Drivers urged to stop using affected vehicles and contact Stellantis immediately. Picture Credits: Shutterstock
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa – Stellantis has issued an urgent safety recall affecting 21 models across five of its brands in South Africa, as part of the ongoing global Takata airbag campaign.
The affected marques include Citroën, DS, Chrysler, Jeep, and Opel. Stellantis warns that the Takata airbag inflators may deteriorate over time, particularly in hot and humid conditions, potentially causing them to explode during deployment and project metal fragments capable of causing serious injury or death.
All owners of the affected vehicles are urged to immediately stop driving and contact Stellantis to arrange for repairs, which will be carried out free of charge. Stellantis has launched an online VIN Check tool at https://www.recall.stellantis.com/#/takata, allowing owners to confirm if their vehicle is affected. Customers can also call 0860 738 472.
Affected Stellantis Models: Citroën: C3 Phase 2 (2008–2017), C4 (2010–2018), DS3 (2008–2019), DS4 (2010–2017), DS5 (2010–2018), C Zéro (2010–2017)
DS: DS3 (2008–2019), DS4 (2010–2017), DS5 (2010–2018)
Chrysler: 300 (2004–2016), Aspen (2007–2009), Crossfire (2007–2008)
Jeep: Wrangler (2007–2016)
Opel: Signum (2005–2008), Astra (2005–2014), Cascada (2012–2018), Meriva (2009–2017), Mokka (2011–2018), Vectra (2003–2008), Zafira (2011–2016), Astra 10 (2009–2018)
Toyota’s Ongoing Recall Campaign: Toyota South Africa has also warned of low compliance rates for its Takata airbag recalls across Toyota, Lexus, and Hino brands. Despite safety notices, only 39% of affected vehicles have been repaired. The recall covers models including the Corolla (2002–2017), RAV4 (2003–2005), Fortuner (2005–2015), Hilux (2004–2015), Yaris (2005–2017), Lexus IS (2006–2012), and Hino 300 Series (2011–2017).
Toyota South Africa CEO Andrew Kirby emphasised the importance of these safety measures: “I encourage all our customers to heed the call for this proactive safety-critical measure with urgency. Additionally, we ask for all stakeholder’s support to help us reach our 100% target,” said Kirby.
Vehicle owners are reminded that airbag recalls are vitally important for their safety and the safety of all road users.
