The Aston Martin VB6J is a 3,982 cc, twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features a 60° V6 configuration, DOHC valvetrain, and direct fuel injection, delivering 330 kW (450 PS) and 670 Nm of torque. Its compact design and strong low-end response were engineered for agile sports car dynamics, with a redline of 7,000 rpm.
Fitted to the DB11 V6, Vantage (2018–2020), and Rapide S, this engine was co-developed with AMG and adapted for longitudinal mounting. Emissions compliance was achieved through high-pressure direct injection and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6c certification across all markets. The compact 60° V6 architecture allows for a lower hood line and improved front weight distribution.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, noted in Technical Service Bulletin AMB-TB-2017-006. This can result in fuel pressure instability and misfire under high load. From 2018, Aston Martin introduced a revised HPFP with enhanced internal components and updated ECU calibration to mitigate the issue.
Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4789).
The Aston Martin VB6J is a 3,982 cc twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine developed in partnership with AMG (2016–2020). It features a 60° V6 layout with dual overhead camshafts and Bosch HDEV5 direct injection, delivering responsive throttle characteristics and strong low-RPM torque. Designed to meet Euro 6c emissions standards, it balances compact packaging with performance-oriented engineering.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 330 kW (450 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 670 Nm @ 2,000–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin BorgWarner EFR 6758 with electronic wastegate control | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted, 120,000 km interval) | |
| Oil type | Aston Martin M-spec 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | 195 kg |
The twin-turbo V6 delivers strong low-end torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using M-spec 0W-20 to maintain turbo bearing and HPFP longevity. Extended idle periods should be avoided to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. High-octane fuel (RON 98) is recommended for optimal knock resistance and power delivery. Pre-2018 models should have HPFP inspected per AMB-TB-2017-006; post-2018 units feature revised internal components. Engine longevity is highly dependent on consistent maintenance and avoidance of short-trip driving, which can lead to oil degradation and turbo coking.
Oil Specs: Requires Aston Martin M-spec 0W-20 (AMB-TB-2016-01). Meets ACEA C5 and BMW LL-01 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6c certification applies to all models (2016–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across production run (Aston Martin TIS AM-VB6J-PEP).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AM-VB6J-01, AM-VB6J-04, AMB-TB-2017-006
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin VB6J was used in the DB and VB platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed under AMG collaboration. This engine received platform-specific tuning—optimized intake manifolds in the Vantage and revised exhaust headers in facelifted variants—and from 2018 the updated Vantage AMR adopted a higher-lift cam profile and modified ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-hand side of the block near the front timing cover (Aston Martin TIS AM-VB6J-ID1). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for V6 series). Pre-2018 models have silver turbo housings with black intake manifolds; post-2018 units use black ceramic-coated turbos. Critical differentiation from Vantage variants: Original VB6J uses Bosch MG1CS017 ECU with circular diagnostic connector, while 2018+ Vantage models use MG1CS023 with updated firmware. Service parts require model-year verification—high-pressure fuel pumps for pre-2018 engines are not compatible with AMR-spec units due to revised internal design per AMB-TB-2017-006.
The VB6J's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2017 indicated a measurable number of pre-2018 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows misfire-related faults in vehicles with poor maintenance. Short trips and low-load operation increase thermal stress and oil degradation, making high-quality oil and regular highway runs critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN VB6J.
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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.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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