New Member - Questions and Looking for Canadian Owners

[02racer]

I live in British Columbia, Canada and I just returned from trip to Europe and the UK.

I went to the UK to look at a Juno race car and ended up falling in love (lust?) with all the Astons I saw in London.

So I'm not buying the Juno but am seriously considering buying a V8 Vantage.

I live in a rural part of BC. I am about 400 miles from the nearest dealers (one in Calgary and one in Vancouver). Before I get too serious about purchasing a Vantage I would like to get some info and opinions from current owners.

My questions are:

Reading the Forum it appears the Aston's have problems with engines cutting out and with the sportshift transmissions. I will probably get a manual so I am not too concerned about the sportshift but the engine problems concern me as I live so far from a dealer. I am a moderately skilled mechanic as a result of all the racing I have done but I don't think I would be able to do much more than an oil change on the Aston.

So my questions are:

How important is it to have easy access to a dealer?

Do most cars require specialist care on a regular basis?

Would it be better to buy as used ( and theoretically sorted car) versus a new one?

Finally I am looking for Canadian owners or a Canadian Forum if anyone can help with either.

Thanks

[bimmmmer]

Hi there -

I'm in Toronto with a 07 Manual, but lucky enough to live 20km from the dealer.

My car has had no major issues, but has spent quite a few weekends away visiting the "service bay" of my dealer. The normal niggles that where associated with 07 models (Squeaky brakes, belts squeal, oil leak etc)

Considering your distance from the dealer, see if they would be willing to have your car picked up via flatbed for service or warranty issues on their dime. I'm sure if they want your business they should agree, this is common service many dealers offer their clients.


>>>>How important is it to have easy access to a dealer?
I'd say fairly important


>>>>Do most cars require specialist care on a regular basis?
Service is basically once a year and you definitely want a authorized dealer to take care for you


>>>>Would it be better to buy as used ( and theoretically sorted car) versus a new one?
If you go used, I'm sure you can find some good deals out there.
I went the new route, as this enabled me to spec the car to my choice, I passed on a in stock car with a 10k savings.

I have to say, once all the niggles are sorted out and car drives better every day.

Good luck with your decision.

[bogie]

wouldnt worry about any of it myself, my car goes to a garage once a year for a service and does 10K miles in between...somtimes more

www.amoc.org - there are a few Canadians on there that can offer advice

[michaelniwot]

Owner here living in Victoria, BC. PM me and I will try and help.