The Transport Secretary has slammed major automotive manufacturer Stellantis over its vehicle recall process after more than 120,000 motorists were told not to operate their cars.
Heidi Alexander has written to Stellantis regarding her "serious concerns" about the "stop-drive" notice issued by the brand in June.
Stellantis warned that owners of certain Citroen and DS Automobiles vehicles could have faulty airbags installed, prompting the serious stop-drive order.
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The Takata-branded airbags can rupture in the event of a collision, which could cause shrapnel to fly out, potentially causing serious injuries and even deaths.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has criticised Stellantis for its handling of the stop-drive recall
|STELLANTIS/PA/THE CAR EXPERT
Stellantis announced the recall, which impacts more than 120,000 vehicles across the UK, and called on drivers to contact their local garage to replace the airbag.
While no incidents of any airbag issues have been identified in the UK, the recall was introduced after the death of a woman in France.
The Transport Secretary is now taking action against Citroen and DS Automobiles' parent company, Stellantis, by calling for "immediate steps" to improve the recall process.
Writing to Eurig Druce, UK group managing director of Stellantis, Ms Alexander said the manufacturer should ensure all impacted vehicle owners are provided with alternative options.
The Citroen C3 is included in the recall notice
| GETTYThis includes paying for courtesy cars, financial compensation or at-home repairs. The Labour MP for Swindon South said the current work being done was "not meeting expectations".
In a letter seen by the PA news agency, she added: "While I acknowledge and commend the pace at which Stellantis has initiated and progressed the recall programme, I must make clear that the level of disruption experienced by UK motorists - particularly the most vulnerable - is unacceptable."
Ms Alexander noted that she had received reports from Members of Parliament and their constituents, detailing the issues they faced with the recall.
She highlighted "distressing experiences, lack of clear guidance, and inadequate support for alternative transport arrangements".
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Repairs will be free, with the cost covered by the manufacturer | GETTYA Stellantis spokesperson said: “It is inevitable, with such a large number of vehicles affected, that customers could be inconvenienced in the short term. For each and every customer, we discuss options to support mobility, recognising that every driver has specific requirements.
“These options include replacement airbags at a dealership or at home, a courtesy car, support for other mobility options and recovery. We give priority to those with the most urgent needs."
It follows demands from consumer champion Which?, who called on the Government and the DVSA to put pressure on Stellantis for the benefit of impacted drivers.
The group said it had received numerous complaints from motorists, including some who couldn't visit the hospital for serious issues or travel to care for loved ones with illnesses.
A spokesperson for Citroen said it aimed to have all airbags replaced by the end of September and was making provisions to help motorists.
In the most recent update, the auto brand also extended the recall to a further 9,968 vehicles from Citroen and DS Automobiles.
DS Automobiles DS 3 models manufactured between 2016 and 2019 are also being recalled | STELLANTISImpacted vehicles included in the Stellantis recall
Citroen C4 manufactured between 2010 and 2011
DS 4 manufactured between 2010 and 2011
DS 5 manufactured between 2010 and 2013
Second-generation Citroen C3 manufactured between 2009 and 2016
Citroen DS 3 manufactured between 2009 and 2016
DS Automobiles DS 3 manufactured between 2016 and 2019
Citroen C4 manufactured between 2010 and 2018
Citroen DS4 manufactured between 2010 and 2018
Citroen DS5 manufactured between 2010 and 2018