Aston Martin Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Aston Martin cars?

Our database covers 8 Aston Martin models and 43 documented faults across the range. Of these, 10 are classified as dangerous and a further 15 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Aston Martin models fail at an average rate of 8.7%, sitting below the 22.7% average across all manufacturers in our database. Reliability varies considerably between models. The Db11 is the strongest performer at just 5.1%, while the Db7 has the highest failure rate at 12.8%.

If you are considering a used Aston Martin, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are suspension and brakes, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Aston Martin reliability summary

Where Aston Martin problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Aston Martin's 43 known issues break down by area.

Suspension problems dominate, accounting for 13 of the 43 faults we track (30%). Issues in this area include Front suspension component corrosion (DB11) and Wheel bearing excessive play. The most affected models are the Db7 (3), the Db9 (2), the DBS (2).

Brakes is the next most common area, with 11 documented faults (26%). Common faults here include Brake hose and pipe corrosion (DB9) and Brake binding (DB9). The most affected models are the Db9 (2), the DBS (2), the V8 Vantage (2).

We also track 7 engine faults across the range (16%). Problems to watch for include Turbo wastegate rattle (DB11) and Excessive fluid leakage. The most affected models are the Vantage (2), the Db11 (1), the Db7 (1).

Transmission rounds out the top problem areas with 4 known issues (9%). Notable issues include Transmission chain excessive wear (DB7-V12) and Sportshift Clutch Wear. The most affected models are the Db7 (1), the Db9 (1), the DBS (1).

Known Aston Martin faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Aston Martin range

The most common and severe problems found across all Aston Martin models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Aston Martin model

We track faults across 8 Aston Martin models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Aston Martin

Every used Aston Martin deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since suspension faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 10 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Front suspension component corrosion (DB11), Wheel bearing excessive play, Suspension component corrosion (DB9). Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Aston Martin has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 8.7% average failure rate across the Aston Martin range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Aston Martin repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Aston Martin repair costs between £762 and £1,485 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £15,000 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Aston Martin repair in our database is Carbon Ceramic Brake Wear, which can cost £15,000–£25,000 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.