Engine Code

Aston Martin TB04-12 Engine (2020-2025) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Aston Martin TB04 — 12 is a 3,998 cc, twin — turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. Developed in collaboration with Mercedes — AMG as part of the M177 engine family, it features a 90° V8 configuration, DOHC 32 — valve heads, and hot — V turbocharging layout. In standard tune, it produces 405 kW (550 PS) and 685 Nm of torque, with outputs rising to 441 kW (600 PS) in higher — performance variants such as the DB11 AMR and DBS Superleggera.

Fitted to the DB11, DB

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All TB04-12-powered vehicles comply with Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).

Aston Martin TB04-12 Technical Specifications

The Aston Martin TB04-12 is a 3,998 cc twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring and SUV applications (2020–2025). It features a 90° aluminum block, DOHC 32-valve heads, and hot-V turbocharging with dual-scroll turbines to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive power delivery. Co-developed with Mercedes-AMG (M177 basis), it meets Euro 6d standards while supporting advanced thermal management and GPF integration.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
3,998 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve
Aspiration
Twin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke
83.0 mm × 92.0 mm
Power output
405–441 kW (550–600 PS)
Torque
685–800 Nm @ 2,000–4,500 rpm
Fuel system
Direct injection, Bosch MD17.8.12 ECU
Emissions standard
Euro 6d
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled, dual-circuit with integrated charge cooler
Turbocharger
Twin-scroll, hot-V layout (BorgWarner)
Timing system
Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts)
Oil type
Mobil 1 0W-40 (Aston Martin Specification WSS-M2C949-A2)
Dry weight
209 kg

Aston Martin TB04-12 Compatible Models

The Aston Martin TB04-12 was used across Aston Martin's VH and ML3 platforms with longitudinal mounting and co-developed with Mercedes-AMG as part of the M177 family. This engine received model-specific calibrations-intake tuning in the Vantage and revised exhaust manifolds in the DBS Superleggera-and from 2022 the DBX707 adopted the TB04-12 HP variant with higher boost and revised cam profiles, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2020-2025
Models:
DB11
Variants:
DB11 V8, DB11 V8 AMR
View Source
Aston Martin Group PT-2023
Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2020-2025
Models:
DBS Superleggera
Variants:
DBS Superleggera
View Source
Aston Martin Group PT-2023
Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2020-2025
Models:
Vantage
Variants:
Vantage, Vantage F1 Edition
View Source
Aston Martin Group PT-2023
Make:
Aston Martin
Years:
2020-2025
Models:
DBX
Variants:
DBX, DBX707
View Source
Aston Martin TIS Doc. TB04-DBX-001

Common Reliability Issues - ASTON-MARTIN TB04-12 Compatible Models

The TB04-12's primary reliability risk is intercooler hose detachment under high boost on pre-2021 DBX units, with elevated incidence during spirited driving. Internal Aston Martin service reports from 2021 indicated intermittent boost loss in early DBX models, while UK DVSA records show related fault codes contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Aggressive driving and infrequent inspections increase risk, making use of revised clamping hardware critical.

Intercooler hose detachment under boost
Symptoms: Sudden loss of power, boost pressure warning, whooshing noise, check engine light, fault codes P0299/P2262.
Cause: Insufficient clamping force on charge-air cooler hoses in early DBX models, leading to disconnection under high boost pressure.
Fix: Install revised hose clamps and verify routing per service bulletin TB-SIB-21-004; inspect all intake connections during routine service.
Oil consumption in high-mileage engines
Symptoms: Excessive oil usage (over 1 L/5,000 km), blue exhaust smoke under acceleration, carbon buildup in combustion chambers.
Cause: Wear in piston rings and turbocharger seals, particularly in engines with extended oil intervals or improper viscosity.
Fix: Verify oil type and service history; consider compression/leakdown test. Severe cases may require turbo rebuild or top-end overhaul.
Cooling system leaks and thermostat faults
Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, temperature fluctuations, heater inefficiency, steam from engine bay.
Cause: Age-related degradation of coolant hoses, radiator seams, and thermostat housing gaskets due to high underhood temperatures.
Fix: Inspect and replace coolant hoses, thermostat, and housing gasket; flush system and refill with OEM-spec coolant.
Throttle body motor wear
Symptoms: Limp mode, erratic idle, delayed throttle response, ECU fault codes related to throttle position sensor.
Cause: Carbon buildup and motor brush wear in electronic throttle bodies, especially in vehicles with infrequent maintenance.
Fix: Clean or replace throttle body; perform adaptation reset using OEM diagnostic system to restore proper operation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2020-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

ASTON-MARTIN TB04-12 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The TB04-12 is generally robust when properly maintained, but pre-2021 DBX models are prone to intercooler hose detachment under high boost. Later revisions (post-2021) improved clamping hardware. Regular oil changes with correct 0W-40 specification and cooling system maintenance are essential. Well-serviced engines can exceed 120,000 km without major issues.

The most frequent issues are intercooler hose detachment (especially in early DBX), oil consumption in high-mileage engines, cooling system leaks, and throttle body motor wear. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins and supported by dealer repair records.

The TB04-12 powers the DB11 V8 (2020–2025), DBS Superleggera (2020–2025), Vantage (2020–2025), and DBX (2020–2025), including the DBX707. It is co-developed with Mercedes-AMG (M177 basis) but features Aston Martin-specific calibration and intake systems.

Yes. ECU remapping can yield +30–50 kW gains safely. Intake and exhaust upgrades improve breathing. The stock turbochargers support up to 700 PS with supporting modifications. Tuning should preserve factory reliability and use high-octane fuel to prevent knock and protect the GPF.

Moderate for a high-performance twin-turbo V8. In a DB11 V8, expect ~14.8 L/100km (city) and ~9.3 L/100km (highway), or 19 mpg UK combined. The heavier DBX consumes more, around ~16.5 L/100km in mixed driving. Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style and fuel quality.

Yes. The TB04-12 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. Chain replacement is recommended every 120,000 km or 10 years, whichever comes first.

Aston Martin specifies Mobil 1 0W-40 meeting WSS-M2C949-A2 standard. Oil must be changed every 12,000 km or 1 year. Using incorrect oil can accelerate turbo bearing and chain wear due to the high-temperature, high-pressure environment of the twin-turbo V8.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

ASTON-MARTIN Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialASTON-MARTIN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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