More than 320,000 Vauxhall vehicles affected by urgent airbag recall - here's what you need to do

More than 320,000 Vauxhall vehicles are affected by an urgent safety recall, with drivers warned not to use their cars until potentially defective airbags have been replaced.

The affected airbags contain ammonium nitrate, a chemical which can become unstable over time.

This could cause the airbag inflator to deploy with excessive force, potentially seriously injuring or killing drivers and passengers.

The UK recall covers the following Vauxhall models:

• Vauxhall Vectra (2005–2008)
• Vauxhall Astra Hatch (2005–2015)
• Vauxhall Signum (2005–2008)
• Vauxhall Astra Van (2006–2013)
• Vauxhall Astra Twin Top (2006–2015)

Owners have been instructed not to drive affected vehicles until the necessary repairs have been completed.

The warning could leave motorists without access to their cars for an extended period, particularly if demand for replacement parts and appointments with approved repairers leads to delays.

Drivers who continue to use affected vehicles could face a fine of up to £2,500, a driving ban and three penalty points for using a vehicle in a dangerous condition.

The recall has prompted a Liverpool law firm to investigate potential compensation claims for motorists left facing unexpected costs and disruption.

Bond Turner is investigating whether Vauxhall and its parent company Stellantis could be held legally responsible for financial losses suffered by affected drivers.

The legal investigation will examine whether affected motorists could claim compensation for expenses including replacement vehicle hire, alternative transport, loss of earnings and other associated financial losses.

The value of any potential claim will depend on individual circumstances, including how long a vehicle remains unusable and the financial impact on its owner.

Malcolm Lewis, Head of Group Litigation at Bond Turner, said: "We are extremely concerned about the impact this recall could have on affected motorists and their families. 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.

"Being told that you cannot safely drive your vehicle, potentially at short notice and for an extended period, can cause significant disruption and financial hardship. While safety must rightly come first, motorists should not automatically be expected to bear the financial consequences of a situation that is no fault of their own.

"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. We are keen to hear from people who have been affected and experienced disruption and out of pocket expense as a result of the recall."

Stellantis has been contacted for a comment.