Stellantis recall: Engine damage threatens cars from Opel, Citroën, Fiat & Co.

Automaker Stellantis has launched a comprehensive recall in Germany . Approximately 141,700 diesel vehicles from various brands, including Opel, Peugeot, Citroën, DS Automobiles, and Fiat, are affected. The reason is a possible defect in the camshaft chain—a mechanical engine component—which, in the worst case, can lead to serious engine damage. Vehicle owners should therefore make an appointment at a workshop as soon as possible to have their vehicle checked.

Read here what you need to know now.

The focus is on models with the 1.5-liter BlueHDi diesel engine from the model years 2017 to 2023. These engines have been installed in several vehicle lines of the Peugeot, Citroën, Opel, DS Automobiles and Fiat brands.

Affected brands and models at a glance:

• Opel
• Peugeot
• Citroën
• DS Automobiles
• Fiat

Technical details:

• Engine: 1.5 liter BlueHDi diesel engine
• Years of construction: 2017 to 2023

Premature wear of the camshaft chain was detected in the affected engines. This can be noticeable through unusual noises such as rattling in the engine compartment or a loss of power. In the worst case, the chain can break, resulting in major engine damage. According to the manufacturer, the interaction of individual engine components would no longer be guaranteed, which could lead to significant damage to the vehicle.

Typical signs of a problem:

• Unusual engine noises (rattling)
• Loss of vehicle power

Function of the camshaft chain:

• Connects crankshaft and camshaft
• Controls opening and closing of valves
• Ensures precise timing in the engine

Stellantis has developed a special diagnostic app that analyzes engine noise during a workshop visit. If the app detects a problem with the chain, it will be replaced free of charge. Additionally, a software update will be installed at the workshop and an oil change will be performed if necessary. The app will also be part of regular maintenance in the future to detect potential problems early.

Stellantis will cover all costs for the repair of the camshaft chain and extend the warranty to up to ten years or 240,000 kilometers. Vehicles already repaired can receive retroactive reimbursement starting mid-July 2025. An online platform is available for this purpose at www.stellantis-support.com and on the websites of the Citroën, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Opel/Vauxhall, and Peugeot brands.

The most important points for those affected at a glance:

• Workshop visits (at authorized workshops) are free of charge for customers
• Stellantis covers parts and labor costs
• Warranty extension up to 10 years or 240,000 kilometers
• Retroactive reimbursement for repairs between 01.01.2023 and 30.06.2025, provided all requirements are met

Affected vehicle owners will be notified directly by Stellantis via letter or email. Car owners unsure about the recall can check with their dealer or on the respective brand's recall page to see if their vehicle is affected.

The urgency of the recall should not be underestimated – older models in particular, which carry a higher risk, should be brought to the workshop as a priority.