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2011 Aston Martin DBS Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2011 Aston Martin DBS is a grand tourer that represents the pinnacle of Aston Martin's performance and luxury. Born from the DB9, it was available as a coupe and Volante (convertible). Produced from 2007 to 2012, it featured a potent V12 engine, bespoke materials and a striking design. The DBS lacked distinct trims beyond options packages. When new, it ranged from approximately $270,000 to $300,000. Its aggressive styling, powerful engine, and association with James Bond contributed to its popularity.
The Good

The 2011 Aston Martin DBS offers exhilarating performance thanks to its powerful V12 engine. Its stunning design and luxurious interior provide an emotional connection. While not known for stellar fuel efficiency or low maintenance costs, the DBS delivers a rewarding driving experience and holds its value relatively well, appealing to those seeking exclusivity and performance.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2011 Aston Martin DBS include higher than average running costs and some electronic gremlins. Owners should watch out for potential issues with the clutch, particularly in models with the manual transmission. Also, be aware of expensive maintenance and repair costs due to the car's exotic nature. Regular servicing is critical.

2011 Aston Martin DBS: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 6.0-liter V12
  • Horsepower: 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
  • Torque: 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
  • Fuel Economy: EPA estimated 12 mpg city / 18 mpg highway (estimates vary based on transmission and driving style).
  • 0–60 Times: Approximately 4.3 seconds (manual), slightly faster with the automatic.
  • Towing Capacity: Not applicable; the DBS is not designed for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    The DBS didn't feature traditional trim levels. Instead, it came well-equipped with a focus on performance and luxury. Key features included:
    • Carbon fiber exterior details (mirrors, rear diffuser)
    • Lightweight wheels
    • Performance-tuned suspension
    • Carbon ceramic brakes
    • Hand-stitched leather interior
    • Premium audio system (Bang & Olufsen optional)
    • Navigation system
    • Bluetooth connectivity
    • Power-adjustable seats with memory
    • Automatic climate control
    • Rear parking sensors
  • Volante (Convertible) Additional Features: Power-operated soft top.
  • Transmission Options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.

2011 Aston Martin DBS Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2011
Make Aston Martin
Model DBS
Trim -
Style Coupe
Type Coupe
Category Sports Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United Kingdom
Manufacturing City GAYDON
Dimensions
Doors 2-Door
Curb Weight 3737 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 4
Engine & Performance
Engine AM08
Engine Size 5.9L
Engine Cylinders 12
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $268,660
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges $1,615

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2011 Aston Martin DBS Have?

The 2011 Aston Martin DBS, like many high-performance vehicles, can experience certain issues over time. Frequently reported problems include:
  • Clutch Wear: Models with the manual transmission are prone to premature clutch wear, especially with aggressive driving. This can lead to costly replacements.
  • Electronic Gremlins: Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, sensors, and other electronic components. These can be intermittent and difficult to diagnose.
  • Oil Leaks: Due to the age and complexity of the engine, oil leaks can occur, particularly around gaskets and seals. Regular inspections are essential.
  • Suspension Components: The performance-tuned suspension may require maintenance or replacement of bushings and other components over time.
  • Carbon Ceramic Brakes: While offering excellent stopping power, the carbon ceramic brakes can be expensive to replace.

While recalls specific to the 2011 DBS may be found through official sources (NHTSA), general Aston Martin recalls relating to similar models might apply (e.g., issues with airbags or electrical systems). Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the availability and cost of parts, as well as the expertise required for servicing such a specialized vehicle. It's crucial to obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified Aston Martin mechanic to identify potential problems.

How long will the 2011 Aston Martin DBS last?

Given the DBS's nature as a grand tourer, average mileage varies widely, but expect well-maintained examples to have between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. With proper maintenance, the engine is generally durable. However, long-term durability hinges heavily on adherence to scheduled maintenance. Weaknesses typically emerge in the form of aging electronics, worn suspension components, and potential corrosion in certain climates. Regular servicing and climate-controlled storage can significantly extend the DBS's lifespan.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2011 Aston Martin DBS features a blend of classic luxury and some contemporary technology for its time.
Tech & Entertainment:
  • Navigation system
  • Premium audio system (often Bang & Olufsen optional)
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • CD player
  • iPod integration
Driver-Assistance:
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Tire pressure monitoring system
Safety Features:
  • Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
  • Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
  • Traction Control
  • Front airbags
  • Side airbags
Being a low-volume, high-performance vehicle, the 2011 Aston Martin DBS was not typically subjected to official crash-test ratings by agencies like NHTSA or IIHS. Safety was primarily addressed through robust construction and active safety systems. Optional features often included upgraded audio systems, bespoke interior trim options, and personalized paint colors. The focus was more on driver engagement than advanced driver-assistance systems that are common in modern vehicles.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Obsidian Black
Onyx Black
Quantum Silver
Storm Black
Casino Royale
Morning Frost White
AML Red
Volcano Red
Hammerhead Silver
Graphite
Aurora Blue
Interior Colors
Chancellor Red
Obsidian Black
Parliament Green
Phantom Grey
Sandstorm
Spicy Red
Winter Wheat
Kestrel Tan
Cream Truffle

2011 Aston Martin DBS Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2011 Aston Martin DBS had an MSRP ranging from approximately $270,000 to $300,000, depending on options. Current used market prices typically range from $80,000 to $130,000+, contingent on mileage, condition, and history. Depreciation has been significant but stabilized. Factors affecting resale value include low mileage, excellent condition, complete service records, desirable color combinations, and the presence of rare options. Convertibles (Volantes) often command a premium.

2011 Aston Martin DBS Cost of Ownership

The 2011 Aston Martin DBS is a costly vehicle to own. Insurance premiums are high due to its value and performance. Fuel economy is poor. Maintenance, especially services involving the carbon ceramic brakes or clutch, can be very expensive. Repairs require specialized technicians, further increasing costs. Long-term ownership demands a dedicated budget for upkeep. This is not an economical vehicle.

2011 Aston Martin DBS Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity 20.5 gallons
City Mileage 11 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 17 miles/gallon

2011 Aston Martin DBS Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Not Tested
Frontal Offset Test Results Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2011 Aston Martin DBS Recalls & Defects

Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date 2014-01-16
Recall no. 14v010000
Source NHTSA
Summary Aston Martin Lagonda OF North America (Aston Martin) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2014 DB9 and V8 Vantage, 2009-2012 Dbs, 2010-2012 Rapide, 2014 Rapide S, 2011-2012 V12 Vantage, 2011-2014 V8 Vantage S and 2012 Virage Vehicles. DUE TO A Manufacturing Error, THE Accelerator Pedal ARM MAY Break.
Consequence IF THE Accelerator Pedal ARM Breaks, THE Engine Will Return TO Idle and THE Driver Will BE Unable TO Maintain or Increase Engine Speed, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Aston Martin Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Accelerator Pedal Assemblies. THE Recall Began ON February 11, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Aston Martin Customer Service BY Calling 1-888-923-9988. Aston Martin's Recall Number IS Ra-03-0017. Important: This Recall Supersedes Recall 13v-228. ANY Vehicle That HAS Been Remedied Under THE Previous Recall Needs TO Have THE Current Remedy Applied.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2014-11-25
Recall no. 14v753000
Source NHTSA
Summary Aston Martin Lagonda OF North America (Aston Martin) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2014 Db9, V12 Vantage, V8 Vantage, Dbs, and Virage Vehicles Manufactured July 3, 2006, TO November 5, 2014. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Electronic Control Module FOR THE Driver and Front Passenger Seat Heaters MAY Fail, Preventing THE Seat Heaters From Being Able TO BE Turned Off.
Consequence IF THE Electronic Control Module Fails, THE Seat Heater Could GET HOT Enough That Areas OF THE Seat MAY Overheat and Smolder, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Seat Occupant.
Remedy Aston Martin Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install AN Additional Module TO THE Circuit That CAN Interrupt THE Power TO THE Seat Heaters IN Case THE Electronic Control Module FOR THE Seat Heaters Fails, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began IN January 2015. Owners MAY Contact Aston Martin Customer Service BY Calling 1-888-923-9988. Aston Martin's Number FOR This Recall IS Ra-01-0019.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Latches/Locks/Linkages
Recall date 2015-12-16
Recall no. 15v846000
Source NHTSA
Summary Aston Martin Lagonda OF North America (Aston Martin) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2015 Db9, 2010-2012 Dbs, 2010-2016 V8 Vantage, 2012 Virage, 2010-2016 Rapide, 2014-2016 Vanquish, 2011-2016 V12 Vantage, and 2012-2013 V12 Zagato Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With Interior Door Unlocking Mechanisms That MAY NOT Function When THE Vehicle HAS Been Locked From THE Outside. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 206, "door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Consequence IF THE Doors Cannot BE Opened BY AN Occupant From Inside THE Vehicle, They MAY BE Trapped Inside, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Aston Martin Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disable THE Double Locking Feature BY Reprogramming THE Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 10, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Aston Martin Customer Service AT 1-888-923-9988. Aston Martin's Number FOR This Recall IS Ra-01-0021.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Recall date 2017-12-11
Recall no. 17v796000
Source NHTSA
Summary Aston Martin THE Americas (Aston Martin) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2016 Db9, 2009-2012 Dbs, 2010-2015 Rapide, 2012 Virage, and 2014 Vanquish Vehicles Equipped With A 6-speed Touchtronic II Automatic Transmission. A Communication Error Between THE Engine Control Module (Ecm) and THE Transmission Control Module (tcm) CAN Cause THE Transmission Park Pawl TO NOT Engage.
Consequence IF THE Park Pawl Does NOT Engage and THE Vehicle IS Stopped ON A Slope and Exited Without THE Parking Brake Being Applied, THE Vehicle MAY Unexpectedly Roll, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Aston Martin Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE TCM Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin February 1, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Aston Martin Customer Service AT 1-888-923-9988. Aston Martin's Number FOR This Recall IS Ra-07-0028.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2011 Aston Martin DBS Insurance

Insurance for a 2011 Aston Martin DBS is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2011 Aston Martin DBS Compare to Other Coupe?

The 2011 Aston Martin DBS competed with vehicles like the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Bentley Continental GT, and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.
Performance: The DBS offers comparable performance to the Ferrari 599 GTB, but the Ferrari might offer a sharper, more focused driving experience. The Bentley focuses more on luxury and less on outright speed.
Features: The DBS offers a luxurious interior but might lack some of the advanced technology features found in the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.
Reliability: The Aston Martin DBS may have more reliability concerns compared to the Bentley Continental GT or Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.
Price: Used prices for the DBS can be attractive compared to some of its rivals, making it a more accessible option for some buyers.
Alternatives:
If reliability is a major concern, the Bentley Continental GT might be a better choice. If you prioritize cutting-edge technology, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a strong contender. For raw performance and a more engaging driving experience, the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a worthy alternative. The DBS offers a unique blend of British style and performance that sets it apart.

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Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Aston Martin DBS a Good Coupe?

The 2011 Aston Martin DBS is ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate British styling, a powerful V12 engine, and a luxurious grand touring experience. It's worth buying if you're prepared for the higher running costs and potential maintenance challenges. Buying used is the only realistic option given its age. A well-maintained example with complete service records is crucial. Those seeking maximum reliability or cutting-edge technology might be better served by alternatives, but for sheer style and character, the DBS remains a compelling choice.

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehiclesβ€”starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.