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2011 Aston Martin DBS Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis

Overall Score

6.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The accelerator pedal assembly is a critical component to inspect, given its history of recalls and potential for failure.
  • Verify all four safety recalls have been completed by Aston Martin.
  • Expect high fuel costs with a combined 13 MPG rating.
  • The manual transmission is a key feature for driving enthusiasts, but its condition is paramount.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Aston Martin DBS

The 2011 Aston Martin DBS is a potent grand tourer, blending potent V12 power with elegant British styling. This rear-wheel-drive coupe, equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivers a visceral driving experience. However, prospective buyers should be aware of its average reliability verdict, underscored by several safety-critical recalls. With a combined fuel economy of 13 MPG, expect high fuel costs. The vehicle's complexity and luxury positioning suggest potential for significant repair expenses, especially if maintenance history is not meticulously documented. Four recalls were issued, including critical ones for the accelerator pedal and transmission park pawl, indicating potential for significant repair costs.

Critical Failure Risk

The accelerator pedal assembly can experience wear or failure, leading to erratic throttle response or complete loss of acceleration. This was a subject of a safety recall.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
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

8.7/ 10

Practicality

1.4/ 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 raw V12 experience of a British supercar.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a low-maintenance, worry-free daily driver.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Aston Martin DBS Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
2
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 Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine 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
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 Aston Martin DBS reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2011 Aston Martin DBS for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 1.4/10. 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 2. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 186 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 52%. Maintenance 6.8/10. Practicality 1.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Aston Martin DBS?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine 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: $1,000 - $2,000. Repair prediction highlight: Accelerator Pedal Assembly (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,200).

What engine is in the 2011 Aston Martin DBS?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 5.9.

What transmission does the 2011 Aston Martin DBS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2011 DBS require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS?▾

EPA combined estimate is 13 MPG.

How many people fit in a 2011 Aston Martin DBS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS, seating capacity is 2.

What body style is the 2011 Aston Martin DBS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Aston Martin DBS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Aston Martin DBS, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Aston Martin DBS?▾

This model year has 4 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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