u/AlphaWawa

Hi,

Today my 200,000 mile MY 2013 X3 xDrive35i reported "Drivetrain Malfunction. Drive moderately. Maximum drivetrain output not available." Scanning via BimmerLink revealed the following faults:

12 Digital Motor Electronics, 2 errors
* 133B04: Valvetronic system: no adjustment possible
* 133E10: Valvetronic system: deactivated, too frequent adjustment errors

The eccentric shaft, valvetronic motor, and eccentric shaft sensor were replaced at 170,000 and then again at 180,000 miles. For the past 1,000 miles or so we've heard what sounds like some misfiring via the exhaust system - a repeated, bassy, "thump thump thump" sound every now and then.

What do you think is the issue? Thank you.

Hi there,

Does anyone have tips or experience using spacers or some other method to raise the height of the driver's seat in a VH Vantage? The max height available is still too low for me; ideally I'd add a minimum of two inches of height.

I've only found this post, which of course would work but I'd prefer an out-of-the-box solution instead of a project:

https://www.6speedonline.com/forums/aston-martin/415429-raising-passenger-seat-1-2007-vantage-v8.html

There is also this Aston Martin part, but I cannot find any diagrams that detail what, exactly, it is and how it would work (for example, is it just a shim? What about extended seat bolts?):

https://astonmartinbits.com/products/ky63-28611-aa

Thanks.

Hi there,

For those of you that have taken your 4.3L coupes to a track day, please share your stories. Did the stock components hold up to a day of track time? Any issues with cooling, braking, suspension, etc? Did any particular mods make a big difference in subsequent experiences?

Thanks for your insights.

Hi there,

For those of you who went from a completely stock setup to some sort of modification, whether it be exhaust, suspension, wheels, tires, etc, which gave you the biggest jump in satisfaction? I lean towards OEM+ at most, though am open to any ideas, whether with OEM parts or well-regarded aftermarket companies.

Target vehicle: 997.1 Carrera S Coupe with MT

Thanks.

Hi all,

Having read dozens and dozens of For Sale posts on VH V8 Vantages, I’ve noted a common problem is peeling of the leather dashboard. What are the best ways to prevent this from happening over time?

* Regular leather conditioning? (How often?)
* UV-blocking tint?
* Windshield Sun Shade?
* Underground, permanent storage?

All of the above perhaps, but I’d like to hear from long-term owners who’ve successfully staved off this problem. Thank you.