Drivers of several Citroen models have been ordered to stop driving their cars over a potentially dangerous airbag fault.
The vehicles affected are second-generation Citroen C3s produced from 2009 to 2016 and first-generation DS3s manufactured from 2016 to 2019.
The French firm has issued a ‘Stop-Drive’ order after a recent report stated that a woman sustained fatal injuries caused by an airbag in a 2014 Citroen C3 in Reims, France, last year.
As a result, around 82,000 C3 and DS3 models have been removed from the road across France.

The vehicles use Takata airbag systems, which could be faulty. However, Stellantis UK said that there were no reported incidents of faults in the UK, but it has decided to take action regardless.
The car manufacturer in a recent statement said: “Stellantis UK is mobilising its full network of suppliers, retailers and manufacturing plant to support this action to ensure the fastest, safest and most convenient solution for each customer.
“Stellantis remains fully committed to acting swiftly, transparently, and responsibly in addressing this issue.”

Owners will be contacted by letter, or they can check whether their car is affected by using the VIN check tool on Citroen’s website.
You will need the vehicle identification number (VIN). You can find this:
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) said on Friday (June 20) that learner drivers can “claim a refund if they have to change or cancel their driving test at short notice” because of the recall of Citroën C3 and DS3 cars.
If you intend to take the test in a Citroën C3 or DS3, check if it’s affected on the Citroën website.
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“Do not drive your car until it has been repaired if it’s affected,” the DVSA states.
“You will need to get your car repaired before you can drive it again. This includes using it for your driving test.”
Those affected can apply for a refund for their driving test by 11.59pm on Sunday, July 20, 2025.
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