Citroen and DS drivers have been warned not to drive their vehicles due to serious safety concerns involving dangerous airbags. Tens of thousands of cars have been recalled after faulty ‘Takata’ airbags were found in several Citroen and DS models. The airbags can degrade over time and explode when deployed, sending sharp fragments into the car, putting drivers and passengers at risk.
The warning was first issued on June 20 by Stellantis, which owns both Citroen and DS. It initially applied to 120,000 vehicles, but an extra 10,000 have since been added to the recall list. Drivers affected by the order have been told not to use their cars under any circumstances until they’re repaired. The faulty airbags are considered a critical safety risk.
Money Saving Expert reports that Stellantis is offering two repair options, either at local garages or by sending out teams to complete the fix at people’s homes.
However, many drivers have complained they are still waiting for repairs months after receiving the warning.
John Wright, 64, from near Newcastle, told Money Saving Expert: “I immediately reached out to my local garage after getting the stop-drive letter, but they told me there were no spare parts, and still said the same weeks later.”
John, who relies on his car to get to work, added: “I’ve been having to go into work late and rely on the lads to pick me up and take me home.
“It’s embarrassing. I can’t see my elderly parents as they live out in the sticks. It just feels like no-one is willing to help.”
Stellantis told MoneySavingExpert that most affected cars should be fixed by early October.
But some owners say they’ve been told they won’t get appointments until November or later.
Stellantis is now offering “goodwill payments” of up to £22 a day to cover travel costs.
This can be used for public transport, taxis or car hire, but only if you provide receipts. You can make a claim by calling 0800 917 9285, but only after your vehicle has been repaired.
However, not everyone is satisfied with the amount.
David Hacker, a solicitor at Thackray Williams, said: “£22 a day may cover some customers’ expenses, but not others. If it doesn’t, then they should be claiming the full amount. Keep receipts for everything.”
Lesley Parker, 58, from Yorkshire, said she was “heartbroken” after being left without a car for weeks.
“My daughter is in Newcastle and it’s broken my heart not being able to see her,” she said. “We usually see each other every weekend.”
Lesley was also offered the £22 payment but says she didn’t keep receipts because she was originally told no compensation would be paid.
The Government has stepped in after Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander raised “serious concerns” over how Stellantis is handling the recall. She urged the company to offer better support to drivers.
Drivers can request a courtesy car, but some say they’ve been refused, with Stellantis blaming high demand.
Stellantis said it is reviewing its processes and will offer support “where possible”.
If you’re affected, you should receive a letter from Stellantis. You can also check by contacting your local dealer or calling the helpline on 0800 917 9285.
- Citroen C4 (2010–2013)
- Citroen DS 4 (2010–2013)
- Citroen DS 5 (2010–2015)
- Citroen C-Zero (2010–2017)
- DS Automobiles DS 4 (2010–2017)
- DS Automobiles DS 5 (2010–2018)
- Citroen C3 second-generation (2009–2017)
- Citroen DS 3 (2009–2019)
- DS Automobiles DS 3 (2008–2019)
You can also call the Citroen helpline on 0800 093 9393 to ask about courtesy cars or further support.