Key Summary:
Citroën Ireland has issued an urgent “stop‑drive” recall for certain Citroën C3, C‑Zero, and DS 3 models due to a serious Takata airbag defect. Affected claimants, numbering over 1,800 vehicles, are advised not to drive until the airbags are replaced at no cost. This blog explains why the recall is happening, what to do if you’re affected, and how LM Operations can support you through the process.
What’s Going On – Why You Must Stop Driving Orange-Light
Your Quick Action Steps – Stay Safe, Stay Informed
What’s Behind the Recall Delays?
Impact On Drivers: What It Means for You
What’s Going On – Why You Must Stop Driving Orange-Light
Earlier in June 2025, Citroën’s parent company Stellantis extended a Europe-wide stop-drive order for models including Citroën C3 and DS 3 produced between 2009 and 2019 due to a critical airbag defect.
In Ireland specifically, Gowan Distributors Limited, the official importer, confirmed the recall affects:
- 1,162 Citroën vehicles (C3 & C‑Zero, 2008–2017)
- 707 DS 3 models (2016–2019)
The defect? The Takata airbag inflator may degrade over time, especially in warm, humid climates, and could explode violently, sending metal fragments into the cabin during deployment. That’s a real risk of serious injury or worse
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) joined the warning, urging affected owners to stop driving immediately and arrange replacement airbag service with a Citroën/DS dealership
Your Quick Action Steps — Stay Safe, Stay Informed
- Don’t drive the vehicle; taking even awareness drives could be dangerous.
- Check your car’s status using the VIN lookup on Citroën Ireland’s website: models flagged with codes like “MK7”, “NQ3”, or “GCD” are affected.
- Contact your local dealership. They are obligated to book you in for a free repair, including airbag replacement.
- Arrange safe transport; don’t drive to the dealership. Liability issues and safety risks make dealership pickup or towing the smarter option
- Document everything; keep copies of your VIN check, correspondence, and repair booking. This helps with any future claims or reimbursement.
Source: https://www.citroen.ie/maintain/recall-campaigns.html
What’s Behind the Recall Delays?
While Stellantis says replacement takes around 90 minutes, the volume of affected cars has overwhelmed dealers. Some Irish owners may face weeks or even months of waiting, pushing into early 2026 in extreme cases.
Stellantis is responding by mobilising more service centres, enabling mobile repairs, and prioritising urgent cases like those with medical or professional needs.
Impact on Drivers: What It Means for You
- Safety first; airbags are supposed to save lives, but these have turned into serious risks.
- Transport disruption; you could be without a car for days or weeks.
- Unauthorised use risks insurance: driving a vehicle currently under a stop-drive notice may invalidate insurance or put you at fault in the event of a crash.
- Potential compensation, right? Legal experts suggest compensation may be possible for those who can prove extra costs or unsafe circumstances, but acting now and keeping documentation is key
How LM Operations Can Help You Right Now
If you’re an LM Operations customer and this recall has left you without wheels, we are ready to support you. We can help source a courtesy car or affordable replacement while your Citroën or DS is being fixed.
Final Word: Safety Doesn’t Wait
This isn’t just a checkbox recall; it’s urgent and potentially life-saving. If you’re unsure whether your Citroën or DS is affected, take two minutes now to check your VIN online. Don’t wait for a letter or call.