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2021 Aston Martin DBS Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Zero recalls and zero complaints reported to NHTSA.
  • Three Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) have been issued, suggesting potential minor technical advisories.
  • EPA estimated combined fuel economy is 17 MPG, leading to high fuel costs.
  • Rear-wheel drive and a powerful 5.2L V12 engine define its performance character.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Aston Martin DBS

The 2021 Aston Martin DBS is a formidable grand tourer, blending potent performance with luxurious appointments. Powered by a 5.2-liter V12 engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, it delivers exhilarating acceleration with a refined ride. Its rear-wheel-drive setup and premium fuel requirement are typical of its class. While official safety ratings are unavailable, the vehicle's robust build and lack of reported recalls or complaints suggest a solid mechanical foundation. However, the presence of three TSBs indicates potential minor technical advisories that buyers should investigate.

Critical Failure Risk

While no major recalls or complaints are reported, the presence of 3 TSBs indicates potential minor technical issues or advisories that Aston Martin has documented. These could range from software updates to minor component adjustments. Owners should ensure all relevant TSBs have been addressed by an authorized service center.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
17
MPG
City
14
MPG
Highway
22
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

2.2/ 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 a potent grand tourer with significant performance credentials.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers due to high fuel, insurance, and potential maintenance costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Aston Martin DBS Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS.

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

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
17

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Most Common Issues

1. Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

Most reported

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 Checks (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 (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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Aston Martin DBS reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Aston Martin DBS for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 2.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, small boot, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 198 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 52%. Maintenance 9.2/10. Practicality 2.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Aston Martin DBS?▾

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 Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Pads and Rotors (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,000).

What engine is in the 2021 Aston Martin DBS?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 5.2.

What transmission does the 2021 Aston Martin DBS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 DBS require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS?▾

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

How many people fit in a 2021 Aston Martin DBS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2021 Aston Martin DBS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Aston Martin DBS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Aston Martin DBS, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

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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