2012 maintenance schedule
2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S Complete Maintenance Schedule & Service Guide
The 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S represents the high-performance pinnacle of the Vantage line, featuring a 4.7-litre V8 producing 437 hp, paired with...
Last updated
June 30, 2026
Reviewed for service schedule clarity.
The 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S represents the high-performance pinnacle of the Vantage line, featuring a 4.7-litre V8 producing 437 hp, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed Sportshift II automated manual transaxle. Adhering to the factory service schedule is essential for preserving the car's performance and value.
Factory Service Schedule Overview
The primary service interval for the 2012 V8 Vantage S is every 12 months or 20,000 km (approximately 12,500 miles), whichever comes first . The maintenance schedule is structured in 20,000 km/12-month intervals .
Service Interval Summary
| Service | Age / Mileage | Key Service Items |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Service | 12 months / 20,000 km | Synthetic oil and filter change; comprehensive 131-point factory inspection |
| 2nd Service | 24 months / 40,000 km | Synthetic oil and filter change; brake and clutch fluid replacement; in-cabin air filter replacement |
| 3rd Service | 36 months / 60,000 km | Synthetic oil and filter change; engine air filter replacement; ancillary drive belt replacement |
| 4th Service | 48 months / 80,000 km | Synthetic oil and filter change; brake and clutch fluid replacement; transaxle oil change |
| 5th Service | 60 months / 100,000 km | Synthetic oil and filter change; coolant replacement |
> Note: Each service at an Aston Martin dealer includes a comprehensive factory maintenance procedure covering the engine, transmission, cooling system, brakes, and suspension . A documented 2012 V8 Vantage S shows an annual service costing £1,071 at 51,500 miles, with consistent annual servicing from new .
Fluid Specifications and Capacities
The 4.7-litre V8 engine (AM47) requires high-quality fully synthetic oil. The following table summarises fluid specifications and capacities :
| Service Item | Specification | Capacity | Replacement Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | Fully synthetic 5W-30 (Ford WSS-M2C946-A / Chrysler MS-6395) | 10.0 litres | 12 months / 20,000 km |
| Manual Transaxle Oil | SP Gear 5015 | 4.5 litres | 48 months / 80,000 km |
| Sportshift II Transaxle Oil | SP Gear 5015 | 4.5 litres | 48 months / 80,000 km |
| Brake & Clutch Fluid | DOT 4 | - | 24 months / 40,000 km |
| Coolant | OAT-type (e.g., Coolant SP 15+) | 14.0 litres | 60 months / 100,000 km |
| Power Steering Fluid | CHF 11S | 1.0 litre | As required |
| Hydraulic Actuation | CHF 11S | 1.0 litre | Check at service intervals |
Engine Oil Specification
The 4.7-litre V8 requires fully synthetic 5W-30 oil that meets Ford WSS-M2C946-A and Chrysler MS-6395 specifications . The basic fill capacity is 10.0 litres .
Optional Work and Additional Service Items
The Aston Martin vehicle maintenance check sheet specifies the following additional checks and items at service intervals :
| Item | Interval |
|---|---|
| Pollen Filter | 24 months / 40,000 km |
| Air Cleaner Element (V8) | 36 months / 60,000 km |
| Manual Transaxle Oil Level Check | 24 months / 40,000 km |
| Accessory Drive Belt | Inspect at each service; replace as needed |
| Spark Plugs | 7 years / 70,000 miles |
Specialist Service Costs (inc. VAT)
Based on independent Aston Martin specialist servicing for V8 models :
| Service Interval | Cost | Additional Items |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Year / 10,000 miles | £824.58 | Standard service |
| 2 Year / 25,000 miles | £1,053.12 | Pollen Filters |
| 3 Year / 30,000 miles | £970.66 | Air Filters |
| 4 Year / 40,000 miles | £1,202.82 | Pollen Filters, Transaxle Oil |
| 5 Year / 50,000 miles | £866.50 | Antifreeze |
| 6 Year / 60,000 miles | £1,199.20 | Air Filters, Pollen Filters |
| 7 Year / 70,000 miles | £1,159.72 | Spark Plugs |
Transmission Information
Sportshift II Automated Manual
The 2012 V8 Vantage S was available with the Sportshift II automated manual transaxle, which uses a hydraulic actuation system for the gearbox and clutch . This system requires specific hydraulic fluid (CHF 11S) and should be checked at service intervals .
Manual Transmission Shift Quality
A well-documented issue on the manual-transmission V8 Vantage is a grinding sensation, particularly when shifting into 3rd gear. This is a common problem on the Graziano 6-speed transaxle. Using the recommended Castrol BOT 270A transaxle fluid is advised to improve shift quality, consistent with Aston Martin service guidance.
Timing Chain Information
The 4.7-litre V8 engine in the 2012 V8 Vantage S is equipped with a timing chain, not a rubber timing belt . Parts diagrams confirm the presence of primary and secondary timing chains as integral components of the valve train.
Important Note: Parts retailers may list incorrect components for this engine. The 4.7L V8 has a timing chain, and no scheduled belt replacement is required . The timing chain is a durable metal component designed to last the life of the engine under normal driving conditions and does not have a scheduled replacement interval .
Warranty and Service History
The 2012 V8 Vantage S was sold with a 24-month / unlimited km vehicle warranty from new . A comprehensive service history is essential for maintaining the car's value. A documented 2012 V8 Vantage S shows consistent annual servicing from new, with a service history including annual services, replacement of O2 sensors, and a battery replacement .
Maintenance questions
2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S FAQs
How often should I service my 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S?+
The factory-recommended service interval is every 12 months or 20,000 km (approximately 12,500 miles), whichever comes first .
What engine oil does the 2012 V8 Vantage S use?+
The 4.7-litre V8 requires 10.0 litres of fully synthetic 5W-30 oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-A or Chrysler MS-6395 specifications .
How often should the brake and clutch fluid be replaced?+
Brake and clutch fluid replacement is scheduled at the 24-month / 40,000 km service interval .
What is the capacity of the transaxle fluid?+
Both the manual and Sportshift II transaxles have a fluid capacity of 4.5 litres .
When should the coolant be replaced?+
Coolant replacement is scheduled at the 60-month / 100,000 km service interval .
Does the V8 Vantage S have a timing belt or timing chain?+
The V8 Vantage S has a timing chain. It is designed to last the life of the engine and does not require scheduled replacement .
When should the spark plugs be replaced?+
Spark plugs are scheduled for replacement at 7 years / 70,000 miles .
What was the warranty coverage for the 2012 V8 Vantage S?+
The 2012 V8 Vantage S was sold with a 24-month / unlimited km vehicle warranty from new .