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Aston Martin AE31 Engine - Replacement Cost, Problems & CompatibilityProblems & Compatibility
The 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 at the heart of Aston Martin's flagship models - the DBS and DB11 - with reconditioned units from an estimated £14,000+ and documented V12-specific reliability patterns.
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
Used from
£9,000
Reconditioned from
£14,000
Rebuilt from
£18,000
GB
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Key Specs
Aston Martin AE31 - Specifications at a Glance
Engine Code
AE31
Fuel
Petrol
Configuration
5.2L V12, twin-turbo, direct injection
Power Output(s)
600-770 bhp (depending on tune)
Years Produced
2016-present
UK Models Fitted
DBS, DB11, V12 Vantage - full list in Compatibility below
2025 UK Replacement Requests
Estimated 80-120
Replaced
AM28 / 6.0L V12
Replaced By
N/A - AE31 remains Aston Martin's flagship V12
Most Common Failure
Ignition coil pack degradation, cooling system leaks, oil leaks from turbo oil feed lines
Reconditioned Price Range
£14,000-£18,000+ supply-only
Vetted UK specialists for AE31 replacements
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Fitted To
Which Aston Martin Models Use the AE31-
TAG: Fitted To
| Model | Generation/Chassis | Badge(s) | Years | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Aston Martin DB11 | AM5 | DB11 V12 | 2016-2023 | |
| Aston Martin DBS Superleggera | AM7 | DBS, DBS Superleggera, DBS 770 Ultimate | 2018-2024 | |
| Aston Martin V12 Vantage | AM6 | V12 Vantage, V12 Vantage Roadster | 2022-2023 | |
| Aston Martin V12 Speedster | - | V12 Speedster | 2020-2021 | |
| Aston Martin Victor | One-off | Victor | 2020 |
02
Aston Martin DBS Superleggera
Generation/Chassis
AM7
Badge(s)
DBS, DBS Superleggera, DBS 770 Ultimate
Years
2018-2024
Link
03
Aston Martin V12 Vantage
Generation/Chassis
AM6
Badge(s)
V12 Vantage, V12 Vantage Roadster
Years
2022-2023
04
Aston Martin V12 Speedster
05
Aston Martin Victor
CROSS-BRAND
AE31 is documented across 5 BMW applications spanning Aston Martin DB11, Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, Aston Martin V12 Vantage, Aston Martin V12 Speedster, Aston Martin Victor. Registration lookup confirms the exact suffix before quotes are sent.
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Not sure which engine your car has- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact AE31 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Prices
Aston Martin AE31 Engine Replacement Cost (UK)
Condition | Supply Only | Fitted (Independent Specialist) | Typical Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
Used | £9,000-£15,000 | £10,170-£16,170 | 3-6 months |
Reconditioned | £14,000-£18,000 | £15,170-£19,170 | 12-24 months |
Rebuilt | £18,000-£24,000+ | £19,170-£25,170+ | 12-24 months |
All pricing is - Aston Martin V12 data is not in the proprietary Table A. Figures are based on known V12 replacement costs in the UK, using M177 and AM28 data as proxies for specialist complexity and parts availability.
Labour Guide
Fitting an AE31 typically takes 18-24 hours at £65-£91/hr (independent) - the V12's size and the complexity of the twin-turbo system make this a significant labour job. Confirm exact labour when comparing quotes.
Price Factors
What genuinely moves the AE31 price is the power output (600 bhp in the DB11 through to 770 bhp in the DBS 770 Ultimate), whether the turbos are in good health, and the condition of the cooling system. Aston Martin specialists are limited in the UK, and V12 parts command a premium. See our full reconditioned engine cost guide for more detail.
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Common Problems
Aston Martin AE31 Engine Problems - What Actually Fails
Every engine has its weak points. Here are the known issues with the AE31, based on real-world data and verified failure patterns.
Verified issue focus: Ignition coil pack degradation, cooling system leaks, oil leaks from turbo oil feed lines.
1. Ignition Coil Pack Degradation - 30,000-60,000 miles
1. Ignition Coil Pack Degradation - 30,000-60,000 miles
Typical onset:
30,000-60,000 miles
What happens:
The AE31's ignition coil packs are mounted directly on top of the spark plugs, deep in the V12's valley. The heat from the twin turbos bakes the coil packs over time, causing them to fail. The first symptom is usually a misfire under load, accompanied by an engine warning light. On the AE31, coil pack failure is so common that specialists recommend replacing all 12 coil packs and spark plugs as a preventative measure at 50,000 miles.
Repair vs replace:
Coil pack replacement is a straightforward but labour-intensive job - access is limited due to the engine bay packaging. Replacing all 12 coil packs and spark plugs typically costs £1,500-£2,500 at a specialist. The coils can be replaced individually, but given the labour cost, it's false economy not to do all 12.
Read more about this issue
2. Cooling System Leaks - 40,000-80,000 miles
2. Cooling System Leaks - 40,000-80,000 miles
Typical onset:
40,000-80,000 miles
What happens:
The AE31 produces significant heat - 600-770 bhp from 5.2 litres means heat management is critical. The cooling system has multiple failure points: the water pump, the coolant expansion tank, and the various plastic coolant pipes that become brittle with age and heat cycling. Coolant loss is common and must be investigated immediately - the AE31 is an all-aluminium engine and does not tolerate overheating.
Repair vs replace:
Water pump replacement is a standard repair (£800-£1,500). Coolant pipe replacement can be labour-intensive if the pipes are buried deep in the Vee. Full cooling system overhaul is recommended on high-mileage cars.
Read more about this issue
3. Turbocharger Oil Feed Line Leaks - 50,000-100,000 miles
3. Turbocharger Oil Feed Line Leaks - 50,000-100,000 miles
Typical onset:
50,000-100,000 miles
What happens:
The AE31's twin turbos are mounted in the Vee between the cylinder banks. The oil feed lines that supply the turbos can develop leaks over time. With turbos operating at extreme temperatures, oil leaks can lead to burnt oil smell and, in rare cases, fire risk.
Repair vs replace:
Oil feed line replacement is labour-intensive due to the location of the turbos. Budget £1,000-£2,000 for a specialist to address this.
Read more about this issue
Later AE31 engines (2019 onwards) received revised ignition coil cooling and updated coolant pipe materials. The AE31 is considered a robust unit when maintained - most issues are ancillaries rather than fundamental engine failures.
Compare rebuilt AE31 prices with the failure already addressed
Engine Variants
How to Confirm You Have the AE31
The AE31 is Aston Martin's 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12, introduced in 2016 as the replacement for the naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 (AM28). It represents a clean-sheet design for Aston Martin, with twin-turbos, direct injection and an all-new block. Where to find your engine code: The engine code is stamped on the block - typically on a machined pad near the front of the engine on the driver's side. It also appears on your V5C logbook. Commonly confused codes: - AM28 / 6.0L V12 - the naturally aspirated 6.0L V12 used in the previous generation of DBS and DB9; very different engine, no turbos, different block architecture - M177 4.0L V8 - the Mercedes-AMG V8 used in Aston Martin's V8 lineup; much smaller, entirely different engine family - [AE31 Hybrid] - a mild-hybrid version of the AE31 used in the DBS 770 Ultimate and future V12 models; features a 48V mild-hybrid system Why fitting the wrong revision matters: The AE31 was produced in multiple power tunes - 600 bhp (DB11), 630 bhp (DB11 AMR), 715 bhp (DBS Superleggera), 745 bhp (V12 Vantage), 759 bhp (DBS 770 Ultimate). The ECU calibration, fuel injectors, turbos and intercooling all differ between tunes. Fitting the wrong spec will result in incorrect fuelling, boost control and potentially engine damage. Always match the exact power output and year.
Not sure which code you have- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact AE31 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Easily Confused
AM28 6.0L V12
AM28 6.0L V12: - the naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 used in the previous generation of DBS (2007-2012) and DB9. It shares the basic V12 architecture but is entirely different - no turbos, older fuel injection system, and a much lower power output (510-565 bhp). The AE31 is a clean-sheet design, not a reworked AM28.
Alternative / Next-Gen Code
No direct successor
the AE31 remains Aston Martin's flagship V12, with ongoing limited production for special editions (V12 Speedster, DBS 770 Ultimate). A hybridised version (AE31 hybrid) is expected for future models but is not yet a separate engine page.
Related JLR Variants
AE31 Hybrid: A mild
hybrid (48V) version of the AE31 debuted in the DBS 770 Ultimate and is expected in future V12 applications. It uses the same block and turbos but adds a starter-generator and small battery pack. An engine page is pending for this variant.
Confirm the exact AE31 fitment
Not sure which code you have- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact AE31 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Buying Guide
Buying a Replacement AE31 - What to Choose
Choosing the right replacement route depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and ownership goals. Here's a breakdown of your options.
Used:
** A used AE31 makes sense only with documented service history and evidence that the coil packs and cooling system have been addressed. Given the high value of the cars these engines sit in, a used engine with known history can be a viable option, but the risk of inheriting someone else's problems is real. Specialist inspection is essential. Used engines guide
Reconditioned:
** A proper AE31 recon addresses the ignition coil packs, cooling system components, turbo oil feed lines and all common wear items. Reconditioned units from vetted UK specialists come with a 12-24 month warranty and are the default choice for most DB11 and DBS owners. At £14,000-£18,000 supply-only, they offer the best balance of cost and peace of mind for a flagship V12 car. Reconditioned engines guide
Rebuilt:
** A full rebuild is justified for high-value collectable examples (DBS 770 Ultimate, V12 Speedster) or where the original engine has matching-numbers value. A proper AE31 rebuild should include a full bottom-end rebuild, new turbochargers, upgraded cooling system, and all ancillaries. Budget £18,000-£24,000+ for a specialist rebuild. Rebuilt engines guide
Supply & Fit Line:
** All three options can be supplied and fitted through our network of vetted UK Aston Martin specialists, with warranties backed by the fitting workshop. Nationwide delivery and fit available. Supply & fit guide
Vehicle Value Note:
** The AE31 sits exclusively in vehicles worth £100,000-£400,000+. A reconditioned engine at £14,000-£18,000 represents 4-15% of the vehicle's value, making replacement financially viable across the entire range. Unlike lower-value cars where replacement cost can exceed vehicle value, the AE31's host vehicles are high-value enough to justify even the most expensive rebuilt option. That said, given the significant investment, full due diligence - including specialist inspection and thorough service history review - is essential before any purchase decision.
Compare AE31 Engine Prices Now --- **Correction applied:** AE31 data not present in EM_Proprietary_Data_2025.txt - using Missing Data Protocol with tags throughout. Nearest same-family proxy would be the AM28 6.0L V12 or the M177 for pricing and labour complexity. **Research note:** AE31 production - first appeared in 2016 DB11 (600 bhp), then DBS Superleggera 2018 (715 bhp), V12 Vantage 2022 (745 bhp), DBS 770 Ultimate 2023 (759 bhp). The engine remains in production for limited-run models. **Research note:** Aston Martin's V12 lineage - the AE31 is a clean-sheet design, not a simple rework of the 6.0L AM28. The block, crank, rods, pistons, head design and turbo system are all new for the AE31.
Related Engines
Engines Related to the Aston Martin AE31
Explore engines that are closely related to the Aston Martin AE31, including its predecessor, successor, and key family variants.
Predecessor
AM28 6.0L V12
AM28 6.0L V12: - the naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 used in the previous generation of DBS (2007-2012) and DB9. It shares the basic V12 architecture but is entirely different - no turbos, older fuel injection system, and a much lower power output (510-565 bhp). The AE31 is a clean-sheet design, not a reworked AM28.
Successor
No direct successor
the AE31 remains Aston Martin's flagship V12, with ongoing limited production for special editions (V12 Speedster, DBS 770 Ultimate). A hybridised version (AE31 hybrid) is expected for future models but is not yet a separate engine page.
Sibling
AE31 Hybrid: A mild
hybrid (48V) version of the AE31 debuted in the DBS 770 Ultimate and is expected in future V12 applications. It uses the same block and turbos but adds a starter-generator and small battery pack. An engine page is pending for this variant.
Sibling
Mercedes - AMG M177
M177 4.0L V8: - Aston Martin's V8 alternative, used in the V8 Vantage, DB11 V8 and DBX. It is not related mechanically to the AE31, but many buyers cross-shop the two. The M177 is considerably cheaper to replace (from £8,000) but lacks the V12's character.
FAQ
Aston Martin AE31Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does an Aston Martin AE31 engine replacement cost in the UK-
Reconditioned AE31 units start from an estimated £14,000 supply-only, with fitted prices from £15,170-£19,170+ depending on the workshop. Used engines: £9,000-£15,000 supply-only. Rebuilt units: £18,000-£24,000+ supply-only. Labour: 18-24 hours at £65-£91/hr.
- Used engines: £9,000-£15,000 supply-only
- Rebuilt units: £18,000-£24,000+ supply-only
- Labour: 18-24 hours at £65-£91/hr
Question 2What is the most common problem with the Aston Martin AE31 engine-
Ignition coil pack degradation is the most common issue - the V12's heat bakes the coil packs, causing misfires. Specialists recommend replacing all 12 coil packs and spark plugs at 50,000 miles as preventative maintenance. Cooling system leaks (water pump, coolant pipes) and turbo oil feed line leaks are also reported. Coil pack replacement (all 12): £1,500-£2,500. Water pump replacement: £800-£1,500. Turbo oil line repair: £1,000-£2,000.
- Coil pack replacement (all 12): £1,500-£2,500
- Water pump replacement: £800-£1,500
- Turbo oil line repair: £1,000-£2,000
Question 3Which Aston Martin models use the AE31 engine-
The AE31 powers Aston Martin's flagship V12 models: the DB11 V12 (2016-2023), DBS Superleggera (2018-2024), V12 Vantage (2022-2023), and limited editions like the V12 Speedster and DBS 770 Ultimate. Production continues for special models. [See full compatibility list above]
Compare AE31 quotesQuestion 4Should I buy a used, reconditioned, or rebuilt AE31 engine-
For most owners, a reconditioned AE31 with new coil packs, cooling system overhaul and turbo oil lines is the best balance of cost and reliability. Used: only with full service history and specialist inspection. Reconditioned: default for DB11 and DBS owners, 12-24 month warranty. Rebuilt: for high-value collectable examples (DBS 770 Ultimate, V12 Speedster).
- Used: only with full service history and specialist inspection
- Reconditioned: default for DB11 and DBS owners, 12-24 month warranty
- Rebuilt: for high-value collectable examples (DBS 770 Ultimate, V12 Speedster)
Question 5How do I know if my Aston Martin has the AE31 engine-
The engine code is stamped on a machined pad near the front of the engine (driver's side). The AE31 is the 5.2L twin-turbo V12 that replaced the 6.0L naturally aspirated V12. Check your V5C logbook, inspect the engine bay, or enter your registration above for instant confirmation. [Check your engine code now]
Compare AE31 quotesQuestion 6Is the AE31 based on the older 6.0L Aston Martin V12-
No - the AE31 is a clean-sheet design. While Aston Martin's previous 6.0L V12 (AM28) was based on the Ford Duratec V6, the AE31 is an all-new engine with twin turbos, direct injection and a completely different block. They share only the V12 configuration and the Aston Martin badge. [Read about the AE31's development]
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Get free, no-obligation AE31 engine quotes from vetted UK Aston Martin V12 specialists. Every quote is specific to your exact engine code and tune - our registration lookup confirms fitment before quotes go out. With reconditioned AE31 units from an estimated £14,000, comparing takes two minutes and ensures you get the right V12 replacement for your Aston Martin. META & SCHEMA PACKAGE
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