Stellantis recalls over 600,000 cars in Europe for serious engine issue

In early 2023, the automotive manufacturer Stellantis announced a significant recall of diesel vehicles produced across Europe, specifically between October 2017 and January 2023. The recall affected several brands under Stellantis, including Peugeot, Citroën, Opel/Vauxhall, DS, and Fiat. The company revealed that approximately 636,000 vehicles in France were impacted, with additional reports indicating 117,000 affected cars in Belgium. The issue stemmed from a potential failure of the camshaft chain, which could lead to premature wear, resulting in abnormal engine noises and possible engine failure in severe cases. Stellantis, formed through the merger of PSA and Fiat Chrysler in 2021, stated that they were unaware of any accidents or injuries related to this engine problem. As part of their response, the company is offering a rework that includes a software update and potentially an oil change where necessary. They have also created a specialized repair application intended to identify issues with the camshaft chain by analyzing the engine noise, thereby helping technicians to quickly and effectively address the potential problem. The company further pledged to cover 100% of parts and labor costs associated with repairs under an enhanced policy for up to ten years or 240,000 kilometers, provided that repairs are completed by authorized service centers and that the vehicle has followed the brand’s maintenance guidelines. This policy, available for eligible vehicles, can make a significant difference in customer trust and loyalty, especially when such substantial numbers of vehicles are affected by a potential safety issue. The ongoing concern about vehicle recalls and automotive safety has been brought to light again with this massive recall. Recalls can have far-reaching implications for manufacturers, impacting both their financial performance and consumer perception. For Stellantis, managing the situation effectively is crucial in maintaining public confidence, especially in an increasingly competitive automotive market. Their commitment to covering repair costs demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing consumer concerns and should help minimize potential fallout from this recall.