Thousands of Vauxhall owners told stop driving due to issue

Stellantis UK, Vauxhall's parent company, issued the stop-drive instruction for certain vehicles fitted with Takata airbags, which were already part of a recall.

Vauxhall says the airbag inflator can degrade over time in high heat and humidity and may explode with excessive force in a crash, causing serious injury or death.

Law firm Bond Turner estimates the recall affects 320,000 vehicles and is investigating potential claims over motorists' losses.

The firm's estimate is not a confirmed count of vehicles currently subject to the stop-drive instruction.

Vauxhall says drivers who receive a stop-drive warning should stop using the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

Its recall page lists the following models under the stop-drive action: Astra Hatch (2005 to 2015), Astra Van (2006 to 2013), Astra Twin Top (2006 to 2015), Vectra (2005 to 2008) and Signum (2005 to 2008).

Not every vehicle in those model ranges is necessarily affected, and owners should check their vehicle identification number (VIN) to see whether their car is included and what action is advised.

Vauxhall says the only exception to the stop-drive instruction is a direct journey, without stops, to a pre-booked recall repair appointment, provided the vehicle can be driven there lawfully.

Other models are subject to the recall but not the stop-drive instruction, and their owners should still take action as soon as possible.

These are the Astra J and Astra GTC (2010 to 2018), Meriva B (2010 to 2017), Mokka and Mokka X (2013 to 2018), Cascada (2013 to 2018) and Zafira C (2012 to 2016).

Drivers can use Vauxhall's vehicle recall checker to check their VIN and register for a free repair.

The 17-character VIN can be found on a V5C registration certificate or in the vehicle.

Owners who cannot register online can call Vauxhall's recall helpline on 0800 917 9285.

Vauxhall says registered keepers of affected vehicles will be sent a letter and should make sure their contact details are up to date with the DVLA.

Bond Turner is looking into whether motorists may be able to recover expenses linked to the recall, including alternative transport, replacement vehicle hire and loss of earnings.

Malcolm Lewis, head of group litigation at Bond Turner, said: "For many people, their car is essential to everyday life, whether that is getting to work, taking children to school or fulfilling family and personal commitments."

Mr Lewis said: "Our investigations will look at who may be legally responsible for the losses experienced by affected motorists, including the cost of alternative transport and replacement vehicle hire, loss of earnings and other associated expenses."

Vauxhall says it has made mobility solutions available for customers affected by the stop-drive action and asks them to discuss any specific needs with their retailer when booking.