The Aston Martin AE17 is a 4,698 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2016. It features a 90° V8 configuration, DOHC valvetrain, and direct fuel injection, delivering 330 kW (450 PS) and 600 Nm of torque. Its compact design and responsive throttle were engineered for agile grand touring dynamics, with a redline of 7,000 rpm.
Fitted to the V8 Vantage, DB9, and Rapide, this engine was developed in — house and adapted for longitudinal mounting. Emissions compliance wa…
Production years 2012–2016 meet Euro 6a standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3987).
The Aston Martin AE17 is a 4,698 cc V8 petrol engine developed for high-performance grand touring applications (2012–2016). It features a 90° V8 layout with dual overhead camshafts and Bosch HDEV5 direct injection, delivering responsive throttle characteristics and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6a emissions standards, it balances compact packaging with performance-oriented engineering.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,698 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 84.8 mm | |
Power output | 330 kW (450 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
Torque | 600 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6a | |
Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted, 120,000 km interval) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin M-spec 5W-50 | |
Dry weight | 218 kg |
The Aston Martin AE17 was used in the VB and R platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed under in-house engineering. This engine received platform-specific tuning—optimized intake manifolds in the V8 Vantage and revised exhaust headers in facelifted variants—and from 2014 the updated V8 Vantage S adopted a higher-lift cam profile and modified ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The AE17's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2013 indicated a measurable number of pre-2014 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows misfire-related faults in vehicles with poor maintenance. Short trips and low-load operation increase thermal stress and oil degradation, making high-quality oil and regular highway runs critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The AE17 offers strong performance and refinement, but requires meticulous maintenance. Early models (2012–2013) had HPFP issues, and all variants are sensitive to oil neglect. With strict adherence to service intervals and use of high-octane fuel, these engines can achieve 140,000 km reliability. Regular inspections and proactive part replacement are essential for longevity.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump wear, timing chain tensioner wear, intake vacuum leaks, and VVT solenoid clogging. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins. Preventive maintenance—especially timely HPFP inspection and oil changes—significantly reduces risk of major repairs.
The AE17 powers the V8 Vantage (2012–2016), DB9 (2012–2016), and Rapide (2012–2016). It is longitudinally mounted and tuned for grand touring performance. No cross-manufacturer applications are documented. This engine was succeeded by the AE50 V8 in most models.
Yes. The AE17 responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically adding +30–50 kW. Upgraded exhausts, intake systems, and lightweight components enhance responsiveness. Tuning must preserve valve timing and thermal management limits to avoid reliability issues. Specialist tuners offer bespoke packages for Vantage and DB9 applications.
In combined driving, expect ~14.2 L/100km (19.9 mpg UK). Highway cruising can achieve ~10.5 L/100km (26.7 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 17 L/100km (16.8 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style, fuel quality, and vehicle condition.
Yes. The AE17 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, piston-to-valve contact will cause catastrophic internal damage. Regular inspection and replacement of the timing chains at 120,000 km or 8 years is critical to prevent costly engine rebuilds.
Aston Martin specifies M-spec 5W-50 synthetic oil. Change intervals are 12,000 km or annually. Using correct oil ensures proper camshaft, chain, and VVT system lubrication, reducing wear and maintaining performance. Extended drain intervals risk bearing wear and chain slippage.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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