2015 Aston Martin DB9

The 2015 Aston Martin DB9 is a grand tourer known for its elegant design, luxurious interior, and powerful performance. It features a 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 510 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the DB9 for its beautiful styling, comfortable ride, and exhilarating exhaust note. However, potential drawbacks include higher maintenance costs, complex electronics, and limited rear passenger space. This information will help you be more informed when shopping for this car.

Engine

6.0L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is the usual fix. The specific repair will depend on the source of the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the leak location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can develop in the cooling system, particularly around hoses, radiator connections, and the water pump. Symptoms include low coolant level, overheating, and a sweet smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty hoses, radiator, or water pump is the solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the leak location and component replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or delayed shifting between gears. This can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change might resolve the issue, but sometimes the valve body may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,500+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The DB9’s adaptive dampers (if equipped) can fail, leading to a stiff or bouncy ride. Warning lights might illuminate on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty damper is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced excessive battery drain, particularly if the car sits unused for extended periods.
  • Solution: Investigating parasitic draws and replacing the battery or faulty module causing the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Sensors such as the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors or oxygen sensors can fail, triggering warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience glitches, freezes, or connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, module resets, or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle mechanism can fail, making it difficult to open the door from the outside.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticking Buttons
  • Description/Symptoms: Some buttons on the center console or dashboard can become sticky or non-responsive.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the affected buttons or switchgear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the button/switch.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Aston Martin DB9 offers a unique blend of luxury and performance, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine oil and coolant leaks, transmission harshness, electrical problems, and door handle failures are among the most frequently reported complaints. While some fixes can be relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, especially those involving the suspension or electrical systems. Pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Aston Martin technician is highly recommended.