2009 Aston Martin DB9

The 2009 Aston Martin DB9 is a grand tourer known for its elegant design, luxurious interior, and powerful performance. The DB9 is powered by a 5.9L V12 engine producing 470 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. All model years came with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the DB9’s beautiful styling and exhilarating driving experience but can be frustrated by occasional reliability issues and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

5.9L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per coil pack depending on whether you are replacing a single coil pack or all of them.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the radiator or hoses. Visible puddles of coolant under the vehicle or loss of coolant needing to be refilled frequently
  • Solution: Replacing the damaged radiator or hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per radiator or hose depending on the damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic (Touchtronic 2)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or, in some cases, the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Six-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damping System (ADS) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff or uneven ride, warning lights on the dashboard, clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty shock absorber(s) or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per shock absorber and/or control module.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car sits unused for extended periods. Difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the parasitic drain. This may involve replacing the battery, fixing faulty wiring, or replacing a defective module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, remote key fob not working.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator or repairing the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Resealing the headlight housing or replacing the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen freezes, malfunctions, or stops working altogether.
  • Solution: Replacing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: AC Blowing warm air or not blowing any air at all
  • Solution: Replace AC compressor or refrigerant lines
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Aston Martin DB9 presents a mix of desirable qualities and potential drawbacks. While its powerful engine and luxurious features are appealing, owners should be prepared for potential issues, particularly with the engine (oil leaks, coil packs) and automatic transmission (valve body). Suspension and electrical issues are also common. Repairs can be costly due to the car’s exotic nature and specialized parts, so prospective buyers should factor this into their ownership costs.