Aston Martin DBS (2007-2012) Comprehensive Guide
The Aston Martin DBS, produced from 2007 to 2012, is a grand tourer that represents the pinnacle of Aston Martin's engineering and design prowess of that era. It bridges the gap between the DB9's elegance and the track-focused DBR9 racing car. Serving as James Bond's car in "Casino Royale" and "Quantum of Solace," the DBS quickly became an icon, synonymous with sophistication, power, and British luxury. It sits firmly in the grand tourer (GT) class, designed for comfortable, high-speed cruising over long distances.
Generations
The DBS lineage is relatively concise, focusing on refinements within a single generation.
- First Generation (2007-2012):
- 2007: Initial launch of the DBS coupe. Key features included a carbon fiber body, enhanced engine performance compared to the DB9, and a more aggressive design.
- 2009: Introduction of the DBS Volante (convertible). Features reinforced chassis to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, automatic roll-over protection system.
- 2010: Introduction of the Carbon Black Edition. This special edition featured unique paint finishes, carbon fiber details, and Obsidian Black interior.
- 2012: The DBS Ultimate was the final iteration, boasting bespoke color schemes, special badging, and further enhanced interior trim. This was the swan song for the model before the Vanquish replaced it.
Reliability & Common Issues
While the DBS is an exceptional car, potential buyers should be aware of common issues and maintenance requirements. Its complexity means that preventative maintenance is crucial.
- Engine:
- Oil Leaks: The 6.0L V12 engine can suffer from oil leaks, particularly around the valve covers and oil cooler lines. Regular inspections are essential.
- Coil Packs: Ignition coil packs are known to fail, leading to misfires. Replacing all coil packs proactively can save headaches.
- Oxygen Sensors: These can become faulty over time, impacting fuel economy and emissions.
- Transmission:
- Touchtronic 2 (Automatic): The automatic transmission can experience delayed or harsh shifts, particularly with age. Regular fluid changes (more frequent than recommended by Aston Martin) are vital. Rebuilds can be expensive.
- Clutch (Manual): The manual transmission clutch can wear quickly, especially with aggressive driving. Replacement is a costly affair. Listen for slippage or chattering.
- Suspension:
- Adaptive Dampers: The adaptive damping system can be prone to failure. Look for warning lights on the dashboard or unusual suspension behavior. Replacement dampers can be expensive.
- Bushings: Suspension bushings wear over time, leading to imprecise handling and noises. Regular inspections are recommended.
- Electronics:
- Battery Drain: The DBS is notorious for battery drain, especially if left unused for extended periods. A trickle charger is highly recommended.
- Warning Lights: Various sensor issues can trigger warning lights. A thorough diagnostic scan is essential before purchase.
- Infotainment System: The navigation and infotainment system is dated. Consider aftermarket upgrades for improved functionality, but be aware of potential integration issues.
- Bodywork & Interior:
- Carbon Fiber: Inspect the carbon fiber body panels for damage, especially around the front splitter and side skirts. Repairs can be costly.
- Leather: The leather interior is luxurious but requires regular cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking and wear.
Important Note: DBS models are expensive to maintain. Seek out examples with comprehensive service histories from reputable Aston Martin specialists. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is *absolutely essential*.
Driving Experience
The Aston Martin DBS offers a thrilling driving experience, blending performance with luxury. However, it's a GT car, not a dedicated sports car, and that should be kept in mind.
- Pros:
- Engine: The 6.0L V12 engine is a masterpiece, delivering immense power and a glorious exhaust note.
- Handling: The DBS offers sharp handling, with excellent balance and grip.
- Styling: The DBS is a stunning car, with a timeless design that turns heads wherever it goes.
- Luxury: The interior is beautifully appointed with high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
- Exclusivity: The DBS is a relatively rare car, adding to its appeal.
- Cons:
- Ride Quality: The ride can be firm, especially on rough roads. This is a sports car after all.
- Running Costs: Maintenance and repairs can be very expensive.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is poor, especially when driven aggressively.
- Infotainment: The infotainment system is outdated and lacks modern features.
- Rear Seats: The rear seats are small and only suitable for children or occasional use.
The driving experience is characterized by immense power delivery. The V12 provides near-instant throttle response, pushing you back into your seat. While the handling is precise, the DBS is a relatively heavy car, and that weight can be felt in tighter corners. It's a car that's best enjoyed on sweeping roads, where its power and poise can truly shine.
Buying Advice
Purchasing an Aston Martin DBS requires careful consideration. Here's some advice to help you make an informed decision:
- Years to Look For:
- 2010-2012 Models: These later models tend to have benefited from minor refinements and improvements. The DBS Ultimate (2012) is particularly desirable but commands a premium.
- Cars with Full Service History: Prioritize examples with documented maintenance records, ideally from Aston Martin dealerships or reputable specialists.
- What to Avoid:
- Cars with Neglected Maintenance: Avoid examples with missing service records, deferred maintenance, or signs of neglect.
- Cars with Accident Damage: Thoroughly inspect the car for any signs of accident damage or poor-quality repairs.
- Cars with Electrical Problems: Electrical issues can be difficult and expensive to diagnose and repair. Be wary of cars with persistent warning lights or malfunctioning systems.
- Cars with High Mileage & Unknown History: Extremely high mileage cars with little or no service documentation should be avoided.
- Key Checks Before Buying:
- Pre-Purchase Inspection: As mentioned, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Aston Martin specialist is non-negotiable. They can identify potential problems that may not be apparent during a visual inspection.
- Engine Compression Test: Perform a compression test to assess the health of the engine.
- Transmission Check: Check for smooth and precise shifts in both automatic and manual transmissions.
- Suspension Check: Inspect the suspension for leaks, worn bushings, and proper damper function.
- Electronics Check: Test all electrical systems, including the lights, windows, locks, and infotainment system.
- Bodywork Inspection: Carefully inspect the bodywork for signs of damage, rust, or poor-quality repairs.
- Verify Mileage: Check the odometer reading against service records and other documentation to ensure accuracy.
- Budget Considerations:
- Purchase Price: DBS prices can vary depending on the year, condition, and mileage. Be prepared to pay a premium for well-maintained examples.
- Maintenance Costs: Factor in the cost of routine maintenance, repairs, and insurance. These costs can be significantly higher than those of a mainstream car.
- Depreciation: While the DBS is a collectible car, depreciation is still a factor. Research market trends to estimate future value.
The Aston Martin DBS is a rewarding but demanding car to own. With careful research and due diligence, you can find a well-maintained example that will provide years of driving pleasure.
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