2021 Aston Martin DBS Preventive Maintenance & Service Schedule

Key Takeaways

• Primary service interval: Every 12 months or 16,000 km (approximately 10,000 miles), whichever comes first
• Service coverage: The first five scheduled services are included (free of charge) on the 2021 DBS
• Brake fluid replacement: Included at the 20,000-mile (2-year) service and every 20,000 miles thereafter
• Spark plugs: Replacement is a significant service item for the V12; parts are compatible across Aston Martin V12 models
• Warranty: 3-year/unlimited mileage vehicle warranty from new; 10-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation warranty
• Service cost expectations: Major services range from approximately £1,230 to £1,450, with basic services from £720 to £840 after the included period

Factory Service Schedule

The 2021 Aston Martin DBS follows a structured maintenance schedule with service required every 12 months or 16,000 km (approximately 10,000 miles), whichever occurs first. This 5.2L twin-turbo V12 grand tourer demands regular attention to maintain its performance and sophisticated engineering.

Each service at an Aston Martin dealer includes a comprehensive factory 131-point maintenance procedure. The vehicle is protected by a 3-year/unlimited mileage vehicle warranty from new, with a 10-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation warranty. At the conclusion of the factory warranty period, Aston Martin offers extended warranty coverage available in 12 or 24-month durations.

Service Interval Summary

The maintenance schedule is divided into 10,000-mile/12-month intervals, with the first five services provided at no cost on the 2021 DBS.

Important: The first five scheduled services are included (free of charge) on the 2021 DBS.

Engine Oil Service

Oil Change Interval

The factory-recommended oil and filter change interval is every 16,000 km or 12 months, aligned with the primary service schedule. The 2021 DBS requires a synthetic oil change and filter replacement at each service interval.

Owner Oil Level Check

Aston Martin recommends checking the engine oil level regularly between services. Running the engine with oil below the lower mark or above the upper mark can cause serious engine damage. Only use high-quality fully synthetic oil meeting manufacturer specifications.

Brake Fluid Service

Replacement Interval

The factory maintenance schedule specifies brake fluid replacement at the 20,000-mile (2-year) service interval and every 20,000 miles thereafter. The 8th and 10th services also include brake fluid replacement.

This safety-critical service should not be deferred. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which reduces its boiling point and can lead to brake fade under hard use.

Cooling System Service

Coolant Replacement

The factory maintenance schedule specifies coolant replacement at the 6-year / 60,000-mile service. Always use the specified coolant type for the 5.2L V12 engine. The cooling system should be inspected at each regular service interval.

Owner Check Procedure

• The coolant level should be at the top of the reservoir tank
• Do not remove the filler cap until the system has cooled; scalding can be caused by escaping steam or coolant
• Use a cloth or glove to protect hands and face when checking coolant

Transmission Service

The DBS is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission featuring a rear mid-mounted ZF transaxle.

Transmission fluid replacement is included in the 6th service (60,000 miles/6 years). The transmission is a significant service item that should be performed according to the manufacturer's schedule to ensure longevity and performance. General guidance suggests transmission fluid changes are important for keeping the transmission operating at its best, as fluid becomes less effective over time and also acts as hydraulic fluid.

Rear Differential Service

Differential oil replacement is recommended for the DB9/DBS/DB11 generation at approximately 60,000 miles. The correct limited-slip additive is essential to ensure proper operation.

Ancillary Drive Belt Service

The ancillary drive belt is scheduled for replacement at the 30,000-mile (3-year) service interval. This is a critical maintenance item that should not be deferred, as belt failure can lead to loss of alternator, power steering, or air conditioning function.

Air Filter Service

Spark Plug Service

The V12 engine requires a total of 12 spark plugs, one per cylinder. The spark plug part number for the DBS Superleggera is CD33-12405-AA, which is compatible with the V12 engine and also fits multiple Aston Martin models including the Vanquish, DB11, DB9, Rapide S, and V12 Vantage.

The factory service schedule for the DBS specifies spark plug replacement at 70,000 miles according to Aston Martin service pricing documents. This is a significant service item, with V12 spark plug replacement priced at approximately £1,195 including VAT.

Spark plug replacement helps maintain peak power and performance, optimal fuel economy, and lower emissions by ensuring proper combustion. Common symptoms of worn spark plugs include misfires, hesitation during acceleration, and reduced fuel efficiency.

Extended Warranty and Service Plans

At the end of the 3-year factory warranty period, Aston Martin offers extended warranty coverage available in 12 or 24-month durations. An optional extended Premium service contract can extend from two years all the way out to 10 years with unlimited mileage.

The plans are available on road-going models less than 10 years old, subject to a multi-point Aston Martin inspection, with zero deductible. All services are performed by factory-trained technicians using genuine Aston Martin parts and even cover usage at official Aston Martin track events.

Both plans offer coverage of components including the engine, cooling system intercoolers, air conditioning, transmission, clutch, differential, wheel bearings, steering, suspension, and brakes, covering all the way down to the supercharger unit.

An alternative plan is available for cars between the ages of five and 10 years old, with unlimited mileage at a total aggregate claim limit of the maximum value of the vehicle.

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

Service Cost Expectations

The 2021 DBS benefits from free servicing for the first five scheduled services. Thereafter, service costs are as follows:

Timing Chain Information

The DBS features a timing chain rather than a timing belt. Unlike timing belts, timing chains are designed to last the life of the engine under normal driving conditions and do not require scheduled replacement.

Reliability Notes

The DBS is a high-performance grand tourer with sophisticated engineering. The transmission is from ZF and the electrical systems are from reputable sources. Regular maintenance according to the factory schedule is essential for long-term reliability and performance.