2011 Aston Martin DB9

The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 is a grand tourer celebrated for its elegant design, luxurious interior, and engaging driving experience. It’s powered by a 5.9-liter V12 engine producing 470 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. The DB9 was available with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. Owners often praise the car’s stunning aesthetics and exhaust note, while some criticisms include the dated infotainment system and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

5.9L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light can indicate a failing coil pack.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty coil pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation, clunking noises, or harsh shifts during gear changes.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ (depending on the severity and repair needed)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride quality, warning lights on the dashboard, and a generally uncomfortable ride.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty adaptive dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent dead batteries, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly installed aftermarket accessory).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, and general unreliability of the infotainment system. Navigation failures.
  • Solution: Software updates (if available), replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening the doors from the exterior due to faulty mechanisms.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 per handle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Problems (Convertible Models)
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the convertible top to open or close properly. Hydraulic pump failures.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the hydraulic pump, repair damaged hydraulic lines, or replace the convertible top motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms:
  • Solution:
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure to blow cold air, intermittent cooling, or unusual noises from the AC compressor.
  • Solution: Recharge the AC system, repair or replace the AC compressor, or repair leaks in the AC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Aston Martin DB9, while a beautiful and desirable grand tourer, can present owners with a range of potential issues. Engine oil leaks and coil pack failures are relatively common concerns. The automatic transmission can experience rough shifting. Suspension and electrical issues such as adaptive damper malfunctions and battery drain can add to the maintenance costs. Interior issues such as navigation failure, as well as exterior issues like door handle failures, can also arise. Overall, potential owners should be prepared for potentially high repair costs and the need for specialized maintenance.