The Land Rover Defender is being recalled over “overly brittle bolts” in the front and rear hub assemblies that could fracture.

LAND ROVER DEFENDER is being recalled because, “Certain fixings used in the front and rear hub assemblies may have overly brittle bolts installed. Should brittle bolts be present, there is a risk they could fracture,” Land Rover said in a statement.

The affected vehicles cover selected vehicles within the VIN range: SALLDWBR8FA461900 to SALLDHMP7FA464300, which includes: Defender 90 Station Wagon; Defender 110 Station Wagon; Defender 130 High Capacity Pick Up; and Defender 130 Crew Cab Pick Up.

According to Land Rover, “If the defect occurs, other bolt fixings may be damaged. In the case of the front brakes, the fixings could puncture the front brake disc. Wheel lock up or braking instability could significantly increase the risk of a crash”.

Land Rover said it is in the process of notifying customers and will instruct them to take their vehicles to a Land Rover authorised repairer who will replace all of the specific bolts within the wheel hub assembly. This will be completed on both front and rear wheels. If damage is observed the dealer will replace all associated components.