Fire risk from models from major car manufacturer. Credit: Jack tamrong – Shutterstock
Many popular car brands are affected from mother company, Stellantis, one of the world’s largest automotive manufacturers, launching a major voluntary recall affecting 77,500 cars in Spain due to potential fire hazard in the engine compartment. Owners of vehicles from Peugeot, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Opel, Vauxhall, Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Jeep and Fiat now face urgent checks.
Stellantis has recorded 36 incidents worldwide connected to the insufficient spacing between the petrol particulate filter pipe and the 48-volt belt starter generator protective cover. Of these, 12 resulted in fires in the engine compartment of cars already in the hands of owners. No injuries have been reported from these events.
Models built between 2023 and 2026 affected
Production years from 2023 to 2026 has come under scrutiny across these brands. Sources close to the company have confirmed the action comes from design faults creating the issue, particularly in humid conditions.
Global scale reaches 700,000 hybrid vehicles
International reports indicate around 700,000 hybrid models worldwide require attention following announcements by Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority. Stellantis has stressed this proactive step addresses a manufacturing tolerance rather than any inherent engine fault. Water entering remains possible when moisture combines with the tight spacing, potentially leading to electrical arcing and overheating.
Owners asked to act quickly for free fix
Immediate contact with the affected vehicle owners will begin shortly. Drivers should schedule appointments at authorised dealerships without delay. Technicians will replace the belt starter generator cover with a better-insulated version and verify adequate spacing where required. Service time averages just 30 minutes and comes at no cost to customers, the company says.
What drivers need to know
This recall is another example of ongoing vigilance in hybrid vehicle production standards. Checking vehicle identification numbers through official channels offers the fastest confirmation of involvement. Proactive response minimises any risk while ensuring continued safe motoring for millions of European drivers.
Owners should use brand-specific recall lookup tools, as these provide the fastest and most accurate VIN-based checks:
- Peugeot: Visit the official Peugeot website for your country and navigate to the “Recall” or “Service” section.
- Citroën: Check via the Citroën owner portal or app.
- Opel / Vauxhall: Use the Opel or Vauxhall owner site recall checker.
- Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Lancia, DS Automobiles: Access the respective brand’s official website and locate the VIN recall search tool.
