Considering early DB9
Discussion
Currently I own a decently tidy Jaguar XJS V12. I love that car and its character. I've learnt how they go together and I'm very comfortable with working on them for most things. However I don't have a dry garage, and I can't stand the thought of the unnecessary salting and the continuous damp putting holes in it. I usually keep cars for very long periods of time, so rust is a big problem.
I've always loved the DB9. I still think it's the best looking car of the 21st century, and unlike everyone else, I prefer the look of the pre facelift. Just so elegant, and they're the least expensive ones. They've fallen in price far enough that at a push I could buy a cheapish one and have some funds left over for maintenance. Best of all, it's not made entirely of ferrous metal!
I don't want to rush into this though. I know first hand how much work older V12 GT cars can be, and how expensive it can be if you buy a bad one. Budget is being pushed somewhat so I'd rather take my time and get it right.
Maintenance wise, I'd be looking at DIY as much as possible. I wouldn't flinch if this were a DB7, I know what to look for with those, but DB9s are an unknown for me and there isn't going to be any '70s Jaguar commonality in there. What do I really need to look for? Or am I totally mad and they're way more difficult to keep than DB7s due to parts availability or custom tools being needed or whatever.
It's stuff like the Engine, Gearbox and Diff that concern me. I know they're generally reliable, but are there any reasonably common issues to be aware of that can require things like complete engine blocks or transmissions? Is parts availability good? Or are they just silly to work on, like inlet manifold gaskets requiring engine removal or something preposterous like that. I haven't turned up much from a quick search, but there must be a catch somewhere!
If there is anywhere with manuals or other technical resources on the DB9, I'd be interested to have a read of them. The XJS community taught me so much, do the Aston clubs have such a wealth of information on the DB9?
I've always loved the DB9. I still think it's the best looking car of the 21st century, and unlike everyone else, I prefer the look of the pre facelift. Just so elegant, and they're the least expensive ones. They've fallen in price far enough that at a push I could buy a cheapish one and have some funds left over for maintenance. Best of all, it's not made entirely of ferrous metal!
I don't want to rush into this though. I know first hand how much work older V12 GT cars can be, and how expensive it can be if you buy a bad one. Budget is being pushed somewhat so I'd rather take my time and get it right.
Maintenance wise, I'd be looking at DIY as much as possible. I wouldn't flinch if this were a DB7, I know what to look for with those, but DB9s are an unknown for me and there isn't going to be any '70s Jaguar commonality in there. What do I really need to look for? Or am I totally mad and they're way more difficult to keep than DB7s due to parts availability or custom tools being needed or whatever.
It's stuff like the Engine, Gearbox and Diff that concern me. I know they're generally reliable, but are there any reasonably common issues to be aware of that can require things like complete engine blocks or transmissions? Is parts availability good? Or are they just silly to work on, like inlet manifold gaskets requiring engine removal or something preposterous like that. I haven't turned up much from a quick search, but there must be a catch somewhere!
If there is anywhere with manuals or other technical resources on the DB9, I'd be interested to have a read of them. The XJS community taught me so much, do the Aston clubs have such a wealth of information on the DB9?
Other than thorough pre purchase inspection these cars are pretty reliable on the major components.
In my opinion the main potential for unexpected possibly high bills is the need to get many Canbus sensors controllers and modules replaced by dealers with AMDS software. This is probably main dealers and can be expensive for relatively minor items.
Seats, doors and entertainment etc. etc
The early DB9 engine tick and minor oil leaks are to be checked for.
Good luck and they are great cars.
In my opinion the main potential for unexpected possibly high bills is the need to get many Canbus sensors controllers and modules replaced by dealers with AMDS software. This is probably main dealers and can be expensive for relatively minor items.
Seats, doors and entertainment etc. etc
The early DB9 engine tick and minor oil leaks are to be checked for.
Good luck and they are great cars.
Yes, beautiful cars.
Ref. doing your own maintenance.
There are several contributors here, who describe work they have carried out. Mostly the Vantage model, but very similar mechanicals.
Have you come across the Bamford Rose videos on YouTube? They should help with some of your queries. The proprietor was an engine development engineer with Aston Martin and others.
From a DIY perspective https://aston1936.com/ is a great source of info for the DB9
If you want a slightly prettier (IMHO) and easier to maintain AM without the V12 worries, an early Vantage (4.3) might be worth a look.
Cheap DB9s are cheap for a reason and do spend a few hours watching the Bamford Rose DB9 videos so you're going into it with eyes and hopefully not wallet, wide open.
Cheap DB9s are cheap for a reason and do spend a few hours watching the Bamford Rose DB9 videos so you're going into it with eyes and hopefully not wallet, wide open.
Thanks everyone. I've got some videos to watch later then.
I've turned up a copy of the workshop manual. Had to break out the old Javascript debugger to pull the link out the page, but I've got it downloaded now. Tonight's bedtime reading.
Not sure if the Vantage is for me. It's a beautiful car for sure (though I still prefer the DB9's proportions), but the local roads are poor, and I think the softer nature of the DB9 would be a better fit. That said, if one one came up at the right price, I would consider it.
I would like a manual so the Vantage does appeal on that level, but I'm perfectly fine with a slushbox in a GT. It's going to be better than the 3 speed in the XJS unless it's made of cheese. No automated manuals for me, so any Vantage would have to be a manual one.
I've turned up a copy of the workshop manual. Had to break out the old Javascript debugger to pull the link out the page, but I've got it downloaded now. Tonight's bedtime reading.
Not sure if the Vantage is for me. It's a beautiful car for sure (though I still prefer the DB9's proportions), but the local roads are poor, and I think the softer nature of the DB9 would be a better fit. That said, if one one came up at the right price, I would consider it.
I would like a manual so the Vantage does appeal on that level, but I'm perfectly fine with a slushbox in a GT. It's going to be better than the 3 speed in the XJS unless it's made of cheese. No automated manuals for me, so any Vantage would have to be a manual one.
GearKnob said:
... Not sure if the Vantage is for me. ...
Small point, which may or may not be of relevance to you.
The design of the DB9 has a greater rear overhang than the Vantage,. However, perhaps surprisingly, the Vantage has a larger boot capacity than a DB9.
Edited by Jon39 on Wednesday 16th March 08:31
QP30 said:
From a DIY perspective https://aston1936.com/ is a great source of info for the DB9
Second that. A very comprehensive library of work carried out and some of them with Mike from Bamford Rose.Gassing Station | Aston Martin | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff