Aston Martin’s ambitious new project with Honda appears to be encountering significant difficulties just days before the start of the Formula 1 season.

According to information reported by the Italian edition of Motorsport.com, the Silverstone-based team is currently struggling with major issues related to its new Honda power unit. Honda has become Aston Martin’s new engine supplier under the 2026 regulations, but the partnership is reportedly facing technical complications very early in its development.

The main concern is said to be strong vibrations coming from the internal combustion engine. These vibrations are believed to have a negative impact on the hybrid systems, which are a crucial part of the new generation of Formula 1 power units.

Because of these issues, Aston Martin was able to complete only a limited testing programme during pre-season preparations. Reliability concerns are therefore significant heading into the opening race weekend of the season.

According to the report, Aston Martin even briefly considered the possibility of skipping the first race of the season altogether. However, that option was ultimately rejected, mainly due to PR and commercial reasons.

Instead, the current objective is understood to be qualifying for the race and completing at least a few laps during the Australian Grand Prix.

If the reports prove accurate, it would represent a very difficult start to the season for a team that entered the new era of regulations with high ambitions and major expectations surrounding its new partnership with Honda.