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Over 100,000 drivers have been told to stop using their cars after Stellantis, one of the world’s biggest carmakers, issued a rare “do not drive” warning because of a dangerous airbag fault.
The alert affects certain Citroen C3 and DS3 models fitted with Takata airbags. Stellantis is urging anyone with these cars to stop driving them immediately. The move comes after a tragic incident in France where a woman died in June after a Takata airbag exploded in her 2014 Citroen C3.
The issue affects Citroen C3 models built between 2009 and 2016, and DS 3 models made from 2016 to 2019. Experts have warned that the airbags can explode when triggered, sending metal fragments into the cabin, which could cause serious injuries or even death.
These cars were already part of a recall that started over a year ago in Southern Europe, but Stellantis has now expanded the warning to the UK. While there haven’t been any confirmed incidents here yet, the company says it’s taking no chances and wants to protect drivers and passengers.
Owners will get a letter confirming if their vehicle is affected, but you can also check using the VIN tool on the Citroën UK website. If your car is included, Stellantis is asking you to register it so they can arrange the repair quickly.
The French government has also advised drivers to contact an approved garage as soon as possible for a free fix.
Some drivers have spoken out about how the sudden warning has disrupted their lives, having to wait months for fixes and not being offered a courtesy car in the meantime.
Stellantis has said it's working hard to speed things up, with extra support from suppliers, dealerships and factories to deal with the backlog and keep customers safe.
The Takata airbag problem has been a global issue for years. In the US alone, around 67 million airbags have already been recalled because of similar risks.
Find out if your car has any outstanding recalls here.
