2012 Aston Martin Vanquish 5.9L Petrol · V310 AML

Across the most recent five MOT tests, this Vanquish has maintained a clean pass record with no advisories other than a single tyre observation and one informal note, suggesting a broadly stable roadworthiness trajectory. The 2026-04-13 test was passed with no defects recorded, continuing a trend that began with the 2022 and 2023 examinations which were likewise returned without comment. The only mechanically relevant advisory on file is the 2025-03-21 entry noting slight cracking on both front tyres, a typical age-related finding rather than anything structural. The overall pattern reflects a vehicle that has consistently met minimum standards without any recurring component failures or corrosion issues flagged by the examiner, although the very limited number of advisories recorded across a five-year window is itself worth interpreting cautiously given the vehicle's age and prestige status. With 36,921 miles recorded over approximately fourteen years, annual mileage averages around 2,637 miles, which is notably low for any car, and particularly so for a high-performance grand tourer of this calibre. There are no conspicuous gaps in annual MOT testing to suggest long periods off the road, yet the annual mileage still implies the vehicle has either been used very sparingly as a weekend or seasonal car, or has spent considerable time garaged between short runs. Mechanically, low-mileage examples of complex vehicles such as this are prone to issues that arise from extended standing rather than wear: dried seals, perished rubber components, oxidised brake fluid, stale fuel, and seized caliper pistons from infrequent use. The fact that no such items have yet been flagged is positive, but their absence from a single annual MOT should not be taken as definitive proof of condition given that MOT testing is a relatively narrow roadworthiness check rather than a comprehensive mechanical inspection. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing items to scrutinise are those that tend to deteriorate on low-mileage cars rather than those specifically flagged in the MOT history. Given the tyre cracking recorded in 2025, inspect all four corners carefully for sidewall perishing and tread cracking, and replace any tyres over six years old regardless of tread depth as a precaution. On a test drive, listen for any suspension knocks or clonks over uneven surfaces, which could indicate perished bushes or tired dampers rather than worn components given the low mileage. Brake pedal feel should be firm and progressive; a soft pedal or one that travels further than expected may indicate old fluid or seized caliper sliders from lack of use. Check for any pulling under braking, which often reveals binding calipers on cars that sit idle for long periods. Steering should feel precise and free of excess play, and any vagueness on centre could point to worn top mounts or drop links rather than rack wear at such modest mileage. Beyond the test drive, specific areas warrant physical inspection given the standing-time risk profile. Examine the underbody, sills, and exhaust system for any surface corrosion or scaling that could indicate condensation build-up from short journeys, and pay particular attention to the brake discs for any lipping or surface rust that has become ingrained. Open the bonnet and look for any oil misting around the cam covers, breathers, and around the front of the engine, as dried gaskets and seals on low-mileage Astons commonly weep when returned to regular use. Check that all fluids are at correct levels and of the correct specification, particularly the brake fluid, which should be clear rather than discoloured, and the coolant, which on a fourteen-year-old car benefits from replacement regardless. A full pre-purchase inspection by a marque specialist is strongly advisable, as the MOT record alone, however clean, cannot verify the condition of the clutch, transmission, or the many ancillary systems that a Vanquish carries beyond the scope of a standard annual test.