Stellantis Issues Critical 'Do Not Drive' Order for 225,000 Older US Vehicles

Detroit, Thursday, 12 February 2026.
On February 11, 2026, Stellantis issued a severe “Do Not Drive” warning for approximately 225,000 older Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles across the United States. This directive addresses the critical danger posed by defective Takata airbag inflators, which risk exploding and projecting metal shrapnel upon deployment—a defect already linked to 28 deaths nationally. Despite the automaker having successfully repaired 95% of the affected fleet over the last decade, this urgent move underscores the persistent operational and safety liabilities associated with the massive Takata recall. Owners of specific 2003–2016 models are advised to cease vehicle operation immediately, as the chemical propellant in these aging inflators degrades dangerously over time, significantly increasing the risk of fatal rupture.