AdBlue, this magic liquid that reduces pollution from diesel engines, has some problems. In Europe, quite a few drivers find themselves with immobilized cars due to frequent breakdowns. It's expensive and it annoys everyone. As a result, Europe put pressure on Stellantis to expand their compensation program and provide a helping hand to the motorists concerned.
Why is AdBlue a problem?
We know that AdBlue is there to reduce pollution from modern diesels. Except that it often falls through the cracks, leaving the cars stranded and the bills skyrocketing beyond 1,500 euros. Some DIYers do not hesitate to circumvent the law to avoid these hefty costs, which clearly shows that a solution must be found quickly.
Europe took the bull by the horns by asking Stellantis to extend its compensation program, initially reserved for Italy, to the entire European Union.
Stellantis extends its help: who is affected?
Stellantis is not shy: their program covers diesels manufactured between January 2014 and August 2020. They promise full parts coverage if your car is less than five years old and has not driven more than 150,000 kilometers.
- For other older vehicles, they reimburse between 30% and 90% depending on how much it has been driven.
- And as a bonus gift, they add a flat rate of 30 euros for labor to each repair, which really reduces the bill.
How does it work if you've already had a breakdown?
Stellantis is also playing the retroactive card for all repairs since January 2021. From mid-January 2024, a platform will be set up to facilitate your compensation requests. The amount will mainly depend on the age of the vehicle and the mileage at the time of the problem.
What if your car breaks down again within two years or after having covered another 50,000 kilometers since the first covered repair? No worries ! Stellantis will pay for everything… but only if you have had it repaired by an approved garage with invoice in hand.
What's changing in the automotive world
This decision could well shake up the European auto sector. UFC-Que Choisir applauds this progress obtained thanks to joint efforts with Brussels. It could even be that other manufacturers follow this example under growing European pressure.
-The Italian approach served as a model for extending this program throughout Europe, proving that concrete solutions can be put in place to address current ecological challenges.
What this means for you
Dealers must quickly adapt to the new rules introduced by Stellantis. As for owners, it is essential to keep safe all their invoices and documents related to repairs in order to simplify their future compensation claims.
Even if everything will not fall into place overnight, this initiative marks real progress towards better protection against unexpected technical failures.
Finally, we are moving towards a future where manufacturers and users will have to play their role in this now essential ecological transition!
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