Automotive giant Stellantis, the parent company of iconic car brands like Citroen, Peugeot, and Vauxhall, is currently embroiled in multiple widespread and highly criticized vehicle recalls that have left nearly 200,000 customers unable to safely drive their vehicles. These recalls have been described as "chaotic" by consumer protection organizations, leading to significant inconvenience and financial burdens for affected drivers.

The initial major recall affected approximately 120,000 Citroen C3 and DS3 models globally. An immediate and rare "stop-drive" order was issued for these vehicles due to a potentially fatal safety fault with their Takata airbags. Chemicals within these airbag inflators were found to deteriorate over time, posing a risk of rupture or serious injury upon deployment. While no incidents have yet been reported in the UK, the severity of the potential harm prompted the urgent measure.

Consumer protection organization Which? vehemently criticized Stellantis for its handling of this airbag recall, citing the "major upheaval" caused to customers. Many drivers were left stranded without alternative modes of transport, forced to incur significant expenses for car hire, taxis, or insurance. Which? reported instances of "many distressed drivers," including a mother of a premature baby needing regular hospital visits and a woman caring for her terminally ill husband, highlighting the severe personal impact. The organization also expressed concern over the lack of clarity regarding compensation for customers, noting that the maximum compensation rate of £22.50 per day offered by Stellantis was far below the general cost of hiring a car.

In response to the airbag crisis, Stellantis indicated it would review providing alternative transport on a "case-by-case basis," prioritizing those in greatest need. The company stated that its Citroen network is fully engaged in maximizing repair capacity, with the Peugeot network also authorized to replace airbags. Options offered to customers include replacement airbags at dealerships or at home, courtesy cars, support for other mobility options, and vehicle recovery. Citroen aims to have all affected airbags replaced by the end of the next month, advising owners to check their VIN on the Citroen UK website or contact their helplines.

Adding to Stellantis's woes, a second recall was announced just weeks later, affecting another 72,000 cars in the UK from brands including Peugeot, Citroen, Vauxhall, Alfa Romeo, DS Automobiles, Fiat, and Jeep. This latest recall addresses a potential issue with high-pressure fuel pipes, where loose nuts can lead to fuel leaks and, in a worst-case scenario, an engine bay fire. This decision followed 11 reports of vehicles catching fire in France. While this new issue means thousands more drivers face arranging repairs, Stellantis insists the fix involves simply retightening nuts and screws, takes under 30 minutes, and is free of charge.

The cumulative impact of these recalls has intensified pressure on Stellantis, with dealers reportedly under "immense pressure." Which? reiterated its criticism, pointing out that some drivers in the earlier airbag recall were told repairs could take until 2026, leaving them stranded or forced to continue driving unsafe vehicles. Safety officials had warned that the airbags could explode "in an uncontrolled manner," posing serious risks. The Department for Transport has affirmed its active engagement with manufacturers and industry leaders, monitoring Stellantis's recall processes to ensure driver safety remains the top priority and to minimize disruption for affected motorists. These incidents also occur amidst a broader trend of major automotive recalls seen recently across the industry, including those from BMW, Ford, and Toyota, underscoring systemic challenges in vehicle safety and quality control.