2008 Aston Martin DB9

The 2008 Aston Martin DB9 is a grand tourer celebrated for its elegant styling, luxurious interior, and engaging driving experience. Powering the DB9 is a naturally aspirated 6.0-liter V12 engine producing around 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 often praise the DB9 for its stunning aesthetics, exhilarating performance, and the distinctive sound of its V12 engine. However, common criticisms include high running costs, potential reliability issues, and the age of the technology in comparison to newer models.

Engine

6.0L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various areas, including the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the car, low oil level, and the smell of burning oil.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. May also require cleaning of the engine bay to remove accumulated oil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the location of the leak and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are a known issue. These can occur from hoses, the water pump, or the radiator. Symptoms include low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant puddles under the car.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the component and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coils
  • Description/Symptoms: Ignition coil failure can cause misfires, rough running, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+, varies by how many coils are replaced and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Touchtronic 2)

• Jerky Shifts/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported jerky or hesitant shifting, particularly at lower speeds. This can be due to worn valve bodies or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+ depending on the issue and repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the car is not driven regularly. This can be due to a parasitic draw from the alarm system or other electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and fixing the parasitic draw. Consider using a battery tender if the car is not driven frequently.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw.
  • Recalls: None Found
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors can fail, causing a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty TPMS sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings, leading to condensation.
  • Solution: Sealing the headlight housings or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1,000+ depending on the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system can be slow, outdated, or prone to failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the navigation unit. Consider aftermarket options for updated technology.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Speaker Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Speakers in the sound system can degrade or fail over time, resulting in distorted or missing audio.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty speakers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per speaker depending on the brand and quality of the replacement speaker.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Aston Martin DB9, while a beautiful and capable grand tourer, is prone to a few common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine oil and coolant leaks are relatively common, and electrical issues such as battery drain can also occur. The automatic transmission can exhibit jerky shifting in some cases. Interior components like the navigation system and speakers may also require attention due to their age. The severity and cost of these issues can vary greatly, with some repairs being relatively inexpensive while others can be quite costly due to the complexity and rarity of parts. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified Aston Martin technician to assess the overall condition of the vehicle and identify any potential problems before making a purchase.