2018 Aston Martin Vanquish 5.9L Petrol · AM12 FFM

The latest MOT test for the 2018 Aston Martin Vanquish on 2026-06-11 resulted in a pass, but it included two significant advisories concerning the front tyres, both showing excessive wear near the legal limit and worn on the edge. This marks a deviation from the previous five MOTs, which were all clean with no recorded defects, suggesting a potential issue with either tyre grip, alignment, or suspension geometry contributing to uneven wear patterns. The presence of these advisories indicates that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, it requires closer attention to tyre management and may warrant an immediate inspection of the front suspension components, including alignment, camber angles, and potential issues with wheel bearings or hub seals that could be exacerbating the wear. The fact that these advisories were not present in prior tests implies either a recent change in driving habits, a developing mechanical problem, or a need for corrective action before further tyre degradation or alignment drift occurs. The recorded mileage of 12,746 miles for a vehicle aged approximately eight years represents a notably low annual usage rate of around 1,593 miles per year. This is far below the typical wear rates expected for a high-performance vehicle like the Vanquish, particularly one that was likely designed for more aggressive or frequent use. Such low mileage can result from extended periods of stationary storage, which may lead to specific issues such as corrosion from standing fluids, particularly in the brake systems, exhaust components, and electrical connections. Additionally, the lack of regular mechanical engagement could contribute to wear in components like the 12-volt battery, which may struggle to maintain charge over prolonged inactivity, or in seals and gaskets that can dry out and fail if not periodically lubricated. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation suggests that while the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy or aggressive driving, it may also have been exposed to conditions that accelerate wear, such as prolonged exposure to moisture or temperature extremes, which could have impacted internal components over time. Given the recent MOT advisories on the front tyres, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension and wheel alignment. The worn edge condition of the tyres suggests that the vehicle may be experiencing excessive camber or toe-out, which could be caused by misaligned suspension geometry, damaged control arms, or worn bushings. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when negotiating bumps or sharp turns, as this may indicate loose or failing components. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear on the opposite side of the edge wear—if the near-side tyre is worn on the inside edge, the opposite side may show corresponding wear, hinting at alignment issues. Inspect the front wheels for excessive play or binding, which could signal binding calipers or warped brake discs that may require servicing. If the advisories persist after a professional alignment, further investigation into the suspension components, including the strut mounts, control arms, and bushings, is advisable to prevent further tyre damage and potential safety risks. For the broader physical inspection, given the vehicle’s age and low recorded mileage, focus on potential issues arising from prolonged inactivity. Begin with the brake system, as standing vehicles can lead to brake fluid absorption of moisture, causing corrosion to the brake discs and calipers. Visually inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion, pitting, or binding, and check the calipers for any signs of sticking or excessive heat discolouration. The 12-volt battery should be tested for charge capacity and terminal corrosion, as inactivity can lead to a discharged state or poor connections. Examine the exhaust system for signs of rust or structural integrity, particularly around the catalytic converter and tailpipe, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate corrosion. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and affect handling, especially at higher speeds. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s service history records are up to date, particularly for fluid servicing such as the transmission fluid, differential fluid, and coolant, as these should be replaced at specified intervals regardless of mileage to prevent degradation from standing.