The recall problems at Stellantis don’t stop. Following issues with the PureTech gasoline engines and Takata airbags, the manufacturer is forced to recall nearly a million cars equipped with the 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engine. The timing chain has flaws and is prone to failure, which can potentially lead to an engine breakdown.
Some 930,700 vehicles are already concerned, built between 2017 and 2023. There are models concerned from Citroën (C3, C4), Opel (Corsa, Mokka), and Peugeot (208, 2008, 308).
The small diesel engine, 1.5 BlueHDI (codenamed DV5), is installed in many models because it is the standard installation for those who want a diesel engine in a smaller car from the French/German part of Stellantis, formerly PSA.
Chain break
There was a mounting feeling of anger among the owners of those cars who complained about noises or a ‘cricket song’ from their engines, apparently coming from the timing chain. This chain has a width of only 7 mm and will eventually be replaced with a stronger one of 8 mm width. A chain break can cause serious trouble in the engine, potentially damaging valves and other internal components. Reparations are costly.
Stellantis will contact all affected owners and request that they visit their dealer. There, a special application allows users to listen to the engine sound and analyze the degree of wear on the timing chain. The latter will be immediately replaced if necessary.
That’s why Stellantis has also prolonged the engine warranty up to ten years or 240,000 kilometers. The check-up and eventual replacement of the chain will be provided free of charge, and clients who have already experienced problems with their engine will be compensated “on the sole condition that the maintenance and diagnostics of the vehicle recommended by the manufacturer have been followed.”
There’s little doubt that the relentless chase for cost-cutting of the former PSA and (later) Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares has contributed to the current problems and recalls. The freshly appointed Stellantis CEO, Antonio Filosa, has made product liability and quality one of his main priorities.
In Belgium
In Belgium, approximately 117,000 cars are affected, built between October 2017 and January 2023, and equipped with the 1.5 BlueHDI engine. Customers who have already experienced problems can claim compensation starting in mid-July.
