Models · Aston Martin
Aston Martin V12 Vanquish buying guide
The V12 Vanquish was built from 2001 to 2007 around a bonded aluminium and carbon structure with a 5.9 V12 and a paddle-shift automated manual gearbox, joined by the 520bhp Vanquish S in 2004.
The versions
- Vanquish (2001 to 2004): 5,935cc V12, 460bhp; two-seater or 2+2
- Vanquish S (2004 on): 520bhp, with firmer suspension, lower ride height and bigger front brakes
- Ultimate Edition (2007): final 50 cars
- Six-speed automated manual with paddles, rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential; many since converted to a conventional manual
- Sports Dynamic Pack from 2003, standard on the S
What to check on a V12 Vanquish
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Subframe corrosion
What to look for: With the undertray removed, look at the steel front subframe, especially its rear legs, and at the rear subframe and anti-roll bars. Look at where steel parts meet the aluminium body, at the wheelarch liner mounts, and at the small steel bracket at the end of each sill.
Why it matters: The steel subframes rust, and the front subframe's rear legs are hidden by the undertray. Where steel and aluminium meet, galvanic corrosion can attack the mounting points in the aluminium shell. Specialists can fit stainless fixings and bond in new aluminium sections, and replacement subframes are available.
The automated manual gearbox
What to look for: On the drive, check every change is clean and that the gearbox never drops into neutral on its own. Listen for a whistle as you pull away, and look underneath for transmission fluid leaks. Ask whether the gear position sensor has been upgraded on an early car.
Why it matters: Early cars had serious gear position sensor problems; later cars and the S got better sensors, which can be fitted to earlier cars. Upgraded actuators are available, and a rebuild is the usual fix for a tired gearbox. The clutch should last up to about 40,000 miles, and a whistle on pulling away can point to a worn spigot bearing.
Misfires
What to look for: Check the engine management light goes out after starting. On the drive, feel for a misfire or uneven running. Look around the top of the engine for oil leaks near the spark plugs and the crankcase ventilation valves.
Why it matters: Misfires most often come from oil leaks caused by failed PCV valves, or from leaking seals around the spark plugs; tired plugs and coils are another cause. Coolant leaks from the front water manifold and thermostat housing pipes are also known. With proper maintenance the V12 easily tops 150,000 miles.
Also in the full guide
- Rear suspension arms and bushes
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the V12 Vanquish
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Aston Martin.