests
Seat mounting fault
Seatbelts & Airbags · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 242 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 14x the fleet average
Sample: 629 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 639 tests
Brake pipes corroded
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 5.7x the fleet average
Sample: 172 tests
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Related
- Aston Martin V8 Vantage buyer's guide
- Aston Martin V8 Vantage service history check
- Aston Martin V8 Vantage service schedule & costs
- Aston Martin V8 Vantage MOT failure rates
- Buying a car without service history
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Aston Martin V8 Vantage reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Aston Martin V8 Vantage?
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Suspension component corrosion and damage (DB9-era), Brake hose ferrule corrosion (DB9-era), Brake pipe corrosion (DB9-era).
Is the Aston Martin V8 Vantage reliable?
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage has 3 dangerous and 1 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Aston Martin V8 Vantage problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.