Opel and Citroën Issue Takata Airbag Recall: Are You Affected?
What Is the Takata Airbag Recall?
The Takata airbag recall is the largest automotive safety recall in history, affecting over 100 million vehicles worldwide across dozens of manufacturers. The inflator inside the airbag can rupture when deployed, sending metal shrapnel into the cabin — causing serious injury or death even in otherwise minor collisions.
Which Opel and Citroën Models Are Affected?
The latest recall notice covers specific Opel and Citroën vehicles fitted with Takata PSAN (Phase-Stabilised Ammonium Nitrate) inflators. High humidity and temperature fluctuations accelerate the degradation of these inflators, making older vehicles in warmer climates particularly at risk.
Affected owners should check their vehicle identification number (VIN) using the official recall checker tools provided by each manufacturer. Do not wait for a letter — use the online checker immediately.
How to Check If Your Vehicle Is Affected
- Visit the official Opel/Vauxhall recall checker at opel.com/recall
- Visit the Citroën recall checker at citroen.com/recall
- Use the European recall portal: ec.europa.eu/consumers/safety
- Enter your full 17-character VIN (found on your registration document or door frame)
What Should You Do?
If your vehicle is listed in the recall, contact your nearest authorised dealer immediately. The repair is carried out free of charge regardless of the vehicle age or mileage. Until the repair is completed, minimise use of the affected vehicle — particularly with passengers in front seats.
Background: The Takata Story
Takata Corporation, once the world's second-largest airbag manufacturer, filed for bankruptcy in 2017 after the scale of the defect became clear. The fault lies in the PSAN propellant used in the inflator — over time, moisture causes it to combust too aggressively, rupturing the metal canister. At least 27 deaths and over 400 injuries have been attributed to Takata inflator failures globally.
Source
This recall information is based on official manufacturer announcements. Always verify your specific vehicle using the manufacturer's official recall checker.