Authorities and Stellantis warn that the problem is related to the generator of the starter motor and require repairs for safety.

In France, roughly 212,000 vehicles produced from 2023 to 2026 are covered, with Peugeot making up more than half of the affected cars.

The defect stems from an insufficient gap between the gasoline particulate filter pipe and the belt drive generator, allowing water intrusion in wet conditions that can trigger an electrical arc and engine bay overheating.

Humidity can cause the fuel filter hose to contact the protection cap of the starter terminal, potentially triggering an arc and fire.

The corrective action involves adjusting the contact between the fuel filter tube and the protective cup of the 48V starter motor drive belt assembly, with repairs expected to take about 30 minutes.

The recall will include inspecting and, if needed, correcting the distance between the Fuel Injector (Gasoline Particulate Filter) tube and the protective cup of the 48V starter motor drive belt assembly.

In the worst case, the issue could pose a fire hazard in the engine compartment.

The recall specifically targets Mild Hybrid 1.2-liter PureTech engines, with active nationwide owner outreach in Germany and early repairs already underway.

Stellantis has launched a global recall affecting about 700,000 vehicles across several brands, including Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Jeep, due to a fire risk.

In Germany, more than 50,000 recalled vehicles are impacted, and owners are advised to check online with the KBA to verify eligibility for a free repair.

Owners have been notified and urged to contact their dealer for a free 30-minute repair to replace the protective cap with a larger cup and to inspect/adjust clearances between the fuel conduit, filter hose, and the BSG cap.