The 2014 DB9's naturally-aspirated 6.0L V12 is a hand-built marvel, but the AM11 engine suffers catastrophic bottom-end failures due to inadequate main bearing lubrication, particularly cylinders 7-12. The Touchtronic II transmission is generally reliable, but cooler and mount failures are common maintenance items.
Catastrophic Engine Bearing Failure (Main & Rod Bearings)
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 30,000-60,000 mi
Symptoms: metallic knocking from lower engine at idle or acceleration, low oil pressure warning, metal debris in oil during changes, sudden loss of power or complete seizure
Fix: Complete engine-out teardown required. Typical fix is short block replacement or full engine rebuild with updated bearings, ARP studs, and improved oiling mods. 60-80 labor hours at specialty shop. Many owners opt for factory reman long block.
Estimated cost: $35,000-55,000
Transmission Oil Cooler Leaks
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: transmission fluid puddles under vehicle, burnt transmission fluid smell, transmission overheating warnings, low fluid level on dipstick
Fix: Cooler lines corrode where they meet the radiator assembly. Replace cooler, lines, and flush system. 4-6 hours labor. Sometimes combined with radiator replacement if coolant cross-contamination occurred.
Estimated cost: $1,800-3,200
Transmission Mounts Deterioration
Common · low severityTypical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi
Symptoms: clunking when shifting from park to drive, vibration at idle in gear, excessive driveline movement during acceleration, visible cracking or oil saturation of rubber mount
Fix: Hydraulic transmission mounts fail from age and heat. Replace both mounts (transmission has two). 3-4 hours labor with proper lift access.
Estimated cost: $1,200-2,000
Fuel Filter Clogging and Fuel Pump Failure
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi
Symptoms: hesitation or stumbling under hard acceleration, rough idle or misfires, difficulty starting when hot, fuel pressure below 55 psi spec
Fix: In-tank fuel filter not serviceable separately, requires fuel pump module replacement. Tank drop necessary. 6-8 hours labor. Aston parts pricing is brutal here.
Estimated cost: $2,800-4,500
Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor Failure
Occasional · high severitySymptoms: intermittent loss of throttle response, limp mode activation, fault codes P2138 or P2122, pedal feels electronically dead
Fix: Subject to recall but failures still occur. Replace entire pedal assembly (sensor not sold separately). 1.5-2 hours labor. Critical safety item—no throttle response in traffic is dangerous.
Estimated cost: $800-1,400
Door Latch Mechanism Failures
Occasional · low severityTypical onset: 70,000-120,000 mi
Symptoms: door will not latch securely, door ajar warning with door closed, difficulty opening door from inside or outside, actuator motor noise without latch movement
Fix: Complex electromechanical latch assemblies wear internally. Replace complete latch mechanism per door. 2-3 hours labor per door including trim removal and alignment.
Estimated cost: $1,500-2,500
Only buy if you have a $40K emergency fund and accept that a $60K used DB9 has $200K car running costs—engine failures are financial grenades, but the driving experience is extraordinary for those prepared.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.