AdBlue, this anti-pollution liquid required for modern diesel engines, has been in the news for years for its repeated failures. Testimonies of drivers immobilized by breakdowns are piling up, with bills often exceeding 1,500 euros, so much so that some by illegal means are much less costly. Faced with this situation, the European Commission intervened, pushing Stellantis to expand its compensation program across the European Union after beginnings in Italy.
Game-changing support
The car manufacturer is deploying an unprecedented compensation system. Diesel vehicles produced between January 2014 and August 2020 will benefit from coverage for up to 8 years after their date of manufacture. For owners of cars less than 5 years old that have not exceeded 150,000 kilometers, coverage reaches 100% of the cost of parts. Older vehicles are not forgotten, with reimbursements varying from 30% to 90% depending on their mileage.
Labor is also subject to compensation, although this remains modest. A flat rate of 30 euros will be paid for each intervention, representing approximately 20% of the average cost of repairs. This measure, although imperfect, marks a clear recognition of the defects suffered by motorists.
Retroactivity that changes everything for drivers
The real innovation lies in the retroactive aspect of the system. Motorists who have already carried out repairs since January 2021 will be eligible for lump sum compensation. To benefit from this, a dedicated platform will open mid-January 2024 on the following link. The amount of compensation will be calculated based on the age of the vehicle and its mileage at the time of the breakdown.
Even more remarkable, Stellantis undertakes to fully cover the costs in the event of a second outage. If a new intervention proves necessary within 24 months or 50,000 kilometers following the first repair, the manufacturer will cover 100% of the costs, including parts and labor. However, one condition is necessary: the first repair must have been carried out in an approved garage, with supporting invoice.
A major turning point for the automotive industry
This decision by Stellantis, pushed by consumer associations, could create a significant precedent in the automobile industry. The UFC-Que Choisir, which has been fighting since the end of 2022 on this Adblue filewelcomes this major advance obtained thanks to the intervention of the European Commission. Other manufacturers could be led to follow this example, particularly under pressure from European authorities.
The agreement reflects a growing awareness of the responsibilities of manufacturers in the face of technical failures. The case of Italy, where Stellantis had already implemented a similar program, clearly served as a model for this European extension. This harmonization of practices at the continental level represents a significant victory for consumer rights.
Owners concerned are nevertheless asked to be patient. Dealers must still integrate these new terms into their procedures. A delay of a few weeks seems reasonable before starting reimbursement procedures. Waiting for, Keeping invoices and documents relating to repairs is crucial to facilitating future claims.
- Stellantis covers up to 100% of AdBlue repairs for diesel vehicles produced between 2014 and 2020
- A reimbursement platform will open in mid-January for repairs carried out since 2021
- Second breakdowns will be fully reimbursed under certain conditions
