Aston Martin Vantage (2018) Common Problems & Reliability
The second-generation Aston Martin Vantage launched in 2018 as a clean-sheet sports car, replacing the VH-platform V8 Vantage. Built on the bonded aluminium AM6 architecture at Gaydon, it uses a Mercedes-AMG M177 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 503 bhp and 685 Nm, paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. With swan doors, a radically updated interior and a much stiffer chassis, the Gen2 Vantage is Aston's most focused sports car to date. UK buyers should be aware of suspension corrosion on early examples, engine management faults, and the model's generally higher running costs versus the previous generation.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Aston Martin Vantage (2018) Faults & Repair Costs
Suspension Component Corrosion
The second-generation Vantage shows exceptionally high rates of suspension component corrosion, particularly on control arms, wishbones and suspension mounting points. The issue appears related to inadequate corrosion protection during manufacture rather than age-related wear, with failures documented on cars under 20,000 miles. Corroded suspension components present a direct safety risk and can fail catastrophically.
Knocks or creaks from the suspension over bumps, Uneven tyre wear or handling changes, MOT failure on suspension corrosion or excessive play
- Inspect suspension arms and mounting points for surface or structural corrosion
- Check MOT history for repeated suspension advisories
- Have the car inspected on a ramp by an Aston Martin specialist
- Listen for unusual suspension noises during the test drive
Engine Management and Coil Pack Faults
The Mercedes-AMG M177 twin-turbo V8 engine can suffer from coil pack degradation and lambda sensor failures, causing the engine management light to illuminate. This is particularly common on lower-mileage examples and can relate to fuel quality sensitivity. Ignoring these faults can lead to catalyst damage and reduced fuel economy.
Engine management light illuminated on the instrument cluster, Rough idle or misfiring under load, Reduced engine performance or fuel economy, Stored fault codes related to ignition or sensors
- Scan for stored engine management fault codes
- Check if coil packs or lambda sensors have been replaced
- Listen for rough idle or misfire when the engine is warm
- Ask about fuel quality used by previous owners
Brake Pipe and Hose Corrosion
Aston Martin Vantages are known to suffer from brake pipe and hose corrosion, particularly where lines run along the underside exposed to road salt and moisture. The metal ferrules connecting flexible brake hoses to hard lines can corrode, leading to brake fluid leakage and potential brake system failure.
Brake fluid level dropping without visible external leak, Corrosion visible on brake pipes or hose connections, MOT advisory or failure on brake corrosion, Spongy or reduced brake pedal feel
- Inspect brake pipes along the underside for corrosion or surface rust
- Check brake hose ferrules for corrosion at connection points
- Look for brake fluid residue near wheels or on the underside
- Review MOT history for brake-related advisories
Buying a used Aston Martin Vantage (2018)? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.