Citroen has issued additional “stop driving” recalls on certain models produced between 2008 and 2017 due to an air bag safety issue. The notice is thought to affect around 1800 vehicles with drivers being contacted by Citroen Ireland. About half of the cars affected are private imports. 

The notice is for the Citroën C3 manufactured between 2009 and 2019 and DS3 first generation made between 2009-2019. 

It stems from a recall of airbag inflators from the company Takata which has also affected other manufacturers such as BMW. The chemicals in these Takata airbag inflators may deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to hot and humid climatic conditions. This can cause some inflators to rupture in case of a crash leading to airbag deployment, capable of causing serious injury or even fatality, in a worst-case scenario.

Stellantis is recalling all affected vehicles using a staggered approach, to ensure safety first and service all customers in the fastest and most efficient way. This means prioritisation for the oldest vehicles because of the behaviour of the chemical components overtime. 

Vehicles recalled are: 

• Citroën C3 Phase 2 (from 24.09.2008 to 21.02.2017)
• Citroën C4 (from 02.02.2010 to 20.05.2018)
• Citroën DS3 (from 05.12.2008 to 30.05.2019)
• Citroën DS4 (from 05.05.2010 to 03.02.2017)
• Citroën DS5 (from 30.06.2010 to 09.02.2018)
• Citroën C Zéro (from10.2010 to 02.2017)

Drivers can check the status of their vehicle by caring out a VIN check here. This will show if a car if a car has been recalled already or will be soon. Drivers of vehicles with a “stop drive” notice should not drive their cars and contact their local dealer for further advice.