Stellantis has issued an urgent “Do Not Drive” warning for approximately 225,000 vehicles in the United States equipped with unrepaired Takata airbag inflators. Federal regulators say the defect can cause airbags to explode and send metal fragments into the cabin, creating a risk of serious injury or death.
The alert applies to certain older Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Mitsubishi models from 2003 through 2016. Owners are being told to stop driving affected vehicles immediately and arrange free repairs.
The directive marks the latest development in what regulators have described as the largest and most complex automotive safety recall in U.S. history. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 67 million Takata airbags have been recalled nationwide, with more than 100 million recalled worldwide over the past decade.
Stellantis said the action is intended to accelerate repairs on vehicles that remain unrepaired despite earlier recall campaigns. The company has already completed recall work on more than 6.6 million vehicles, representing about 95 percent of those recalled more than ten years ago.
Exploding Inflators Linked to Deaths and Hundreds of Injuries
The defect involves Takata airbag inflators that can degrade over time, particularly when exposed to prolonged heat and humidity. Stellantis stated that the chemical propellant inside certain inflators can break down, increasing the risk of rupture during deployment. When this happens, metal fragments may be propelled into the vehicle’s interior.
NHTSA reports that at least 28 deaths in the United States have been linked to defective Takata inflators. According to CBS News, the agency has also documented more than 400 injuries connected to exploding airbags. Regulators warn that even minor crashes can trigger a rupture.
The issue has affected numerous automakers since it first emerged in 2009. Reuters notes that hundreds of injuries across various brands have been attributed to inflators that can explode and unleash shrapnel inside vehicles. In 2024, Honda confirmed 20 U.S. deaths in its Honda and Acura vehicles tied to the defect.
A “Do Not Drive” alert is reserved for the most severe safety risks. According to NHTSA, such warnings are issued when a defect poses an immediate danger and the vehicle should not be driven until repairs are completed. Manufacturers typically provide free towing and repair services.
Models Affected and Steps Owners Should Take
The warning covers specific model years of the Dodge Ram (2003–2010), Dodge Durango (2004–2009), Dodge Dakota (2005–2011), Dodge Magnum (2005–2008), Dodge Charger (2006–2015), Chrysler Aspen (2007–2009), Dodge Challenger (2008–2014), Chrysler 300 (2005–2015), Jeep Wrangler (2007–2016), and Mitsubishi Raider (2006–2009).
Stellantis has instructed owners not to drive these vehicles until the defective airbags are replaced. According to the company’s statement reported by CBS News, the measure is aimed at safeguarding owners, their families, and the general public from the risk of serious injury or death.
Vehicle owners can check recall status by entering their Vehicle Identification Number on NHTSA’s website or through manufacturer recall platforms. CARFAX data shows that more than 5 million vehicles nationwide still carry defective Takata airbags more than a decade after the recall began.
