Mortal airbags: Citroën orders “the immediate stop of its C3 and DS3 cars

After A first immobilization campaign in the south of France in 2024Then An extension to the north in early 2025Citroën is now constrained, under pressure from the Ministry of Transport, to extend the recall to the whole territory: all C3 and DS3 produced between 2008 and 2019, still equipped with not replaced Takata airbags, must be stopped without delay.

Citroën C3 and DS3: why 82,000 cars must be immobilized urgently

The alarm signal is not bureaucratic, it is tragic. On June 11, a Citroën C3 Involved in an accident in Reims has seen her airbag explode with such violence that the driver, 37, was killed by a metal flash. Her 13 -year -old daughter, who was installed at the front, was injured. This is not an isolated case: Takata airbags are known for their propensity to explode when they age, especially in wet or hot climates, an anomaly linked to ammonium nitrate used in their deployment mechanism.

The measure concerns the Citroën C3 and DS3 manufactured between 2008 and 2019, whose airbags have not yet been replaced. Stellantis, via its Citroën and DS brands, currently sends notifications by mail, SMS and telephone call. A dedicated site allows you to check if your vehicle is concerned via the wine number. And above all: in case of confirmation, do not drive anymore.

The manufacturer promises a free replacement of airbags in its concessions or at home, as well as the provision of loan vehicles – 35,000 are already mobilized. Problem: number of vehicles have changed owners and have not been contacted. To fill this lack, Stellantis works hand in hand with car insurers, supposed to facilitate the identification of current drivers.

Stellantis says that 70 % of the cars affected in France have been processed, but more than 200,000 vehicles are still to be corrected in Europe, including 82,000 in France. It is no longer a preventive reminder but an emergency withdrawal, officially validated by the repression of fraud (DGCCRF) and the ministerial authorities.

How to check if you are concerned:

1. Go to Citroën’s dedicated site Or contact your dealership with your wine number (appearing on the gray card, 17 characters starting with VF7 or VR7).
2. If you are concerned, immobilize your car immediately and request care (workshop or mobile).
3. Demand a courtesy vehicle if necessary.

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