Home / Common Problems / Aston Martin Db7

Aston Martin Db7 Problems & Known Issues

The most common Aston Martin Db7 problems ranked by severity — what to watch for, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you ignore it.

Generations

DB7-I6 — DB7 Inline-6
1994–1999
3.2 Supercharged I6
DB7-V12 — DB7 V12
1999–2004
5.9 V12

Top issues to watch for

The most serious Aston Martin Db7 problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Dangerous
Wheel bearing excessive play
DB7-I6, DB7-V121994–200420k–100k miles
Both I6 and V12 models show wheel bearing failures at up to 44.6 times the national fleet average, with the trend worsening over time. This affects all four corners and all mileage bands from 20,000 miles upward, suggesting either inadequate bearing specification for the vehicle weight or manufacturing quality issues. The high failure rate across such a wide mileage range indicates this is a fundamental design problem rather than normal wear.
What happens if ignoredWheel bearing collapse can cause complete loss of wheel control and potential wheel detachment. The vehicle should not be driven with confirmed bearing failure. Replacement typically requires specialist hub pullers and precise torque settings critical for safety.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£300–£600
Main dealer
£400–£800
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
Transmission chain excessive wear (DB7-V12)
DB7-V121999–200420k–40k miles
The 5-speed automatic transmission fitted to V12 models uses a chain drive system that shows premature wear patterns significantly earlier than typical automatic transmissions. MOT data shows transmission failures at 178.3 times the national fleet average, with peak failures occurring between 20,000-40,000 miles. This suggests an inherent design weakness rather than normal wear. The transmission was sourced from Mercedes-Benz but appears inadequately matched to the V12's torque output.
What happens if ignoredChain failure requires transmission removal and rebuild, typically costing £3,000-£6,000 for parts and labour. The car may experience sudden loss of drive without warning. Continued driving with a failing chain risks complete transmission destruction and potential damage to the torque converter.
Independent garage
£2,500–£4,000
Specialist
£3,000–£6,000
Main dealer
£4,000–£8,000
Parts only
£1,500–£3,000
Major
Excessive fluid leakage
DB7-I6, DB7-V121994–20040k–100k miles
This suggests multiple leak points from engine gaskets, seals, and connections. The V12 shows particularly high leak rates at low mileages, indicating manufacturing or design issues rather than age-related deterioration.
What happens if ignoredSevere fluid leaks can cause environmental damage and present fire hazards if oil contacts hot exhaust components. Oil leaks lead to engine damage if levels drop critically. Brake or power steering fluid leaks affect vehicle control and safety.
Independent garage
£200–£800
Specialist
£300–£1,200
Main dealer
£500–£1,800
Parts only
£50–£400
Major
Spring fracture or weakness
DB7-I6, DB7-V121994–200420k–100k miles
Both models show spring failures at up to 8.7 times the national fleet average, with the trend worsening across all affected mileage bands. The high failure rate suggests either inadequate spring specification for vehicle weight or manufacturing quality issues. Spring failures can occur as early as 20,000 miles, which is extremely unusual for coil springs on any vehicle.
What happens if ignoredFractured springs can cause sudden loss of ride height, potential tyre contact with wheel arches, and dangerous handling characteristics. A completely failed spring can damage brake lines, suspension arms, and other components. The vehicle should not be driven with confirmed spring failure.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£300–£600
Main dealer
£400–£800
Parts only
£150–£350

1 more known issues tracked

Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.

Check a specific car →

MOT failure hotspots

Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Aston Martin Db7 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.

Transmission joint, belt or chain worn
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 178x the fleet average
Sample: 1,237 tests
Power steering fault
Steering · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 25x the fleet average
Sample: 888 tests
Wheel bearings worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 2,537 tests
Fluid leak
Exhaust & Emissions · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 348 tests
ABS fault
Brakes · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 374 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 348 tests

Buying a Aston Martin Db7?

Check a specific car's service history to see if it's been looked after — franchised dealer records with dates, mileage, and work done.

Check service history

£6.99 · Full refund if no records found

Related

Aston Martin Db7 reliability FAQs

What are the most common problems with the Aston Martin Db7?

The Aston Martin Db7 has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Wheel bearing excessive play.

Is the Aston Martin Db7 reliable?

The Aston Martin Db7 has 1 dangerous and 3 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.

How much does it cost to fix Aston Martin Db7 problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Wheel bearing excessive play) costs £200–£400 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.

Which Aston Martin Db7 generation is most reliable?

The DB7-I6 (1994–1999) has the fewest dangerous issues (1). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.