The consumer advocacy group Testachats has criticised Stellantis, manufacturers of Citroen vehicles, for its “disastrous” communication regarding faulty airbags in the C3 and DS3 models produced by the automaker up to 2019.
Following an order from the French Transport Minister, Citroën on Tuesday issued an immediate ‘stop drive’ for all vehicles fitted with airbags from the Takata brand.
Despite Stellantis Europe’s communication, the Belgian branch of the group has taken a different stance, informing drivers they may continue to use their vehicles as the recall proceeds, according to Testachats.
“We shall rapidly seek clear information from Stellantis on why a ‘stop drive’ is not enforced in Belgium and we shall also contact the relevant ministers,” said Julie Frère, spokesperson for the association. “Must a death occur in Belgium before a ‘stop drive’ is decided?”
Takata airbags have defective gas generators that may explode during an accident, projecting metal fragments and causing serious or fatal injuries. The risk is particularly high in hot, humid climates.
The first death linked to this defect was reported in 2009 in the United States, with a case noted in France as early as 2016. To date, over 40 deaths have been attributed to these airbags, despite the manufacturer’s knowledge of the risk.
In February 2025, Testachats sought clarification from Belgian authorities on their approach to this issue and requested clear communication from the manufacturer for Belgian consumers. The association also wrote to Stellantis seeking compensation for affected customers.
This case is among several disputes involving Stellantis in Belgium, including issues with the AdBlue system and PureTech 1.0 and 1.2 engines, all monitored by Testachats.
