2020 Aston Martin DBS
The 2020 Aston Martin DBS Superleggera is a grand tourer celebrated for its stunning design, powerful performance, and luxurious interior. It comes standard with a twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V12 engine producing 715 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its exhilarating acceleration, elegant styling, and the sense of exclusivity it provides. Conversely, criticisms often include its high price tag, limited rear passenger space, and occasional concerns about reliability and running costs.
Engine
5.2L Twin-Turbocharged V12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported oil leaks originating from various engine seals and gaskets. This can manifest as oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, or low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the affected seals and gaskets. The specific seals and gaskets needing replacement will be determined by a mechanic inspecting the location of the leak.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the location and severity.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Leaks can occur from hoses, radiator, or water pump. May notice a sweet smell or puddles of coolant.
- Solution: Replace hoses, radiator, or water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP95)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted harsh or jerky shifts, especially during low-speed driving or when transitioning between gears.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and software update may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $5,000+ (transmission rebuild)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers, designed to adjust ride firmness, may fail or become inconsistent. This can result in a noticeably harsher or bouncier ride, or error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per damper
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can be prone to freezing, crashing, or exhibiting slow response times. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functionality.
- Solution: Performing a software update or, in severe cases, replacing the infotainment unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $2,000+ (infotainment unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with sensors, such as parking sensors or tire pressure sensors, may occur.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Trim Pieces Loosening/Rattling
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that certain trim pieces, particularly on the dashboard or door panels, may become loose or start to rattle over time.
- Solution: Re-securing or replacing the affected trim pieces.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, while admired for its performance and aesthetics, can be subject to certain issues. Engine and transmission problems such as oil leaks and harsh shifting can occur, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical glitches within the infotainment system or sensor malfunctions can also be frustrating. Suspension and interior trim issues appear to be relatively less common but can still impact the overall ownership experience. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection crucial.