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2013 Aston Martin DB9 Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary mechanical concern is the transmission's park pawl engagement, which can lead to unintended vehicle movement.
  • Multiple safety-critical recalls, including persistent accelerator pedal issues and transmission control module communication errors, require verification of completed repairs.
  • Despite no logged complaints, a high TSB count suggests potential for numerous minor issues or complex diagnostics.
  • The 12-cylinder, 5.9L engine requires premium fuel and delivers an EPA-estimated 15 MPG combined, contributing to high fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Aston Martin DB9

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 offers a blend of V12 power and British luxury, but potential buyers should approach with informed caution. While it boasts a potent 5.9L V12 engine and a refined Automatic (S6) transmission driving the rear wheels, its reliability record is mixed. With 5 recalls and a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), potential owners must prioritize thorough inspections and verification of manufacturer remedies. The absence of logged consumer complaints might mask underlying issues, as is common with low-volume, high-end vehicles where problems are often addressed via dealer service.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate potential failure of the accelerator pedal arm, leading to loss of motive power or unintended acceleration. This is a safety-critical component.

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
15
MPG
City
13
MPG
Highway
19
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.6/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking the Aston Martin driving experience and V12 power.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand flawless, trouble-free operation.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Aston Martin DB9 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Aston Martin DB9.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
15

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Most Common Issues

1. Accelerator Pedal Assembly Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Transmission Park Engagement Failure

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 - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

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 (3 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 2013 Aston Martin DB9 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Aston Martin DB9 is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 Aston Martin DB9 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 15 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Aston Martin DB9?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Aston Martin DB9 is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 52%. Maintenance 5.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 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 - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500 - $3,000. Repair prediction highlight: Accelerator Pedal Assembly (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2013 Aston Martin DB9?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 5.9.

What transmission does the 2013 Aston Martin DB9 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Aston Martin DB9, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2013 DB9 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Aston Martin DB9?▾

EPA combined estimate is 15 MPG.

What body style is the 2013 Aston Martin DB9?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Aston Martin DB9, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Aston Martin DB9 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Aston Martin DB9, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 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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