2009 Aston Martin DBS

The 2009 Aston Martin DBS is a grand tourer known for its stunning design, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. It was offered with a naturally aspirated 6.0L V12 engine producing 510 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The transmission options were a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally love the car’s aesthetics, performance, and exclusivity. Common complaints often revolve around high maintenance costs, the complexity of the electronics, and the limitations of a grand tourer in everyday practicality.

Engine

6.0L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets are a somewhat common occurrence. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, low oil levels, and the smell of burning oil.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light. Often attributed to failing coil packs.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on how many need replacing.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, the water pump, or the radiator. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, and a high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping between gears. These can be attributed to issues with the valve body within the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. In some cases, a full transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $6,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The DBS uses adaptive dampers. These dampers can fail, leading to a harsh or uneven ride. Warning lights related to the suspension system may also illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per damper, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The DBS is known to be prone to battery drain issues, especially if left unused for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Ensuring the battery is properly maintained, using a battery tender when the car is not in use, and diagnosing and repairing any parasitic draws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for a battery tender) to $500+ to diagnose and repair parasitic draws.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., O2 sensors, MAF sensors, TPMS sensors) can fail, leading to check engine lights and performance issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Carbon Fiber Trim Delamination (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with carbon fiber exterior trim (splitters, diffusers, etc.), the clear coat can delaminate, causing a cloudy or peeling appearance.
  • Solution: Refinishing or replacing the carbon fiber trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the piece and the repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory navigation and infotainment system can be slow, outdated, and prone to glitches or failures.
  • Solution: Replacing or upgrading the head unit with an aftermarket solution or attempting to repair the factory system (which can be costly and may not be effective).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become stuck or move erratically.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Aston Martin DBS presents a mix of potentially expensive repairs and maintenance items. Engine issues like oil leaks and coil pack failures can be relatively common. Transmission problems, especially with the automatic gearbox, can be costly. Suspension issues, particularly with the adaptive dampers, are also a concern. Electrical gremlins, such as battery drain and sensor failures, can add to the ownership burden. Overall, prospective buyers should be prepared for higher-than-average maintenance and repair costs. Careful inspection and a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Aston Martin technician are highly recommended.