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2012 Aston Martin DB9 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller

Overall Score

6.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The accelerator pedal arm is a recurring issue, with multiple recalls issued. Verify repairs are complete and properly executed.
  • A transmission park pawl engagement fault is a critical safety recall. Confirm this has been addressed.
  • While owner complaints are absent, the number of recalls (5) suggests potential underlying quality concerns.
  • Fuel economy is low, with a combined 13 MPG, leading to high fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Aston Martin DB9

The 2012 Aston Martin DB9 offers a blend of exotic styling and V12 performance, but prospective used buyers should approach with informed caution. While it boasts an 'Excellent' public reliability score, the LLM assessment indicates 'Average' reliability, citing numerous recalls. The most significant concern is the accelerator pedal arm, which has seen repeated recalls, suggesting a persistent manufacturing defect. A critical transmission park pawl fault also raises safety flags. Despite zero owner complaints logged, the volume of recalls and their nature demand thorough inspection and verification of all completed remedies.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate a recurring issue with the accelerator pedal arm. This can lead to a loss of motive power or, in worst-case scenarios, unintended acceleration.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
13
MPG
City
11
MPG
Highway
17
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.6/ 10

Practicality

2.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, small boot, limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking the distinctive style and V12 soundtrack of an Aston Martin on a used budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who expect bulletproof reliability and minimal unscheduled maintenance.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Aston Martin DB9 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
13

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Most Common Issues

1. Accelerator Pedal Assembly Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Transmission Park Pawl Engagement Fault

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $400 - $700

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
5 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Aston Martin DB9 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9 is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Aston Martin DB9 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 2.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, small boot, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 13 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 187 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9 is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 52%. Maintenance 6.0/10. Practicality 2.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Aston Martin DB9?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500 - $2,500. Repair prediction highlight: Accelerator Pedal Assembly (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).

What engine is in the 2012 Aston Martin DB9?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 5.9.

What transmission does the 2012 Aston Martin DB9 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 DB9 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9?▾

EPA combined estimate is 13 MPG.

How many people fit in a 2012 Aston Martin DB9?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2012 Aston Martin DB9?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Aston Martin DB9 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Aston Martin DB9, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Aston Martin DB9?▾

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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