Generations
DB9 — DB9
2003–2016
5.9 V12
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Aston Martin Db9 problems ranked by severity. We track 8 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Suspension component corrosion (DB9)
MOT data shows DB9 models fail at 97.9 times the national fleet average for suspension component corrosion, with the problem worsening year-on-year. The aluminium space-frame construction uses steel suspension mounting points and components that are vulnerable to galvanic corrosion where dissimilar metals meet. Lower wishbones, anti-roll bar links, and subframe mounting points are particularly affected. This represents a critical structural safety issue as corroded components can fail catastrophically.
What happens if ignoredCorroded suspension components can fail without warning, causing loss of vehicle control and potentially fatal accidents. Repair typically requires specialist welding to chassis mounting points and complete component replacement. Costs can exceed £8,000 for extensive corrosion repair.
Specialist
£2,000–£8,000
Main dealer
£5,000–£12,000
Parts only
£800–£2,500
Major
Sportshift Clutch Wear
The Sportshift automated manual transmission uses a single-plate dry clutch with electro-hydraulic actuation. The clutch assembly experiences accelerated wear due to the high torque output of the V12 engine and the automated system's tendency to slip during gear changes. Unlike a conventional manual where driver technique affects clutch life, the Sportshift system controls all engagement, making premature wear almost inevitable. Replacement requires transmission removal and specialist recalibration.
What happens if ignoredComplete clutch failure leaves the car immobile and requires specialist recovery. Replacement is transmission-out work requiring dealer-level diagnostic equipment for system recalibration. Total cost including labour typically exceeds £5,000.
Specialist
£4,000–£6,000
Main dealer
£5,000–£7,000
Parts only
£2,000–£3,000
Major
Coil Pack Failure
The V12 engine uses twelve individual coil packs, one per cylinder. These fail regularly due to the high heat environment and the engine's demanding performance characteristics. Failed coil packs cause cylinder misfires, rough running, and potential damage to catalytic converters if left unrepaired. The failure rate is significantly higher than typical for passenger cars, with MOT data showing elevated engine malfunction light failures consistent with ignition system problems.
What happens if ignoredMisfiring cylinders can damage expensive catalytic converters and cause the engine to run roughly. Multiple coil pack failures can trigger limp mode, severely limiting performance. Unrepaired misfires will cause MOT emission test failures.
Independent garage
£800–£1,500
Specialist
£1,200–£2,500
Main dealer
£1,500–£3,000
Parts only
£400–£800
Major
Rear Shock Absorber Leak
Rear shock absorbers on DB9 models are prone to seal failure and oil leakage, confirmed by MOT data showing 4.8 times the national average failure rate for shock absorber defects. The high-performance dampers operate under significant loads due to the car's weight distribution and powerful engine. Leaking shocks compromise handling and ride quality, and failed dampers can cause instability during high-speed driving or emergency manoeuvres.
What happens if ignoredLeaking shock absorbers reduce vehicle stability and can cause dangerous handling characteristics during emergency manoeuvres or high-speed driving. Failed shocks cause uneven tyre wear and will result in MOT failure.
Independent garage
£1,000–£2,000
Specialist
£1,500–£2,500
Main dealer
£2,000–£3,000
Parts only
£600–£1,200
4 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 Db9 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 98x the fleet average
Sample: 4,872 tests
Seat mounting fault
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 38x the fleet average
Sample: 3,245 tests
Cable damaged or knotted
Brakes · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 7.0x the fleet average
Sample: 3,727 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 6.9x the fleet average
Sample: 5,305 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 6.7x the fleet average
Sample: 8,632 tests
ABS fault
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 5.3x the fleet average
Sample: 3,500 tests
Buying a Aston Martin Db9?
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Related
Aston Martin Db9 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Aston Martin Db9?
The Aston Martin Db9 has 8 known issues across 4 severity levels. The most serious are: Suspension component corrosion (DB9).
Is the Aston Martin Db9 reliable?
The Aston Martin Db9 has 1 dangerous and 4 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 Db9 problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.