Urgent ‘stop driving’ recall announced for numerous Opel, Citroen, Chrysler and Jeep products in SA
The recall affects numerous older-generation models, including Opel Astras.
Image: Supplied
The long-standing Takata airbag saga has taken another twist, with auto giant Stellantis having ordered an “urgent” recall on numerous Opel, Citroen, Jeep and Chrysler vehicles built between 2008 and 2018.
“Stellantis South Africa is issuing an urgent Stop-Drive safety warning for selected Stellantis-owned brands,” the company announced on Thursday. “This directive forms part of the global Takata airbag recall, which continues to affect multiple manufacturers worldwide.”
Airbag inflators produced by Takata have been shown to deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to hot and humid climates. Under such conditions, the inflators may explode when the airbags deploy, projecting metal fragments that can cause serious injury or even death.
Worldwide, Takata airbags have reportedly been linked to over 30 deaths and hundreds of injuries, mainly affecting Honda vehicles, although other brands such as Toyota, GM and Stellantis have also recalled cars fitted with these airbags. The first recalls were announced in 2013.
The once-popular Citroen DS3 is among those affected.
Image: Supplied
Worryingly, Stellantis has urged all owners of affected vehicles to immediately stop driving their vehicles and to contact their nearest Stellantis dealership, or phone 0860 738 472. Airbag repairs will be carried out free of charge, the company said.
To make the process easier for customers, Stellantis has set up an online ‘VIN Check tool’, which allows owners to verify whether their vehicle is affected by entering their vehicle identification number (VIN).
Which Stellantis cars are potentially affected by the Takata recall in South Africa?
Citroën:
- Citroën C3 Phase 2 (24.09.2008-21.02.2017)
- Citroën C4 (02.02.2010-20.05.2018)
- Citroën DS3 (05.12.2008-30.05.2019)
- Citroën DS4 (05.05.2010-3.02.2017)
- Citroën DS5 (30.06.2010-09.02.2018)
- Citroën C Zéro (10.2010-02.2017)
Chrysler:
- Chrysler 300 (2004-2016)
- Chrysler Aspen (2007-2009)
- Chrysler Crossfire (2007-2008)
Jeep:
- Jeep Wrangler (2007-2016)
Opel:
- Opel Astra (03.01.2005-11.06.2014)
- Opel Cascada (08.05.2012-22.08.2018)
- Opel Meriva (05.02.2009-24.03.2017)
- Opel Mokka (15.12.2011-06.06.2018)
- Opel Vectra (04.07.2003-10.10.2008)
- Opel Zafira (25.02.2011-26.07.2016)
- Opel Astra 10 (24.02.2009-23.08.2018)
- Opel Signum (16.02.2005-19.06.2008)
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