This week has brought a flurry of challenges for Aston Martin's DBX model, as the luxury crossover faces not one, not two, but three separate recalls. These recalls collectively impact a substantial number of vehicles in the United States, totaling 3,632 units. Aston Martin, however, has not yet received any reports of accidents or injuries stemming from these identified issues.
The primary recall targets 2,902 DBX luxury crossovers, citing concerns regarding loose electrical cables within the battery fuse box. This critical issue presents the potential for various complications, including engine stalling, loss of headlights, and even power steering failure. Notably, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) reported instances where fortunate drivers were treated to the thrill of a battery warning message flashing on their instrument panels, injecting an unexpected dose of excitement into their driving experiences. Aston Martin even teased the possibility of additional surprises, such as smoke emanating from the vehicle's trunk or the unwelcome presence of unpleasant odors.
To address this issue, authorized dealers will undertake comprehensive corrective measures, including the removal of the three affected cables from threaded studs and a meticulous inspection of fuses and cables for any indications of damage. If any damage is identified, the affected components will be promptly replaced. Additionally, the replacement of serrated nuts with a flat nut, flat washer, and spring washer, accompanied by an increase in torque settings to 12Nm, will be implemented as part of the resolution process.
The second recall centers around a potentially catastrophic scenario involving an oil cooler hose prone to bursting, resulting in a sudden loss of oil pressure and potential engine damage. This alarming discovery followed a real-world incident on July 4, 2023, where an owner observed warning lights indicating low oil level and pressure, alongside the emergence of smoke from the engine compartment.
Prompted by these concerning developments, Aston Martin initiated an investigation which revealed that the failure stemmed from a split in the oil cooler hose while the vehicle was in motion. Further inquiry identified a change in the manufacturing process of the oil cooler hoses by the supplier, Imperial Auto Industries, as the root cause. This alteration introduced the risk of pit and pin marks forming on the inner wall of the component, consequently diminishing its pressure tolerance and increasing the likelihood of failure.
The potential consequences of these faulty hoses extend beyond mere inconvenience, as they could result in catastrophic engine seizure, posing a significant safety hazard to drivers and potentially leading to crashes or fires if oil contacts sufficiently hot surfaces. Unfortunately, all DBX707 models produced between October 11, 2022, and June 30, 2023 — totaling 720 vehicles in the U.S. — were outfitted with these defective hoses.
In response, Aston Martin has pledged to proactively address this issue by commencing outreach to affected DBX707 owners starting April 22. The company will undertake the replacement of all oil cooler hoses in affected vehicles, bearing the full cost of these corrective measures to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicles.