Own a Citroen C4, DS4, or a DS5 built between 2009 and 2018? Stop driving immediately!
August 14, 2025 by Siobhan Doyle
Car changing is a big deal
Citroen C4, DS4, and DS5 owners: stop driving now. A potentially deadly airbag fault has triggered an urgent recall affecting models from 2009 to 2018.
If you drive a Citroen C4, DS4, or a DS5 manufactured between 2009 to 2018, Stellantis UK (that’s the company behind Citroen and DS) has added these models to its ‘stop-drive’ recall due to a serious airbag issue.
On 20 June, Citroen told 96,000 UK drivers to stop using their C3 and DS3 cars (built between 2009 and 2019) immediately. This is a “code red” safety recall – the most serious type, and something that’s rarely issued in the UK.
The warning came after a tragic incident in France earlier in June, when a woman was killed in a minor accident involving the car’s airbag.
So, why is there a recall?
The problem lies with Takata airbags, which have been at the centre of a massive global recall for years. These airbags can become dangerous over time – especially in older cars – because of a defect that can cause them to explode when deployed, sending sharp metal fragments into the car’s cabin.
What causes it? The inflators use a chemical (ammonium nitrate) that can break down over time, especially in hot and humid conditions – which makes them even more dangerous in certain climates.
This might sound dramatic, but it’s a very real risk. Tragically, these airbags have been linked to at least 28 deaths in the US and hundreds of injuries worldwide since 2009.
What cars are affected?
With some models now added, the cars involved in this UK stop-drive action include:
- Citroen C3 (second generation) – built from 2009 to 2016
- Citroen DS3 – built from 2009 to 2016
- DS Automobiles DS3 – built from 2016 to 2019
- Citroen C4 – built from 2010 to 2018
- Citroen DS4 – built from 2010 and 2017
- Citroen DS5 – built from 2010 to 2018
Fortunately, no incidents have happened in the UK so far, but Stellantis is taking action across Europe to prevent any further possible injuries or fatalities. The bottom line: if your car falls within these years and models, you shouldn’t drive it until you know whether it’s affected.
To date, Stellantis says that more than 66,000 C3 and DS3 cars have had their airbags replaced, meaning that over two-thirds of these vehicles are now safe and legal to drive.
So, what should you do?
Start by checking if your vehicle is part of the recall. It’s simple – just enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the Citroën UK website here: https://www.citroen.co.uk/maintain/safety-recall-check.html
If your car is impacted, don’t drive it unless absolutely necessary – even if everything seems fine. Instead, register your car through the website or call the Recall Helpline at 0800 917 9285 to get the ball rolling on a free repair. For extra help, you can also call Citroen Customer Care at 0800 093 9393.
Why is this happening now?
This recall has actually been going on for over a year, starting in southern Europe and slowly expanding north. As these cars get older and continue to be exposed to different weather conditions, especially humidity and heat, the risk increases. That’s why Stellantis has now decided to issue a stop-drive notice across the UK as a precautionary measure, especially with heatwaves expected to ripple through the country this summer.
It’s also a good reminder to keep your contact details updated with the DVLA, just in case you’ve moved recently or changed phone numbers. That way, you’ll always be in the loop if there’s a safety issue with your car.
This news might feel like a hassle, but it’s all about keeping you and your passengers safe. If you’re affected, Stellantis will handle the fix for free. The important thing is to check your VIN and act quickly.
Your car might seem fine, but this is one of those cases where waiting just isn’t worth the risk.
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Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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