More car recalls impact many drivers in France
Hundreds of thousands of Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, DS Automobiles, and Opel vehicles are affected by engine problem
Stellantis is recalling cars equipped with a 1.5 BlueHDi (DV5) diesel engine
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Car manufacturer Stellantis is recalling some 636,000 vehicles in France and up to 930,700 across other European countries.
A spokesperson from news agency, Agence France-Presse (AFP) said the gradual recall concerns Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, DS Automobiles, and Opel cars produced between 2017 and 2023 that are equipped with a 1.5 BlueHDi (DV5) diesel engine.
Specific models include: Citroën C3, C4, Opel Corsa, Vauxhall Mokka, and Peugeot 208, 2008, 308.
These models are experiencing problems with the camshaft chain (also known as a timing belt) which regulates the opening and closing of intake and exhaust valves.
Some drivers report that the broken engines make creaking noises, comparable to the sound of crickets.
Read also: Over 77,000 Ford cars recalled in France over fuel leakage concern
How to check if your call has been recalled
Stellantis will directly contact affected owners.
No official list or verification tool has yet been made available however drivers can check if a vehicle has one of the potentially-affected engines by consulting the car’s information manual.
Extended engine warranty and refunds
Car garages use an application to analyse the condition of the camshaft chain before changing it if necessary.
Stellantis published a on July 3 announcing an extended warranty on these affected engines to 10 years or 240,000km.
Customers who have already dealt with the issue can apply for a reimbursement as of mid-July, “provided that the maintenance and diagnostics carried out on the vehicle comply with the brand's recommended guidelines”, the group said.
Concerned drivers should visit the , and follow the chatbot instructions at the side of the screen. Alternatively, visit the websites of the following car brands: Citroën, DS Automobiles, Opel/Vauxhall, Fiat and Peugeot.
Stellantis also says it will provide buyers of second-hand vehicles from the Spoticar and Stellantis authorised network with a ‘Check +’ certificate, which will allow them to benefit from the same special coverage as buyers of new vehicles.
The car manufacturer has faced numerous setbacks in recent years.
Drivers are also reminded to check whether their vehicle has been impacted by Takata airbag recalls.
The ‘stop drive’ campaign, targeting a total of 1.7 million drivers in France, asks owners not to use their vehicle due to the increased risk of potentially fatal accidents. Drivers are encouraged to get their vehicle repaired as soon as possible.