Aston Martin to Recall Over 6,000 Cars in US Over Door Lock Safety Issue
US safety regulators have ordered Aston Martin to recall 6,076 cars from 2010 to 2016 after its double-lock anti-theft system was found non-compliant with federal standards.
Aston Martin has been required by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to recall several of its cars after regulators found that the brand's double-lock anti-theft door system does not comply with US federal safety standards. The recall affects 6,076 vehicles in the United States, spanning a range of models and production years between 2010 and 2016.
Background to the Recall
Which Models Are Affected?
- 2010-2015 DB9
- 2010-2012 DBS
- 2010-2016 V8 Vantage
- 2012 Virage
- 2010-2016 Rapide
- 2014-2016 Vanquish
- 2011-2016 V12 Vantage
- 2012-2013 V12 Zagato
These models were sold in the US market and are now subject to the recall campaign. The affected cars were produced over several years, with specific model years varying by variant.
What Is the Double-Lock System?
The double-lock system in question is designed as an anti-theft measure. When activated, it prevents the doors from being opened from the inside, even if someone is inside the vehicle. The intent is to deter theft attempts by making it more difficult to open the car doors without the proper key or remote.
However, US federal regulations require that occupants must always be able to exit a vehicle from the inside, even if the anti-theft system is engaged. The NHTSA determined that Aston Martin's double-lock feature could trap occupants inside the car, increasing the risk of injury in emergencies such as a fire or crash.
Aston Martin’s Response
Aston Martin has argued that its double-lock system is compliant with European standards and does not pose a danger to passengers. The company highlighted that many of its vehicles are equipped with an interior motion sensor, which can detect movement inside a locked car and trigger the alarm if someone is present. Additionally, Aston Martin noted that the car horn remains operational and can be used in emergencies.
Despite these assurances, the NHTSA did not accept Aston Martin’s explanation and insisted that the double-lock feature be disabled in US-market vehicles. The recall is therefore focused on bringing these cars into compliance with US regulations, which prioritise the ability for occupants to exit the vehicle at any time.
Recall Process and Owner Information
The recall campaign is scheduled to begin on 1 August. Owners of affected Aston Martins will be contacted directly by the manufacturer. The remedy involves a software update at authorised dealers, which will disable the double-locking feature. This update is intended to ensure that doors can always be opened from the inside, in line with US safety standards.
The recall does not apply to vehicles outside the United States, as the issue arises from a difference between US and European regulations regarding door locking systems. In the US, federal safety standards take precedence over anti-theft design priorities, requiring that all doors remain openable from inside the vehicle at all times.
Consequences and Industry Context
This recall highlights the challenges faced by global car manufacturers in meeting different regulatory requirements across markets. While a feature may be considered safe and compliant in one region, it can be deemed unacceptable in another due to differing interpretations of safety priorities. Owners of the affected Aston Martins in the US will need to have the recall work completed to ensure their vehicles meet local safety standards and to avoid any potential risk to occupants.
