Stellantis UK issues immediate Stop Drive notice for Citroën C3 and DS 3 Models

Stellantis UK has launched an urgent Stop Drive directive affecting specific Citroën C3 and DS 3 vehicles manufactured between 2009 and 2019. This precautionary measure is being enforced due to critical defects identified in Takata-supplied driver airbag inflators, which may explode upon deployment, releasing sharp metal fragments that can cause serious injury or death. Around 500 vehicles are believed to still be on UK roads and owners are being instructed not to drive these cars under any circumstances until the defect has been rectified.

Underlying Risk: Degradation of Takata Airbag Components

The issue arises from long-term degradation of the airbag propellant, particularly in hot and humid conditions. While the UK climate is generally less extreme than in some other regions where deaths have occurred, the risk remains significant due to the age and design of the components involved. Inflators in the affected models use ammonium nitrate without a chemical drying agent, a combination known to be unstable over time. The global recall of Takata airbags has already led to numerous fatalities and injuries, prompting a coordinated international effort to remove these defective parts from service.

Stellantis’ Recall Response and Repair Process

In response, Stellantis has launched a national recall support campaign involving direct owner contact by post, telephone, SMS and email. Affected owners will be offered free vehicle recovery and repair through authorised dealerships. Where immediate repair is not feasible, Stellantis is also facilitating courtesy vehicles or replacement options to ensure customers are not left without transport. The defective airbag modules will be replaced with safe alternatives, restoring full driver protection. Owners can check their vehicle’s status by entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the Citroën or DS recall portals. For further assistance, customers may also contact Citroën on 0800 093 9393 or DS Automobiles on 0800 877 8455.

Image: Stellantis

MOT Restrictions and DVSA Enforcement

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is supporting this campaign by flagging affected vehicles as unsafe within MOT records. Any car subject to the Stop Drive order will be marked with a dangerous defect, automatically failing its MOT test until the airbag system is replaced and the vehicle is declared roadworthy again. This flag will also appear in the vehicle’s MOT history and may impact resale or trade-in value. Additionally, it is important to note that insurers may refuse coverage if the vehicle is knowingly operated while under a critical safety recall.

Impacted Vehicles: Citroën C3 and DS 3

This recall applies to specific variants of the Citroën C3 (A51 generation) and DS 3 models built between 2009 and 2019. Only vehicles equipped with the Takata PSPI-6 inflator are affected. Although the manufacturer has narrowed the scope to a precise production window and configuration, it is crucial that all owners within this model range verify their vehicle’s recall status immediately.

Legal and Safety Consequences of Non-Compliance

Owners who disregard the Stop Drive instruction risk facing serious legal and financial repercussions. Operating a known unsafe vehicle can invalidate insurance policies and, in the event of an accident, could lead to prosecution under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 or the Consumer Protection Act 1987. Beyond legal concerns, the real danger lies in the possibility of catastrophic airbag failure during a collision, which could have fatal consequences for the driver or other road users. Compliance with this recall is not optional—it is a necessary step to protect lives.

Manufacturer’s Statement on the Recall

Stellantis UK has reiterated its commitment to customer safety, stating: “Our primary concern is customer safety. We are working proactively to contact all affected vehicle owners and replace defective airbag modules as quickly as possible. We urge anyone who receives a Stop Drive notice to take immediate action and not use their vehicle.”

This reinforces the brand’s position as actively prioritising the safety of its customers and their passengers.

Long-Term Recall Strategy and Safety Monitoring

This action is part of a broader global initiative by Stellantis to identify, trace and rectify defective safety components in legacy vehicles. The group has implemented enhanced safety monitoring protocols across older model ranges and has created a dedicated Safety Action Monitoring Unit (SAMU) to support timely intervention. The unit will also oversee future recall procedures and ensure compliance with all domestic and international safety regulations.

Next Steps for Vehicle Owners

If you suspect your vehicle may be included in this recall, the first step is to locate your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can usually be found on the dashboard near the windscreen or inside the driver’s door frame. Enter this number on the official Citroën or DS recall checker website. If your vehicle is confirmed as affected, you should stop driving it immediately and contact the manufacturer to arrange for collection and repair. Retain all communication records as evidence for insurance and MOT documentation.

The Stellantis Stop Drive order highlights the importance of timely action in response to known vehicle safety defects. The airbag inflator issue presents a serious and immediate danger, and all affected owners must take urgent steps to secure repairs through official channels. With Stellantis offering full support—from vehicle recovery to courtesy cars—there is no reason to delay. Safety, compliance and peace of mind depend on swift cooperation.

Failure to act could lead not only to MOT failure or insurance issues, but potentially life-threatening consequences. For those unsure, checking your vehicle status today could save lives tomorrow.