I realize there are few Rapide posters out there, however, I am experiencing
a chatter or stutter (felt in the steering wheel) when turning and would appreciate any comments. And when the sterring wheel is turned with the car not moving, it is even worse. The tires skip when turned. It has been to the Dlr and I found one of their's (brand new) doing the same thing. They are contacting the rep for further advice. Does anyone have this condition with their AM? Many thanks.

 

I do not experience that on mine (2012)

 

My DB9 has a bit of a steering wheel judder at very low speed, engine at or near idle, wheel turned fairly sharply (not at full lock, but approaching); like when you're parking.

My understanding is that it's related to the power steering pump and is a side effect of the compromise that gives better steering feel while driving. Nothing to worry about.

 

Thank you, yvr, that's exactly what it is. Also, I've been told that it is
purposeful ... to have "road feel" at it's optimum, but it is a little
disconcerting at first. Thank you for telling me it's normal; I'll just get used to it!

 

On a second note - do you ever experience a "click" sound when breaking, or letting go of the accelerator or changing from reverse to D?

 

No, but when first shifting from PARK to REVERSE, there is a click from the
transaxle. It doesn't sound that disturbing and I have accepted it to be rather normal.

 

^^^ clicks, bumps, jutters, noices, rattles, chatters and bumps. Welcome to the joy of Aston ownership part of what makes these cars unique and lively bubbly personality! lol

 

The TT2 is like any torque converter automatic: when you disengage park by selecting "D" or "R" or neutral, the locking pin disengages. Sounds like a distinct "clunk" if you're parked on any kind of a slope. Less noticeable on level ground, but you might hear still a click. Completely normal. If you have other cars with automatics they probably do it too.

 

Where does this click come from? Inside the car out outside? Front/Back?

 

I can't tell if it's inside or outside, but it is in the back. And while we're at it, would someone please tell me how much air pressure you have your tires at?
For the Rapide, the manual states: 36 front, 38 rear. I'm now carrying 35 f and
36 r and it still feels too hard. I wonder how low I can go with the stock Bridgestones ... perhaps 33/35?

 

DB9 is 36F and 38R too. The Bridgestones are harsh though. I'm running Continental DW ExtremeContacts and they're a bit more compliant -- 36/38 is a nice balance for me.

 

The Bridgestones are crap. Get the Contis of even better, the Michelin Pilot SS.

 

gircal -- how many miles do you have on your tires? My Bridgestone rears were shot at 11K miles. There's no doubt that they get worse as they get to the end of their life. Most seem to be going to Michelin Pilot Super Sports with good results (as XJRS says). That's what I'll be doing next time.

 

Conti extremecontact on my DB also... Sport pack is a bit harsher ride, bit he conti are much more compliant then the bridgestone and grippier as well although sidewalks flex a bit more, makes the ride w the sport pack just right. As for pressures thinking 37f 38r ...

 

Thanks - will take it to the dealer to check it out.