Citroen has told UK C3 owners not to drive their cars because of a brake problem

Citroen has issued a very stern-sounding ‘stop-drive’ notice to owners of the new C3 and C3 Aircross.

It discovered some UK versions of both cars could be carrying a brake issue that in turn could result in the brakes not working properly.

“During our regular quality process checks, an investigation revealed that certain right-hand-drive Citroen C3 and Citroen C3 Aircross could have a pedal box assembly that is not to the correct specification and is at risk of loss of brake capability,” it said.

“If this were to happen, the automatic emergency braking (AEB) and the electronic parking brake would remain fully operational.

“We are initiating a stop-drive action to protect all customers of the Citroen C3 and C3 Aircross affected. Customers will be provided a replacement vehicle whilst their car is checked and, if necessary, rectified,” it added.

The Vauxhall Frontera is also affected by the same brake pedal box assembly issue, but because nobody has yet received their shiny new SUV, there’s no stop-drive notice on those.

It’s not the first recall Citroen has carried out this year. Earlier in 2025, it issued a stop-drive notice to owners of the Mk2 C3, the 2010-2012 C4, 2009-2019 DS3, 2010-2013 DS4, 2010-2015 DS5, and 2010-2017 C Zero, over a Takata airbag issue.

“Stellantis remains fully committed to acting swiftly, transparently, and responsibly in addressing this issue,” the statement added, “if any customer has any concerns they should contact customer services or their local retailer.”