2005 Aston Martin DB9

The 2005 Aston Martin DB9 is a grand tourer celebrated for its elegant design, luxurious interior, and powerful performance. It’s equipped with a 5.9L V12 engine that produces 450 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The DB9 was available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically appreciate the DB9 for its distinctive styling, refined driving experience, and the sound of the V12 engine. Common dislikes often include higher-than-average maintenance costs, some reliability concerns, and the age of the technology.

Engine

5.9L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations including valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and timing chain cover. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the car, low oil level, and the smell of burning oil.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets or seals is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location of the leak and the labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Individual coil packs can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per coil pack.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Touchtronic 2)

• Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 6-speed automatic transmission can exhibit jerky or harsh shifting, especially during lower gear changes. This can be more pronounced when the transmission fluid is cold.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and software update may improve the shifting quality. In some cases, valve body issues may require more extensive repairs or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the severity and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers (if equipped) can fail, leading to a rough ride, uneven handling, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: DB9s can suffer from excessive battery drain, especially if not driven regularly. This can result in a dead battery and starting problems.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the drain (often related to aftermarket accessories or faulty modules) and repairing or disconnecting it. Using a battery tender when the car is not in use can help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the central locking system, where doors may not lock or unlock properly, or the alarm system may behave erratically.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty actuators, control modules, or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Instrument cluster may fail or show inaccurate information.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire cluster or repair of the cluster circuit board.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle actuators can fail, preventing the doors from opening or closing properly. This can be exacerbated by cold weather.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory navigation system can be outdated and prone to errors, with slow response times.
  • Solution: Updating the navigation software if available, or replacing the unit with a modern aftermarket solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the air conditioning system, such as weak airflow or failure to blow cold air, can occur due to refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or issues with the climate control module.
  • Solution: Repairing leaks, replacing the compressor, or repairing/replacing the climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Aston Martin DB9 is a beautiful car but can come with potential issues. Engine oil leaks and electrical gremlins are common, and suspension and transmission problems can also arise. Many issues can be costly to fix, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is a must. While the severity of these issues can vary, owners should be prepared for higher-than-average maintenance expenses to keep their DB9 in top condition.