During the last months, Stellantis has taken a step forward to address one of the most reported incidents among owners of 1.5 BlueHDi diesel vehicles. The automotive group, in response to the increase in reported cases, has decided to extend the warranty and offer special coverage in Europe, including inspections and repairs related to possible defects in the camshaft chain of these engines manufactured between October 2017 and January 2023.
This decision comes after a significant number of affected units were identified in various European markets, such as France and, more recently, Spain. The chain, essential for precise engine valve timing, has shown in some models premature wear or loosening which caused metallic noises when starting or driving at low revs. If the problem isn't addressed in time, it can lead to serious engine failures that are very costly to repair.
What vehicles and models are involved in the campaign?
The review affects thousands of units distributed across the group's various brands, including Citroën, DS, Peugeot , Opel y FiatAccording to the firm, the inspection campaign is being carried out in waves, and owners will be notified by both the brands and a letter from the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT).
- Citroën: C3, C3 Aircross, C4, C4 Cactus, C4 Picasso, C4 SpaceTourer, C5 Aircross.
- Peugeot : 208, 2008, 308, 3008, 508, 5008.
- Opel: Corsa, Crossland X, Crossland, Mokka, Astra, Grandland X, Grandland.
- DS: DS 3, DS 3 Crossback, DS 4 II, DS 7 Crossback.
- Commercial models: Citroën Berlingo, SpaceTourer, Jumpy, Opel Zafira Life, Vivaro, Peugeot Traveler, Expert, Fiat Dobló, Scudo, and Toyota Proace/Proace City (through prior industrial agreements with PSA).
The campaign focuses on 1.5 BlueHDi engines manufactured from October 2017 to January or February 2023The purpose of the inspection is to check the condition of the chain. If a defect is detected, the part would be changed or the software would be reprogrammed, depending on the severity and diagnosis – which in many cases is carried out by paying attention to the noise generated by the engine.
What does the new special coverage consist of?
Stellantis' initiative covers 100% of the costs of the intervention associated with the repair or replacement of the camshaft chain, including parts and labor. This coverage applies to the affected vehicles. for a maximum period of 10 years or 240.000 kilometers, whichever comes first. In addition, the following apply: strict conditions: It is necessary to have followed the maintenance recommended by the manufacturer and, if the repair has been previously carried out, to be able to prove it with the corresponding documentation and invoices.
The covered operations must have been carried out between January 1, 2023, and June 30, 2025 in the official network of workshops for each brand, which may exclude those who opted for services outside the official circuit or did not keep the corresponding receipts.
Retroactive refund for affected users…
Stellantis has announced a retroactive refund system For owners who have suffered camshaft chain-related failures and have assumed the cost of repair within the period allowed by the manufacturer. Starting mid-July, applications can be processed through an online platform: stellantis-support.comThis resource is also available on the official websites of Citroën, DS, Opel, Fiat, and Peugeot.
To benefit from this refund, it is essential having respected the official maintenance guidelines and present supporting documentation. Lack of invoices or repairs performed outside the official network can impede the process, which has raised concerns among some homeowners.
Used vehicles purchased through Spoticar or the official dealer network are also eligible for the extended warranty, thanks to the Check+ certificate, which guarantees the same coverage conditions as a new car with similar characteristics. The measure aims to reduce uncertainty and offer greater confidence to used buyers, following the brand's previous actions to resolve mechanical problems in its range.
Source - Stellantis
Images | Stellantis