Review: Aston Martin AM112.I DB9 (2005-08)

Overview

Released in January 2005, the Aston Martin AM112 Mk.I (AM112.I) DB9 was initially available as a two-plus-two coupe, with convertible (Volante) models following in September 2005. Manufactured in Gaydon, England, the DB9 was powered by a 5.9-litre V12 petrol engine that was mated to either a six-speed Graziano manual or ZF ‘Touchtronic 2’ automatic transmission (with steering wheel gearshift paddles).

Hand built in Köln, Germany, the all-alloy 5935 cc V12 petrol engine had double overhead camshafts (per cylinder bank), four valves per cylinder, Visteon engine management, a compression ratio of 10.3:1 and a stainless steel exhaust system (with a bypass valve).

Compared to the Aston Martin DB7 which it replaced, the DB9 coupe was 5 mm longer (at 4697 mm), 45 mm wider (1875 mm), 75 mm taller (1318 mm) and had a 149 mm longer wheelbase (2740 mm). Significantly, the DB9 had an extruded aluminium monocoque chassis with aluminium and composite skin panels bonded with strong adhesives and supplemented by self-piercing rivets. As a result, the DB9’s chassis had more than double the torsional rigidity but was 25 per cent lighter.

The DB9 had all-round independent double-wishbone suspension, with the front suspension mounted on a cast aluminium subframe; at the rear, another subframe carried the rear suspension and rear transaxle.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, front side airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelt pretensioners. The Volante was also fitted automatically deploying pop-up rollover hoops.

Brakes

The DB9 was fitted with ventilated and grooved 355 mm front brake discs with four-piston Brembo monobloc calipers and ventilated 330 mm rear discs with four-piston monobloc calipers.

Features

Standard features for the Aston Martin AM112 DB9 included 19-inch alloy wheels, a three speaker stereo with a six-disc CD player, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, power adjustable front seats, Bridge of Weir leather upholstery, bi-xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, a tilt and reach adjustable steering wheel, trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser. The DB9 was also fitted a limited slip differential.

Beyond this, the DB9 Volante had a power-operated soft-top roof which could retract in 17 seconds and be stored under a hard tonneau cover.

Related links

• Guide: Aston Martin DB7, V12 Vanquish and DB9 (February 2004)
• Brochure: Aston Martin AM112.I DB9 (April 2004)
• Brochure: Aston Martin AM112.I DB9 (July 2006)

Review: Aston Martin AM112.II DB9 (2008-10)

Overview

Released in May 2008, the AM112 Mk.II (AM112.II) DB9 introduced a more powerful V12 engine, a revised interior and subtle cosmetic updates, while the ‘Touchtronic 2’ automatic transmission had a new hydraulic control box for faster and smoother gearshifts. Furthermore, the Mk.II DB9 was more refined due to the introduction of Bilstein dampers, revised upper suspension arms and retuned suspension bushes; thicker glass also reduced interior noise. The DB9 Volante also benefited from revisions to the front shear panel which increased torsional rigidity by 10 per cent.

Visually, the Mk.II DB9 could be identified by its anodised aluminium five-bar grille, redesigned door mirrors and new ten-spoke alloy-wheel designs. Inside, there was a redesigned centre console – similar to that used in the DBS – constructed from die-cast zinc with a painted iridium silver finish. Furthermore, an ‘Emotion Control Unit’ constructed from glass, polished stainless steel and polycarbonate replaced the key-based ignition system.

Features

Compared to its Mk.I predecessor, standard features for the Mk.II DB9 were extended to include a seven speaker stereo with auxiliary inputs (3.5mm/USB/iPod), satellite navigation, heated front seats, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition, rear parking sensors, memory settings (front seats and door mirrors) and tyre pressure monitoring.

Related links

• Brochure: Aston Martin AM112.II DB9 (June 2008)

Review: Aston Martin AM112.III DB9 (2010-12)

Overview

Released in August 2010, the AM 112 Mk.III (AM112.III) DB9 introduced Aston Martin’s Adaptive Damping System (ADS) as standard across the range, providing continual damping adjustment for improved ride quality and a selectable ‘sport’ mode.

Visually, the AM112.III DB9 could be identified by its new 20-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels, front bumper, bright finish radiator grille, re-profiled lower air-intake with hexagonal mesh, restyled side sills, silver brake calipers and clear lens tail-lights. Inside, there was ‘Double Apex’ alloy-look interior trim.

Features

Compared to its Mk.II predecessor, features for the Mk.III DB9 were extended to include tyre pressure monitoring; the Bluetooth microphone system was also revised.

Brochure

• Brochure: Aston Martin AM112.III DB9 (August 2010)

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Aston Martin DB9

Overview

Released in December 2012, the Aston Martin AM113 DB9 was available as a coupe or convertible (‘Volante’). Manufactured in Gaydon, England, the AM113 was powered by Aston Martin’s 5.9-litre V12 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission which could be controlled via steering wheel gearshift paddles.

AM11 V12 engine

Hand built in Köln, Germany, the all-alloy 5935 cc AM11 V12 petrol engine had double overhead camshafts (per cylinder bank), four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust valves. Compared to the engine of the Aston Martin AM112 DB9 , the AM11 engine introduced a revised engine block, new cylinder head, variable valve timing, enlarged throttle bodies, a new intake manifold and machined combustion chambers; the compression ratio was also increased from 10.3:1 to 10.9:1.

Body and dimensions

Underpinned by the fourth evolution of Aston Martin’s ‘Vertical Horizontal’ structure (an extruded aluminium monocoque with aluminium and composite panels), changes for the AM113 DB9 included a modified underbody structure and lower engine position. Compared to the Aston Martin AM112 DB9 , the AM113 DB9 Coupe was 23 mm longer (at 4720 mm), 30 mm wider (1905 mm) and 36 mm lower (1282 mm), though wheelbase length was unchanged (2740 mm). Relative to its Coupe counterpart, the AM113 DB9 Volante was 10 mm shorter (at 4710 mm), 30 mm narrower (1875 mm) and 36 mm taller (1318 mm).

Suspension

Like the Aston Martin AM112 DB9 , the AM113 DB9 had independent double wishbone suspension (front and rear), while a limited-slip rear differential was fitted as standard. For the AM113 DB9, however, the Adaptive Damping System (ADS) was enhanced with selectable Normal, Sport and Track modes.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Aston Martin DB9 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelt pretensioners.

Brakes

The DB9 was fitted with Brembo 398 mm cross-drilled front brake discs with six-piston calipers and 360 mm rear discs with four-piston calipers. Furthermore, both the discs and calipers were manufactured from Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) material.

Features: Aston Martin DB9

Standard features for the Aston Martin DB9 included 20-inch alloy wheels, a seven speaker sound system (including subwoofer) with a six-stack CD player, MP3/WMA compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, satellite navigation system, climate control air conditioning, contoured sports seats with leather welt upholstery, power adjustable and heated front seats, cruise control, bi-xenon headlights and daytime LED running lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows, power mirrors with heating and retracting functions, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, an electrochromatic rear view mirror, tyre pressure monitoring, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

Aston Martin DB9 GT

Commencing production in mid-2015, the Aston Martin DB9 GT had a more powerful 5.9-litre V12 petrol engine. The Aston Martin DB9 GT could be identified by its 20-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels, black anodised brake calipers, black painted splitter and diffuser, revised head- and tail-light treatments, and ‘GT’ engraving on the aluminium fuel filler cap.

The DB9 GT marked the introduction Aston Martin’s ‘AMi II’ touch-sensitive infotainment system which included a digital radio tuner (DAB) and Bluetooth audio streaming. Inside, the DB9 GT featured ‘GT’ embroidery for the fluted leather; coupe models also had an iridium trim pack and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel.

Options for the DB9 GT included graphite diamond-turned ten-spoke alloy wheels, carbon fibre tail lamp inserts, and carbon fibre side strakes, front splitter and rear diffuser. 

2015 Aston Martin DB9 GT Bond Edition

The Aston Martin DB9 GT Bond Edition was released in September 2015 to celebrate Aston Martin’s fifty year association with James Bond. The DB9 GT Bond Edition could be identified by its unique Spectre Silver paint finish, sterling silver ‘Aston Martin’ badges front and rear, and ‘007 Bond Edition’ exterior badging. Inside, the DB9 GT Bond Edition featured a special ‘Bond Edition’ start-up screen for the AMi II infotainment system, numbered sill plates featuring the ‘007’ logo, gun barrel embroidery on the rear seat divider. Worldwide production of the DB9 GT Bond Edition was limited to 150 vehicles.

Brochure

• Brochure: Aston Martin AM113 DB9 Brochure (December 2012)
• Brochure: Aston Martin AM113 DB9 Carbon Edition (March 2014)

Related links

• Aston Martin: Aston Martin DB9
• Wikipedia.org: Aston Martin DB9
• Behind the Wheel: 2014 Aston Martin DB9 Review

Recalls: Aston Martin AM112 DB9

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Aston Martin AM112 DB9

2007 Aston Martin AM112 DB9: lower front suspension cam-bolts

In October 2010, a recall was issued for certain Aston Martin AM 112 DB9 vehicles that were manufactured from March to September 2007. For these vehicles, the lower front suspension arm cam-bolts may be out of specification – this could cause the bolts to crack, affecting the steering and handling of the vehicle and causing a knocking noise from the front suspension. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, see (PRA 2010/12040).

2007-13 Aston Martin AM112 DB9: throttle pedal arm could fracture

In May 2013, October 2013 and January 2014, three separate recalls were issued for Aston Martin AM 112 DB9 vehicles due to the potential for the throttle pedal lever/arm to fracture. While the initial recall was for AM112 DB9 vehicles manufactured after 14 May 2012, the second recall was for vehicles manufactured from 11 November 2007 to 3 October 2013, and the third recall was for vehicles manufactured from 11 November 2007 to 31 December 2013. If the throttle pedal lever fractured, the throttle would return to its idle position and the driver would be unable to control the speed of both the engine and vehicle. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please seePRA 2013/13597,PRA 2013/13799 andPRA 2014/13951.

2004-12 Aston Martin AM112 DB9: driver’s seat could damage battery supply cable

In December 2017, a recall was issued for Aston Martin AM112 DB9 vehicles. When the right side front seat was adjusted to its fully rearward position, the seat runner could compress the battery supply cable and cause the seat to damage the battery supply cable. This could occur when:

• The seat had lost its calibration;
• The seat calibration had not been correctly re-learned; or,
• The right front seat was operated to its fully rearward position.

Damage to the battery supply cable could cause smoke in the passenger compartment; if combustible material was present, it would also pose a fire risk. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2017/16493.

2007-12 Aston Martin AM112 DB9 with automatic transmission: vehicle may roll from parked position

In January 2018, a recall was issued for Aston Martin AM112 DB9 vehicles that had six-speed ‘Touchtronic II’ automatic transmissions and were manufactured after December 2007. In these vehicles, a communication error between the Engine Control Module (ECM) software and the Transmission Control Module (TCM) could cause the transmission park pawl to be held out. When the transmission park pawl was held out, the vehicle could roll away from its parked position – this could if all of the following conditions occurred:

• The vehicle key was removed from the ignition and engine speed was more than 450 rpm;
• The driver did not select ‘Park’;
• The driver did not engage the park brake;
• The vehicle was not parked on level ground; and,
• There was a communication error between the ECM and TCM.

If the vehicle were to move from its parked position, it would pose a hazard to the driver, other persons and property. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2017/16492.

Problems and faults: Aston Martin AM112 DB9

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Aston Martin AM112 DB9

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Aston Martin AM112 DB9.

Recalls: Aston Martin AM113 DB9

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Aston Martin AM113 DB9

2012-13 Aston Martin AM113 DB9: throttle pedal lever could fracture

In May 2013, October 2013 and January 2014, three separate recalls were issued for Aston Martin AM113 DB9 vehicles due to the potential for the throttle pedal lever/arm to fracture. While the initial recall was for AM113 DB9 vehicles manufactured from 14 May 2012 to 10 April 2013, the second recall was for vehicles manufactured prior to 3 October 2013, and the third recall was for vehicles manufactured prior to 31 December 2013. If the throttle pedal lever fractured, the throttle would return to its idle position and the driver would be unable to control the speed of both the engine and vehicle. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please seePRA 2013/13597,PRA 2013/13799 andPRA 2014/13951.

2013-14 Aston Martin AM113 DB9: transmission to neutral and loss of power

In July 2014, a recall was issued for Aston Martin AM113 DB9 Coupe and Volante vehicles that were available for sale from 10 June 2013 to 1 July 2014. In these vehicles, printed circuit boards (PCBs) within the transmission control switches may be defective – this could cause the transmission to revert to neutral without any input from the driver. If this occurred, the vehicle would lose power and the driver would be unable to maintain or increase speed, posing a hazard to the vehicle occupants and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2014/14222.

2012-16 Aston Martin AM113 DB9: driver’s seat could damage battery supply cable

In December 2017, a recall was issued for Aston Martin AM113 DB9 vehicles that were manufactured prior to 20 June 2016. When the right side front seat was adjusted to its fully rearward position, the seat runner could compress the battery supply cable and cause the seat to damage the battery supply cable. This could occur when:

• The seat had lost its calibration;
• The seat calibration had not been correctly re-learned; or,
• The right front seat was operated to its fully rearward position.

Damage to the battery supply cable could cause smoke in the passenger compartment; if combustible material was present, it would also pose a fire risk. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2017/16493.

2012-17 Aston Martin AM113 DB9 with automatic transmission: vehicle may roll from parked position

In January 2018, a recall was issued for Aston Martin AM113 DB9 vehicles that had six-speed ‘Touchtronic II’ automatic transmissions and were manufactured prior to January 2017. In these vehicles, a communication error between the Engine Control Module (ECM) software and the Transmission Control Module (TCM) could cause the transmission park pawl to be held out. When the transmission park pawl was held out, the vehicle could roll away from its parked position – this could if all of the following conditions occurred:

• The vehicle key was removed from the ignition and engine speed was more than 450 rpm;
• The driver did not select ‘Park’;
• The driver did not engage the park brake;
• The vehicle was not parked on level ground; and,
• There was a communication error between the ECM and TCM.

If the vehicle were to move from its parked position, it would pose a hazard to the driver, other persons and property. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2017/16492.

Problems and faults: Aston Martin AM113 DB9

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Aston Martin AM113 DB9

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Aston Martin AM113 DB9.

Released in January 2005, the Aston Martin AM112 Mk.I (AM112.I) DB9 was initially available as a two-plus-two coupe, with convertible (Volante) models following in September 2005. Manufactured in Gaydon, England, the DB9 was powered by a 5.9-litre V12 petrol engine that was mated to either a six-speed Graziano manual or ZF ‘Touchtronic 2’ automatic transmission (with steering wheel gearshift paddles)… Read full Aston Martin AM112 DB9 review

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Images: Aston Martin AM112.II DB9 (2008-10)

Released in May 2008, the Aston Martin AM112 Mk.II (AM112.II) DB9 introduced a more powerful V12 engine, a revised interior and subtle cosmetic updates, while the ‘Touchtronic 2’ automatic transmission had a new hydraulic control box for faster and smoother gearshifts. Visually, the Mk.II DB9 could be identified by its anodised aluminium five-bar grille, redesigned door mirrors and new ten-spoke alloy-wheel designs. Inside, there was a redesigned centre console – similar to that used in the DBS – constructed from die-cast zinc with a painted iridium silver finish. Furthermore, an ‘Emotion Control Unit’ constructed from glass, polished stainless steel and polycarbonate replaced the key-based ignition system.

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Images: Aston Martin AM112.III DB9 (2010-12)

Released in August 2010, the Aston Martin AM 112 Mk.III (AM112.III) DB9 introduced Aston Martin’s Adaptive Damping System (ADS) as standard across the range, providing continual damping adjustment for improved ride quality and a selectable ‘sport’ mode. The Aston Martin AM112.III DB9 could be identified by its new 20-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels, front bumper, bright finish radiator grille, re-profiled lower air-intake with hexagonal mesh, restyled side sills, silver brake calipers and clear lens tail-lights. Inside, there was ‘Double Apex’ alloy-look interior trim.

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Released in December 2012, the Aston Martin AM113 DB9 was available as a coupe or convertible (‘Volante’). Manufactured in Gaydon, England, the AM113 was powered by Aston Martin’s 5.9-litre V12 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission which could be controlled via steering wheel gearshift paddles… Read full Aston Martin AM113 DB9 review

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Top Gear: Aston Martin DB9 – Race to Monto Carlo

Note

Please note these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia.

Aston Martin: DB9 development

AutoCar: Aston Martin AM113 DB9 tested

Note

Please note these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia.