Citroen recalls C3 and DS3

Citroen Australia has issued a safety recall on its C3 and DS3 light cars after discovering a problem with the ABS/ESP system that could potentially affect steering control.

The recall affects 42 C3 and DS3 models that were sold nationally with Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) ranging from VF7SA5FV8BW631205 to VF7SA5FV8CW507478.

A statement published by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) confirmed that “one of the components of the hydraulic ABS/ESP block may have a non-conformity in comparison to the manufacturer's required specifications.”“This non-conformity may affect the operation of the ABS/ESP system. This may result in reduced steering control whilst braking.”Consumers who own a Citroen C3 or DS3 in the VIN range are encouraged to contact their authorised Citroen dealer to have the ABS/ESP block checked and replaced if required.

Citroen was forced to recall a number of its models last year, including the superseded C4 hatch after discovering brake assist problems that affected over 1500 vehicles.

The French car-maker also recalled 151 examples of its larger C5 model due to a potential windscreen wiper fault.

Citroen has enjoyed improved sales in the first five months of 2012 with overall sales up almost 25% on the same period last year. While larger models such as the C5 have stalled, the C3, DS3 and C4 small cars have experienced sales growth.