2022 ASTON MARTIN DBS SUPERLEGGERA

Typical onset: 15,000-40,000 mi

Symptoms: Metallic knocking or ticking at idle that worsens with RPM, Oil pressure drop warnings on dash, Metal shavings in oil filter and pan during service, Sudden loss of power followed by engine seizure

Fix: Complete engine-out rebuild or short-block replacement required. 60-80 hours labor to remove/reinstall engine, disassemble, machine surfaces, install new bearings/gaskets, reassemble. Often requires crankshaft polishing or replacement if journals are scored. Parts include full bearing set, gaskets, ARP studs, and fluids. Some cases necessitate full long-block replacement.

Estimated cost: $35,000-65,000

Typical onset: 20,000-50,000 mi

Symptoms: Transmission fluid puddles under vehicle center-front, Burnt transmission fluid smell after hard driving, Transmission overheat warnings on cluster, Harsh shifting or slipping when fluid level drops

Fix: Replace leaking cooler lines and fittings at the ZF 8-speed transmission. Lines run along undercarriage and are vulnerable to road debris and heat cycling. 4-6 hours labor to drop undertray, disconnect lines, replace with updated parts, refill/bleed system, and reset adaptation values via Aston dealer software.

Estimated cost: $1,800-3,200

Typical onset: 25,000-60,000 mi

Symptoms: Blue smoke on cold start or under heavy throttle, Oil consumption exceeding 1 quart per 1,000 miles, Fouled spark plugs on specific cylinders, Loss of compression on cylinder leak-down test

Fix: Requires cylinder head removal and piston/ring replacement on affected bank(s). Many shops opt for full engine-out service to inspect all 12 cylinders simultaneously. 50-70 hours labor for engine removal, head R&R, honing cylinders, installing oversized rings or pistons if bore is damaged, new head gaskets, timing components inspection. Often uncovers additional wear on guides or valve seals.

Estimated cost: $28,000-48,000

Typical onset: 30,000-60,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking during aggressive shifts or throttle transitions, Vibration felt through center console at idle, Visible transmission sag when inspecting on lift, Increased cabin noise and harshness

Fix: Replace worn hydraulic transmission mounts. 3-4 hours labor to support transmission, remove old mounts, install OEM replacements, and torque to spec. Recommend doing all mounts simultaneously as they age uniformly.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,000

Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi

Symptoms: Coolant weeping visible along head/block mating surface, Slight coolant smell after heat cycles, Slow coolant loss without external leaks, White residue on dipstick or oil cap (if internal breach)

Fix: Both cylinder heads must come off for proper gasket replacement on this V12. 40-55 hours labor for engine-in service: drain fluids, remove intake/exhaust manifolds, unbolt heads, clean mating surfaces, install new MLS gaskets and upgraded head studs, reassemble with new timing components and seals. Some techs prefer engine-out for access.

Estimated cost: $22,000-38,000

Symptoms: Intermittent misfires or stumbling under full throttle, Reduced power output above 5,000 RPM, Fuel pressure fault codes (P0087, P0088), Difficult cold starts after sitting overnight

Fix: Replace high-pressure fuel filter in tank module. 5-7 hours labor: drop fuel tank, remove pump assembly, replace filter element and inspect pump strainer. Aston's dual-pump system is sensitive to contamination from ethanol fuels and long storage periods. Recommend fuel system flush and stabilizer if car sits more than 3 weeks between drives.

Estimated cost: $1,500-2,800