Armrest

Removal and replacement of the center console armrest assembly on a 2009 Aston Martin DB9, including release of trim fasteners and disconnection of any associated wiring.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Center console armrest assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel clips (if broken during removal) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. If armrest contains electrical accessories (power outlets, USB ports), disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes
3. Open armrest storage compartment fully and inspect for visible fasteners or trim access points

Procedure

1. 1

   Inspect armrest attachment method
   Open the armrest lid fully. Inspect the interior of the storage compartment for visible Torx fasteners securing the armrest base to the center console. Check the front and rear edges of the armrest base where it meets the console for additional fasteners or trim covers that may conceal fasteners. On DB9 models, armrest mounting typically uses 2-4 Torx fasteners accessed from within the storage compartment.
2. 2

   Remove armrest storage compartment liner (if equipped)
   If a removable liner or mat is present in the armrest storage compartment, lift it out to reveal the base structure. Inspect underneath for any additional fasteners or clips. Some liners are held by small clips at the perimeter; lift gently to release.
3. 3

   Remove primary armrest fasteners
   Using the appropriate Torx driver (size to be confirmed by inspecting the actual fastener head), remove the fasteners securing the armrest assembly to the center console structure. Begin with fasteners visible in the storage compartment. Count and store fasteners in a container, noting their locations. Expect 2-4 primary fasteners depending on armrest configuration. Note: Using the appropriate driver, remove the fasteners securing the armrest assembly to the center console structure. Verify the exact fastener type and size (Torx T25/T30 or other) against the physical fasteners and Aston Martin documentation before proceeding. Note: Tighten fasteners snugly by feel; do not overtighten, as exact torque specs for the DB9 armrest mounting are not documented and overtightening can strip plastic bosses. Verify torque spec against Aston Martin service documentation if available. Note: Armrest mounting fastener count and locations must be confirmed against OEM documentation for the 2009 DB9; inspect the storage compartment interior for any Torx fasteners securing the armrest base to the console. Note: Using the appropriate Torx driver (size to be confirmed against factory documentation for this vehicle), remove the fasteners securing the armrest assembly to the center console structure. Note: Tighten fasteners progressively and evenly to ensure proper seating of the armrest base.
   Torque spec

   Trim Panel Clips2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Check for rear hinge or pivot fasteners
   If the armrest is hinged at the rear, inspect the hinge area for additional Torx fasteners. These may be accessed from inside the storage compartment near the rear edge. Remove any hinge pivot fasteners if present. Some DB9 armrests use a lift-off design without rear hinge fasteners.
5. 5

   Release armrest trim clips
   With fasteners removed, gently lift the rear of the armrest assembly upward. The armrest may be retained by trim clips at the front or sides where it interfaces with the console trim. Use a plastic trim tool to carefully release any clips by inserting the tool between the armrest base and console, working from rear to front. Apply steady upward pressure while releasing clips.
6. 6

   Disconnect electrical connections (if equipped)
   As the armrest lifts free, check for electrical connectors serving power outlets, USB ports, or other accessories. If present, press the connector locking tab and pull the connector apart. Do not pull on wires. Note connector orientation for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove armrest assembly
   With all fasteners, clips, and electrical connections released, lift the armrest assembly clear of the center console. Inspect the mounting points on both the armrest and console for any damaged clips or broken fastener bosses.
8. 8

   Inspect and prepare replacement armrest
   If installing a replacement armrest, compare it to the original to confirm mounting points, clip locations, and electrical connector compatibility. Transfer any reusable hardware or clips from the old armrest to the new one if required. Inspect trim clips on the new armrest; replace any damaged clips.
9. 9

   Install replacement armrest
   If equipped with electrical accessories, reconnect the wiring harness connector first, ensuring it clicks into place. Position the armrest assembly over the console mounting area, aligning the front trim clips with their receptacles. Press the front edge down gently until clips engage, then lower the rear of the armrest into position.
10. 10

    Install armrest fasteners
    Insert and hand-start all Torx fasteners in their original locations. Tighten fasteners in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the armrest base. Tighten fasteners snugly by feel — these are light trim/plastic-boss fasteners. Do not apply a specific torque value unless an OEM specification is confirmed, and do not overtighten plastic fastener bosses. Do not overtighten plastic fastener bosses. Note: Tighten fasteners snug by feel without overtightening; do not exceed the point of seating the base against the console. Do not overtighten plastic fastener bosses. Consult factory documentation for any specified torque value before applying a torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Trim Panel Clips2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall storage compartment liner
    If a liner or mat was removed, reinstall it by pressing it into the storage compartment until any perimeter clips engage. Ensure the liner sits flush and does not interfere with armrest lid closure.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect battery negative terminal if it was disconnected
2. Test all electrical accessories in the armrest (power outlets, USB ports) to confirm proper connection
3. Open and close the armrest lid through its full range of motion to verify smooth operation and proper alignment
4. Inspect all trim gaps around the armrest perimeter to ensure even fit with surrounding console trim

Verification

• Armrest lid opens and closes smoothly without binding or misalignment
• All electrical accessories (if equipped) function correctly
• No rattles or loose fasteners when pressing on armrest assembly
• Trim gaps around armrest are even and consistent with factory appearance
• Storage compartment liner (if equipped) is seated properly and does not interfere with lid operation

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