Declassified: Aston Martin DB9 (2003 - 2012) - How Expensive is it to Own?

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In today's video, courtesy of Ben from @dadcars I take a look at the first generation Aston Martin DB9, and give you a few hints and tips about what you can expect if you are looking to buy an example of one of the best GT cars of all time.
#AstonMartin #DB9 #V12
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[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thinking of buying your next car? Speak to Charles & Dean - The Funding Specialists www.charlesanddean.com/jayemm-on-cars

[@laurencefahey2085]

I’ve had mine since new 2004 , 65k miles , drive it to Spain each summer , absolutely love it . Yes I look after it service each year by an independent and it’s super reliable. Even when I bought it I was fully aware it was my Aston for life . I drive a 20 year old Range Rover as my daily and the Aston every weekend . I’m still as much in love with it today as when I first purchased it ❤️❤️❤️

[@MrRedders]

Crikey that's a costly maintenance combination Well played.

[@mrflippant]

20-year-old Range Rover? You masochist!

[@andydunn3835]

this is the way

[@erepsekahs]

Pretty much the same story with me. They are....well maintained, super-reliable, mostly due to the Ford-derived V12 engine.

[@mcmc1863]

@@mrflippant theres good and bad in ever car maker, new bmw's being one of the worse

[@RandyRodgirth]

The crack addict line really got me 😂. Definitely using that with the Mrs to justify buying a DB9, “it’s not for me darling, it’s so the kids won’t become crack addicts, thank me later”

[@thehumanoid6543]

jeremy said that in a grand tour episode

[@dadcars]

I recently drove a 997 CSR and was genuinely completely shocked at how many people rudely crept pass me without letting me out at a junction… then I remembered, I’m use to being in the DB9 😎

[@markoz673bajen8]

This is ED Hoover Tavarish ish ish

[@carlmaissan4340]

Which TBF is James quoting Jeremy Clarkson (who from memory was reviewing a V12 Aston himself at the time)

[@nevermisled3244]

I was born when this came out, give me 5yrs I have to continue build my credit and increase my income but I’ll have this car!!!

[@tigerbot2480]

I was born in 2000 and this is my dream car once I pay my current car off and graduate college I absolutely plan on getting one of these as a weekend car

[@timcasey5835]

I can’t tell you how many times I have considered buying an older DB9 - when they first came out they were stunning - nothing else could compare with its looks and I wanted one so badly…. the feeling has never completely left me despite my head telling my heart that I would be in a world of pain if I bought one !!

[@reinmansmith]

Very much enjoy these ‘affordable’ car tests… we all lust after the £50k-£100k upwards cars but realistically they are way out of our price bracket…. I love the fact that I was able to buy myself a R230 SL500 for under £10k and enjoy that glorious V8 engine for way less than the cost of an average hatchback… yes the running cost are high but I own it outright so putting aside a few grand repair fund and keeping it topped up is still way less that making a monthly payment on a more modern car 😊.. keep up the good work 👍

[@zekvuc6552]

so true + porsche 996 ... any corvette ... + ...

[@TheChill001]

@@zekvuc6552 Corvettes actually backfire on that part these days. They are less reliable in higher mileages and GM is known to be rather annoying when it comes to corvette specific parts. currently the best overall choice would be a late C5 or a C6 example.

[@miraclearranger6438]

Seeing that car with the Cinematic Orchestra in the background on Top Gear was just something else. Pre-facelift might be the best looking car in my eyes

[@m1keyw]

Lovely car and fair play to Ben for having kids not stopping him driving the car he wants. For cars of this value it's often much cheaper just to get a personal loan from a bank rather than car finance. Take the £35K purchase with £5K deposit. A £30K loan from Tesco over 60 months is £593 a month at a rate of 7.2% APR, with a total interest cost of £5,619. Nearly half the interest compared to the car finance example. Reduce the amount borrowed to £25K and the interest rate drops to 5.1% APR. I'm amazed at the number of people who just default to using car/dealer finance for car when there are often much cheaper options available. The max amount you can get with a personal loan is usually around 30-35K so this isn't always an option with expensive stuff unless you've got a chunky deposit.

[@theninethrees8044]

This has been my dream car ever since I lay’d my eyes on it back in 2003 as a 10 year old to this day. I think it’s still the most beautiful car of the 21st century so far.

[@Nick-cy2tn]

Same. They're getting pretty affordable with decent miles on them. B roads blast on a Sunday is like therapy for men lol

[@murphman76]

It is gorgeous...but get a good look at the Ferrari Roma.

[@TextbookBoxingGB]

Still feels like Aston are tying to reinvent the wheel stylewise after this. DB9 still looks gorgeous and modern even now.

[@danielvandam]

Agree so much! After these models they came up with the look with the smaller headlights and more accents to give a more streamlined sports car / racey look, while I would have preferred personally if they remained more with the GT design which was their main strong point and what made me love Aston Martin

[@markwilson8140]

Great video James. I’ve had my DB9 from new in 2007 and have done 80,000 miles in it. I still learnt a few things from you.

[@sprezzatura8755]

Gorgeous car. But don't overlook the Jaguar XKR starting in 2008.. Incredible cars.

[@Wanderhirsch]

This is very informative and excellently presented, let there be more! Comparisons and examples are very helpful

[@MarkmanOTW]

Nice one James. I've been thinking about owning a DB9 over recent weeks and undertaking some research. This resonates with what I've learnt. Great job! 👍

[@jackleonard2088]

As always, a thorough and entertaining video. Beautiful cars these. Still out if my budget so I ended up with an 09 Jaguar xkr which has been a heck of a car. Thanks for the content and all the best for 2023!

[@wilbo5457]

Definitely one of your best James, straight up! If circumstances were different I'd already be trawling for an Aston long ago, and if they do, you have me convinced! But you may already have! Your comments about a Jag XK have set me on a path, just hope I make it to the end! 🤞 Keep them comin James! PS A "declassified" on Jags XKs could be very enlightening & helpful indeed! 😉

[@andrewf7822]

Brilliant series James. Love the detail you go into. Looking forward to you doing an M3 review. Used to own one and thinking of getting another one.

[@connorolewio]

Loving this new series, makes some of these cars a lmore realistic prospect while at the same time bringing me back down to earth!

[@CTP1111]

a well researched and well presented episode Jay, well done!

[@Toys_Ferrari488Pista_BMWM3Comp]

I’ve owned 3 different VH platform Aston Martin’s over the past 20 years and this article was very well presented particularly in terms of factual real world content around buying, and the ownership experience. Clearly well researched and thought through. Good stuff. 👍🏻

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks! Means a lot that owners think I got it right

[@marcs990]

@@JayEmmOnCars Thanks for the vid, but when you ask me what I liked or disliked is the fact that there’s hardly any footage or time given of actually driving the thing. Basically it’s 95% + of you talking. Sorry to say but I feel this is a common thread throughout most of the vids that you put out. Can we get more drive time please 🙏

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@marcs990 Mark, that's the exact point of this series - it's a look at ownership and running costs. I have already done multiple DB9 reviews so there's no need for me to drive the car. If you can think of a way to do a buyers guide without it being 95% me talking, I am all ears

[@vikingmike947q8]

@@JayEmmOnCars Hard to believe how inexpensive it is to insure the car in the UK. 5 times that in the States!

[@MrTench8]

That was the most enjoyable video i have seen of your's, I think you have found your niche! Exellent coverage of all about the car in a very well presented manner. There has long been a need for the living with information about "exotic" car choice. Thank you.

[@BUMHEAD1100]

Love this series - we all find ourselves tempted by these cars, good to have some extra info. And soo much potential material !

[@noonehere1793]

Aston Martins were built solely to test our PERSONAL WILLPOWER to RESIST TEMPTATION…..😀

[@savouryfriend]

Need more from this series, was amazing and kept me hooked for the whole 30mins

[@nimilieber]

Great series of videos, I'm always on the classifieds looking at db9\465gt sometimes Bentley GT, thank you for bringing the light on real costs of ownership, sadly I don't think db9 prices will stay low for a long time, they are too pretty and too well built and usable to stay in the 35-40k mark.

[@peterblatchford383]

Bought my 2004 DB9 some eight months ago. So far completely reliable and no paint defects found. The only issue is a non functioning CD changer which can no longer be replaced with a new like for like option. Personally I prefer the lines of the earliest models and I find 450hp to be adequate! So far I love everything about the car and see it as a “keeper”.

[@dadcars]

Chances are any areas have been addressed earlier in its life. It doesn’t seem to be a thing that keeps happening once problem areas are fixed fortunately.

[@n.w.1803]

Ooh! Allow me to point out, Sir, that the CD changer is easily replaced far more cheaply with a Volvo-branded one. I've swapped out the one in my Vantage ('07) twice. It's the exact same unit. They can be had for ~$200 on eBay. Also, be sure to turn the stereo off before killing the engine. Starting the car with it on seems to be the source of the glitch that jams the CD changer.

[@neverenoughgames72]

​@@n.w.1803You are a legend

[@n.w.1803]

@@neverenoughgames72 Happy to help! But credit is probably due to half the population of Albania, or whoever keeps stealing Volvo parts for me to buy for pennies on eBay..

[@BMWE90HQ]

Thanks for the video! I’ve been thinking about one of these for a while now.

[@guymcfeeters7821]

Thinking of pulling the trigger on one of these & this review is undoubtedly the best I've seen. One or two things I wasn't aware of on the later cars. This will be a keeper along with my Clio Williams. Thanks James!

[@michaelvonalpen5481]

I love this format!!! Much needed - thanks!

[@backseatcovers]

I love this new series! Keep them coming!

[@dalebardsley3882]

That was brilliant Jayemm. I bet this channel will become your most successful. Very thorough deep dive. I'm going back to watch the Ferrari FF video. Can't wait. Fantastic content. Thank you.

[@Hughjass2855]

Thanks for that James, enjoyable and informative. These are great cars that I don't think will get any cheaper. I had one for 4 years and nearly 30k miles, and it was brilliant, no major issues, always special. £2k a year to run sounds about right now, as it was then. One of the few cars I miss.

[@TheEarlofK]

I think the DB9 is a very elegant car and it will be interesting to see how it compares in running costs with the Rapide. Buying an Aston has always involved high running costs and I think buying one with a proven service history, preferably from a main dealer, is certainly worth paying the extra for to save any financial embarrassment down the line.

[@Grover91]

I've driven one of these and loved every second of it. Such a gent of a car and you really have to beat it with a stick for it to even begin to misbehave.👍

[@psircos]

I really like this series of videos you've started. Food for thought! As an NHS worker, you only have to look at the news to realise that having a mortgage and a £700p/m payment for a car, won't wash. "However!"(lol), in about 8 years when the mortgage is gone, I WILL look at something like this. With the best will in the world and with the most idealistic outcome, my AR Gta, will lose its battle with oxidation eventually! Maybe I'll drive it over to my dad's in Athens, where it'll stand more chance than sunny Glasgow! One of the vehicles from your declassified vids would be amazing 👍

[@austinedwards1918]

A very declassified review. Loved it and it made me think about buying one. Thank you for the in depth review

[@speedylondon3481]

Much appreciated J really enjoy these informative I think I will wait a few months before I finally upgrade see what you review next thanks

[@peterrosscochrane]

Loving this declassified theme of video, very informative 👌🏻

[@alastairmackay4589]

Excellent review. Tons of well thought out advice and information

[@dangrove5794]

Wicked review! Love finding properly detailed KZbin stuff like this, especially for cars that were on Top Gear when I was growing up. TV-grade/auto journo quality and the length was just right too. I don't think there is a bad angle to look at a DB9 from but I think the rear three quarter view might be my favourite. And those wheels really are fabulous. Great work!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Dan!

[@chrisconey7062]

Man, that video must have took a ton of work. Props for that to start with. I've only just started watching your videos and there is a lot to like about your approach: - No waffle: Every sentence moves things on. - No messing about: No pranks or forced humor. - Useful: Really detailed and practical info. - Delivery: I can't watch some car channels because of the persons voice and the way they talk. Yours is nicely measured with an edge of enthusiasm.

[@laurencefahey2085]

One more thing , your knowledge on the db9 is absolutely spot on , you talk like an owner of many many years . Everything you point out I relate to 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@Aximus383]

Loved this video and the idea of this series, can't wait for more! And you are hilarious!

[@johnmckeowen739]

Brilliant and informative. Really enjoy tour style, look forwards to the next one!

[@kevinwall795]

Great video. Very informative and enjoyable. Thanks!

[@lukeshardlow768]

Got mine last July and love it, you either get these cars or you don’t. You could have something much faster, more economical for less money but it will not compare. I have a XKR too but never get the same positive comments that I get in the Aston. Even people in France took photos in petrol stations.

[@lewisharris6180]

By far the most thorough and unbiased car review I’ve ever seen. I love your channel. Definitely looking forward to more!❤

[@mamovaka]

2006 automatic tranny failed was in shop 9 months cost 28k

[@JonWhitworth]

Excellent series and love this DadB9!

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Awesome video. Very interesting new series. Keep up the good work.

[@JelloTR]

Another great episode in this new series. I bet there are a few extra 1000 autotrader searches of the model in question after the episode drops.

[@scottyab]

Really liking this series. Thanks

[@JohnAdams-kc8wx]

Loving this new series of yours Jay. Two years ago I was persuaded to go electric, OK fine but running two new cars on PCPs is pretty expensive & for long trips no cheaper than ICE. It’s now time to go sensible, lose one of them & get a DB9 or XK… PS you did inspire me recently - just bought a 19 yr old petrol Merc S350 lwb for long family journeys, epically refined & comfortable car for £3k !!! Yes it might go wrong but not if you look after it I reckon… We are off to Croatia in it in the summer 🤞

[@markchip1]

The insurance is often even better if you go via the Aston Martin Owner's Group! As a 55 Yr old with MS and a wheelchair, my fully comprehensive policy for a 2005 DB9 was under £400 pa, WITHOUT any no claims discount - in outer London!!

[@michaelmottlau5941]

A very good review indeed. Thank you very much. for you work and dedication. Much appreciated. 🙂

[@Gearshift__]

Ah the DB9. A car so cool Top Gear had its own DB9 fridge section on the cool wall. 😎

[@hughmcneillie1032]

Thanks for this video. I love the DB9 and DBS (my grail) but not enough to let my 07 XKR go. Feels special without any of the increased costs of ownership that these cars have.

[@robertrogers9621]

An excellent report on the DB9.

[@wheelsandwatches]

My type of video! Useful buyers info. Well done.

[@ronniewilson6597]

Fantastic review 👍🏻😀

[@joaoserraoliveira3767]

Happy new year Jay! Abraço dos Açores, Portugal!

[@martinmoore7551]

Great review as always. Love the comparison with the XKR, my favorite car.

[@davids81999]

Very interesting! Lots of information and points to consider.

[@jbird_celica1186]

Great series 👏🏼... from start to finish these videos are class. Very informative and exactly what's needed.

[@anonymous-driver143]

Absolutely this new format!

[@yixi7854]

Hi James, another great video, Thanks! And It was great to see you today in Sainsbury. Happy New Year!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Happy new year! Sorry I couldn't talk longer, but if you want the Mazda reviewed let me know :)

[@SWR112]

Lottery win I think I’d still buy a DBS as it’s such a nice looking Car something about older Astons. Running a modern classic it’s all about the cost to keep it on the road as you’d need a certain level of disposable income to stomach any repair bill. I salute anyone keeping these older Cars on the road.

[@petertimbrell3403]

Love this concept, thanks Jay. Pete

[@TheMadmostin]

Great video. Keep up the good work!

[@simonread732]

Great video and very informative. I’m staggered you only get one key! Also I may have missed it but I would imagine depreciation on a well loved and maintained car will be minimal now. Certainly something to factor in.

[@rockoneal7621]

Loved and miss my Db9, a low mile Volante. But, the French drains of Florida local urban roads entering a driveway were harsh on the lower front of it. Six speed manual was awesome. Top down and sunshine, what's better? JayEmm, thank you. Superb, as always!

[@n.w.1803]

Congratulations on finding a manual V12!

[@thetezz0001]

Fantastic video bro

[@paulanderson7796]

Intro music is superb. Classic Fender P bass. Unmistakable and lovely.

[@Stallzyx]

About to start my work for today, but maybe it's something to do with being named James after James Bond, but I just can't dislike these cars as much as some. This will be an interesting watch when I'm on break or later. I prefer the DBS styling but they have a huge premium

[@SkitBit]

On my 5th DB9, owning the first 2004 right up to my current 2016 DB9 GT (combo of coupe and convertible variants). This video is absolutely spot on. A very accurate and great review/video. Brilliant stuff! If anyone out there is debating buying one. Do it! You won't regret it ;)

[@ludouch]

What about running cost and reliability? Always heard a fortune and not reliable, hence I never bought one

[@SkitBit]

@@ludouch Depends on the year you buy to be honest. The later DB9s tend to be quite bulletproof. Things in past that have gone wrong after a couple of years = Damper(s), Window Modules (Known issue), Rear Light Condensation. All 3 are covered under manufacturer warranty so recommend that. Budget 1.5k Service and 2k Warranty. 3.5k per year should cover all of your major costs outside of Insurance, Duty and Fuel ;)

[@adampetten5349]

Great tyre advice!

[@paul1978g]

I both adore and despise this series. You've shown me cars i've lusted after in the Auto Trader pages, and looked longingly at in traffic, and then shattered my daydreaming with the harsh but honest reality. If i spent everything I earned, yes i could have one, but in truth, this gorgeous automotive triumph will remain unobtainable to me. Thanks James for providing some grounding to the airy petrolheadonistic yearnings.

[@juliankent8875]

Just purchased one Matt and I can't wait to drive it 👌👍

[@danielraiter]

Fantastic mate, love it

[@TheChill001]

1-1.2k for a large service is actually rather reasonable, especially when you look at what doing the services properly may save you in repairs later down the road

[@melvinburwell8202]

Very nice car. This is as close as I will get to driving one. Love the styling. Better than most other Aston's.🔥🔥♥🏁😎

[@alexhudson3574]

beautifully presented as always , love the aston but for the money the jag is a better choice for me

[@mb4773]

Bought my 08 in ‘21. 31k one owner car. Fell in love and continue to love it. A robust car, if bought right, will be rewarding. But, know it’s a relationship. Keep up with maintenance and service. Find a good independent that knows Astons as dealer labor costs are eye watering. Or better still, learn and do many things yourself as I do. Pure joy that will put a smile on your face, especially with the V12 at 6800 rpms.

[@CHIEFS8214]

Really great videos 👍

[@chrisnic8894]

Thanks for sharing the finance costs. With the increase in interest rates cars are becoming really expensive. It will be interesting to see what happens to the market this year.

[@brendankelly1643]

Super... more of this. Well done young fella.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Brendan, any requests?

[@paulmackay6376]

Love this series Jay and thank you for providing the detailed review of my dream car. Just wish the prices were the same over here in the US.

[@dadcars]

Insurance is a lot more in the states I’ve heard as well 🙈

[@leemehdinur3766]

I’ve never seen such accurate predictions level!! Bravo!!! Now please tell what is going to happen to Clarkson on Top Gear one day..

[@andyb52804]

Excellent video!

[@ducatiandy]

Great car had a ‘54 and always get stopped in the street by people commenting on it, but a nightmare to own. Do a search on the gremlins, electric mirrors drop, windows dropping, spurious alarms. But pressing that start and the v12 without primary cats lol. Petrol didn’t bother me but bare in mind 12mpg. I got rid as the paint is rubbish, one wing and both doors as well as roof seams bubbling and this is on a composite winged/ Bonnet and Ali door car!!! Do a check on the dbs on Mr mww and you will see paint issues. Still miss it though.

[@Paul-D]

So Christmas week I went car shopping with my boss. He was pretty set on a 997.2 911. I did my best to convince him into one of these. But in truth they're both pretty damn awesome attainable dream cars.

[@ericbrown8242]

Brilliant video James great looking motor not sure about the overcoat 😅

[@2702simmo]

Driving one of these in 2007 for a day put me off the brand I thought it was so dull for the price but 15 or so years later I find myself looking at one to replace my 996 that I love

[@dcs0113]

agreed... on the trickle charger & just do it....I'm smitten in love with my 2014 model

[@dadcars]

Db9.2 is an incredible car 😍

[@ethanengland5263]

Great reviews, can you please do a review on an Aston Martin Rapide?

[@wizardofthenorth8352]

Simply excellent James no more to be said 😀👍

[@Maddmike00]

Nice video! We need a video of the 2nd Generation Lamborghini Gallardo soon!

[@davebarron5939]

If I didn't live in the US, I would have to try one they are gorgeous. Great stuff, Cheers!

[@n.w.1803]

My advice, Sir, is find yourself a Vantage. They can be had for rather less than a newer Mustang V8, they really don't cost all that much to maintain, and even a 15-year old example is pretty competitive for power and fun. It's just nice to sit in a car that feels built for you, and smells of real leather. They're also subtle enough that people don't necessarily gawp at you driving by..

[@theofficialstig]

this is such a great series I love the FF and the DB9 I'd like a video about the 12c

[@dadcars]

12c is a great shout 👏

[@JayEmmOnCars]

12C is on the cards!

[@stretch8613]

Great video as always, James. At the lower end of the market at £35k and putting in a £5k deposit, so £30k to finance, you’d be much better off getting a personal loan - 12.9% APR even in the current market is laughable.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It is for people to decide what's best for them, because some of the cars I am looking at would be well beyond a personal loan for most people by using C&D I can keep the figures consistent. You're not wrong about 12.9% being painful though

[@stretch8613]

@@JayEmmOnCars totally get that mate - apples with apples. Just thought it was worth pointing out, that depending on how much you’re borrowing that it’s worth considering other options. Pros & cons to both.

[@tavirosu25]

Taking a loan to buy such a car, old Aston Martin is kinda silly. I rarely doubt if you finance 30k you have 10k arround just in case something breaks. And it will break. Good luck paying for the repair and the loan then...

[@timeservices697]

It’s called a warranty 👍

[@edwartvonfectonia4362]

easily my favourite Aston in terms of design.

[@Nick-vp7lp]

Another great video. The DB9 design is just timeless IMHO and kudos to the chap who chose buying one over letting his kids become smack heads 😅 Given the number of parts that will have the Ford logo stamped on them, I dare say it is one of the best ways to get into a V12. As you point out though Jay, at this price point, how much delayed maintenance has been left behind by previous owners?