Best and Worst Aston Martin DBS Years: What to Buy & Avoid

As you consider adding an Aston Martin DBS to your collection, you’re likely wondering which model years stand out from the rest.

You’re not alone – enthusiasts and collectors alike are keen to know whether the 2011 and 2012 models, with their exclusive variants and unique paint finishes, are worth the investment. On the other hand, are the 2009 and 2010 models plagued by transmission issues, making them best avoided? Let’s take a closer look.

Key Takeaways

• The 2007-2012 Aston Martin DBS production years are considered the best, with 2,493 units manufactured during its five-year lifespan.
• The 2009-2010 models are considered the worst due to manual transmission woes, leading to costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
• The DBS’s best years are characterized by a 5.9-liter V12 engine, producing 510 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, and a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds.
• The worst years of the DBS are marked by clutch wear issues, which can lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly, especially through dealerships.
• The 2012 DBS Ultimate Edition and Carbon Edition are considered the best and most collectible due to their unique features and exclusivity.

Design and Features

With its aggressive and aerodynamically refined stance, the DBS sets itself apart from the DB9.

You’ll notice a carbon-fiber front splitter, and sculpted side skirts that give it a more dynamic look.

The 20-inch aluminum wheels and lower, wider stance further emphasize its performance focus.

Inside, you’ll find handcrafted elements, including Alcantara, leather, and carbon fiber accents.

The DBS’s design isn’t only visually stunning but also lightweight, shedding over 70 kg compared to the DB9.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

As you take your DBS out for a spin, you’re likely to be more concerned with the thrill of the ride than the costs that come with maintaining it.

But maintenance is vital, and you’ll need to budget for regular services like oil changes ($300) and brake flushes ($200).

Repairs can be costly, especially if done through dealerships.

The carbon ceramic brakes, in particular, can be a pricey fix.

However, steel rotor conversions can be a cost-effective solution.

Be prepared for insurance costs averaging $1,100 every 6 months in South Florida.

Modifications and Market

When you consider modifying your DBS, you’ll find that performance mods can increase horsepower by around 45HP, and plans to install headers can further augment performance.

As you’re looking to buy, you’ll notice that the market is ideal for purchasing an exotic that has already hit its depreciation curve, making them a great pick-up now.

With prices ranging from its original $300K, you’ll want to pay attention to market fluctuations based on conditions, mileage, and repairs needed.

Performance Mods

You’re likely to see significant gains from performance modifications on your Aston Martin DBS.

The 6-speed cars respond best to performance mods due to lower drivetrain loss, making them a popular choice for modifications.

Headers will be installed soon to further augment performance, showcasing the potential for improvement with the right modifications.

Additionally, the ceramic brakes and LED bulbs demonstrate the range of possible modifications, resulting in a roughly 45HP gain.

With the right performance mods, your DBS can tap its full potential.

Ideal Purchase Time

The Aston Martin DBS has reached an ideal purchase time, offering an attractive combination of performance, luxury, and value.

You can now buy a DBS that has already hit its depreciation curve, with prices ranging from $90,000 to $120,000 – a significant discount from its original $300,000 price point.

With careful consideration, you can find a 2009 model for $140,000 or even a well-maintained one for $100,000.

Make an educated purchase, and you could potentially profit in a year or two.

Market Fluctuations

How do market fluctuations impact the value of your Aston Martin DBS?

The DBS market is ideal for buying an exotic car that has already hit its depreciation curve, making it a great pick-up now, with prices ranging from $90-120K, a significant discount from its original $300K price.

Prices fluctuate based on mileage and repairs needed, making some models sell for $140K and others for $100K, highlighting the importance of an educated purchase.

An informed buy can result in a profit in a year or two, as the DBS market is volatile.

Ownership Experience and Buying Strategies

As you consider bringing an Aston Martin DBS into ownership, you’ll want to factor in the maintenance essentials that’ll keep your car running smoothly,

such as regular brake pad replacements to avoid costly repairs down the line.

You’ll also need to be prepared to negotiate the price based on the car’s condition, as the DBS market is ideal for buying an exotic car that has already hit its depreciation curve.

Maintenance Essentials

When you own an Aston Martin DBS, you’ll need to prioritize regular maintenance to prevent costly repairs down the line.

Regular services like oil changes and brake flushes can be done by independent shops at regular prices.

The transmission in 6-speed models has a twin-plate clutch, which is solid and requires minimal maintenance, reducing the cost of ownership.

Factor in insurance costs, averaging $1,100 in South Florida, and you’ll see why regular maintenance is essential to your DBS’s overall maintenance and ownership experience.

Costly Repairs Ahead

Owning an Aston Martin DBS comes with its share of costly repairs down the line if you neglect regular maintenance.

You’ll want to budget for:

1. Ceramic brake issues: Steel rotor conversions can be a cost-effective solution, but the car’s unique features can be a challenge to maintain.
2. Expensive insurance: Costs can reach $1,100 in South Florida, partly due to the carbon fiber body and the ease of losing control of the rear end.
3. Wear and tear: Worn-out brake pads and rotors can affect the DBS’s performance and handling, requiring careful checks and maintenance.
4. Dealer repair costs: Regular maintenance is recommended to prevent problems like brake noise, as repairs can be costly, especially if done through dealerships.

Negotiate the Price

You’re in the market for a pre-owned Aston Martin DBS, and you’re ready to negotiate the price.

With prices ranging from $90,000 to $120,000, it’s essential to research and negotiate based on the car’s condition, mileage, and needed repairs.

Be aware of common problems like front-end stone chipping and transmission concerns that can affect the value.

Consider factors like maintenance costs and insurance premiums when making an offer.

A well-informed purchase can lead to a profit in a year or two, so be prepared to negotiate the price and make an educated decision.

Performance and Handling

The Aston Martin DBS’s exceptional performance is rooted in its potent 5.9-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, which releases 510 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, allowing you to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.3 seconds.

The adaptive damping system (ADS) and electronic stability control (ESC) work in conjunction to provide ideal balance between ride comfort and handling agility.

The DBS’s lightweight carbon fiber body sheds over 70 kg compared to the DB9, resulting in more responsive and agile driving dynamics.

The DBS features carbon-ceramic brakes as standard, providing exceptional stopping power and fade resistance.

The six-speed manual transmission is praised for its precise and smooth shifting, making the most of the V12 engine’s power delivery and contributing to an engaging driving experience.

Common Issues and Recalls

As you delve into the Aston Martin DBS, you’ll likely encounter common issues that affect its performance and reliability.

For instance, you may experience front-end stone chipping, which can be costly to repair, as well as navigation system malfunctions that can be frustrating to deal with.

Additionally, transmission concerns are another issue you may face, including problems with the transmission park pawl engagement.

Front-End Damage

Low-slung and sleek, your Aston Martin DBS is a magnet for front-end damage, particularly on rough roads and steep driveways.

Be aware of the following issues:

1. Faulty throttle pedal arm: 2009-2012 models are prone to front-end damage due to a faulty throttle pedal arm, causing the car to lurch forward and hit objects.
2. Expensive repairs: The carbon fiber front splitter can cost $5,000 to $10,000 to replace, depending on the extent.
3. Safety compromise: Damage to the front sensors can affect the adaptive damping system and emergency brake assist.
4. Prevention is key: Regularly clean the front sensors and check the throttle pedal arm to prevent front-end damage and reduce costly repairs.

Navigation Issues

Your Aston Martin DBS is equipped with advanced navigation systems, but you’re not immune to issues that can leave you lost in unfamiliar territory.

One common problem is slow map loading, which can be frustrating when you’re in a rush.

The DBS’s navigation design can also be confusing, with some owners reporting difficulty using the system’s menus.

Additionally, some owners have reported incorrect directions or outdated maps, which can be a safety concern.

Keep an eye out for these issues and consider updating your navigation system to avoid getting lost.

Transmission Problems

After ensuring you’re on the right path with your Aston Martin DBS’s transmission, you’ll want to keep an eye out for potential issues that can leave you stranded.

In terms of transmission problems, some key points to ponder:

1. Manual transmission woes: Early models (2009-2010) are prone to clutch wear, leading to costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
2. Automatic transmission reliability: Later models (2011-2012) use a ZF unit similar to those found in BMWs, reducing the likelihood of transmission-related issues in this regard.
3. Regular maintenance: Fluid changes and filter replacements can prevent transmission problems in Aston Martin DBS models with automatic transmissions.
4. Park pawl engagement issues: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission’s park pawl engagement, which can cause the car to roll or move unexpectedly.

Insurance and Financing

When considering the purchase of an Aston Martin DBS, you’ll want to factor in the cost of insurance, which can be substantial. The DBS’s carbon fiber body and rear-end handling make it a higher risk, resulting in average insurance costs of $1,100 every 6 months in South Florida.

Financing Option	Representative APR	Lease Purchase Agreement
Dealer Financing	5.5%	$100,000
Aston Martin Owners’ Club	4.75%	$90,000
Private Financing	4.25%	$80,000

Remember to research and compare rates from reputable dealers and the Aston Martin Owners’ Club. Additionally, consider the DBS’s high value retention, which can make financing and insurance more accessible.

Alternatives and Ranking

As you’ve considered insurance and financing options for your Aston Martin DBS, it’s natural to wonder how it stacks up against other alternatives.

A more aggressive and exotic design, with a V12 engine producing 612 horsepower, but at a higher price tag.

1. Ferrari 599 GTB

A more practical and spacious interior, with a V8 engine producing 454 horsepower, but less exotic design.

2. Maserati GranTurismo

A more agile and handling-focused car, with a flat-six engine producing 530 horsepower, but less luxurious interior.

3. Porsche 911 Turbo S

A more luxurious and comfortable interior, with a W12 engine producing 552 horsepower, but less agile and heavier.

4. Bentley Continental GT

The generation Aston Martin DBS is considered one of the best alternatives, offering a balance of design, performance, and practicality at a relatively affordable price.

Production and Variants

The Aston Martin DBS rolled off the production line from 2007 to 2012, with a total of 2,493 units manufactured during its five-year lifespan.

You’ll find the DBS coupe alongside the DBS Volante, a convertible variant featuring a power-folding fabric roof, priced slightly higher than its coupe counterpart.

The DBS was available in both variants, with the coupe’s starting price ranging from $262,000 to $286,500.

With strong contenders like the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano and Lamborghini Murciélago LP640, the DBS had its work cut out to stand out in the high-performance grand tourer market.

Collectibility and Limited Editions

You’ll likely find the Aston Martin DBS‘s collectibility rooted in its exclusive variants, which set it apart from other high-performance grand tourers.

These limited-edition models significantly contribute to the DBS’s collectibility.

1. DBS Ultimate Edition (2012) with its unique paint finish and attractive flakes.
2. The DBS Carbon Edition (2012), available in Carbon Black, Carbon Grey, and Flame Orange colors.
3. The DBS Volante, a highly sought-after collectible due to its rarity and exclusivity as a convertible variant.

Cost of Ownership and Budgeting

Owning an Aston Martin DBS comes with significant costs beyond the initial purchase price.

You’ll need to budget for regular maintenance, including oil changes that can cost between $1,000 and $1,500 at dealerships, although independent shops can do it for $300 to $400.

Additionally, you’ll need to factor in minor and major services, tire replacements, and brake replacements.

Insurance costs can also add up, averaging $1,100 every six months in South Florida.

Model Year Changes and Updates

Aston Martin’s DBS debut marked a significant milestone, boasting a more aggressive stance and improved aerodynamics that set it apart from its predecessors.

As you examine the model year changes and updates, you’ll notice significant refinements.

1. 2008: Touchtronic 2 six-speed automatic transmission and made the Adaptive Damping System (ADS) a standard feature.
2. 2009: Introduced refinements in technology and convenience, including a Garmin-based satellite navigation system.
3. 2010: Received subtle updates, expanding customization options for upholstery and stitching.
4. 2012: Saw the DBS Carbon Edition, available in Carbon Black, Carbon Grey, and Flame Orange, marking the final year of DBS production.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Aston Martin DB11, and Aston Martin Vantage. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.