Engine Code

ASTON-MARTIN VH610 engine (2020-2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Aston Martin VH610 is a 3,982 cc, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2023. Developed in collaboration with Mercedes-AMG, it replaced the aging naturally aspirated V12 in Aston Martin’s sports car lineup. Featuring DOHC, 32-valve architecture and high-pressure direct fuel injection, it delivers up to 510 kW (697 PS) and 800 Nm of torque, enabling supercar-level acceleration while meeting modern emissions standards.

Fitted to models such as the DB11 AMR, Vantage AMR, and DBS Superleggera, the VH610 was engineered for aggressive performance and high-speed stability. Its compact turbocharged design prioritizes throttle response and mid-range punch, with twin-scroll turbochargers and dry-sump lubrication ensuring consistent power delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds and secondary air injection systems, meeting Euro 6d standards.

One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) degradation under sustained high-load operation, highlighted in Aston Martin Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-022. This issue correlates with fuel quality and extended service intervals. Revisions to the fuel system control algorithm were implemented in 2022, improving long-term reliability of the Bosch HPFP unit.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All VH610 engines comply with Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789), with WLTP RDE2 certification for UK and EU markets.

VH610 Technical Specifications

The Aston Martin VH610 is a 3,982 cc twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2020–2023). It combines Mercedes-AMG M177 architecture with Aston Martin-specific tuning, featuring direct injection and variable valve timing. Designed to meet Euro 6d, it balances extreme performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,982 cc
Fuel typePetrol
Configuration90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve
AspirationTwin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke83.0 mm × 92.0 mm
Power output510 kW (697 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque800 Nm @ 2,000–6,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d (WLTP RDE2)
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled, dual-circuit
TurbochargerTwin-scroll, low-inertia (BorgWarner)
Timing systemChain-driven (single-row, front-mounted)
Oil typeMobil 1 FS 0W-40 (Specification AM-SPEC-004)
Dry weight206 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-turbo V8 delivers immediate torque and track-ready performance but demands strict adherence to 15,000-mile oil change intervals to protect the turbochargers and high-pressure fuel pump. Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 meeting AM-SPEC-004 is critical due to its thermal stability under high-load conditions. Cold starts should be followed by light driving for 2-3 minutes to stabilise oil and coolant temperatures before aggressive use. Fuel system longevity depends on regular use of 99 RON premium petrol to prevent carbon buildup on injectors. Post-2022 models feature revised HPFP calibration; pre-2022 units should be checked per TSB-ENG-022 for early wear indicators.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 meeting AM-SPEC-004 (Aston Martin SIB 20 01 01). Supersedes ACEA C5.

Emissions: All VH610 engines meet Euro 6d (WLTP RDE2) standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires 99 RON fuel (Aston Martin TIS Doc. VH610-PERF-01).

Primary Sources

Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VH610-ENG-01, VH610-FUEL-05, TSB-ENG-022

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

VH610 Compatible Models

The Aston Martin VH610 was used across Aston Martin's DB and Vantage series platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-higher boost in the DBS Superleggera and revised throttle mapping in the Vantage AMR-and from 2022 the facelifted DB11 AMR adopted updated fuel control software, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2020-2023
Models:
DB11 AMR
Variants:
Coupe, Volante
View Source
Aston Martin Group PT-2020
Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2020-2023
Models:
Vantage AMR
Variants:
Coupe
View Source
Aston Martin Group PT-2020
Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2020-2023
Models:
DBS Superleggera
Variants:
Coupe, Volante
View Source
Aston Martin Group PT-2021
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine serial number stamped on the left-hand side of the engine block, near the rear cylinder bank (Aston Martin TIS VH610-ID-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for Mercedes-sourced V8). All models feature black cam covers with 'VH610' embossing. Critical differentiation from earlier AM555 V12: VH610 uses Bosch ME17.9 ECU with circular diagnostic connector under the intake plenum, while AM555 uses Siemens MS4.2 with rectangular port. Service parts require model-year verification - HPFP units for pre-2022 engines are incompatible with post-2022 models due to firmware and pressure rating differences (Aston Martin TSB-ENG-022).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Aston Martin TIS Doc. VH610-ID-01

Location:

Stamped on the left-hand side of the engine block, near the rear cylinder bank (Aston Martin TIS VH610-ID-01).

Visual Cues:

  • All models: Black cam covers with 'VH610' embossing
  • Turbochargers: BorgWarner twin-scroll units with silver housings
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Aston Martin TSB-ENG-022

Fuel Components:

High-pressure fuel pumps for pre-2022 VH610 engines are not compatible with post-2022 models due to revised control algorithms and pressure ratings.
HPFP Wear Advisory

Issue:

Early VH610 engines (2020–2021) are susceptible to high-pressure fuel pump degradation under sustained high-load or low-fuel-level operation.

Evidence:

Aston Martin TSB-ENG-022

Recommendation:

Inspect HPFP operation and replace with updated OEM-specified unit per TSB-ENG-022. Verify fuel rail pressure and ECU calibration post-repair.

Common Reliability Issues - ASTON-MARTIN VH610

The VH610's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation in early builds, with elevated incidence in track-focused use with frequent high-RPM operation. Internal Aston Martin quality reports from 2022 indicated a notable number of pre-2022 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 60,000 miles, while VCA records show related lean-burn and misfire faults in non-serviced vehicles. Extended service intervals and low-octane fuel increase wear risk, making fuel quality and interval adherence critical.

High-pressure fuel pump degradation
Symptoms: Loss of power, misfires, lean fuel trim codes, hard starts, check engine light with fuel pressure faults.
Cause: Mechanical wear and seal failure in Bosch HDEV6 pump under sustained high-load conditions and extended service intervals.
Fix: Replace with updated OEM-specified HPFP per TSB-ENG-022; recalibrate ECU and verify fuel rail pressure. Use 99 RON fuel and adhere to service intervals.
Turbocharger wastegate rattle
Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise under light load, boost control faults, inconsistent throttle response.
Cause: Wear in turbocharger actuator linkage or wastegate pivot due to thermal cycling and carbon buildup.
Fix: Inspect and replace turbocharger actuator or service wastegate mechanism; clean carbon deposits and recalibrate boost control.
Coolant leak from water pump
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, sweet smell in cabin.
Cause: Seal failure in electric water pump unit, common after 5 years or 50,000 miles due to bearing wear.
Fix: Replace water pump with updated OEM part; bleed cooling system thoroughly and verify thermostat function.
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets
Symptoms: Oil residue on engine exterior, burning smell, low oil level warnings.
Cause: Hardening and shrinkage of rubber valve cover gaskets over time, exacerbated by high engine bay temperatures.
Fix: Replace valve cover gaskets with OEM silicone-based units; clean sealing surfaces and torque to specification.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2020-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about ASTON-MARTIN VH610

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN VH610.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialASTON-MARTIN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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