Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2003
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed, with a clear divide between aesthetic admiration and practical ownership concerns.
6 problems reported (3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentInterior build quality / cheap components
Flimsy interior parts (e.g., center console storage), cheap-feeling buttons and switches amidst expensive materials.
- RecurrentElectrical problems
Windows, windshield wipers, and air conditioning failing; general electrical gremlins, especially if the battery is not maintained on a charger.
- RecurrentComplex, expensive repairs
General cost and difficulty of maintenance, with specific mention of the cooling system and dashboard removal for certain jobs.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedHeavy steering
Noted as characteristic of its grand tourer nature, but may be unexpected for those seeking sports car feel.
- IsolatedAutomated manual transmission reliability (on related Vanquish model)
Mentioned as a concern for Aston Martins of the era, though not specifically confirmed for all DB7 transmissions.
- Structural rust
Very frequent and cited as the primary, deal-breaking issue. Requires extensive and expensive repair.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Discussions mention both the early inline-6 (I6) and later V12 Vantage models. The V12 manual is noted as a more desirable and valuable configuration. The Volante (convertible) is appreciated for its aesthetics. No specific model year or trim is singled out as superior; the condition, rust status, and service history are emphasized as far more critical than the specific variant.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the 964, 996 generations), Ferrari 360 Modena, Ferrari F355 and Jaguar XK8/XKR (X100).
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed, with a clear divide between aesthetic admiration and practical ownership concerns. The DB7 is consistently praised for its exceptional beauty and iconic design, often described as one of the most beautiful cars of its era. It is recognized as a significant model that revived the Aston Martin brand. However, long-term owner reports highlight significant and recurrent issues, primarily concerning structural rust, complex and expensive repairs, and a perception of being a "grand tourer" rather than a sharp sports car. The interior quality, while featuring expensive materials like real wood and leather, is criticized for incorporating cheap-feeling switchgear and flimsy components from Ford's parts bin. Ownership satisfaction appears heavily dependent on purchasing a well-maintained, rust-free example with a comprehensive service history and a willingness to absorb high maintenance costs.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a beautiful but potentially fragile grand tourer against more driver-focused or reliable alternatives. It is frequently compared to the Jaguar XK8/XKR, with which it shares a platform and components; the Jaguar is often noted as being better screwed together, more reliable, and a better value. Compared to contemporary Porsches and Ferraris, the DB7 is seen as less of a pure sports car, with heavier steering and a focus on touring comfort over outright handling. Its design and exclusivity are its primary advantages over more common performance cars like the Toyota Supra or BMW M3.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission is preferred for engagement and potentially avoiding the complex, failure-prone automated manual system found in some contemporary Astons. A rust-free example is an absolute prerequisite. A car with a documented, comprehensive service history is strongly recommended. Specialist, rather than main dealer, maintenance is advised to control costs. The vehicle must be kept on a battery charger to prevent electrical issues from arising due to low voltage.
General recommendations
Only suitable for experienced enthusiasts or those with significant disposable income for maintenance. It is emphatically not recommended as a first exotic car or for those seeking a reliable daily driver. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by an Aston Martin specialist is mandatory, with a focus on structural rust, cooling system health, and electrical functionality. Purchasing the best, most well-maintained example you can afford is crucial, as a cheap, project-grade DB7 will likely become a financial black hole. Owners should expect and budget for ongoing repairs. The car is best enjoyed as a weekend cruiser or for touring, not for aggressive driving.
Remarks
The DB7's reputation is intrinsically linked to its Jaguar XJS-derived platform, which explains both its shared rust issues and the availability of some Ford-sourced mechanical parts that can mitigate repair costs. Owner discussions strongly indicate that the purchase price is a small fraction of the total cost of ownership; a low purchase price often signals major deferred maintenance. The model is historically significant as the car that saved Aston Martin, but this does not translate to trouble-free ownership. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions and mentions across broader automotive conversations.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 1 | 4 | suspension |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices4 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2000 · steering: steering wheel/handle barcampaign 01V110000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SIX CYLINDER AND TWELVE CYLINDER VARIANTS. THE STEERING COLUMN LIGHTING SWITCH GEAR HAS THE POTENTIAL TO TRAP WIRES, LEADING TO A PARTIAL LOSS OF LIGHTING FUNCTIONALITY.
2000 · steering:hydraulic power assist:hose, piping, and connectionscampaign 03V122000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES,THE POWER ASSISTED STEERING HIGH PRESSURE FLEXIBLE HOSE MAY CONTACT THE LEFT HAND EXHAUST MANIFOLD. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE HOSE MAY SCORCH THROUGH RESULTING IN A PROGRESSIVE LOSS OF HYDRAULIC FLUID AND POWER ASSISTANCE.
2000 · steering:linkagescampaign 00V011000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE WELDS SECURING THE FRONT DAMPER LOWER MOUNTING BRACKET COULD BE INADEQUATE RESULTING IN SEPARATION OF THE BRACKET.
2000 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 00V300000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ENGINE CAN START UP ON SIX OF THE TWELVE CYLINDERS. THIS IS DUE TO ONE OF THE TWO POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULES NOT OPERATING WITH ITS DESIGN SPECIFICATION. THIS CONDITION WILL BE EVIDENT BY A LACK OF ENGINE POWER AND OR SMOKE FROM THE EXHAUST TAIL PIPE.
Specifications
5.9 V12
5.9L 12-cylinder · 441 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2003