IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013 Aston Martin DB9

The 2013 DB9 received a comprehensive facelift, incorporating styling cues and engineering improvements from the outgoing Virage. This major update significantly modernised the car, making it a very desirable proposition on the used market.

What changed for 2013

  • •Major exterior restyling including new headlights, grille, and revised aerodynamics.
  • •Power output increased to 510bhp, alongside the introduction of adaptive damping.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Wear on brake discs and pads, particularly the expensive carbon-ceramic options if fitted.
  • !Warning lights triggered by low battery voltage if not kept on a conditioner.
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

V12 Timing Cover Oil Leaks

ModerateEngine

Like the V8, the V12 is prone to weeping oil from the front cover. On the V12, this often requires the entire front end of the car to be dismantled.

Est. Repair Cost: £3,000–£5,000
Warning Signs:

Burning oil smell, Oil residue on the front subframe, Contaminated auxiliary belts

What to Inspect:
  • Look for oil weeping behind the pulleys at the front of the engine.
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

V12 Coil Pack & Spark Plug Failure

ModerateEngine

Heat soak in the V12 "valley" kills coil packs. Replacement requires removing both intake manifolds, making it a very expensive labor-heavy job.

Est. Repair Cost: £2,000–£3,000
Warning Signs:

Rough idling, Misfire under load, Check Engine light (CEL)

What to Inspect:
  • Check if all 12 coils and plugs were replaced recently.
  • Listen for a smooth, even idle when fully warm.
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Door Handle Pivot Pin Failure

MinorBodywork & Rust

The DB9 uses the same flush handles as the Vantage, subject to the same pivot pin wear and sagging.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£800
Warning Signs:

Sagging handle, Handle doesn't sit flush, Loose feeling when pulled

What to Inspect:
  • Wiggle the handle when closed; there should be no play.
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2013 Aston Martin DB9

  • ✓Verify all interior electronics and the pop-up navigation screen function correctly.
  • ✓Ensure the adaptive suspension system cycles through its modes without error messages.
2005–20122014–2015
Check a 2013 Aston Martin DB9 by Registration