Do not drive alert issued to Citroen and DS owners | Tech News

Citroen and DS drivers have been warned not to drive their automobiles due to severe security issues involving harmful airbags. Tens of 1000’s of automobiles have been recalled after defective ‘Takata’ airbags have been present in a number of Citroen and DS fashions. The airbags can degrade over time and explode when deployed, sending sharp fragments into the car, placing drivers and passengers at risk.

The warning was first issued on June 20 by Stellantis, which owns each Citroen and DS. It initially utilized to 120,000 automobiles, however an further 10,000 have since been added to the recall listing. Drivers affected by the order have been instructed not to use their automobiles beneath any circumstances till they’re repaired. The defective airbags are thought of a vital security risk.

Money Saving Expert stories that Stellantis is offering two restore choices, both at native garages or by sending out groups to full the repair at people’s properties. 

However, many drivers have complained they’re nonetheless ready for repairs months after receiving the warning.

John Wright, 64, from close to Newcastle, instructed Money Saving Expert: “I immediately reached out to my local garage after getting the stop-drive letter, but they told me there were no spare parts, and still said the same weeks later.”

John, who depends on his car to get to work, added: “I’ve been having to go into work late and rely on the lads to pick me up and take me home. 

“It’s embarrassing. I can’t see my elderly parents as they live out in the sticks. It just feels like no-one is willing to help.”

Stellantis instructed MoneySavingExpert that the majority affected automobiles must be fixed by early October. 

But some owners say they’ve been instructed they gained’t get appointments till November or later.

Stellantis is now offering “goodwill payments” of up to £22 a day to cowl journey prices. 

This can be utilized for public transport, taxis or car rent, however provided that you present receipts. You could make a declare by calling 0800 917 9285, however solely after your vehicle has been repaired.

However, not everyone seems to be glad with the quantity.

David Hacker, a solicitor at Thackray Williams, stated: “£22 a day may cover some customers’ expenses, but not others. If it doesn’t, then they should be claiming the full amount. Keep receipts for everything.”

Lesley Parker, 58, from Yorkshire, stated she was “heartbroken” after being left with out a car for weeks. 

“My daughter is in Newcastle and it’s broken my heart not being able to see her,” she stated. “We usually see each other every weekend.”

Lesley was additionally supplied the £22 fee however says she didn’t keep receipts as a result of she was initially instructed no compensation could be paid.

The Government has stepped in after Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander raised “serious concerns” over how Stellantis is handling the recall. She urged the company to offer higher help to drivers.

Drivers can request a courtesy car, however some say they’ve been refused, with Stellantis blaming high demand. 

Stellantis stated it’s reviewing its processes and will offer help “where possible”.

If you are affected, you need to obtain a letter from Stellantis. You also can verify by contacting your native vendor or calling the helpline on 0800 917 9285.

• Citroen C4 (2010–2013)
• Citroen DS 4 (2010–2013)
• Citroen DS 5 (2010–2015)
• Citroen C-Zero (2010–2017)
• DS Automobiles DS 4 (2010–2017)
• DS Automobiles DS 5 (2010–2018)
• Citroen C3 second-generation (2009–2017)
• Citroen DS 3 (2009–2019)
• DS Automobiles DS 3 (2008–2019)

You also can call the Citroen helpline on 0800 093 9393 to ask about courtesy automobiles or additional help.