Stellantis has initiated a massive global recall affecting 700,000 hybrid vehicles due to a fire risk. The recall, announced today, impacts popular brands under the Stellantis umbrella, including Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Jeep. The issue stems from a defect in the 1.2-litre mild-hybrid powertrain, which could cause engine fires .
Global Scope and Impact
The recall spans multiple continents. Over 50,000 vehicles are in Germany, while France sees a recall of 212,000 vehicles, over half of which are Peugeot models . The affected vehicles were produced between mid-2023 and early 2026, as confirmed by Germany's vehicle regulator, Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt . The recall underscores the challenges faced by the automotive industry in ensuring the safety of new technologies, particularly in hybrid vehicles .
Details of the Fire Risk
The fire risk is linked to a defect in the 1.2-litre mild-hybrid powertrain, specifically involving contact between the petrol engine's GPF pipe and the starter-generator belt. This issue can cause fires in the engine compartment, posing a significant safety hazard. The recall extends to brands including Opel-Vauxhall, Lancia, and DS, in addition to the previously mentioned marques . The recall was disclosed by Germany's vehicle regulator, Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt, which stated that the issue affects hybrid vehicles produced between 2023 and 2026 .
The Immediate Steps for Owners
Owners of affected models should immediately check if their vehicles are part of the recall. In the UK, over 70,000 cars from 28 model ranges across the Stellantis group were recalled in August 2025 due to a similar fire risk . The company has set up a helpline for affected customers and advises owners to stop using their vehicles until the necessary repairs are made. The recall affects a wide range of cars, from compact models to larger SUVs, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue .
“We deeply regret the inconvenience caused to our customers and are committed to resolving this issue swiftly,” stated a Stellantis spokesperson, emphasizing the company's focus on safety .
The Next Steps and Future Implications
Stellantis is working diligently to address the issue. The company has launched a thorough investigation into the cause of the defect and is cooperating with regulatory authorities to ensure the safety of its vehicles. The recall serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in the development and deployment of hybrid technologies. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, ensuring the safety and reliability of new technologies remains a critical priority. The next significant deadline for Stellantis is the completion of repairs for all affected vehicles, a process that is expected to take several months .
As Stellantis works to resolve the recall, the next significant deadline for the company is the completion of repairs for all affected vehicles, a process that is expected to take several months .
