2018 Aston Martin DB11
2018 Aston Martin DB11
Overview
The 2018 Aston Martin DB11 is a grand tourer that blends potent performance with luxurious comfort. While generally well-regarded for its engineering, like any high-performance vehicle, it can experience specific issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, examining common problem areas across its powertrain, chassis, and electronic systems. Owners should be aware of potential challenges that may arise, particularly with the more complex components, to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of their DB11.
Engine
5.2L Twin-Turbocharged V12
Turbocharger Wastegate Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Boost leaks, loss of power, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty wastegate actuator.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Engine Mount Degradation
- Symptoms: Increased vibration at idle or under acceleration, clunking noises.
- Solution: Replacement of worn engine mounts.
- Cost: $600 - $1200
4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Transmission
ZF 8-Speed Automatic (8HP95)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Adaptive Dampers
Electronic Damper Malfunction
- Symptoms: Harsh ride, suspension warning light, inconsistent damping.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty damper or control module.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000 per corner
Electrical
Infotainment System
Software Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software update or reset. In severe cases, module replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $1000
Battery Drain
Parasitic Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, electrical gremlins.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify parasitic draw and repair faulty module or circuit.
- Cost: $400 - $900
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Leather Upholstery & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Climate Control System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2018 Aston Martin DB11, particularly models equipped with the V12 engine, exhibits a generally strong reliability record for its class. The most frequently cited technical issues revolve around the turbocharger wastegate actuators and potential degradation of engine mounts on the V12 variants. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system glitches and parasitic battery drain, are also noted concerns that may require professional diagnosis. The V8 models and the ZF automatic transmission have proven to be more robust. While suspension and interior components are largely reliable, the advanced adaptive damping system can be a source of costly repairs if it malfunctions. Overall, the DB11 offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury, but potential owners should budget for the possibility of addressing specific, albeit not pervasive, technical challenges.