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Aston Martin Dbs Problems & Known Issues

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

Generations

DBS-V1 — DBS (2007-2012)
2007–2012
5.9L V12
DBS-V2 — DBS Superleggera (2018-2023)
2018–2023
5.2L Twin Turbo V12

Top issues to watch for

The most serious Aston Martin Dbs problems ranked by severity. We track 7 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Dangerous
Suspension component corrosion (DBS-V1)
DBS-V12007–201220k–40k miles
The aluminium suspension arms and mounting points on first-generation DBS models are subject to galvanic corrosion where they contact steel subframe components. The protective coating fails prematurely, allowing corrosion to progress to structural weakness. MOT data shows this model fails at 678 times the fleet average for suspension component corrosion, making it the most significant documented failure mode. The second-generation DBS Superleggera uses improved materials and mounting design that largely eliminates this problem.
What happens if ignoredCorroded suspension components can fail suddenly, causing loss of vehicle control and potentially fatal accidents. Even minor corrosion compromises handling precision and tyre wear. Replacement of front suspension arms and subframe mounting points typically costs £3,000-£6,000 depending on extent of damage.
Independent garage
£2,000–£4,000
Specialist
£3,000–£6,000
Main dealer
£4,500–£8,000
Parts only
£1,500–£3,000
Dangerous
Brake pipe corrosion (DBS-V1)
DBS-V12007–20120k–60k miles
The brake pipes and hose ferrules on first-generation DBS models suffer from accelerated corrosion, particularly where steel pipes pass through the aluminium chassis. Poor protection against road salt and galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals cause premature failure. MOT data shows brake pipe corrosion occurs at 5.3 times the fleet average and brake hose ferrule corrosion at 8.3 times the average. Both defects are trending worse over time.
What happens if ignoredBrake pipe failure causes complete loss of braking ability and certain serious accident risk. The car becomes impossible to stop safely. Emergency repair requires immediate professional attention and the vehicle must not be driven. Complete brake pipe renewal typically costs £800-£1,500.
Independent garage
£600–£1,000
Specialist
£800–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,000
Parts only
£200–£400
Major
Carbon Ceramic Brake Wear
DBS-V1, DBS-V22007–202315k–30k miles
Carbon ceramic brake discs fitted to DBS models wear rapidly under normal road driving conditions, requiring replacement at 15,000-30,000 miles rather than the 60,000+ miles typical of steel discs. The discs are designed for track use and suffer thermal cycling damage from repeated heating and cooling during everyday driving. Road contamination from brake dust, road salt, and moisture accelerates degradation. Replacement costs are extreme because the discs cannot be resurfaced and must be replaced as complete units.
What happens if ignoredWorn carbon ceramic discs compromise braking performance and can crack completely, leading to brake failure. The discs cannot be machined or resurfaced - complete replacement is the only option. A full set of carbon ceramic brake discs costs £10,000-£20,000 plus fitting, often exceeding the value of older DBS models.
Independent garage
£8,000–£15,000
Specialist
£10,000–£20,000
Main dealer
£15,000–£25,000
Parts only
£8,000–£18,000
Major
Touchtronic 2 Issues
DBS-V12007–201220k–50k miles
The Touchtronic 2 automated manual gearbox fitted to first-generation DBS models suffers from valve body wear and clutch actuator problems that cause hesitant gear changes and jerky operation. The system uses a single-clutch design with hydraulic actuation that becomes inconsistent as mileage increases. Software calibration issues compound the mechanical wear, particularly in stop-start traffic where the system struggles to provide smooth operation. The later DBS Superleggera uses an 8-speed torque converter automatic that does not suffer these issues.
What happens if ignoredA failing Touchtronic 2 transmission provides poor drivability and can eventually refuse to engage gears, stranding the vehicle. Internal damage to the valve body or clutch actuators requires transmission removal and specialist rebuild. Repair costs typically range from £3,000-£6,000 depending on the extent of internal damage.
Independent garage
£2,500–£4,500
Specialist
£3,000–£6,000
Main dealer
£4,000–£8,000
Parts only
£1,500–£3,500

3 more known issues tracked

Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.

MOT failure hotspots

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

Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 679x the fleet average
Sample: 694 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 8.3x the fleet average
Sample: 1,746 tests
Brake pipes corroded
Brakes · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 5.3x the fleet average
Sample: 578 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 5.2x the fleet average
Sample: 1,098 tests

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Related

Aston Martin Dbs reliability FAQs

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

The Aston Martin Dbs has 7 known issues across 4 severity levels. The most serious are: Suspension component corrosion (DBS-V1), Brake pipe corrosion (DBS-V1).

Is the Aston Martin Dbs reliable?

The Aston Martin Dbs has 2 dangerous and 2 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 Dbs problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Suspension component corrosion (DBS-V1)) costs £2,000–£4,000 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.

Which Aston Martin Dbs generation is most reliable?

The DBS-V2 (2018–2023) has the fewest dangerous issues (0). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.