2013 Aston Martin DB9
The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 is a grand tourer celebrated for its elegant design, luxurious interior, and impressive performance. It’s powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 510 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Touchtronic 2 six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the DB9 for its striking aesthetics, powerful engine sound, and comfortable driving experience. However, some common complaints include higher maintenance costs due to the car’s exotic nature and occasional electrical gremlins. This model year offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury, but potential buyers should be aware of potential issues and associated repair expenses.
Engine
6.0L V12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often stemming from the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets is the primary fix. This involves removing the valve covers or dropping the oil pan, cleaning the surfaces, and installing new gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the location and complexity.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coil Pack Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Individual coil pack failures can occur, leading to misfires, rough running, and a check engine light.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack resolves the issue. It’s often recommended to replace all coil packs at once for preventative maintenance.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per coil pack (parts and labor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Vacuum Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks are also a common issue with the V12. A common source of vacuum leaks is brittle or cracked vacuum lines. Symptoms include rough idling, poor acceleration, and a check engine light.
- Solution: Replacing all of the vacuum lines and checking vacuum operated equipment for leaks
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Touchtronic 2 6-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can be due to worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change may help alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush $300-$500. Valve body repair/replacement $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the transmission mount. Symptoms include excessive vibration at idle and hard gear changes.
- Solution: Replacing the failing transmission mount
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Adaptive Damper Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The DB9 features an adaptive damping system, and failures can occur. Symptoms include a rough ride, uneven handling, and a warning light on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty damper(s) is required. It’s recommended to replace dampers in pairs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ per damper, including labor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Wear on the bushings in the front suspension leading to suspension noise and loose handling.
- Solution: Replacement of worn bushings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on which bushing needs replacement
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The DB9 is known to suffer from battery drain issues, particularly when left unused for extended periods. This can be attributed to parasitic draw from various electrical components.
- Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the source of the parasitic draw is necessary. This may involve updating software, replacing faulty modules, or installing a battery tender.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Infotainment System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including screen freezing, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation malfunctions.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, module replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with various sensors failing due to age and heat exposure.
- Solution: Replacement of failing sensors as required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on which sensor failed.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The door handle actuators can fail, preventing the doors from opening or closing properly.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty actuator resolves the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sticky Interior Trim
- Description/Symptoms: Due to the materials used, some interior trim pieces can become sticky or tacky over time. This is more common in warmer climates.
- Solution: Cleaning the trim is a temporary solution. Refinishing or replacing the affected trim pieces is a more permanent fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity and the trim pieces involved.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Aston Martin DB9, while beautiful and powerful, can present owners with a range of potential issues. Engine oil leaks and electrical problems are relatively common, while suspension and transmission issues can also arise. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the problem, but given the exotic nature of the car, owners should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance expenses. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences like infotainment glitches to more serious issues like engine or transmission repairs. Overall, prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified Aston Martin technician to identify any existing or potential problems.