Models · Aston Martin
Aston Martin DB9 buying guide
The DB9 is a 2+2 grand tourer with a bonded aluminium structure and a 5.9 V12, built from 2004 to 2016 as a coupé and Volante, with power rising from 450bhp to 540bhp over its life.
The versions
- 2004 to 2009: 5,935cc V12, 450bhp
- 2009 facelift: 470bhp, with chassis and automatic gearbox improvements; adaptive dampers from 2011
- 2013 on: 510bhp; DB9 GT (2015) and Bond Edition, 540bhp
- Six-speed ZF automatic (most cars) or rare six-speed manual; rear-wheel drive
- Coupé and Volante convertible; optional Sport Pack from mid-2006
What to check on a DB9
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Misfires and coil packs
What to look for: On the drive, accelerate firmly from low revs and feel for hesitation or a misfire, and listen for an uneven idle once warm. Check the history for servicing every 10,000 miles or annually.
Why it matters: Hesitation under acceleration or a persistent misfire usually points to failing ignition coil packs, a known DB9 item. The V12 is otherwise strong when serviced on schedule.
Gear selection and the gearbox
What to look for: On an automatic, use the gear selector buttons several times and watch for the gearbox dropping into neutral on its own. Check the parking brake holds. On a manual, feel for crunching or resistance going into second.
Why it matters: An intermittent fault where the automatic selects neutral is linked to the selector control switches earthing against their chrome surround. Early automatics had a recall because the parking brake might not engage. On manuals, crunching into second suggests a hard life, and clutches typically last about 15,000 miles.
Recall work
What to look for: Ask for evidence of recall work, or have an Aston Martin dealer check the VIN, especially on cars built from 2006 to 2014.
Why it matters: Recalls covered a battery supply cable that could short beneath the passenger seat on early 2007 cars, subframe bolts and front suspension cam bolts on 2007 to 2009 cars, and heated seat controls on 2006 to 2014 cars. Most will have been done by now.
Also in the full guide
- Aluminium panel edges
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the DB9
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Aston Martin.