AM DB9 --- looking to buy --- what should I watch out for ?

There are no Trans issues with the DB9. Figure $1500 to replace the coils when one or more fails.

 

Are you looking for a gearshift car, not many DB9's made that way. I have come so close to buying one about 4 times, and then I drive one and just cannot do it. They are very pretty on the outside but for me that is where it ends. Good luck.

 

I am pretty sure they used the ZF automatic that many brands use, the later model cars had different software that shifted a bit faster but they are true automatics, They are not like e gears or F1 systems.

 

Gave up on the Maserati?

 

This is an automatic trans, not a flappy paddle ala early Ferrari. There is no clutch to wear (other than auto clutch packs), it is a highly reliable ZF 6 speed.

 

My 2005 had 47,000 miles and 7 Track days, my 2012 has 31,000 miles and 5 Track days. No problems with either one.

Joe

 

I was looking at stick DB9s too but gave up since I realized they're too big for me and I'm looking for something sportier. Currently considering a V8 Vantage but that's about as GT as I wanna go.

 

You are the one who said it sucked like early Ferrari attempts at a flappy paddle. It isn't a F1 trans like Ferrari or 1st gen Vanquish. It is a highly reliable auto trans with torque converter like all other auto trans. Being able to lock it up has no bearing on it reliability...there is no clutch wear, contrary to what you implied in your first post. Why don't you just fess up that you thought this was a electro hydraulic, single clutch, manual trans like the F1.

 

As I said I have been tempted many times to buy a DB9 and have driven many of them (including gearshift cars) and none of the automatics felt like anything but an automatic to me. I never researched the auto because as I said it just did not click the right levers for me, but if it was anything but an automatic (the term touchmatic was what they called it I think) I could not tell. I tried the later model cars as well and in the end I ended up buying an i8 I thought I'd get more use out of that car. I didn't and sold it after a year and half. I saw your list of cars OP they seem to not be in the same category, are you looking for a sports car or a GT?

 

Well considering I have had 467 (I usually have 11-17 at a time) cars, I do know what you mean. As I said I never pulled the trigger on an AM, for the reasons I stated above, there are better GT cars out there, and far better sports cars. I have always liked Lotus's but I never bought one unit the Evora 400 came out. There is an AM forum that is pretty good (seems even my Kia Soul has a forum these days), you might want to check it out. I don't know what you expect from a DB9, I assume you have driven one (or more) by now so you know you like it. There are a couple of dealers (Midwestern Auto, Miller Motors) that seem to always have used AM's, and they know the cars well, so you can be more assured of getting one in good shape. Good luck. Right now I have my eye on a used MB GT, looks like it is going to be deal I cannot pass up.

 

Perhaps not everyone likes Astons - but we do. Have two of them. Both open cars. They are an absolutely great way to enjoy a V12 with little issue. They have great curb appeal without any of the stereotypes that can surround other exotics. Everyone loves an Aston! It's the "Bond car" after all. In our household, the DB9 Volante is the favorite of the significant other, followed by the DB7. Interestingly enough, the 550 is her least favorite...

 

Late to the party here, but I'll ask what's the status of your search/decision, finnerty? Any news?

You touch on most of the "known issues" of the DB9's. Coil packs, clutch, regular service ...and I'll mention the AC system is important to function fully or it's a costly dash-out repair. I am also among those who's not heard of clutch issues with the automatics, whether they be paddle shift or not, but on the manuals yes, the life-expectancy is 30-40k.

Before buying, can I recommend getting ourself a copy of Grant Neal's 'Definitive Guide to Graydon Era Aston Martins'.? You may know what you want already, but it is packed with excellent reviews, option lists, maintenance and performance information, as well as owner testimonials. You can gain a lot of insight not available in chatrooms. Worth the price.

The MY 2009 got interior design tweaks, mostly dash buttons, and probably engine tweaks. Their price reflects this change in the model.

We own a '07 full manual DB9 and absolutely love it. Why? It looks gorgeous. It sounds gorgeous. It goes like stink. It grips like glue on new rubber. Here in the cold north, it rides a little harsh until the chassis bushings warm up. Below 45mph road imperfections telescope into your butt, but any faster and the ride improves nicely. Its mass is well centered and you feel that carving a quick turn. It doesn't cost an arm and a leg to buy or maintain. We have ours serviced by an independent shop and costs have averaged $1,300 yearly including servicing the TPMS system, replacing a door-hold-open-strut, and a new set of Michelin Pilot Super Sports.
Clutch was replaced by the prior owner for $6,500.
Coil packs were also replaced by the PO, I don't recall the cost.

I would add another AM to our collection in a heartbeat - probably a similar year Vantage V8 manual. If you like sampling and driving a car for pleasure, it's a great value for the experience. I think manuals are out there, maybe they are rarer than I think. I'll just share the DB9 gets more attention and comments than all our other 5 cars combined.

Good luck, no matter what you end up with.
- Art

2007 DB9, 6spd manual, Heritage Chiltern Green, Chestnut interior.