Car Recall Alert: Risky Airbag Issue

Warning to Middle East Drivers: Recall Due to Dangerous Airbag Defect

Automaker Stellantis Middle East has initiated a recall campaign for several vehicle brands in the United Arab Emirates and the region, following the discovery that the affected cars may contain potentially dangerous Takata airbag inflators. The recall affects brands such as Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Citroën, DS Automobiles, and Opel – many models of which have been in use for over a decade.

What is the issue with the Takata airbag inflators?

The recall is prompted by the potential degradation of airbag inflators, manufactured by the Japanese company Takata, over time – especially in hot and humid climates like the Middle East. In an accident, this degradation could result in the airbag inflator rupturing and shooting sharp metal fragments into the cabin, causing severe, even fatal injuries.

According to Stellantis, many of these vehicles have been on the road for over a decade, meaning current owners might not be aware that their vehicle contains such a faulty airbag.

Affected Brands and Models

The following brands and models are included in the recall list:

Chrysler

300 (2005–2015)

Dodge

Magnum (2005)

Durango (2004–2009)

Dakota (2006–2008)

Charger (2006–2015)

Challenger (2008–2014)

Jeep

Wrangler (2007–2016)

Ram

Ram 1500 (2004–2008)

Ram 2500 (2003–2008)

Ram 3500 (2003–2008)

Citroën

C3 (2011–2017)

C4 (2012–2017)

C-Zero (2015)

DS Automobiles

DS3 (2011–2016)

DS4 (2011–2017)

DS5 (2013–2017)

Opel

Astra H (2005–2013)

Astra J (2010–2018)

Cascada (2014–2018)

Mokka (2013–2017)

Vectra C (2006–2008)

Zafira C (2013–2017)

Meriva B (2013–2015)

Signum (2007)

What can car owners do?

Stellantis urges car owners to promptly check their vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to determine if they are affected by the recall. This verification can be done at the following website: www.recall.stellantis.com/#/takata

Furthermore, owners of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM models can find information and schedule appointments on the Mopar Middle East website:

Mopar Middle East – Service & Parts

If a vehicle is affected, owners should promptly visit an authorized dealership to have the airbag replaced at no charge.

Why is prompt action important?

This is one of the largest global automotive safety recall campaigns, affecting the safety of millions. Most recalled models are older types, and it is possible that current owners are unaware of the danger. The faulty airbag shows no external signs – the risk is only revealed during an accident.

Summary

The unique climatic conditions of the Middle East – high temperatures and humidity – may exacerbate the faults of Takata airbag inflators. The recall by Stellantis can save lives. If you drive a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, Citroën, DS, or Opel vehicle and own any of the affected models, immediately check the VIN number and, after scheduling an appointment, have the replacement done.

(The article source is a Takata press release.)