Aston Martin DB9 Oil Change: The Final Stages

So, you've successfully drained the old, tired oil from your magnificent Aston Martin DB9 and replaced that all-important oil filter. But what's next? The final stages of an oil change are just as critical as the initial draining, especially when it comes to ensuring your V12 powerhouse receives the correct amount of the right fluid. Let's dive into the meticulous process of refilling the oil in your DB9, making sure everything is perfectly topped up.

Refilling the Lifeblood: The Crucial Steps

Before you even think about reattaching that front under tray, it’s vital to refill the oil. Why? Because you need unobstructed access to the sump drain plug and the new oil filter to check for any potential leaks. Leaving the under tray off for this stage is non-negotiable. Remember, your new oil filter arrives empty, essentially creating a void within the engine's lubrication system. This means you'll be refilling in two distinct stages to allow the oil to properly saturate the filter and reach the sump.

The Right Brew: Oil Selection

For your Aston Martin DB9, the recommended lubricant is Mobil 1 synthetic 0W-40. It's advisable to have around 12 to 13 quarts of this high-performance oil on hand. Many owners opt to purchase three of the larger 5-quart containers online, often finding them at a reasonable price of approximately $26 each.

The Refill Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a breakdown of the process I’ve found effective:

1. Lay out an old rag, positioning it around the oil fill port. This is a simple but essential step to catch any stray drips and keep your engine bay clean.
2. Begin by adding approximately 11 quarts of the Mobil 1 0W-40.
3. Wait for 1-2 minutes. This crucial pause allows the freshly added oil to drain down into the sump.
4. Check the dipstick. Carefully add more oil, a little at a time, until the level reaches the maximum level mark. It cannot be stressed enough: do not overfill! Overfilling can lead to serious engine damage.
5. Start the engine and let it idle for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the oil to circulate throughout the engine and, importantly, to fill the new oil filter.
6. While the engine is running, get under the car (remember, the front under tray is still removed!) and meticulously check your sump drain plug and the oil filter for any signs of leaks. This is your prime opportunity to catch any issues before they escalate.
7. Shut off the engine and wait another 2-3 minutes. This waiting period allows the oil to settle back down into the sump after circulation.
8. Check the dipstick again. You'll notice the level has dropped slightly because the oil filter is now full. Carefully top up the oil once more, bringing the level precisely to the maximum mark on the dipstick.
9. Finally, replace the oil fill cap, use your rag to clean up any minor spills, and consider the oil refill complete!

The Dipstick Enigma: Understanding Your Level

You might have noticed a slight ambiguity regarding the exact quantity of oil – 12 or 13 quarts. This is a perfect moment to address a known issue with some original DB9 engines concerning potential oil starvation to the rear-most cylinders (cylinders 6 and 12). Aston Martin issued a Field Service Action (FSA) to address this, which involved fitting a shorter dipstick. This modification effectively meant keeping an extra quart of oil in the sump, presumably to mask the issue.

If you own a DB9 within the VIN range A00001 through A10286 (which includes early models like my car, A01936), it's imperative to ensure this FSA was completed by your dealer. Field Service Action FSA 165V2 was released in May 2008. To check if your dipstick is the updated version, look for the part number 4G4E-6750-AC on the opposite side of the max-min markings. If you're unsure, your dealer can confirm via the Aston Martin service database whether the FSA was performed on your specific vehicle.

[Updated January 4, 2017: For a more in-depth look at the FSA replacement dipstick and its specific length, refer to the detailed article available [here](link_to_your_detailed_article_on_FSA_dipstick).]

Visual Aid: The Refill Process

For those who prefer a visual demonstration, a short video showcasing the oil refilling process is available [here](link_to_your_video_on_oil_refill). Seeing the steps in action can be incredibly helpful.

What's Next?

With the oil refilled and checked for leaks, the next logical step is to reinstall the front under tray. This will secure everything and complete the underbody protection.

Bonus Features: Official Guidance

Aston Martin themselves have provided official guidance on checking your engine oil correctly through Service Bulletin SB251. This bulletin even specifies that the min/max marker on the dipstick should face the engine block when checking. It leaves no room for doubt about the proper procedure. You can consult the official Aston Martin Service Bulletin 251 on How to Check the Engine Oil [here](link_to_service_bulletin_251).

From the Owner's Manual: Engine Oil Specifications

Your Official Aston Martin Owner's Manual provides the definitive specifications for your DB9's engine oil:

Engine Oil Recommendations:

• Mobil 1 Recommended: 0W-40 and 0W-30
• Important Note: To achieve the required high performance of synthetic lubricants, do not mix them with mineral oils.

Engine Oil Specification Details:

• Preferred Oils: An oil of 0W-30 viscosity meeting Aston Martin specification WSS M2C9213-A/B, or a 0W-40 viscosity meeting Aston Martin specification WSS0M2C937-A.
• Alternative Oils (If Preferred Not Possible):
• For 0W-30:
• Authority Standard: API SL/SJ/EC/CF
• Authority Standard: ACEA A1/A5/B1/B5
• Authority Standard: ILSAC CF3
• For 0W-40:
• Authority Standard: API SL/SJ/EC/CF
• Authority Standard: ACEA A3/B3/B4
• Authority Standard: ILSAC CF3

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: How much oil does my Aston Martin DB9 take?
A1: The DB9 typically requires between 12-13 quarts of oil. However, it's crucial to check the dipstick and fill to the maximum level mark, especially if your vehicle has had the FSA 165V2 modification.

Q2: What type of oil is best for my DB9?
A2: Mobil 1 synthetic 0W-40 is the recommended oil. Alternatively, 0W-30 meeting specific Aston Martin specifications can be used.

Q3: Why is it important to refill oil in stages?
A3: Refilling in stages allows the oil to properly saturate the new, empty oil filter and ensures accurate reading on the dipstick, preventing overfilling.

Q4: What is Field Service Action FSA 165V2?
A4: FSA 165V2 was an Aston Martin service action to address potential oil starvation in early DB9 models by fitting a shorter dipstick, requiring an extra quart of oil.

Q5: How do I know if my DB9 has had the FSA 165V2 modification?
A5: Check your dipstick for part number 4G4E-6750-AC, or consult your Aston Martin dealer who can verify via the service database using your VIN.

By following these detailed steps and adhering to the manufacturer's specifications, you can ensure your Aston Martin DB9's engine remains perfectly lubricated and ready to deliver exhilarating performance.