Faulty airbag alert: UAE drivers, get your cars checked

Free UAE replacement as manufacturer urges urgent GCC action on Takata recall

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2 MIN READ
A mechanic removes from a car an airbag module made by the Japanese airbag manufacturer Takata, in a garage in Mulhouse, eastern France, on February 19, 2025.
A mechanic removes from a car an airbag module made by the Japanese airbag manufacturer Takata, in a garage in Mulhouse, eastern France, on February 19, 2025.
AFP-SEBASTIEN BOZON

Dubai: If you drive certain models of Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, Ram, Citroën, Opel, or DS in the UAE, know that the manufacturer has issued a recall warning to those who drive certain models across the Middle East.

Stellantis Middle East has issued a fresh alert to UAE motorists as part of a global Takata airbag safety recall, urging vehicle owners to immediately check if their car is affected — and get the airbag replaced for free.

The faulty airbag inflators, made by Japanese supplier Takata, can explode during a crash and send metal fragments flying into the cabin. The danger worsens in hot and humid climates like the UAE, where components degrade faster. The risk? Severe injury or even death.

The recall affects millions of cars worldwide, and thousands across the UAE and wider Middle East, many over 10 years old — often sold second-hand or inherited, leaving current owners unaware of the life-threatening defect.

How to check if your vehicle is affected:

Owners should visit recall.stellantis.com/#/takata or Mopar Middle East and enter their VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). If listed, book a free airbag replacement at any authorized dealer.

Vehicles affected in UAE, GCC include:

  • Jeep Wrangler (2007–2016)

  • Dodge Charger, Challenger, Durango (2004–2015)

  • Chrysler 300 (2005–2015)

  • Ram 1500, 2500, 3500 (2003–2008)

  • Citroën C3, C4, DS3, DS5 and others (2011–2017)

  • Opel Astra, Mokka, Zafira, Signum, Vectra (2005–2018)

Stellantis stressed that repairs are completely free and appointments are available at local service centres. For Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or RAM, bookings can be made directly through Mopar Middle East.

Don’t wait – check your car today

With Dubai and other parts of the UAE facing peak summer heat, airbag deterioration risks are even higher. This recall could save your life or the lives of your passengers.

Justin is a personal finance author and seasoned business journalist with over a decade of experience. He makes it his mission to break down complex financial topics and make them clear, relatable, and relevant—helping everyday readers navigate today’s economy with confidence. Before returning to his Middle Eastern roots, where he was born and raised, Justin worked as a Business Correspondent at Reuters, reporting on equities and economic trends across both the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.

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